I have tried to purchase tickets from Rome to Venice and it will not let me purchase. Am I doing something wrong or do I have to wait until I get to Italy?? I am aslo looking for the best way from Avignon to Barcelona???
For what date are you trying to purchase tickets, and what website ("it" will not let me purchase) are you trying to use?
No, Dawn, probably doing nothing wrong, it's the maximum 60/90 day in advance purchase rules which depend on country/rail company and when they set their prices. I booked several tickets 2 weeks ago including an overniter; one of the legs was Venice to Rome (60 day rule). I went through my travel agent who in turn went to RailEurope. All the tickets were booked OK but I have to wait until later this week to pick them up as the Venice to Rome leg wasn't yet within the 60 days. All the other tickets had 90 day rules, so no problem, but RailEurope wanted to ship all the tickets together, hence the few day wait. The 60/90 day rules are probably better explained on this site's 'Rail Travel' section, have a look.
For Italian EuroStar 9474 from Rome (12:50) to Venice, Rail Europe charges $94 (plus shipping?). If you buy the ticket in Italy, or online, in advance, Trenitalia charges €44,90 (about $68) for an Amica (20% discount) ticket on the same train.
Trenitalia is the site I was on. I may access a travel agent and see if they can help me. That seems like money well spent at this point. Thanks for all the help, as always you guys are the best!
The Rome to Venice train run is one of the most highly travelled in Italy. From Rome to Florence (yes it does stop at Florence), most runs are non-stop. Most do not require a train change. There are five trains before noon. Most are 4.5hr. journeys.
The main reason for all of the above information is to let you know that you can easily buy your tickets in Rome. You can get them when you arrive or just before the train leaves. It's best to buy them before midnight the day before so that you can take advantage of the 20% off "Amica" fares. Just ask for the Amica fares when you buy your ticket. Amica fares are limited and they may no be available. However, standard fare always is.
FYI, IMO, Tim is the best transportation person on the RS site.