For travel between Italy and other parts of Europe, including the UK, buses are the cheapest but most tiring type of transport, although discount rail tickets are competitive and budget flights can be good value.

For the rest of the world flying would seem the easiest option although boat passages are available.

Visitors travelling to Italy will find that flights are numerous and fares are competitive.

Unless you’re pushed for time, train travel is a great way to enter Italy from within Europe.

Buses to Italy are numerous but can’t really compete with the convenience of the train.

Ferries service Sicily from Naples, while Sardinia can be reached from Genoa, Livorno and Naples.

Ferries connect the country with Greece, Turkey, Tunisia, Malta, Albania, Croatia and Spain.