Travel Italy

sue, As Frank mentioned, there should be no problem with train or bus fares even in July, as there are frequent trains between all the destinations you mentioned. I'd suggest buying tickets (which will include reservations if applicable) a day or two before you'll be travelling, either using the staffed ticket offices at each station, or the automated Kiosks. You may want to browse This Website for lots of great information on travelling in Italy. However, as July is peak travel season in Italy, it would be a REALLY good idea to get accommodations sorted as soon as possible!!! Pre-booking accommodations will provide you with the greatest choice of both price and location in each city. It also helps to avoid wandering around an unfamiliar city in the July heat (with luggage!) just trying to find a place to sleep. Good luck and happy travels!

I typically travel without reservations even in the summer...unless I am going to a major tourist place, as you are. Your choices are probably already very limited. I would be more likely to risk it with a car as you can drive on but I would not want to be wandering the streets of Rome in the hot summer looking for a room. I am sure many would give you suggestions here on your locations.

Probably need room reservations because of demand at that time. However, because of the number and frequency of trains, you don't need advance reservations. Trains, rarely, if ever, sell out.

many thanks for your replys that is good about trains and busses not having to pre book agents trying to sell us 600 dollar rail passes now quite sure we wont need them. But will look in to booking accomodation any sugestions we have 3 days booked Rome than would like to see Cinque Terre, Tuscany ,Leaning tower Piza Florence aereas then we go on to Venice for 2-3days fly out from Milan to Athens.We have 6 days between Rome and Venice .Thanks Sue

sue, With only six days between Rome and Venice, I'm not sure you will have time to visit the Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Pisa and Florence. Given the short time frame, it would be a good idea to drop Pisa and the Leaning Tower, as you won't have time. It would help if you could provide a bit more detail on where you're planning to visit in Tuscany (other than Florence). With only six days, I'd probably consider dividing the time equally between the Cinque Terre and Florence. While in Florence you could take a day trip to Siena (which is also in Tuscany). Cheers!