We are looking at taking a train from Schramburg in the Black Forest to the the ferry in Civitavecchia. Ideally we would love to stop off in a small, easy town somewhere midway to stay the night. There is a route that goes through Milan and a route that goes along the coast. Both are the same time (about 12 hours). Looking for something easy. Walk from the train station to a square and have a good plate of pasta, see a church and a fountain, and head to a decent hotel.
We will be travelling in early July. Thanks!