Undecided if I should fly from Venice to Paris or take the train via Milan. Is the scenery worth the 8 hours on board a train? The train in question is Frecciargento and Frecciarossa if that matters.
Posted by
Citizen of the World
1434 posts
Except for the route through Switzerland, the train ride is mostly unremarkable. The price of the flight is a fraction of the train ticket and will get you to Paris a few hours faster.
Posted by
Paris
6905 posts
Agreed, and it takes more like 10-11 hours!
Posted by
Paris
9590 posts
I was going to say — there's no way it's only 8 hours.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32795 posts
I do not advocate flying where a train is available on the same route because of the environmental cost. In this case there is a good case to be made to fly.
If you want to experience the new sensation of Italian trains in France by all means go for it, otherwise you might prefer a flight.
Posted by
lexington, il
4105 posts
Keep in mind you can fly into both CDG and Paris Orly. Orly is closer to the city center.
Posted by
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3207 posts
I agree with Nigel regarding the environmental cost of flying versus taking the train. Also, it seems to me there is a night train on that route. Get a compartment and enjoy the train; relaxing, fun and better for the environment. Also, it is city center to city center.
Posted by
Paris
6905 posts
Sadly the night train does not run anymore. A company is planning to reinstate one in two years.
EDIT: what I mean is that there is no direct night train. There is indeed a route via Munich, but that's longer and more expensive than the old direct train.
Posted by
140 posts
There is a night train — ÖBB Nightjet. As far as I know, there are no direct trains — you have to change trains in Germany or Austria. We are taking the Inoui TGV from Paris to Munich then changing trains to board the Nightjet to Venice. We booked a private couchette that includes a bathroom and shower in our little cabin. It cost $225 after booking fee, total for two people for the Nightjet portion, but we do have a Eurail pass, so that reduced it a bit. It also doubles as our accommodation for the night.
We are really looking forward to the experience. It will be dark, so no enjoyment of the Alps visually, but love not having to deal with all the hassles of airports. Being able to board, freshen up and go to bed before waking up in another country has a real appeal.
Posted by
stevens point, wi, usa
1189 posts
Hello from Wisconsin,
Once upon a time my wife and I tried to get from Venice to the Paris area. I know that is the reverse of your plan. We ended up taking a train to Pisa and flying to The Paris airport serviced by Ryan Air. We looked at renting a car, taking a bus, or a train.
Times have certainly changed many things. My info could well be out of date. On the earth's surface the transport was considerably slower and more expensive.
wayne iNWI