We will be using the train for 3 one-way segments in Italy this summer: From Milan to Venice, Venice to Florence, and Florence to Milan. I have a train schedule and know the times we want to leave. Is it a good idea to reserve the tickets online before we leave? Are the trains ever full? Can we save some money that way? What happens if, for some reason, we miss our train? Is our ticket refundable? Any answers to these questions would be really appreciated
Thanks!
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
The Trenitalia runs for the segments you list are major high-speed train runs in Italy. There are also slower trains on these same tracks that take longer. If you are willing to lock yourself into specific train departure dates and times, the nice mini-fares on these runs are available. The sooner you book, the lower they are. On all three runs, you can see fares as low as 9E. But, these 9E fares are limited and they may be higher as you look at your specific dates and time. If you miss your train, your mini-fare ticket is toast. The ticket is not refundable. Here's the policy statement on changes. "All MINI tickets, including tickets purchased online and with ticketless option, can be changed solely at ticket desks at train stations or at the travel agency where the ticket was issued up to midnight of the day before departure. Changes can be made only once. You are only allowed to change the departure date or time for the same category of train or service, subject to a change fee (equal to the difference to the corresponding full base price)"
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23569 posts
Larry got them all but one. It is extremely unusual for a train to be full. There are dozens of trains each day on those runs. You cannot or need not make advance purchase for the Regional (slowest and cheapest) trains. No discounts on regional train. All other train types require advance reservations.