Claims against Trenitalia: train delays and refunds
Trenitalia is Italy's main rail operator, running Frecce high-speed, Intercity and regional trains. Its services are covered by the EU rail passenger rights rules. Claims are mostly about delays, cancellations and missed connections.
- Delay compensation
- Under Regulation (EU) 2021/782, which applies since June 2023, passengers can claim 25% of the ticket price for a delay at arrival of 60 to 119 minutes and 50% for 120 minutes or more, unless the delay was caused by extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather. Operators can set a minimum amount below which nothing is paid.
- Refund or re-routing
- If a delay of 60 minutes or more is expected, passengers can choose a refund, continuing the journey or re-routing, and are entitled to meals and, where needed, a hotel.
- Deadlines
- Regulation 2021/782 lets operators set a time limit for compensation requests, which cannot be shorter than three months after the journey. Ask for compensation as soon as possible. A court claim after that is subject to the general limitation rules of the country where you sue. Indicative period in Italy (contract claims): 10 years.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Trenitalia pay for a delay?
Under the EU minimum rules, 25% of the ticket price for 60 to 119 minutes late and 50% for 120 minutes or more. Some operators pay more under their own commitments; check the conditions of your ticket.
Is a strike an extraordinary circumstance?
Regulation 2021/782 lists exceptions such as extreme weather and major natural disasters; strikes by the operator's own staff are not among them. Check the facts of your case.