We will arrive in Milan on the 21st of November and depart November 23rd. I would like to take the fast train up to Zurich, but I'm not sure how to make a reservation from the states, if I can.
If I wait until I arrive in Italy, can I make a reservation for that train at the station in Rome? Or do I have to be in Milan to purchase the tickets.
Thanks,
Tracy
It's very easy to buy the train tickets in Milan on 11/21. You can either get them at the train station or at a travel agency. Most travel agencies sell Trenitalia tickets. If you want the fastest train, you will want the Cisalpino (CIS) #154 from Milan to Zurich HB. I believe that this is the "tilting" train and they will charge slightly more for this train. It leaves Milan at 11:18 on 11/23. It's 45 minutes faster than other trains. If you are going to Zurich airport (Zurich Fluhagen), this train does not stop there. You need to get off at Zurich HB and take a regional to the airport. This second ride takes 12 minutes.
Thank you soooo much! I'll print this and keep for reference. It really sets my mind at ease knowing what to expect.
We will probably visit Zurich that afternoon and head out to our hotel near the airport later. We depart fairly early the next morning.
Thanks again,
Tracy
I think the 154 is the tilting train. Here's some info on the TILTING TRAIN. We REALLY wanted to get on this train but we couldn't fit it into our schedule. Have fun. Note that there are other Milan/Zurich trains at other times of the day. If you need a schedule, let me know.
Here's MORE INFORMATION on the Cisalpino train schedule and prices. The Cisalpino train system is simply a multi-country train system. They stop in several cities in Italy but they are not Trenitalia trains. Nor, are they Swiss trains. They may be some type of partnership. Note that the EC trains on the schedule (EuroCity) are not the tilting trains. I'm sure that only the CIS trains are the tilting ones.
In November you will not have to worry about advance reservation. We made that run in June from Rome to Milan and then the next morning to Zurich. Beautiful ride and great scenery. In mid June we bought tickets in Rome about five days before. Plenty of room. In the Rome train station use the International ticket line.
I don't have my heart set on the Cisalpino, so another train would work. However, if we get the chance we will certainly take it. I'd like the experience of one of the newer trains. 30 years ago when I traveled through Italy on a year abroad I rode only 2nd class trains. Sometimes overnight to save on lodging.
This trip promises to be a little different ;-)
