I will be starting a cruise in Rome next April and I was wondering what the best choice would be for transportation from central Rome. Does the train go to the port or is a taxi better? I also want to take a train to Varenna to spend 4 nights in the Lake Como area from Venice. Is it easy to do or do I have to take a vapporetto or water taxi to the train station? Thanks for all advice.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
First, you need to define what is best for you. Some think a car and driver is the best arrangement. Others views the train as the cheapest and reasonably convenient. We have made the trip four times and always use the train. Cheap, convenient and fast. The water bus works just fine in Venice.
Posted by
OP
San Clemente, Ca.
408 posts
Frank,
First of all I have to say that you have given me lots of advice on many trips over the years. Thanks!! We travel light so taking the train is not a problem for us. I did check out some older post but I was unsure on the walk from the train station to the port. How far is it? We are in pretty good shape so a short walk would not be a problem.(1mile or so with luggage). Is the water bus easy to book? Do you just show up? We have been to Venice but we were on a Rick Steve's tour.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
Thank you. It is a about half mile walk to the port entrance and from there a shuttle takes you to your ship's checkin point. Exit the station, the port entrance is to your right and you probably can see your ship. Cross the parking area, take the stairs down to ground level, cross a busy street, turn right, and have a nice stroll along the beach. 10, 15 minutes should do it. Just follow the stream of people headed that way. In the summer there are vendor's stalls along the way but probably not in April. It is an easy walk even with luggage. For the two us we do get by with a carryon size back pack each and one carryon size rolling bag with the extra clothes we need for the cruise.
The water bus in Venice is just like any other bus with wheels. Get on, buy the ticket.