Travelers on Italy’s high-speed rail network should prepare for delays starting January 7, 2025, as essential maintenance works on the “Direttissima” high-speed corridor between Rome and Florence are set to begin. The disruptions, announced by Ferrovie dello Stato (FS), will continue until March 4, 2025, impacting train schedules and extending travel times.
The maintenance project, valued at €12 million, focuses on upgrading railway tracks between Capena and Gallese and between Settebagni and Rome Tiburtina, covering approximately 20 kilometers. These upgrades are part of FS’s broader initiative to modernize Italy’s rail system, aiming to improve long-term reliability and safety.
The works will primarily affect train efficiency on the Orte-Rome section, leading to slower speeds and adjusted schedules for High-Speed, InterCity, and Regional services. Peak travel days, such as Fridays, are expected to see the most significant impact.
To reduce passenger inconvenience, FS stated that much of the construction will be carried out at night. However, travelers should still anticipate changes to timetables, longer travel durations, and potential cancellations during the two-month period. Passengers are advised to check updated schedules and plan their journeys accordingly.
This maintenance follows similar disruptions last August, when modernization efforts on the high-speed network also led to delays and schedule adjustments. While the current project aims to enhance the future performance of Italy’s renowned high-speed rail system, commuters and tourists alike will need to navigate temporary inconveniences during the improvement phase.
