Best Airline to Fly From the US to Italy
Italy’s rich history, breathtaking art, and incredible food captivate travelers. Imagine walking through ancient Roman ruins, sipping espresso in a bustling piazza, or enjoying fresh pasta crafted by local chefs. Every region delivers something special. Venice enchants visitors with winding canals, Tuscany’s rolling vineyards produce world-class wine, and Milan leads the world in high fashion. Your experience in this vibrant country starts when you choose how to fly there. A smooth, comfortable flight sets a positive tone for your entire journey. You want the best route, an airline known for good service, and a schedule that fits your plans. This guide will help you pick the best airline to fly from the US to Italy. You’ll see practical details such as ticket prices, travel times, and in-flight perks. By the end, you’ll feel ready to reserve a seat and start counting down to your Italian adventure.
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Top Airline to Fly From the US to Italy
The top list of airlines to fly from us to Italy includes:
1. Delta Air Lines
Delta is a major US carrier known for its friendly service and on-time performance. It’s part of the SkyTeam Alliance, which includes ITA Airways, Air France, and KLM. Delta often operates direct flights from New York (JFK) or Atlanta (ATL) to Rome (FCO) and other Italian cities. This includes:
- Frequent direct flights to Rome and Milan from several US cities
- Comfortable Economy seats; upgraded Premium Select available on many routes
- Large entertainment library with seat-back screens
- Easy connections if you don’t live near a Delta hub
Delta Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (Nonstop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → FCO (Rome) | $600 – $1,100 | Afternoon or evening departures | ~8.5–9 hours | Good in-flight meals, seat-back entertainment |
| ATL (Atlanta) → FCO (Rome) | $650 – $1,200 | Late evening departures | ~9–10 hours | Strong on-time record, Delta Sky Club access for premium cabins |
| DTW (Detroit) → FCO (Rome) | $700 – $1,300 | Evening departures | ~9.5 hours | Decent legroom in Economy, upgrade to Premium Select for more space |
Delta’s reliability and wide US network make it a favorite among travelers who want minimal hassle.
2. ITA Airways
ITA Airways took the place of Alitalia as Italy’s main national carrier. It focuses on giving passengers an Italian experience from the moment they step on board. Expect tasty pasta dishes, Italian wines, and flight attendants who bring warm hospitality. This has:
- Direct routes from major US airports to Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Milan (LIN or MXP)
- Authentic Italian in-flight meals and drinks
- Competitive pricing in the economy, plus Business Class for added comfort
- Codeshare agreements with Delta and other SkyTeam partners for easy connections
ITA Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (Nonstop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → FCO (Rome) | $600 – $1,200 | Evening departures | ~8.5 hours | Authentic Italian meals, modern aircraft |
| BOS (Boston) → FCO (Rome) | $650 – $1,200 | Evening departures | ~8 hours | Quick overnight flight, easy connections within Italy |
| MIA (Miami) → LIN (Milan) | $700 – $1,300 | Late evening departures | ~9–9.5 hours | Cozy seat layouts, Business Class with flat-bed seats |
Flying ITA immerses you in Italian culture before you even land. This airline is a great choice for travelers who want a seamless arrival at Rome or Milan and then plan to hop to other Italian destinations.
3. Lufthansa
Lufthansa is Germany’s flagship carrier and a key member of the Star Alliance. It connects many US cities to Italy with a layover in Frankfurt (FRA) or Munich (MUC). Lufthansa’s efficient service and modern cabins often win praise from frequent flyers. This airline has:
- Smooth layovers in Frankfurt or Munich
- Polished cabin service with a European flair
- Multiple cabin classes: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First
- Strong record for on-time departures and arrivals
Lufthansa Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (One Stop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → FCO (Rome) (via FRA) | $700 – $1,400 | Afternoon or evening departures | ~10–11 hours total | Free meals and drinks, spacious Premium Economy option |
| LAX (Los Angeles) → MXP (Milan) (via MUC) | $800 – $1,500 | Evening departures | ~13–15 hours total | High-quality Business Class lounges in Munich and Frankfurt |
| ORD (Chicago) → VCE (Venice) (via FRA) | $750 – $1,400 | Evening departures | ~10–12 hours total | Reliable flight schedules, easy connections across Europe |
A short stop in Germany can also give you a brief taste of Frankfurt or Munich if you plan well.
4. Air France
Air France, part of SkyTeam, offers flights from many US airports through its hub at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). You can easily connect from Paris to Rome (FCO), Milan (MXP), Venice (VCE), or Florence (FLR). Air France delivers a French ambiance on board, with refined meals and wine. These airlines have:
- Access to Air France lounges if you fly Business Class
- Stylish cabin interior and attentive cabin crew
- Flying Blue loyalty program earns miles to use on Air France or KLM
- Paris layover option for a mini-visit to the City of Light
Air France Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (One Stop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → FCO (Rome) (via CDG) | $700 – $1,400 | Late afternoon or evening | ~10–12 hours total | Chic in-flight meals, well-stocked entertainment |
| IAD (Washington) → MXP (Milan) (via CDG) | $750 – $1,400 | Afternoon or evening departures | ~11–13 hours total | SkyTeam partner benefits, modern long-haul fleet |
| SFO (San Francisco) → VCE (Venice) (via CDG) | $850 – $1,600 | Afternoon departures | ~13–15 hours total | Stylish Business Class cabin, comfortable Premium Economy |
Air France excels in combining good food, a polished vibe, and convenient routes through Paris.
5. British Airways
British Airways is the largest airline in the UK and part of the Oneworld Alliance. You’ll connect through London Heathrow (LHR) on your way to major Italian cities, which can be perfect if you want a quick London stop. This includes:
- Frequent flights from many US cities
- Avios loyalty points transfer to partners like Iberia and Aer Lingus
- Modern fleet and upgraded cabin classes, including Premium Economy and Club World
- In-flight meals often feature British-inspired cuisine
British Airways Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (One Stop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → FCO (Rome) (via LHR) | $700 – $1,400 | Multiple flights per day | ~10–12 hours total | Convenient London transfer, special meal requests available |
| BOS (Boston) → VCE (Venice) (via LHR) | $700 – $1,300 | Afternoon or evening departures | ~10–12 hours total | Family-friendly services, wide seat-back entertainment |
| LAX (Los Angeles) → MXP (Milan) (via LHR) | $800 – $1,500 | Evening departures | ~13–15 hours total | Good Premium Economy cabin, oneworld lounge access |
If you enjoy British charm and want flexible schedules, British Airways is a solid pick.
6. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM is the Netherlands’ national airline and another SkyTeam member. Its hub in Amsterdam (AMS) is a favorite for easy connections to Italy. Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is known for efficient immigration lines and plenty of dining and shopping. This airline has
- Smooth connections through Amsterdam
- Friendly crew and decent in-flight entertainment
- Economy Comfort seats for more legroom
- Flying Blue miles shared with Air France
KLM Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (One Stop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → FCO (Rome) (via AMS) | $700 – $1,300 | Evening departures | ~10–12 hours total | Dutch-inspired meals, comfy Economy Comfort seats |
| ATL (Atlanta) → MXP (Milan) (via AMS) | $750 – $1,400 | Late afternoon/evening | ~10–12 hours total | Polite service, excellent operational reliability |
| SFO (San Francisco) → FLR (Florence) (via AMS) | $850 – $1,500 | Afternoon departures | ~14–16 hours total | Great layover amenities in Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport |
KLM often wins people over with its warm service and efficient transfers.
7. SWISS International Air Lines
SWISS, part of the Star Alliance, is Switzerland’s national airline. It links the US to Italy through Zurich (ZRH). While you’ll have a short layover in Switzerland, you can enjoy SWISS’s reputation for punctual flights and refined service. This airline includes:
- Zurich Airport has quick connections and lovely airport lounges
- Swiss-themed in-flight meals, including cheese options and Swiss chocolate
- A variety of cabin classes, from Economy to First
- Consistent on-time performance
SWISS Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (One Stop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → MXP (Milan) (via ZRH) | $700 – $1,400 | Evening departures | ~10–12 hours total | Swiss chocolate treats, high service standards |
| ORD (Chicago) → FCO (Rome) (via ZRH) | $750 – $1,400 | Evening departures | ~10–12 hours total | Premium Economy for extra comfort, easy customs process |
| MIA (Miami) → VCE (Venice) (via ZRH) | $800 – $1,500 | Late evening departures | ~12–14 hours total | Clean, efficient cabins, straightforward connections |
If you appreciate Swiss precision and want reliable flight times, SWISS makes a strong choice.
8. Emirates
Emirates operates out of Dubai (DXB), so US passengers to Italy often have a long layover. The upside is a famously luxurious experience, especially in Business and First Class. Even in Economy, you get top-tier in-flight entertainment and attentive service. The emirates have:
- Award-winning in-flight entertainment with thousands of channels
- High-quality meals, often with regional options
- Excellent Business and First Class, complete with lie-flat seats and even showers on some A380s
- Possible chance to explore Dubai during a longer layover
Emirates Flight Details
| Route | Approx. Round-Trip Price (Economy) | Departure Times | Flight Duration (One Stop) | Notable Features |
| JFK (New York) → FCO (Rome) (via DXB) | $800 – $1,500 | Late night or midday from JFK | ~16–20 hours total | Great amenity kits, best-in-class entertainment |
| LAX (Los Angeles) → MXP (Milan) (via DXB) | $900 – $1,600 | Evening departures from LAX | ~18–22 hours total | Generous baggage allowance in many fare classes |
| IAH (Houston) → FCO (Rome) (via DXB) | $900 – $1,700 | Evening departures from Houston | ~17–21 hours total | Top-notch cabin crew, possibility to bid for seat upgrades |
Emirates is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and don’t mind the longer journey time.
Why the Right Airline Counts
Flying across the Atlantic isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. You’ll likely spend eight to twelve hours in the air, and details like seat comfort and entertainment can make or break your mood. If you choose an airline with cramped seating, poor in-flight meals, or frequent delays, you may arrive in Italy stressed and tired. On the other hand, a good airline can turn the long flight into part of the adventure.
Consider these benefits of picking the right carrier:
- On-Time Arrivals: Fewer delays mean you can catch a train or start exploring as soon as you land.
- Comfort: Even a few more inches of legroom can help you rest and avoid painful stiffness.
- Entertainment: A diverse film and music library keeps boredom away during long flights.
- Service: Friendly flight attendants and thoughtful extras (like blankets or amenity kits) improve the experience.
- Convenient Schedules: Well-timed flights can save you from awkward overnight layovers.
When you reach Italy feeling relaxed, you can jump straight into its museums, cafes, or coastal views. A well-chosen airline makes a big difference.
Key Factors to Consider
1. Price
Flights to Italy can range from around $600 to over $1,500 in economy, depending on when you travel. Fares often rise in peak summer months (June–August) and around winter holidays. If you have some flexibility, look for departures in late spring or early fall when prices tend to drop.
2. Departure Airport
Major US airports like New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Boston (BOS), Miami (MIA), and Los Angeles (LAX) offer direct or one-stop flights to Italy. If you’re near a big hub, you’ll have more choices. If you live elsewhere, you may need a domestic connection first.
3. Flight Times and Connections
A direct flight gets you to Italy faster, often saving a few hours. However, a one-stop flight through another European city can be cheaper or allow a mini-stopover. Look at both options when comparing prices.
4. Cabin Classes
Economy class is the most common choice. However, some airlines offer Premium Economy with extra legroom and improved meals. Business Class provides lie-flat seats for ultimate comfort on long flights. If you find a good fare in Premium Economy or Business, it might be worth the splurge.
5. In-Flight Amenities
Long-haul flights are easier when you have seat-back screens, Wi-Fi access, or a wide selection of movies. If you need to work on board, reliable Wi-Fi might be a key factor.
How to Pick Your Perfect Flight
- Decide on Your Budget
Compare average fares among the airlines listed. Keep in mind that ticket prices fluctuate by season and how early you book. - Check Your Nearest Airport
If you live close to JFK, you have many nonstop flights to Italy, including Delta and ITA Airways. If your closest hub is Chicago (ORD), Lufthansa or SWISS might be more convenient. - Look at Layover Times
A direct flight can save you hours. If you don’t mind connecting, you can often snag cheaper fares with Lufthansa, Air France, or British Airways. - Consider Airline Alliances
If you already collect miles with a certain group (SkyTeam, Star Alliance, or Oneworld), sticking to your alliance helps you accrue more points and enjoy perks like lounge access. - Review Cabin Options
Premium Economy offers better seat pitch and enhanced meals. Business Class delivers lie-flat seats and extra privacy. If you value comfort over cost, an upgraded cabin might be worth it. - Check Reviews
See how fellow travelers rate each airline’s food, seat comfort, and punctuality. You can also read up on how well the airline handles cancellations or schedule changes. - Be Flexible
If your dates aren’t set in stone, try moving your travel window by a few days. Ticket prices can vary significantly between weekdays and weekends.
Extra Tips for Saving Money
- Book Early: Start looking at least three to six months before your trip.
- Consider the Off-Season: April to May and September to October often come with lower fares and fewer crowds in Italy.
- Sign Up for Fare Alerts: Use websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner. They’ll email you when prices drop.
- Watch for Airline Promotions: Carriers announce sales around holidays or to commemorate new routes.
- Compare One-Way vs. Round-Trip: Sometimes, a one-way plus a separate one-way ticket can be cheaper, but this varies. Always check before finalizing.
- Combine Miles and Cash: Some airlines let you pay part of the fare in miles and the rest in money, potentially lowering your out-of-pocket cost.
Final Thoughts
Travel to Italy offers art, scenery, and cuisine. Choose an airline that suits your budget and airport, considering cabin classes, baggage, and loyalty perks. Use fare alerts for the best deals. Upon arrival, explore historic landmarks and enjoy Italy’s delights. Your airline choice sets the tone for your adventure. Buon viaggio! For a couple of seconds
Traveling to Italy opens a realm of art, stunning landscapes, and incredible cuisine. A smooth flight ensures you arrive ready to explore, whether you pick direct comfort with Delta, Italian flair on ITA Airways, refined service from Lufthansa or SWISS, or a luxurious ride via Emirates. Choose wisely, stay flexible, and let your journey begin. Buon viaggio!
