Comparison of first and second class train travel in Italy

Here we go again. Scan back a few days and you will find a full discussion. I always ride second class. Second class seats are four across (2x2) and first is three (1x2). Some claim the ac is better in first but it seems perfectly adequate in second. It is most personal preference.

Thanks for answering my questions. I'm sure that they must be common, but I didn't see them posted as I scanned over 4-5 pages of questions. If I understand you correctly, the most noticeable difference is the configuration of the seats. Are the seats roomier for first class? It would seem that there should be some good reason to spend twice as much for a first-class ticket. Why would anyone do that?

Once again, thanks. I appreciate your insights.

Vicki - here's a post with pictures of 1st versus 2nd... we ride the trains often and 2nd class is fine for us. 1st class is usually far "more empty" as only businessmen and tourists are seated there. For more info on riding trains in Italy, CLICK HERE.

The seats in first class are SLIGHTLY roomier than those in 2nd I would say in general. Just the natural difference between having to fit 3 people instead of 4 across There certainly is not the type of difference that you would see on a plane.

Hello Vicki. Rick Steves, in his book on ITALY, said Italy is the one country in Europe in which he chooses to travel in First Class train cars. Me also. The First Class train cars are less crowded with people, there is not likely to be crying babies or annoying children, and Gypsy thieves are not likely to be in the First Class car. In Italy the cities are stressful. And travelling in a foreign country can be stressful and tiring. For travelling long distances in Italy, I appreciated the comfort and quiet and serenity of being in a First Class car in an Italian EuroStar train. Other than that, my travel experiences in Europe are not "First Class". I do not go to expensive hotels or expensive restaurants. And, as you might know, some trains in Italy do not have First Class cars.

Second class is fine as long as the train isn't full. First class is less crowded and more comfortable on the popular runs. Think of people and luggage filling the aisles because there are more people than seats; that is second class often.

The website Ron suggested was unbelieveably thorough, and the personal insights that each of you shared were very helpful. I now have a much better idea of how the whole train thing works. I feel much more confident about using the trains now. Thanks very much.

Vicki