 Paris to Florence by train: A Frecciarossa at Milan Centrale.
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Paris to Florence in a day from 49...
You can travel the 1,188 km (738 miles) from Paris to Florence in a single day by high-speed train through some great Alpine scenery, with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. It's not just transportation, it's an epic European adventure with your feet up and a glass of prosecco to hand. There are several ways to travel from Paris to Florence by train, this page explains the options in each direction and the best way to buy tickets.
Information current for 2023.
Paris to
Florence: Which
route to choose?
Option 1, Paris to
Florence in a day by Frecciarossa
Option 2, Paris to
Florence in a day by TGV
Option 3, Paris to
Florence
with overnight stop in Turin
Option 4, Paris to
Florence via the
scenic Bernina Express
Florence to Paris: Which route to choose?
Option 1,
Florence to Paris in a
day by Frecciarossa
Option 2,
Florence to Paris in a day by TGV
Option 3,
Florence to Paris with overnight stop in Turin
Option 4,
Florence to Paris via the scenic Bernina Express
Paris to Florence by train
Which option to choose?
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Option 1 is the one I'd recommend if you want to travel from Paris to Florence in a single day.
Treat it as a chill-out day as 1,188 km of France, Italy and the Alps unfold outside your window...
You take the early morning Frecciarossa train from Paris to Milan, with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. It's a high-speed dash from Paris to Lyon followed by a leisurely scenic meander through the Alps to Turin, then another high-speed run into Milan.
There's time for a coffee at the magnificent Milan Centrale - an attraction in its own right, can you spot Mussolini? You then take another comfortable high-speed Frecciarossa to Florence SMN, arriving late afternoon.
Trenitalia introduced its Paris-Milan Frecciarossa in December 2021 to compete head-to-head with French Railways' long-established Paris-Milan TGV (see option 2). With an interior styled by Italian design firm Pininfarina, the Frecciarossa is the more glamorous train with the better on-board service. It has standard class (2nd), business class (1st) and a luxury executive class (premium 1st) with at-seat food & prosecco included.
Another advantage over option 2 is that both sectors (Paris-Milan & Milan-Florence) are with Trenitalia, so if a delay means a missed connection you have a cast-iron legal entitlement to be rebooked on a later onward train to Florence at no charge.
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Option 2 also gets you from Paris to Florence by train in a single day, using the competing SNCF (French Railways) TGV from Paris to Turin, then a Trenitalia Frecciarossa from Turin to Florence. It follows pretty much the same route as option 1, with the same scenery.
The TGV has been running since 1996, originally a joint operation with Trenitalia, but since 2011 entirely run by SNCF. The TGV is a comfortable train, with 1st & 2nd class, cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, but nothing as fancy as Trenitalia's executive class.
For a blow-by-blow comparison of Frecciarossa and TGV, see Which is the better train, Frecciarossa or TGV?
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Option 3 is the same route as options 1 & 2, but with an overnight stop in Turin which breaks up the journey nicely.
Leave Paris on the mid-afternoon SNCF TGV or the competing mid-afternoon Trenitalia Frecciarossa (I'd choose the Frecciarossa), and stay overnight in wonderful Turin. Just remember that in winter when the days are shorter, most of the Alpine scenery will be in darkness.
Then take a Frecciarossa from Turin to Florence next morning in just 2h50, with a range of departures. Personally I'd spend the morning exploring Turin, one of Italy's two most under-rated cities, even if you're not a fan of the 1969 Michael Caine film The Italian Job (before you ask, Italy's other most under-rated city is Trieste).
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Option 4 is a much slower but incredibly scenic route from Paris to Florence, a little more expensive (but I'll suggest a clever way to book it cheaply) and it takes more effort to organise, but the narrow-gauge Bernina Express panoramic train is the ultimate Swiss Alps train ride and it will be the highlight of your trip - it's breathtaking.
You leave Paris in late afternoon or early evening by TGV-Lyria high-speed train for Zurich, stay overnight in Zurich, then travel from Zurich to Florence next day, through the Swiss Alps via Chur, Tirano & Milan, arriving Florence SMN early evening. What a day!
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Sleeper option: There is no sleeper train between Paris & Florence any more, Thello's Paris-Italy sleeper ceased in 2020 and will not resume.
Option 1, Paris to Florence in a day by Frecciarossa...
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There's a morning departure from Paris to Florence every day...
Leave Paris Gare de Lyon at 07:25, change at Milan Centrale (arrive 14:07, depart 15:10), arriving Florence SMN 17:04.
Just so you know, there are a few dates when it runs earlier:
Leave Paris Gare de Lyon at 06:35, change at Milan Centrale (arrive 13:50, depart 15:10), arriving Florence SMN 17:04.
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What are the trains & journey like?
You travel from Paris to Milan by Frecciarossa 1000, with standard, business & executive class, cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.
It's a scenic & relaxing journey, initially at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the French high-speed line from Paris to Lyon, then the train slows right down and snakes through the Alps on the classic line via Chambιry & Modane. You'll see the Alps in daylight, even in winter. The train calls at Turin Porta Susa, then joins the Italian high-speed line for a final dash to Milan at up to 300 km/h (186 mph).
Luggage simply goes on racks near your seats, no airline weight limits or baggage fees here.
See route map. More information, photos & tips about the Paris-Milan journey.
The magnificent Milan Centrale is an attraction in its own right, have a look around and maybe find Mussolini...
You then travel from Milan to Florence at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on another high-speed Frecciarossa with standard, premium, business & executive class, cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Some Milan-Florence Frecciarossas are Frecciarossa 1000, others Frecciarossa 500.
You arrive at Florence SMN in the heart of the city, just 10 minutes walk from Florence's famous Duomo.
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How much does it cost?
Paris to Milan starts at 29 in standard (2nd class), 36 in business (1st class) or 165 in executive (premium 1st).
Milan to Florence starts at 19.90 in standard (2nd class), 29.90 in business (1st class) or 119.90 in executive (premium 1st).
All these fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
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How to buy tickets
Buy tickets from Paris to Florence at www.italiarail.com, www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com, all easy to use, in , £ or $.
Tip: www.italiarail.com allows you to choose your exact seat from a seat map on both Frecciarossas. They'll refund their 3.50 booking fee to seat61 users if you email them at seat61@italiarail.com after booking.
Booking usually opens 4 months ahead. Simply book from Paris (any station) to Florence SMN as one journey, with departure time set to 06:00. Look for the 1-change option with times that correspond to those shown above. It should show that both trains are Trenitalia Frecciarossas.
Tip: If you want to stop off in Milan, book Paris to Milan, add to basket, then book Milan to Florence, add to basket & check out.
Both trains are ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone. About Raileurope. About Thetrainline.
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Paris to Florence by train: A Frecciarossa 1000 at Milan Centrale. Interior photos courtesy of Nicholas Brooke. |
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Business class seats 1+2 across car width, with tables for 2, tables for 4 & complimentary prosecco. Larger photo. |
In business class you can order a simple meal at your seat, around 18... |
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Take a good book, a bottle o' red, and enjoy the scenery from Paris to Florence with your feet up. These are mountains in France... |
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...And these are mountains in Italy. Scenery between Oulx and Turin, courtesy of www.discoverbyrail.com. |
Option 2, Paris to Florence in a day by TGV
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This is basically the same route as option 1, but using the competing French Railways TGV from Paris to Italy rather than Trenitalia's Frecciarossa. When using the TGV it's easier to change trains in Turin rather than Milan.
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There are one or two departures from Paris to Florence every day
Leave Paris Gare de Lyon 06:39 every day arriving Turin Porta Susa 12:23. Leave Turin Porta Susa 15:50, arriving Florence SMN 18:50.
Leave Paris Gare de Lyon 09:43 Saturday & Sunday arriving Turin Porta Susa 15:23. Leave Turin Porta Susa 17:10, arriving Florence SMN 20:04.
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What are the trains & journey like?
You take a high-speed TGV train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Turin Porta Susa with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. It's a scenic & relaxing journey, first at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the Paris-Lyon high-speed line, then the train slows right down and snakes through the Alps to Italy on the classic route via Chambιry & Modane. For more information, route map & photos see the Paris-Milan TGV page & watch the Paris-Milan video.
You then take a high-speed Frecciarossa train from Turin Porta Susa to Florence SMN in 4h39, with standard, premium, business & executive class, cafe-bar, power outlets at all seats & free WiFi.
Stopover in Turin? You could take the 06:39 TGV from Paris and have a stopover of 5 or 6 hours in Turin before catching an early evening train to Florence - there are lots of trains to choose from. Turin is well worth your time. There's a left luggage office at Turin Porta Nuova, but none at Turin Porta Susa.
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How much does it cost?
Paris to Turin starts at 29 in 2nd class or 44 in 1st class.
Turin to Florence starts at 19.90 in standard (2nd class), 29.90 in business (1st class) or 119.90 in executive (premium 1st).
These fares vary like air fares, book ahead for the cheapest prices.
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How to buy tickets
Buy tickets from Paris to Florence at either www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com. Booking opens up to 4 months ahead.
These connect to both the Trenitalia and SNCF ticketing systems so you can book all tickets together in one place, in plain English, in , £ or $.
Booking usually opens 4 months ahead. There's a small booking fee. About Raileurope. About Thetrainline.
Tip: You can book from Paris (any station) to Florence SMN as one booking, but make sure the system gives you at least 45 minutes between trains in Turin. You will have separate tickets for each sector, a 45 minute interchange can absorb any 10, 20 or even 40 minute delay.
Tip: If using www.raileurope.com, I recommend clicking More options and entering Turin Porta Susa as a via station with a stopover duration of at least 45 minutes as this ensure a robust same-station change at Turin Porta Susa. In the search results, look for a 1-change journey.
Tip: If buying a 1st class ticket at www.thetrainline.com, you can choose your seat from a seat map.
For the TGV You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone. Italian high-speed trains are ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone.
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How to buy tickets, advanced
Alternatively, you can book each train separately, more work, but no booking fee.
Step 1, book from Paris to Turin at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com. In , no booking fee, you print your own ticket or can select a mobile ticket to show on your phone. If buying a 1st class ticket you can choose your seat from a seat map.
Step 2, now book the onward Italian train from Turin to Florence at www.italiarail.com (easy to use, in plain English, in , £ or $, they'll refund their 3.50 booking fee if you email seat61@italiarail.com afterwards) or at www.trenitalia.com (you'll need to use Italian-language place names, see this advice on using it). If you want an Italo train rather than a Trenitalia one, you'll need to use www.italotreno.it.
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A TGV to Turin & Milan at Paris Gare de Lyon. There's no check-in, just be on board at departure time... |
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The TGV from Paris to Italy leaves the Paris-Lyon high-speed line then slows right down through the Alpine foothills. These are autumnal mountains in France... |
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And these are mountains in Italy in summer. Scenery between Oulx and Turin, courtesy of www.discoverbyrail.com. |
Option 3, Paris to Florence with overnight stop in Turin
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An overnight stop breaks up the journey nicely, with a chance to see wonderful Turin. It's the same route as options 1 & 2, but with a stopover.
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Day 1, travel from Paris to Turin in around 5h40 by either TGV or Frecciarossa:
You can leave Paris Gare de Lyon by TGV at 14:45 every day and arrive Turin Porta Susa at 20:23.
Or leave Paris Gare de Lyon by Frecciarossa at 15:12 every day and arrive Turin Porta Susa at 21:18.
Or take a morning train and spend a pleasant afternoon exploring wonderful Turin, see the timetable here.
The TGV & Frecciarossa both have a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Which is best, TGV or Frecciarossa?
It's a scenic & relaxing journey, first at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the Paris-Lyon high-speed line, then the train slows right down and snakes through the Alps to Italy. See route map. More information, photos & tips about the Paris-Milan journey.
Tip: Have lunch at the remarkable Train Bleu restaurant at the Gare de Lyon before strolling across the concourse to your train for Italy!
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Stay overnight in Turin. I'd allow some time for a look around next morning...
I suggest the Hotel Torino Porta Susa or Hotel Diplomatic, Best Quality Hotel Dock Milano, Hotel & Residence Torino Centro - Stazione Porta Susa or small Al Porta Susa B&B, all right next to Turin Porta Susa station where the TGV arrives and where your onward train leaves next morning, with good or great reviews.
Alternatively, the excellent Turin Palace Hotel is in the centre right next to Turin Porta Nuova station, a 7 minute taxi ride, 3-stop 1.50 metro ride or 20 minute walk from Turin Porta Susa, but next morning you can board your train to Florence at Porta Nuova station the historic terminus in the heart of the city. Turin-Florence trains start their journey at Turin Porta Nuova before picking up passengers at Turin Porta Susa a few minutes later.
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Day 2, travel from Turin to Florence in around 2h50 by high-speed Frecciarossa train or Italo...
Book any departure you like from either Turin Porta Nuova or Turin Porta Susa to Florence SMN, there are regular departures through the day.
Trenitalia's 300 km/h (186 mph) Frecciarossas have standard, premium, business & executive class, cafe-bar, power sockets & free WiFi.
Private operator Italo's competing high-speed trains have 3 classes, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see more information about Italo. Which is best, Italo or Trenitalia?
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How much does it cost?
Paris to Turin by TGV starts at 29 in 2nd class or 44 in 1st class.
Paris to Turin by Frecciarossa starts at 29 in standard (2nd class), 36 in business (1st class) or 165 in executive (premium 1st).
Turin to Florence starts at 19.90 in standard (2nd), 29.90 in business (1st) or 119.90 in Executive class (premium 1st).
All these fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
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How to buy tickets
Buy tickets at either www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com, whichever you prefer.
Both sites are easy to use, in , £ or $. They sell tickets for both the TGV & the Frecciarossa, and for both Trenitalia & Italo tickets within Italy, so you can buy tickets for all operators together in one place, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee. About Raileurope. About Thetrainline.
Booking opens up to 4 months ahead. Book from Paris (any station) to Turin Porta Susa for day 1 and add this to your basket. Then book from Turin Porta Susa to Florence SMN for day 2, add that to your basket and check out.
Frecciarossa trains are ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone. For the TGV you print your own ticket or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.
Tip: If using the Frecciarossa, you can also book at www.italiarail.com. Italiarail allows you to choose an exact seat on the Frecciarossa from a seat map. They'll refund their 3.50 booking fee to seat61 users if you email them at seat61@italiarail.com after booking.
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How to buy tickets, advanced
You can of course book the TGV and onward Italian trains separately. It's more effort, and in principle you should see exactly the same fares.
Step 1, book from Paris to Turin at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com. In , no booking fee, you print your own ticket or can select a mobile ticket to show on your phone.
Step 2, now book the onward Italian train from Turin to Florence at www.italiarail.com (easy to use, in plain English, in , £ or $, they'll refund their 3.50 booking fee if you email seat61@italiarail.com afterwards) or at www.trenitalia.com (you'll need to use Italian-language place names, see this advice on using it). If you want an Italo train rather than a Trenitalia one, book Italo at www.italotreno.it.
Option 4, Paris to Florence via the Bernina Express - the ultimate scenic route
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This takes significantly longer and must be split over 2 days, but if you want the ultimate scenic ride from Paris to Florence through the Swiss Alps, this option is fabulous - If you still need convincing, watch the video!
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Day 1, travel from Paris to Zurich by early evening TGV-Lyria, for example leaving Paris Gare de Lyon 18:22 arriving Zurich HB 22:26.
By all means book an earlier train and have an evening in Zurich. TGV-Lyria trains have 3 classes, a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. More information about TGV-Lyria.
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Stay overnight in Zurich. For something really special, the 5-star Hotel Schweizerhof is one of my favourite hotels anywhere, just across the road from the station. They'll even send a uniformed commissionaire to meet you & carry your bags from the train. For something cheaper, also next to the station with great reviews, try the 4-star Hotel St Gotthard or the excellent 3-star Hotel St. Josef, 7 minutes walk from the station, see walking map. If you're on a tight budget you can book private rooms in a one-star hotel or backpacker hostel near the station at www.hostelworld.com.
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Day 2, travel from Zurich to Florence, leaving Zurich HB at 07:07 by InterCity train to Chur, then the fabulous Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps to Tirano, then the 13:08 regional train from Tirano to Milan Centrale arriving 15:40 Then take a Frecciarossa to Florence SMN, arriving 18:04. See the Bernina Express page for more details.
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How much does it cost?
Paris to Zurich starts at 29 in 2nd class or 51 in 1st class. Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
Zurich to Tirano starts at CHF 52 (around 50). Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
Tirano to Milan by regional train costs around 12, fixed-price, unlimited availability.
Milan to Florence starts at 29.90 in standard (2nd) class or 39.90 in business (1st) class. Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
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How to buy tickets
Step 1, book a ticket from Paris to Zurich on any departure you like, using www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com. Booking opens up to 4 months ahead, you print your own ticket or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.
Step 2, book a ticket from Zurich to Tirano for the following day as explained on the Bernina Express page. If you want to travel in the Bernina Express panoramic carriages between Chur & Tirano, add a seat reservation as I explain here.
Step 3, book a ticket from Tirano to Florence on the 13:08 departure from Tirano, using either www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com (both easy to use, in , £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee). Booking opens up to 4 months ahead, You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.
Booking the 13:08 departure from Tirano to Florence should be fine as Swiss trains are usually punctual, but if you want to play it safe you could plan to have a late lunch & a beer in Tirano and book the 15:08 instead.
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Paris to Zurich by TGV-Lyria.. This is a 320 km/h double-deck TGV-Lyria train at Paris Gare de Lyon. Then take a Swiss domestic train from Zurich to Chur. |
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The cafe-bar on the upper deck in car 4, serving tea, coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks & microwave-style hot dishes... |
2nd class seats, this is upper deck seating. There's a mix or tables for 4 and unidirectional seating. 360Ί photo. |
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1st class seats on the upper deck, a club duo on the left, a club quatre on the right. 360Ί photo. |
A TGV-Lyria boarding at Paris Gare de Lyon. You enter on the lower deck, with 9 stairs up to top deck. |
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Bernina Express 1st class seats... |
Chur to Tirano by Bernina Express... |
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The Bernina Express descends from the Bernina Pass. See the Bernina Express page. |
Florence to Paris by train
Which route to choose?
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Option 1 is the one I'd recommend if you want to travel from Florence to Paris in a single day.
Treat it as a chill-out day as 1,188 km (738 miles) of Italy, France and the Alps unfold outside your window...
You leave Florence on an early afternoon high-speed Frecciarossa to Milan with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. There's time for a coffee at the magnificent Milan Centrale - can you spot Mussolini?
You then take the afternoon Frecciarossa from Milan to Paris, also with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. After an initial dash to Turin at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the high-speed line, the train slows right down and meanders through the Alps on the classic line through Modane to Chambιry & Lyon. After another high-speed run across France the train arrives in central Paris.
Trenitalia introduced its Milan-Paris Frecciarossa in December 2021 to compete head-to-head with French Railways' long-established Milan-Paris TGV (see option 2). With an interior styled by Italian design firm Pininfarina, the Frecciarossa is the more glamorous train with the better on-board service, with standard class (2nd), business class (1st) and a luxury executive class (premium 1st) with at-seat food & prosecco included.
Another advantage over option 2 is that both sectors (Florence-Milan & Milan-Paris) are with Trenitalia, so if there's a delay and missed connection you are legally entitled to be rebooked on a later train at no charge.
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Option 2 also gets you from Florence to Paris in a single day, using the competing SNCF (French Railways) TGV from Turin to Paris. It follows pretty much the same route as option 1, with the same scenery.
The TGV has been running since 1996, originally a joint operation with Trenitalia, but since 2011 entirely run by SNCF. The TGV is a comfortable train, with 1st & 2nd class, cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, but nothing as fancy as Trenitalia's executive class.
The TGV's main advantage is that two same-day journeys are possible from Florence to Paris, a morning one and an early afternoon one, although personally I'd still go with option 1's Frecciarossa.
For a blow-by-blow comparison of Frecciarossa & TGV, see Which is the better train, Frecciarossa or TGV?
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Option 3 is the same route as options 1 or 2, but with an overnight stop in Turin, which breaks up the trip nicely.
Take an afternoon or early evening Frecciarossa from Florence to Turin in around 4h10, stay overnight in Turin, then take either SNCF's morning TGV or Trenitalia's morning Frecciarossa through the Alps to Paris in around 5h40 (I'd choose the Frecciarossa).
Personally I'd take an earlier Frecciarossa from Florence to Turin (or the afternoon TGV or Frecciarossa from Turin to Paris next day) and spend time exploring wonderful Turin, one of Italy's most under-rated cities, even if you're not a fan of the 1969 Michael Caine film The Italian Job.
In winter when the days are shorter, a key advantage of this option is that you'll see all the alpine scenery in daylight.
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Option 4 is much slower, a bit more expensive (but I'll suggest a clever way to book it cheaply) and takes a more effort to organise, but boy, the Bernina Express is the ultimate Swiss Alps train ride and it will be the highlight of your trip - it's breathtaking.
Travel from Florence to Zurich via Milan, Tirano and the fabulous Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps, stay overnight in Zurich, then take a TGV-Lyria from Zurich to Paris in just 4h05 next morning.
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Sleeper option: There is no sleeper train between Paris & Italy any more, Thello's Paris-Italy sleeper ceased in 2020 and will not resume.
Option 1, Florence to Paris in a day by Frecciarossa
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There's an early afternoon departure from Florence to Paris every day
Leave Florence SMN at 12:55, change at Milan Centrale (arrive 14:50, depart 15:53) arriving Paris Gare de Lyon at 22:34.
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What are the trains & the journey like?
You travel from Florence to Milan at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on one of Trenitalia's premier high-speed Frecciarossa trains, with standard, premium, business & executive class, a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Luggage simply goes on racks near your seats, no airline weight limits or baggage fees here.
At the magnificent Milan Centrale you've time for a coffee and maybe you can spot Mussolini. Why not book an earlier departure from Florence (they leave regularly) and spend some time in Milan, perhaps have lunch there? There's a left luggage office at Milan Centrale if you need one.
You then travel from Milan to Paris by Frecciarossa, with standard, business & executive class, cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.
It's a scenic & relaxing journey. After an initial run from Milan to Turin on the high-speed line, the train slows right down for a scenic meander through the alps on the classic line into France via Modane. After calling at Chambιry & Lyon, the train makes a final high-speed dash at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the Lyon-Paris high-speed line. Bring a good book and make it a relaxing afternoon with your feet up.
See route map. More information, photos & tips about the Paris-Milan journey.
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How much does it cost?
Florence to Milan starts at 19.90 in standard (2nd class), 29.90 in business (1st class) or 119.90 in executive (premium 1st).
Milan to Paris starts at 29 in standard (2nd class), 36 in business (1st class) or 165 in executive (premium 1st).
Fares vary like air fares, book ahead for the cheapest prices.
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How to buy tickets
Buy tickets at either www.italiarail.com, www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com whichever you prefer, all easy to use, in , £ or $.
Tip: www.italiarail.com allows you to choose your exact seat on the Frecciarossa from a seat map. They'll refund their 3.50 booking fee to seat61 users if you email them at seat61@italiarail.com after booking.
Book from Florence SMN to Paris (any station) as one journey, with departure time set to 12:00. If you want to stop off in Milan, book an earlier train from Florence to Milan, add to basket, then book the afternoon train from Milan to Paris, add to basket & check out.
Booking usually opens 4 months ahead. There's a small booking fee. Both trains are ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone. About Raileurope. About Thetrainline.
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Florence to Paris by train: A Frecciarossa 1000 at Milan Centrale. Interior photos courtesy of Nicholas Brooke. |
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Business class seats 1+2 across car width, with tables for 2, tables for 4 & complimentary prosecco. Larger photo. |
In business class you can order a simple meal at your seat, around 18... |
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Take a good book, a bottle o' red, and enjoy the scenery from Florence to Paris with your feet up. These are mountains in France... |
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...And these are mountains in Italy. Scenery between Oulx and Turin, courtesy of www.discoverbyrail.com. |
Option 2, Florence to Paris in a day by TGV
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This is basically the same route as option 1, but using the competing French Railways TGV to Paris instead of Trenitalia's Frecciarossa. When using the TGV it's easier to change trains in Turin rather than Milan. As the TGV offers two afternoon departures from Turin, there's a choice of two departures from Florence.
Florence to Paris, Mondays-Fridays
Leave Florence SMN at 09:55, change at Turin Porta Susa (arrive 12:49, depart 15:41*) arriving Paris Gare de Lyon at 21:14*.
Leave Florence SMN at 13:55, change at Turin Porta Susa (arrive 16:49, depart 17:38) arriving Paris Gare de Lyon at 23:19.
* On certain dates this TGV runs earlier, leaving Turin Porta Susa 13:38 and arriving Paris Gare de Lyon 19:16.
Florence to Paris, Saturdays & Sundays
Leave Florence SMN at 09:55, change at Turin Porta Susa (arrive 12:49, depart 13:38) arriving Paris Gare de Lyon at 19:16.
Leave Florence SMN at 13:55, change at Turin Porta Susa (arrive 16:49, depart 17:38) arriving Paris Gare de Lyon at 23:19.
Tip: Why not book an earlier departure from Florence (trains leave regularly) and spend some time in Turin, perhaps have lunch there. It's one of Italy's most under-rated cities, even if you're not a fan of the 1969 Michael Caine film The Italian Job. There's a left luggage office at Turin Porta Nuova, although none at Porta Susa.
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What are the train & journey like?
You travel from Florence to Turin at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on one of Trenitalia's premier high-speed Frecciarossa trains, with standard, premium, business & executive class, cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.
You then travel from Turin to Paris by French Railways TGV, with 1st & 2nd class, cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.
It's a scenic & relaxing run, initially a slow speed meander through the alps on the classic line from Italy into France via Modane, past Chambιry & Lyon, then a final high-speed dash to Paris at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the high-speed line, see the Paris-Milan TGV video. Bring a good book and make it a relaxing afternoon with your feet up. Some scenery will be in darkness depending on the time of year, so consider option 2 below. See route map. More information, photos & tips about the Paris-Milan journey..
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How much does it cost?
Florence to Turin starts at 19.90 in standard (2nd class), 29.90 in business (1st class) or 119.90 in executive (premium 1st).
Turin to Paris by TGV starts at 29 in 2nd class or 44 in 1st class. All these fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
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How to buy tickets
Buy tickets from Florence to Paris at either www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com, whichever you like best.
These connect to both the Trenitalia and SNCF ticketing systems so you can book all your tickets together in one place, in plain English, in , £ or $. Booking usually opens 4 months ahead. There's a small booking fee. About Raileurope. About Thetrainline.
Book from Florence SMN to Paris (any station) as one journey, with departure time set to 08:00 or 12:00. If you want to stop off in Turin, book Florence to Turin, add to basket, then book Turin to Paris, add to basket & check out.
Tip: If using www.raileurope.com, click More options, enter Turin Porta Susa and set stopover time to at least 45 minutes. This ensures a robust connection. In the search results, look for an option shown with just 1 change. If you'd like longer in Turin, increase the stopover duration and set an earlier departure time. Or just book each train separately.
Tip: If buying a 1st class ticket at www.thetrainline.com, you can choose your seat from a seat map.
The Italian train is ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone. For the French TGV, you print your own ticket or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.
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How to buy tickets, advanced
Alternatively, you can book each train separately, more work, more fiddly, same prices, but no booking fee.
Step 1, book the train from Florence SMN to Turin Porta Susa at www.italiarail.com (easy to use, recognises English-language place names, they'll refund the 3.50 booking fee if you email seat61@italiarail.com afterwards) or the Trenitalia website www.trenitalia.com (in , you'll need to use Italian place names). It's ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone.
Step 2, book the TGV from Turin to Paris at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com. You print your own tickets or can show a mobile ticket on your phone. If buying a 1st class ticket you can choose your seat from a seat map.
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A Milan-Turin-Paris TGV at Paris Gare de Lyon. There's no check-in, just be on board at departure time... |
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Take a good book, a bottle o' red, and enjoy the scenery from Florence to Paris with your feet up... These are mountains in France... Watch the Paris-Milan TGV video guide. |
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And these are mountains in Italy. Scenery between Oulx and Turin, courtesy of www.discoverbyrail.com. |
Option 3, Florence to Paris with overnight stop in Turin
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Day 1, travel from Florence to Turin on any afternoon or early evening train you like, either a Trenitalia Frecciarossa or an Italo.
You can leave Florence SMN as late as 18:55 arriving Turin Porta Susa 21:49, but trains run regularly and I'd take an earlier one as Turin is well worth a longer stop. It's possibly one of Italy's most under-rated cities, even if you're not a fan of the 1969 Michael Caine film The Italian Job.
Frecciarossas have standard, premium, business & executive class, a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see more information about Frecciarossas. Private operator Italo runs competing high-speed trains, see more information about Italo. Which is better, Frecciarossa or Italo?
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Stay overnight in Turin. I recommend the Hotel Torino Porta Susa, Hotel Diplomatic, Best Quality Hotel Dock Milano, Hotel & Residence Torino Centro - Stazione Porta Susa or the small Al Porta Susa B&B, all next to Turin Porta Susa station with good or great reviews.
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Day 2, travel from Turin to Paris by either TGV or Frecciarossa, see the timetable here.
A Frecciarossa leaves Turin Porta Susa at 07:11 and arrives Paris Gare de Lyon 13:22.
A TGV leaves Turin Porta Susa at 07:36 and arrives Paris Gare de Lyon 13:16.
Or spend the morning in Turin & leave Turin Porta Susa on the 13:38 (Saturday & Sunday plus some weekdays), 15:41 (weekdays, except when the 13:38 runs) or 17:38 (every day) TGV to Paris.
The Frecciarossa & TGV both have a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. Which is best, TGV or Frecciarossa?
It's a scenic & relaxing run, initially a slow speed meander through the alps on the classic line from Italy into France via Modane, past Chambιry & Lyon, then a final high-speed dash to Paris at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the high-speed line, see the Paris-Milan TGV video. Bring a good book put your feet up. See route map. More information, photos & tips about the Paris-Milan journey.
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How much does it cost?
Florence to Turin starts at 19.90 in standard (2nd class), 29.90 in business (1st class) or 119.90 in executive (premium 1st).
Turin to Paris by TGV starts at 29 in 2nd class or 44 in 1st class.
Turin to Paris by Frecciarossa starts at 29 in standard (2nd class), 36 in business (1st class) or 165 in executive (premium 1st).
Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
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How to buy tickets
The easiest way to buy tickets is at either www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com, whichever you prefer.
These connect to both the Italian and French ticketing systems so you can book all your tickets together in one place, in plain English, in , £ or $. They also connect to Italo's ticketing system, so you'll see both Italo & Trenitalia trains. Booking opens up to 4 months ahead. There's a small booking fee.
First book from Florence SMN to Turin Porta Susa and add to basket. Then book from Turin Porta Susa to Paris (any station) for the following day, add to basket & check out.
Italian trains are ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone. For the TGV, you print your own tickets or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.
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How to buy tickets, advanced
Alternatively, you can book each train separately, more effort, but no booking fee.
Step 1, book the train from Florence SMN to Turin Porta Susa at www.italiarail.com (easy to use, recognises English-language place names, they'll refund the 3.50 booking fee if you email seat61@italiarail.com afterwards) or www.trenitalia.com (you'll need to use Italian place names). It's ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone. If you want to try an Italo train instead of Trenitalia, book at www.italotreno.it.
Step 2, book the TGV from Turin to Paris at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com. You print your own tickets or can show a mobile ticket on your phone. Book the Frecciarossa using the same websites given in step 1.
Option 4, Florence to Paris via the Bernina Express - the ultimate scenic route
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This takes significantly longer and must be split over 2 days, but if you want the ultimate train ride through the Swiss Alps, this option is fabulous - If you still need convincing, watch the video.
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Day 1, travel from Florence to Zurich the scenic way
Travel from Florence to Milan by Frecciarossa high-speed train leaving Florence SMN at 07:55 arriving Milan Centrale 09:50.
Frecciarossas have 4 classes, a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. More information about Frecciarossas.
Then travel from Milan to Tirano by regional train, leaving Milan Centrale at 10:20 along the Lake Como, arriving Tirano 12:52.
Now travel from Tirano to Chur on the fabulous Bernina Express narrow-gauge panoramic train, continuing to Zurich by connecting Swiss intercity train. You leave Tirano at 14:24 and arrive Zurich HB at 19:53.
It's a long day, but worth it. See the Bernina Express page for full details.
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Stay overnight in Zurich. For something really special, the 5-star Hotel Schweizerhof is one of my favourite hotels anywhere, just across the road from the station. They'll even send a uniformed commissionaire to meet you & carry your bags from the train. For something cheaper, also next to the station with great reviews, try the 4-star Hotel St Gotthard or the excellent 3-star Hotel St. Josef, 7 minutes walk from the station, see walking map. If you're on a tight budget you can book private rooms in a one-star hotel or backpacker hostel near the station at www.hostelworld.com.
Alternatively, you could stop overnight in the pleasant town of Chur instead.
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Day 2, travel from Zurich to Paris by TGV-Lyria on any departure you like...
You can leave Zurich HB at 07:34 arriving Paris Gare de Lyon 11:38, or leave Zurich HB at 09:34 arriving Paris Gare de Lyon 13:38, or or leave Zurich HB at 11:34 arriving Paris Gare de Lyon 15:38. Your call!
TGV-Lyria trains have 3 classes, a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi. More information about TGV-Lyria.
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How much does it cost?
Florence to Milan starts at 29.90 in standard (2nd class) or 39.90 in business (1st class) or 119.90 in executive (premium 1st). Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
Milan to Tirano by regional train costs around 12, fixed-price, unlimited availability.
Tirano to Zurich starts at CHF 52 (around 50). Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
Zurich to Paris by TGV starts at 29 in 2nd class or 51 in 1st class. Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.
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How to buy tickets
Step 1, book a ticket from Florence to Tirano on the early morning departure shown above, using either www.thetrainline.com or www.raileurope.com (both easy to use, in , £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee). Booking opens up to 4 months ahead, You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.
Step 1, book a ticket from Tirano to Zurich as explained on the Bernina Express page. If you want to travel in the Bernina Express panoramic carriages between Tirano & Chur, add a seat reservation as I explain here.
Step 3, book a ticket from Zurich to Paris for the following day on any departure you like, also at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com. Booking opens up to 4 months ahead, you print your own ticket or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.
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Bernina Express 1st class seats... |
the Bernina Express uses panoramic carriages... |
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The Bernina Express descends from the Bernina Pass... |