Train Travel in Italy

In order to purchase your train ticket in Italy, you can visit a ticket window at the train station. Most of the Italian train stations are centrally located within the cities, and are surrounded by a hotel. There, you will be able to get information about the destination and time of your train, the number of tickets you require, as well as the class of the ticket you wish to purchase. Alternatively, you can purchase your ticket from one of the ticket machines located in various stations, which will enable you to avoid having to queue up in the long waiting lines. You could also have a travel agent purchase the ticket on your behalf, which will have you paying a small extra booking fee as well, or shop online for your ticket.

If you will be traveling by train in Italy using point to point tickets, it is recommended that you check your arrival station for trains departing to your next destination. This is in order to ensure that you get a ticket on your destination train, which can be especially difficult if it is a popular destination. You should note that in Italy, buying a train ticket does not guarantee getting a seat on the train. In the event that you board a crowded train and cannot find a second class seat, request the conductor to upgrade your seat to first class.

 Colosseum Rome

If you are taking a train at one of the smaller train stations which have the trains going through the stations, you will have to go underground using the sottopassagio or under passage in order to arrive at a track numbered one. If you are taking a train at a larger station such as the Milano Centrale, you will  be able to see the trains as they approach into the station, as well as signs on each track which indicate the next expected train and its time of departure.

Going to Austria -> Travel by train in Austria

Before you board your train, it is important to ensure that you validate your train ticket. You can do this by inserting the end of your ticket into the yellow box on the upper right hand of the door. This will print the date and time that you first used your ticket, as well as validating it for your trip. Be sure to do this in order to avoid having to pay the high fines in the event that you do not. If you forget, try and plead your case to the conductor, and cross your fingers that he will understand.

Once you locate your train, board it. Keep your ticket on hand as you may have to present it to the conductor at least once during your journey. You can stash your luggage on the racks above the seats, or on dedicated shelves which are located near the ends of every coach, if you have larger bags. Be courteous and say hello to your fellow travelers as you sit down, with a simple “buon giorno”. When you get your destination, be sure to watch your luggage to ensure that it does not get lost as you walk through the crowds.