Gaeta does not have a train station in town — and that is the first thing to know when planning your trip. However, getting here is simple: the town is on the coast between Roma (about 120 km) and Napoli (about 90 km), and the travel routes are well-tested. Here are all the options, with real practical details.
By train: Formia-Gaeta station + Cotral bus
The main railway station is Formia-Gaeta, on the Roma–Napoli line, connected to the major Italian cities. From there, there is no direct train to Gaeta: the connection is operated by blue Cotral buses, which is the standard option for those travelling without a car.
- Travel time: 25-30 minutes (a bit longer with traffic), arriving at Piazzale Caboto, right in the town centre.
- Ticket: 1,10 € each way — available at bars, tabaccherie (tobacconists), on the Cotral app, or via Tabnet. You can buy tickets on board, but with an extra surcharge.
- Frequency: regular departures throughout the day, less frequent in the evening and on public holidays. Timetables change with the season: you can find the exact departure times you need by asking Enea in chat, stop by stop.
Complete timetables, bus stops, and travel tips can be found in the guide to the Cotral Formia–Gaeta bus.
By car
You can arrive along the coast via the via Flacca coastal road (SS213) — the scenic route connecting Gaeta to Sperlonga and Terracina — or from the hinterland passing through Formia. The real challenge is not the drive itself, but parking: in high season, spaces near the sea fill up early in the morning. Before leaving, read our guide to parking and the ZTL (limited traffic zone) — and remember that the medieval centre is a limited traffic zone (ZTL).
Once in town: getting around without a car
The town centre is easily explored on foot. In summer, there is a free beach shuttle connecting park-and-ride lots to the beaches — the smartest choice on peak weekends. And if you wish to add an island trip to your journey, please note that ferries to Ponza and Ventotene depart from the port of Formia, not from Gaeta: this is the most common misunderstanding for last-minute day trippers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Gaeta have a train station?
No: the closest station is Formia-Gaeta, on the Roma–Napoli line. From there, continue with the Cotral bus (25-30 minutes, 1,10 €) to Piazzale Caboto, right in the town centre.
How far is Gaeta from Roma and Napoli?
About 120 km from Roma and 90 km from Napoli. By car, you can arrive along the via Flacca coastal road (SS213) or by passing through Formia.
Can you visit Gaeta without a car?
Yes: take the train to Formia, the Cotral bus to the town centre, and then explore entirely on foot. In summer, the free shuttle bus covers the beaches. A car is mainly useful for reaching the coves along the via Flacca.
Do ferries to Ponza depart from Gaeta?
No, they depart from the port of Formia, just a few kilometres away. From Gaeta, you can get there using the same Cotral bus that goes to the train station: it is advisable to factor in transfer time when booking your ferry departure.
Where does the bus from Formia arrive?
At Piazzale Caboto, by the harbour and just steps from the town centre: from there, you can walk along the seafront and head up into the medieval quarter.
