We will be taking the train from Amsterdam to Paris, and from Venice to Rome. I am wondering if I should purchase the tickets before we leave for Europe, or if I should just buy them while we are there. Also, does anyone have information about traveling by train? We only speak english and have never traveled outside of the US, so we want to make sure we aren't wandering around lost! Thanks!
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
Ditto Michael on the high-speeds from Venice to Rome. You can buy early on www.trenitalia.com. Buy early if you will accept a non-ex or non-refun ticket. The ordinary fare is 80Euro but there are Super Economy fares as low as 9Euro. All depends on your travel date and time. The lowest fares will go early.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9110 posts
Anyone who wants your money will speak english:) Just learn the greetings, and thank you's for each country and you will be fine. For Amsterdam to Paris you will take the Thalys High-Speed train. You get the cheapest fare by booking well in advance (90 days allowed) at http://www.thalys.com http://youtu.be/moLGxdId9uU
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
The only reason, which can be a big reason, to purchase early is the discounts available but you are locked into a fixed schedule with limited refunds or exchanges options. The options are not as bad as our airlines as most of the tickets can be exchange up to certain deadlines but you lose the discount. Train travel is a breeze and our preferred mode in Europe. Don't rush. There are no check in, no security generally (some high speeds will have a little screening), even is very comfortable. Most arrivals/departures are posting about 30 min earlier. Seen more than one American tourist running around panic trying to find where their train will be an hour or more before hand. Know your train number and end city. When you get to the platform don't be afraid to ask a finally local if this is the train to ..... And if there is an announcement and everyone starts to move ask that friendly stranger again. By your third train you should be a pro.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32353 posts
Jamie, As this is your first trip abroad, I would highly recommend reading Europe Through The Back Door prior to your trip, especially the "Rail Skills" section. You may find it helpful to have a look at a short tutorial on riding the rails in Europe. It's a bit "dated" but might give you some idea what to expect. If you'll be riding on the "Freccia" (fast) trains in Italy, reservations are compulsory! Those without reservations may be fined on the spot! If using slower Regionale trains (no reservations required) it's IMPORTANT to validate tickets in the yellow machine prior to boarding the train, or again you may be fined on the spot. One final point. If you're planning to buy tickets in Amsterdam for the trip to Paris, be sure you have cash on hand, as the ticket office at Amsterdam Central accepts ONLY "Chip & PIN" credit cards. Happy travels!
Posted by
Adelaide, SA, Australia
977 posts
The dbahn site will give you all the information you need. When you have entered your from station to station it will give your various time/change selections. Click on your selection.
Just below on this page is a link 'show details for all' In this link is another link 'show intermediate stops' which will show all the stations/stops en route to your destination. I have found this tool invaluable, as it shows the station before your departure station, which allows you to get up and get yourself sorted to get off the train.