I am traveling to Italy by myself this September. I am flying into Florence, and I am spending 1 week in Viareggio, then I am going to Forio, Ischia for another week, then flying out of Florence. I know I am able to do this by train and ferry, but I am having trouble finding websites with maps and schedules. Any advice please.
Although not the easiest site to navigate, try the Trenitalia website. You can also purchase tickets here without a service charge.
Do not worry about train and ferry tickets before you get to Italy. There will be no problem purchasing them at the terminal or from any travel agency. Have been going to Italy annually for 40 years and have never purchased tickets before arriving.
Seeing as you are going to Ischia you should make sure to go to Procida - an island within sight of Ischia. Thought it was much nicer than Ischia - very few tourists, nice beaches and very affordable. Don't miss it.
Thanks for the words on train travel. It's been driving me crazy!
I finally had to give in that i need to wait until I get there. :)