First class vs. second class train tickets in Italy

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187791-i22-k4010142-First_or_Second_Class_on_Trenitalia_Trains-Rome_Lazio.html http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums/a/tpc/f/862600685/m/817002772001

The better question to ask would be: what is the differences between the types of trains between cities - express, ICE, regionale, and the like. Within a specific train there isn't an immense difference. But there is between the type of train. The regionales are not much fun, so you definitely want first class there. For the faster trains there isn't a huge difference (we've been traveling them for six weeks each summer). Last summer we ended up on a regionale from Milan to Verona, second class. The curtains flapping out the windows, the windows that didn't open or close, the bathrooms...well,we didn't repeat that again.

Everyone can have a opinion about the difference but to specifically answer your question. First class is three across seating - think First Class airline. Second class is four across think Business class. Personally we find 2nd class very acceptable on most trains. Sometimes it can be more crowded especially on Regional trains. We don't the difference in cost is worth it unless you get a deal.

The "service" (OK, none) is no different, just that the seats are wider and there is more legroom. In first, you might only sit 2 abreast where in second, you will sit 3 across.

you are on vacation. the price difference really isn't all that great considering what you are spending in total. take first class. i have been on some smelly regional trains that i kicked myself for. never again. as said, on ice and high speed trains not much difference other than seating. i always feel a little safer in first class, especially in italy. have fun, be safe.

Ron in Rome has an excellent post on this very subject on his blog. Personally, I don't think first class is worth the extra cost. 2nd class is roomy enough plus you get to sit and chat with the locals. Here is the link to Ron in Rome's blog on the subject. The discussion of 2nd class v. 1st class is near the end of the post. http://www.roninrome.com/%20transportation/riding-the-trains-in-italy

Or, simply look on this site: http://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/helpline/index.cfm/rurl/topic/57897/train-travel-rome-to-florence.html

If the choice is between business class and coach for air travel there is no contest - business wins hands down and is definitely the better choice. The difference is not quite as huge when you travel by train. The leg room in second class is already much better on the trains than it would be on a plane in coach. The exception might be some busy commuter regional trains during rush hours. Those would be the only ones I'd consider first class. But I don't take those often while on vacation so again, not really a big issue.

My husband and I have been on high-speed trains in Italy for a week now, always first class. Lovely coaches and seats with ample room for your luggage by your seat. Not so in 2nd class. So if you are travelling with more than one small bag, go for first and you will thank yourself!

We choose to go second class and spend on meals the money we saved.

Besides the three across seating in 1st versus four across, there are three other advantages we found: First class seats had an armrest for both arms--no sharing with the person seated next to you. Second, if 1st class was fully booked, we could then choose 2nd class. Third, most trains had electrical hookups in 1st so we could recharge our laptop. Oh--and you get free soft drinks and snacks in 1st.

I had read somewhere to do 2nd class on the Eurostars and 1st class on InterCity trains so that is what we did. The 2nd class seats we had on the EuroStar from Venice to Florence were perfectly comfortable and just fine. One of our InterCity trains was from Cinque T. to Milano and we did 1st class. The 5 of us (+1 other person) had our own private compartment which was very comfortable. Our tkts for both came with the mandatory reservatons. It is most helpful to review the train info and know how to interpret the info on the tkt. Unfortunately on an InterCity we had to ask people to move as they were occupying our seats and they were not happy or kind about it. They had no idea that their tkt had seat #'s on it. Had to explain to them how to read the ticket.

The major benefit I've found in 1st class is that usually I can leave my luggage right by my seat. The racks on the trains are VERY high, and I can't even get a light, small pack up that high. Also, it makes it easy for me to keep an eye on my luggage.