train from venice to cinque terra

Ryan, the CT is a bit out the way in Northwestern Italy. It's very easy to get there by train but it will take about 6.0hrs-7.0hrs. with 1-3 train changes depending on which run you choose. Some runs will go through Milan and others will go through Florence and Pisa.

CLICK HERE to see a current train schedule.

ryan, as you've never been to Italy and the "euro train is confusing" to you, I'd suggest reading the "Rail Skills" section in Rick's "Europe Through The Back Door". That will provide the information you need to smartly navigate the European train system.

It's a good idea to know the abbreviations on the schedules, how to manage the changes, etc. (also, get used to the 24-hour time system). If you're travelling with a Rail pass, you MAY have to pay for reservation fees (depending on which train you choose). If you don't have a reservations where one is required, you'll be nicked with a fine on the spot (I know, as that's happened to me)! If you have a reservation, you'll be assigned a Car & Seat No. There's also the "language issue" (PA announcements sometimes only in Italian).

You might want to scope out which train to you'll be taking to the Cinque Terre using bahn.de, to see whether reservations are required.

Having some "rail skills" is a really good idea!

Happy travels!

Ryan, If you can - go to Florence BEFORE going to CT from Venice. I had it planned as you last year but after looking at the train schedule, we changed our itinerary. You don't want to waste your time on a long train ride and having to change trains. You can take a train from Florence to LaSpezia then on in to CT. Make sure after you are on the train that it is leaving. We sat on a train for about 1/2 hour or so then someone came and told us that train wasn't going anywhere. We did get on another train and on in to Vernazza. Change your itinerary if you can. We did Rome, Venice, Florence CT then Tuscany area before going back to Rome. Good luck.