Is the train delayed?
ri-TAR-do — stress on second syllable. Natural, simple question.
When waiting on the platform and the train has not arrived on time.
'In ritardo' is the standard Italian phrase for delayed or late. The opposite is 'in orario' (on time) or 'puntuale' (punctual). This applies to trains, buses, and planes. Italian trains, particularly regional services, do experience delays, though the high-speed network is quite reliable.
Di quanto è in ritardo?
How late is it?
Ask to find out the extent of the delay
Il treno è cancellato?
Is the train cancelled?
'Cancellato' — same root as English 'cancelled'
C'è un treno sostitutivo?
Is there a replacement train?
Ask when a train is cancelled — usually a bus service
Trenitalia publishes real-time train status on its website and app. The Frecciarossa high-speed service has an on-time rate of around 90%. Regional trains (Regionali) are less reliable, especially in Southern Italy. If a train is delayed more than 30 minutes, you are entitled to partial compensation.