I'm exploring the option of taking the train from Marseille to Cinque Terre, and it looks possible, with train changes. Has anyone done this before? What was your experience - was it difficult?
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
Audrey, I have not done this trip by train but here is a snapshot of what you are looking at. The 3 later runs have huge wait times for train changes in the middle of the night. http://gyazo.com/1893843f12b615b79cadbf4d2aa347b9
Posted by
1 posts
Hi Audrey,
I've been planning a similar excursion,too, into Italy via a loop from Marseille. A car trip from Marseille to Genoa, north to Milan, west to Turin, and then back into France.
I have to reconsider now because your plan is much more simplified and Cinque Terre looks marvelous!
Sincerely,
Fred
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32405 posts
Audrey,
As you've seen in the snapshot provided by Larry, getting to the Cinque Terre from Marseilles is going to be an 8 hour or more trip. It would be easier if you were travelling from Nice, which is somewhat shorter and more reasonable for travel time.
The trip won't be difficult but will involve changing trains several times. If you're comfortable with that and have a full travel day to spare, the trip from Marseilles is certainly possible.
Posted by
OP
Singapore
354 posts
Thanks everyone! Ken: yes I have time to spare for an entire day of train travel, and I like trains ... Which is probably why I'm actually considering this route.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32405 posts
Audrey,
If you don't mind spending that much time on the train, then the trip is certainly possible. I'd probably use the 06:58 departure shown in the link, as it only has three changes and will get you to Monterosso at a fairly reasonable hour. I find that's a good time to arrive in a new location, since the room will have been cleaned and will be ready. After checking into the hotel, you'll have time for a short rest or perhaps an exploratory "walkabout", after which you can enjoy a fine meal in one of the many local restaurants.