Trying to get from Milano to Siena by train, which means changing trains in Florence. But every option on Trentalia results in a mere 10 minutes between trains in Florence. That cuts it waaaay too close for our comfort. Am I missing something? Is there a way to book these tickets that does NOT result in a 10 minute layover? If we miss that second train to Siena, we have to buy another ticket to a later train, right?
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23650 posts
It is a small station so 10 minutes is adequate. Second, if your train is late and you miss the next train you have an hour to go to a ticket and exchange your ticket for another seat reservation -- assuming that the trains you are using all require a reservation. If it is a regional train with no reservations, then you simply get on the next train.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Be sure to have your bags ready and be standing at the doors as the train pulls into the station. Say "Permesso" over and over again as you shove your way through any clumps of people in your way. Double check on the overhead displays that you're going to the correct track for the Siena leg. Sometimes they switch them at the last minute. And if you're dealing with a separate ticket that does NOT have a reserved seat for this leg of the trip, don't forget to validate it before you hop on the train to Siena. Assuming you're arriving in Firenze SMN station, it's a terminal, which means it's much easier to get from one track to another. (You don't have to go down through a tunnel to switch tracks, like you do at an actual station.) You'll probably be fine. Happy travels.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32384 posts
Bob, Ten minutes is usually more than adequate to change trains, even if that involves a trip downstairs to a "Sottopassagio". As the others have mentioned, be ready to disembark when the train arrives at Firenze SMN. Check the electronic board for the track number of your next train. The train from Firenze to Siena will be a Regionale so you won't have to worry about reserved seating. Get on board and find a seat! When you arrive in Siena, you'll need to take a Bus or Taxi to get up into town. The other option would be train to Firenze and then Corse Rapide Bus to Siena, which drops passengers in the main part of town. Happy travels!
Posted by
Texan in CA
4415 posts
If the train arrives on time, 10 minutes is plenty of time. Line up 18 locomotives, then put a strip of cement in between each of them. You could walk across the entire Florence SMN station several times in 10 minutes, even with luggage. Here's a photo of how close 2 train tracks are. And the chances that your 2 trains are on the opposite ends of the station are slim, I'd think. BUT, you CAN simply book two separate tickets - you'll pay an extra €,30 (€59,00 Milan>Siena, vs €53,00 Milan>Florence, and €6,30 Florence>Siena). OR, I'd book the first leg (to take advantage of advance-purchase MINI fares and get a reservation), then just purchase a ticket to Siena from a machine (or ticket counter if the line isn't crazy) in Florence. There are trains b/n Florence and Siena every hour, and there are no discount fares or reservations for those. Ron in Rome.com can show you how; it's lengthy, but extremely informative - stick with it: http://www.roninrome.com/transportation/buying-train-tickets-updated Don't forget to validate those tickets!!!
Posted by
Shawnee, OK, USA
396 posts
you will be fine. i just did the same thing in april.
Posted by
Shawnee, OK, USA
396 posts
there are two florence stations. Are you changing in SM (main station) or Refredi (may have spelled that wrong)?
Posted by
Texan in CA
4415 posts
That train changes at SMN.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
The other option is to book the 2 legs separately. Book from Milan to Florence then Florence to Siena. This way you can pick a train time that you like better. Donna