What is the difference between the first and second class train tickets? Do you think it is worth $50/person for the upgrade if we are not sleeping on the train and just taking it three times between our destinations? Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Portland, OR, USA
805 posts
No it's not. Only travel first class if you have extra $...
Posted by
SF Bay Area, CA
2030 posts
I travelled 2nd class trains all through Italy last year and it was fine.
Posted by
Dallas, TX, USA
186 posts
Very little difference in the first and second class cars. I worried about which class tickets unnecessarily before my trip. Second class is fine in every way.
Posted by
Cave Springs, AR, USA
11 posts
I agree with the others. We just got back from Italy, where we rode the train several times. Always went 2nd class and never had any issues at all.
Deb in Arkansas
Posted by
Somonauk, Illinois, USA
400 posts
Yes Krista, you'll be very satisfied with traveling 2nd class....and very happy you saved yourself some money.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23309 posts
Remember all US people have trained by our wonderful airlines that cheap tickets means miserable conditions, cramped seats, etc. They have also trained us to buy tickets years in advance. It is culture shock to buy a cheap and have a very nice seat. 2nd class is wonderful. And you can buy tickets the day before or the day of travel.
Posted by
Corsicana, Texas, USA
354 posts
Several reminders: 1) You will need to carry all of your luggage on and off the train, so pack lightly; 2) Be on time, since trains are often in-station only a short while; 3) If you place any luggage in the storage rack at the end of the car, you might feel more comfortable if someone in your group can see it from their seat; 4) Know in advance if you need to validate your ticket before boarding.
Posted by
Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
122 posts
2nd class is perfectly fine. Use the extra money that you'll save and spend it on fine food and wine!
Posted by
Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA
20 posts
We have gone by train from Nice to Venice (via Milan),Venice to Florence and Florence to Rome. All tickets have been in 2nd class and I was very satisfied. Seats are generally 4 together....two on either side of a table, but there was plenty of room.
It's cheaper than going 1st class, and I really don't think that is needed based on our experience.
Linda