I will be arriving in Rome next week (~7:45 am) and then need to take a train to Orvieto. I HATE crowds so wondering if the trains from Rome airport to the central train station ---- where I then need to to catch the train to Orvieto---will be very crowded----like standing room only----or not so crowded. Do I need to make reservations now before I leave or can I wait till I arrive as it is hard to know if plane will be late. I will have a checked bag and small backpack.
I don't believe you can get reservations for the Leonardo Express from Fiumicino to Roma Termini. You could buy tickets for the IC train to Orvieto now. If you buy Base fare tickets, they will be changeable. Also, when you get to the Fiumicino train station, your next connection to Orvieto may be through Roma Tiburtina, in which case you'd take a cheaper regional train to Tiburtina.
Trains in Italy from FCO to Rome will be crowded. SRO? Maybe. Crowds are a reality in Italy most of the time but especially starting at this time of year. There is a bus option. Cheaper and a guaranteed seat.
Standing room doesn't exist on these trains
There are no reserved seats on airport trains and on most of the trains going from Rome to Orvieto.
I doubt you'll save lots of money getting an InterCity discounted ticket from Rome to Orvieto only one week in advance. You can easily see what's left on www.trenitalia.com/en.html and then decide. On the day of travel you will always pay the 17.50 € Base fare from Termini to Orvieto and 15.50 from Tiburtina station, not more.
The LE runs about every 30 min
If train is too crowded, wait for the next
It’s the beginning of the line
Expect crowds everywhere
I purchase my train tickets on-line ahead of time at home except for the day of arrival from a flight. Rome is very busy, but the train from FCO into Rome won’t be any more crowded than a plane.
Does your itinerary include some less touristy locations to enjoy Italy? Any advice wanted for things to do in certain cities on your itinerary that might help you avoid some of the more crowded places?
I've ridden the Leonardo Express between the airport and Rome many times and never had to stand. If you think it's crowded when you get on, wait for the next one and be one of the first to board.