A/C on trains in Italy

If the AC is not turned on or is not working on a train, do NOT expect to open a window. The Italians won't let you. They believe that drafts cause illness, and that includes any refreshing breeze in a baking hot train car. They call a draft "lo spiffero" and it's a firmly held superstition. We baked in a car that was easily in the upper 90s when it was in the low 80s outside. I started to open a window and this little Italian mamma slammed it shut and told me "Non aperto!" meaning "Not open!"

The Eurostar trains have both A/C and pressurization. Here's the scoop from Italian Rail.

"ES* Italia is the Italian system of high-speed premier trains operating on routes connecting Italy’s main cities and towns. Enjoy first-rate customer service and beautiful scenery during your superfast, comfortable journey across Italy. All cars are air conditioned and pressurized."

NO

Most cars on most major trains have AC but they usually do not run it as cold as in this country. On one smaller regional train the car's AC was too cold.

Another reason for not opening windows is to reduce noise and dirt, plus the cuncussion of tunnels and passing trains is much worse if windows are open.

Tom,

I live here and ride ES trains all the time. In the winter the AC works GREAT! In the summer... what AC? Most ES train windows DO NOT open - they're one piece! We learned long ago - dress in layers. If the weather doesn't change dramatically, the AC will from train to train!

Although regional trains, like the ES, advertise AC most travel with the windows open. Bet on limited, and less than effective AC and you won't be disappointed!

I do have to admit I rode to Firenze (Florence) this weekend and the trip up was very pleasant in 65 degree temperatures - the AC worked!

Good Luck!