Italy train an inexpensive mode of transport

If this your first time traveling to Italy riding on an Italian train can be quite daunting. While it is the most inexpensive form of transport in Italy and comparatively around Europe it is also not as easy especially if you do not understand Italian.

Italy trainLet's start with the benefits of Italy train it is cheap, covers the length and breath of Italy it is not the most efficient when compared to other European countries or Asia such as Japan. Be prepared that you may arrive late at your destination. There are three types of trains in Italy:

  1. Eurostar (ES or Treni Eurostar Italia) - This is Italy premier train and is not the same Eurostar that plies the English channel between London and Paris. See
    this as the high speed train to get you to Italian cities fast.
  2. Intercity and the newer Intercity Plus trains - They are quite fast stopping at major cities. Offer
    first and second class service where seats are better and generally less populated.
  3. Regionale (regional trains) - These are local trains often running run the clock as office workers
    and school children often take them stopping at smaller cities. Are cheap and quite reliable.
    Slower in pace as they make frequent stops.
  4. For long journey there are also night trains sleep all the way awake to start afresh.

BUYING ITALY TRAIN TICKETS

There are number of ways you can buy Italy train tickets:

  1. Naturally at the train stations - ask at the ticket counter for the destinations, usually you will be
    ask for which type of trains and the class you wish to travel in - first class (primo) or second class (secundo).
  2. Purchase from ticket machines at the stations. Many of these machines offer instructions in other languages. This is probably the best to avoid the long wait at the counter. Make sure you have
    exact fares.
  3. Travel agency also provide the service but you will need to pay extra fee for handling.

NOTE - buying a ticket does not mean you have a reservation. You need to make sure that the train schedule of your intended destinations are stamped/indicated on your ticket.

You can check at Ferrovie dello stato for train schedules as well as conduct online purchases.

 

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WHAT TYPES OF TICKETS?

You need to ask yourself what suit you best against the Italian holidays you have planned. If you are unsure, it is best to buy point-to-point tickets when you are in Italy. If you are sure of your plans than getting an Italy Rail Pass can save you some money. BootsnAll Travel Network and RailEurope provides detail information on Italy Rail Passes, if you are not sure they have great advice as well.

Our experience is not to buy in advance unless you are absolutely sure of your destinations and timing as you will not be able to get a refund of your tickets in some circumstances.

 

BOARDING YOUR TRAIN

Look for track number indicated on the display panel which track your train will arrive. In Italian tracks are known as binari. In many smaller stations you will need to go through an underground tunnel using the underpassage to get to your platform. Take a look at a typical Italian train display board.

NOTE - validate your ticket before boarding. Find a yellow box located in the stations and validate your ticket. In some stations you may have to look hard for them. Best is to watch where other passenger are heading to validate their tickets. If your ticket is not validated there are stiff fines issued by the train conductor. You can plead your case as tourist, sometimes it works.

 

Watch this video made by ajcspqr on How to use the trains in Italy, it may give you a better impression than reading our contents.

 

 

For Quick and Easy Guide use Amazing North Italy sitemap to find information

 

 

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