need to take the train from Sorrento to naples to catch another train to Bologna.was told to packlight because of many steps. is it really that steep that you cannot drag a large suitcaase and a carry on and purse? middle age travelling alone. better off not using the train and then taking a shuttle to airport and then flying?
i like the idea of the train but the sorrento-naples then transferring sounds like it could be daunting.any thoughts?the train from naples-bologna sounds great, its the local train/transfer that concerns me..
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32815 posts
I'm confused. Are you starting your journey in Sorrento? If not, how will you get to Sorrento? A large suitcase in one hand, a carryon suitcase in the other, presumably your purse will be across your body? How will you get up and down stairs (of any size)? Leave one case at the bottom, carry the other one up and leave it there and go back down for the other one? That will mark you out, in any city in the world, as easy pickings for thieves or pickpockets. Are you aware that most trains, even in the US, have a large step up and then, both in Italy and the US, sometimes the trains are two decks high and you have to carry your luggage up the stairs. What I suggest is pack light. Once you have test filled all your luggage at home with what you think you will need, put it in your car (by yourself), drive into Encinitas and park three blocks from the station. Walk with your luggage to the station (a hot day helps) and take the Coaster to San Diego. Walk over to the Green line and go 4 stops to Old Town, have a lunch, and go back home. Remember that in Italy they are not so handicapped aware so the ramps and lifts won't be there. Then, once you get home, take out all the stuff you don't want to carry, and then a bunch more, and you will be much happier. In Italy, don't always count on every escalator working all the time. Or use taxis.
Posted by
Denver
787 posts
I'm a middle-aged female; haven't traveled alone in Europe, but I always am responsible for my own stuff. I always take the same thing: one 22-inch roller bag and some sort of carryon / daybag that has a crossbody strap. I can easily fit in everything I need, and can easily get it up and down long flights of stairs. I will admit that I'm better at plane or car travel than trains, though I take trains when it makes sense. There's always a rail employee around if you have any questions.