We're leaving for Italy in April and have a question. Rick recommends using a travel agency to book train tickets to avoid the long lines at Termini in Rome, but I didn't see where he recommended specific ones. Can anybody recommend one? I remember the long lines and the scam artists hovering around the do it yourself kiosks the last time we were there and would like to avoid that for a few euros if possible. Thanks,
cmh
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
You can book your tickets online at the trenitalia website before you go. Many Americans are having success with this lately. Or you can use the self service machines at the station. They are very easy to use and there are lots of them so no waiting involved. They are like an ATM machine and will walk you through the whole process. RoninRome's website has a wonderful article on using these machines with step by step instructions. If you wish to use a travel agency in Rome just go into any that display the trenitalia logo. They will be able to sell you the tickets you want. Donna
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Here's the link to Ron's incredible website that lays out exactly how to buy tickets online: http://tinyurl.com/RonInRomeBuyingTickets
Posted by
OP
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8 posts
Hold on...I didn't think you could book a ticket on the TrenItalia.it website because they don't accept US credit cards. At least that's what Rick says in the book pg 966. Has that changed?
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
trenitalia has recently started taking U.S. credit cards. People are even reporting getting the "mini" fare. If you are in need of tickets you should give it a try. Donna
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32325 posts
Christina, I use the automated ticket Kiosks frequently in Italy, and have never been bothered by or approached by "scam artists" at Termini (except for the Metro ticket Kiosks). I find those provide the easiest and quickest way to purchase tickets, and this avoids both the long queues at the ticket office or a trip to a Travel Agent. Happy travels!
Posted by
Texan in CA
4412 posts
Christina, search for threads from the last couple of days concerning buying Italian train tickets - there's 2, if not 3, ways to purchase Italian train e-tickets from home. I think the threads may be under "Transportation"; but perhaps "General Europe" or "To the Boot"... This way, you can avoid ALL hassles once there. Read the fine print - understand what you're buying (as with all things!).
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
Or just follow the link I posted above.