Train or plane from Rome to Venice

Train! Use the freccia (trenitalia.com) from Roma Termini to Venezia Santa Lucia. There is a short stop in Firenze. Benefits: some nice scenery on the way, comfortable seats, lets you off right at the magic of Venice!

1/2 hour train from Termini to FCO and 14 euro, 2 hours to check in, go through security and be at the gate the requisite 45 minutes before departure, 1 hour in the air, 1/2 hour to get off the plane and retrieve luggage, 1/2 hour bus to Piazzale Roma and 8 euro. I count that as 4 1/2 hours and 22 euro extra cost vs 3 3/4 hours Termini to Santa Lucia Station in Venice.

Venice has what's probably the best-located train station in the world - you step out the front door, and there's the Grand Canal. Train, definitely.

The choice is clear - train!

Janet,

On that route, the train is most definitely the easiest choice. It will be faster than travel by air when all is considered, and probably cheaper too especially if you buy advance Super Economy tickets. The high speed trains travel at up to 300 km/h so they're a good alternative to air travel. Going by train will be a much nicer journey, and certainly more relaxing than the usual airport hassles. One other aspect is that there will be no restrictions or extra charges for luggage.

Train, I've done it several times. Also consider the possibility of a flight being delayed, costing you several hours; trains from Roma Termini depart frequently.

Figure time to/from airports (1-2 hours), security and check-in time 2 hours ahead of departure, I think), flight time, and the times are about the same.

Thank you, everyone, for all your helpful comments. I was able to secure super economy tix for 35 Euros each at a great time, so I am very happy.

I was starting to see the light, but everyone's insights got me on the train.

Janet, we love Italian trains. They're so much less hassle than airports unless you're going a long enough distance (over 5-6 hours by train) to warrant the pain. No annoying luggage fees or other nickle-dime nonsense, comfortable seats with a lot more room, and big windows for watching the world fly by. You've made an excellent choice!

Janet,

It's great to hear that you've got this sorted. One additional point to mention is that tickets on the high speed trains have compulsory seat reservations, which are specific to train, date and departure time. Therefore the tickets can ONLY be used on the one train listed on the ticket.

If you haven't used trains in Italy before, there are racks at the end of each car for larger luggage items. If you place anything there, watch it during the trip to make sure your luggage isn't "removed or misplaced". Smaller luggage items can be placed on the rack above your seats.