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Train from Rome to Venice - which one and which type of ticket?

Posted by (New York) on

Hi all!

I have been reading the forums and RS' suggestions and books about this topic but still a little confused. We will be taking the train from Rome to Venice in late August. I see there are 2 options for fast train - the Trenitalia Frecce train and the Italo train. Can the experts recommend which one to take and the difference? (looks like tickets for this date have not yet opened up for reservations - still too early).

Then, I am trying to understand the type of ticket to buy. I have a 12 and 15 year old.

For the Frecce train, it looks like I should buy the Bimbi Gratis fare, is this correct? And then what class of ticket do people recommend - Standard vs. Premium are probably to 2 we would consider?

For the Italo train, I think it would be the Italo Family fare (looks like the 12 year old would be free)? And same question on class of fare - Smart, Comfort, Prima?

Grazie!

Posted by
32398 posts

tamara,

They use the same tracks and travel at the same speed, so take whichever one has the most favourable prices (they'll probably be close in price). Italo rolling stock is newer but either one will be good. The Italo cars are a maroon colour, so you won't mistake those for the Freccia trains.

I've never bought tickets for teenagers, so will let one of the others weigh in on that question. I find second class to be perfectly comfortable. Note that the cheapest Super Economy tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable once purchased, so be sure which train you want to take before you hit the "buy" button.

One point to keep in mind is that there will be a schedule update on about 10 June, so you may not be able to see trips in August for a few months yet.

Posted by
68 posts

Thanks Ken. Which is "second class" - standard on Frecce and Smart on Italo?

Posted by
32398 posts

It's been awhile so I'd have to check the Italo pricing structure. Standard on Trenitalia is the one I usually buy.

A few other points.....

  • be sure you're clear on the specific stations you'll be using (ie: Roma Termini to Venezia Santa Lucia).
  • you don't have to validate tickets for the express trains, but they do come with compulsory seat reservations which are specific to train, date and departure time.
  • if you'll be using Vaporetti in Venice, you MUST validate the tickets for those prior to boarding or risk hefty fines! The Vaporetti use an electronic ticket, so validation is a bit different than with Regionale trains. The ticket is held against the reader and if you get a green light, you're good to go.

One of the best sites I've found for buying tickets is www.trainline.eu, as they sell tickets for both Trenitalia and Italo, at the same prices as the rail networks. Registration on the site is required first, but it's very user friendly. They also have a smartphone app.

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