In late June, we will be traveling by train from Milan to Monterosso. Do we need to purchase tickets in advance? How far is it? After spending 3 nights in Cinque Terre, we will be renting a car and driving to Rome (stopping in Lucca, Siena, etc). Any suggestions about where to pick up car and places to stop along the way to Rome. (We have already been to Florence) Thank you
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32402 posts
Linda, The trip from Milano Centrale to Monterosso will vary from about 2H:50M to 4H:45M, depending on which train you choose. There are a few direct trains on that route, but most have two changes and longer travel times. There are direct train departures at 08:10 and 12:10 (among others). You can see departure times and other train details on the Trenitalia website. DON'T forget to validate tickets on Regionale trains, or you could face a hefty fine! A good location to pick up a car is La Spezia, which is the southern "gateway" to the Cinque Terre. For driving in Italy, note that each driver will require the compulsory I.D.P. and you'll have to be vigilant to avoid the dreaded ZTL (limited traffic) areas which exist in many cities in Italy (including Lucca and Siena). You might consider dropping the car at Orvieto and take the one hour train trip from there to Rome. Happy travels!
Posted by
Minneapolis
1277 posts
Hi Linda. There are a few direct trains per day (8:10 am, 12:10, etc.) that take around 3 hours, or other options that require a train change. You can see all the choices at trenitalia.com. For most flexibility, you can wait and buy tix when in Italy; full fare is 25 euros. Or you can buy in advance (late June not on sale yet, but put in a date for May to get the idea) for as little as 9 euro, but then you are locked in to that exact date and time. Enjoy your trip!