ES* or iC train in Italy?
 

Hi, all,
I'm finally getting around to making this reservation. So many people have been helpful as I've planned other parts of our 30th anniversary trip--I'm hoping someone can help again...
I went to the trenitalia website, which is very easy to use, but I just want to check with you Fodorites before I book. Other posters have recommended the ES* train. Well, the choices I have on July 31 are a ES* at 8:14 a.m. which goes through Bologna and is a total travel time of 3:32 , arriving at 11:46. Or, I can take a non-stop iC (?) that leaves at 9:33 and arrives at 12:26 with total travel time of 2:53. Which do you recommend? Obviously, we'd like to:
a) sleep in a bit later than the 8:14 train allows if possible (but not a priority)
b) have as little train time as possible
c) have the most comfortable and enjoyable train experience

Anyone who has a suggestion, I'm very grateful!

I think you have answered your own question :) The InterCity is faster, looks like a good option.

Thanks,
I just want to be sure the InterCity is safe and comfortable--have you taken it?

I have taken both IC/ES trains many times, both are comfortable; only ES tain the seat reservation is compulsory; with IC train you have to make extra reservation.

But, if I am not mistaken, both trains mentioned above only go to Venezia Mestre (another 15 minutes train ride to Venice proper), NOT Venice Santa Lucia. If Venice is your destination, perhaps it would be more convenient to take the next train dep 10:39-13:28 ( travel time 2:49)

THANK YOU, Judy! I am going to Venice proper, so I will be sure to get the correct train! Getting the wrong train would not have been a nice way to start our time in Venice!
<:-0

I'm confused. I don't see where you posted departure/arrival cities at all. The only city I see mentioned is Bologna but assume from other posts you are going to Venice. It seems there should be many trains to choose from not just the two you listed. What is your departure city?

Anyway - The ES train prices on Trenitalia always include the price of seat reservation and the IC does not.

The 8:14 (I assume we are talking about departure from Florence Santa Maria Novella) requires a *change* at Bologna.

There is a direct ES at 8:39 or at 10:39 to Venezia Santa Lucia. Either one takes 2 hours 49 minutes. Either one has five stops between Florence SMN and Venice SL.

Why don't you just buy the ticket when you arrive in Florence?