Train from Milan to Varenna

Of course you need to purchase tickets. There is just no need to purchase them in advance.

Just wanted to know if tickets could be purchased on line. Thanks

Just wanted to know if tickets could be purchased on line. Thanks

Trenitalia does not sell tickets for their Regionale trains online unless 1) its within 7 days of travel or 2) there are train changes on the run and the other train(s) are high-speeds. In your case, the trains to Varenna-Esino are all Regionale trains. You most llikely cannot purchase online from Trenitalia. This is not a problem as the Regionale train is like your local bus. You buy your ticket, validate it at the little yellow box in the station, get on and find your own seat. If no seats, you can stand. These trains cannot be sold out. Crowded? Maybe or Yes but they cannot be sold out. Just like your local bus. The ticket for the Regionale train is an "open" ticket that is good for 60 days. You can get on any Regionale train making the run listed on the ticket anytime during the 60 days. There are no train numbers, departure times or seat assignment on these tickets. Once you validate the ticket, it's good for 6 hours. Getting on a Regionale train without first validating it, will result in an "on the spot" 50Euro fine.

Thanks Larry.

Bill, one more hint. It's likely that this train run originates in Milan. That means that the train is empty. If you get there a little earlier than other travelers, you are sure to get a seat. It's only an hour train ride.