We are flying into Milan this Oct and plan to train to CT and have the first 3 nights res. We are staying 2 weeks and plan to split the time btw CT and Florance or Sienna, and last 2 nights in Milan. Should we be concerned about not booking rooms in advance? If we should book - any suggestions? Is that train travel difficult or confusing? Also I understand the weather can go either way. Thanks
Posted by
Langley, BC, Canada
73 posts
Neil The trains are really easy. Go to the train station use the kiosk and a credit card. You just need to type in from and to and your off. But reserve a seat unless u want to sit in the hall. You take the train from Milan to Genova/Genoa change to the train to La Spenzia they stop along the way to there in all the CT towns you just have to pick one to stop at. We went the same time last year and did have some rain but we dressed for it. It's a mixed bag just be prepared.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
17442 posts
Some of the trains from Milan will go to Levanto or Monterosso al Mare without a change at Genoa. You will start on an Intercity (IC) train, and seat reservations are required and included in the price. The trains that stop in the five villages are regional trains. it would be a good idea to look at the train websites to see the schedules and options, so you'll know where to change trains. The Italian site is trenitalia.com but I cross-reference with the Swiss site, which is easier to use. Www.rail.ch
Posted by
OP
Keystone, Colorado, USA
44 posts
Thanks Kim That sounds easier than 20 years ago when I was last abroad. I assume you reserve the train on the train website and then pay at the kiosk. (Multiple reservations in case you miss your train?) Sitting on your luggage in the aisle for 3 hours is no fun. Any suggestions on rooms - reservations vs taking what is there? Do you have a suggestion for last nights in Milano near the train station? We think a light fleece and waterproof shell will suffice. Thanks for your response! Neil and Laurie
Posted by
London, Ontario, Canada
56 posts
Neil, my sister and I were in Milan last year. We loved Residence de la Gare. Huge apartment, good area, great price. Short terms ok. d
Posted by
Coraopolis, Pa, USA
1018 posts
When we are in Milano we always stay at the 4 star Hotel Berna on Via Napo Torriano, which is about 400 meters from Stazione Centrale. Also, check out venere.com and tripadvisor.com. Both sights will provide pricing, map locations, and client reviews. I generally prefer to make reservations because it is easier to go directly to the hotel. With the internet it is simple to make the reservations. This works for me, but others feel differently. Buon viaggio, Rb
Posted by
OP
Keystone, Colorado, USA
44 posts
Thanks for the tips - we made a reservation for the Residence la Gare - looked good - Hotel Berna was booked. After looking at some you tubes of the streets of Milano, I'm glad to know we won't have to hit the streets looking for a place. Neil