We arrive in Cittavechia the morning of Sept 9/11 and are heading straight to Milan. Should we take the train from there to Pisa, Genoa, Milan or should we head into Rome and then Florence - Milan? It appears that the first option is less expensive but takes longer?
Posted by
Minneapolis
1269 posts
Hi Patti. Yup, you've got it right. Both will work fine; just depends on your preference. Enjoy your trip!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32384 posts
Patti, As you've discovered, the cheaper Regionale trains usually have more stops and take longer. I tend to prefer getting from one place to another as quickly as possible, so I'd prefer the direct trip from Rome to Florence (even if it does cost more). Could you clarify a few more details about the trip. Are you travelling direct to Florence and then Milan? How are you planning to get to Bellagio (there are no trains). Happy travels!
Posted by
OP
Abbotsford, BC, Canada
2 posts
We plan to travel to Milan, then Varenna and get the ferry to Bellagio - looks to be a long day regardless of how we go.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32384 posts
Patti, Yes, it probably will be a bit of a long day, but still reasonable. Due to the fact that you're heading to Milan, there's really no need to go to Florence at all (unless you have a reason to stop there). In the same situation, I'd take the EuroStar Italia / Alta Velocita direct from Roma Termini to Milano Centrale and then transfer to the Regionale for the trip to Varenna (DON'T forget to validate your ticket). Travel times vary depending on which train is used however 5H:08M is a common time from Rome to Varenna (one change in Milan). Travel time from Milan to Varenna is 1H:03M. You'll go through a tunnel just before arrival. Be prepared to disembark promptly, as the train often doesn't stop for long. When you arrive in Varenna, you should be able to walk to the Ferry dock (if you don't have too much gear). The dock is in front of Albergo Olivedo (yellow coloured building). If you have lots of luggage, there's usually a Taxi waiting so the cost shouldn't be excessive for the short trip down the hill to the dock. The Ferry ride to Bellagio is about 20-minutes. Cheers!