Book directly through Trenitalia or Italo instead of tourist booking sites that add 15-20% markup. High-speed trains run hourly Roma Termini to Firenze SMN in 1.5 hours.

TRENITALIA FRECCIAROSSA: €19.90 booked 3+ weeks ahead, €39.90 last minute. Standard comfort, reliable wifi.

ITALO: Usually €5-10 cheaper than Trenitalia, better wifi, leather seats vs fabric. Same journey time and stations.

Regional trains take 4+ hours and aren't worth the €15 savings unless you're truly desperate. High-speed is the only sensible option for this route.

Standard tickets include seat reservations automatically. Don't fall for rail pass sales at Termini — Overpriced for single trips.