Transportion options

There is only one reasonable option, fly.

I would fly since that would be the fastest and often the cheapest. Look at Rome2rio.com. They will show you more information on the different options.

Thanks Becky, I appreciate the information.

We have taken the train several times when we lived in Rome and had a lot of time. We would do it in two or three segments. For example, we might overnight in Paris for 2 or 3 nights, then in Milan for 1 night. We did go Paris to Rome in one day once but it was 11 hours so never again. We have also traveled London to Chur, SW, in one day then taken the Bernini Express to Tirano and on to Milan before returning to Rome.

I agree with the others - a budget flight would be the best option. easyJet has flights from both Luton and Gatwick to Rome / FCO. Of the two, I'd use Gatwick as there's a greater number of flights available at various times of the day.

If you'd rather go by train, you can make the trip easier by stopping at an intermediate location for at least one night, before continuing on to Rome. Somewhere in Switzerland would be a good choice.

EasyJet from Gatwick is a very popular route, and it is very inexpensive.

Thanks everyone for your insightful replies, the information is very helpful.