Do we need to book the train tickets before we leave for Rome or

Whoops!
To finish my post, should we wait until we get to Rome or book on line ahead of time. If we wait, can we buy the tickets at station before our train leaves or from a travel agent in Rome the day before.
Thanks for any help.

Wait til you get to Rome to buy your train tickets. That gives you more flexibility. You can buy from a travel agent in the city or at the station before the train leaves. In the latter case, allow a little time for lines.

This is a route with frequent trains--no need to purchase before you arrive in Rome.

We bought all our train tickets in the station, usually right beforehand. At first we did it with an agent at the desk, but by the end we were using the ticketing machines which are very easy and take credit cards - and no lines.

Having done this trip this fall, I would suggest buying them the day before you want to go at the station using the machines. We thought we could get on any train going to Orvieto but there are certain ones that are not the "milk runs" and they sometimes fill up.The machines are very easy to use and you can use your charge cards-just make sure that you get not only the tickets but the receipts that come out of the machine.

G,

Be sure to get a very early start so you have a full day (possibly evening too) in Orvieto. There is much to do - sights, dining, shops, galleries. The duomo is my favorite exterior. Underground tour was fascinating. Be sure to try some Orvieto Classico, local white.

Buon viaggio!

I agree, buy the ticket when you get to Rome. It is nice to visit Orvieto when the weather is pleasant.

The underground cave tour is a must but if I remember correctly the English tour is only around noon. Ask at the tourist office across from the duomo.

Thanks all for your great advice.

We will be in Rome for three nights in May before our cruise which leaves from Cittavecchia. Since we have been to Rome several times before, we are looking forward to spending the day in Orvieto which we have never visited. I will make sure we have the whole day to explore this city...it sounds like it will be a great excursion.