Italian Train Station Question
 

Hi, I have read that Italian trains go on strike frequently. I have been to Italy once and used the trains to get around and had no problems so I am wondering if this is true or just a legend. I need to know because we are going on a Med cruise in a month and have decided for Florence, Rome and Naples to trust the trains and do it ourselves rather then pay $$$ to get a ride into town. Thanks for any help.

Italian trains (and well, all kinds of workers) do tend to strike a lot. But there will always be notifications in advance so you have SOME time make other arrangements. I wouldn't worry about it; trains are still the best way to get around.

Hi zwho, the major reason that train strikes have occurred recently is due to the train accident between Verona and Bologna some months ago. Workers want some changes made.

The strikes do happen. It is not just a legend. In fact I am not absolutely sure if these are the exact days but it was announced a few days ago that there will be a train strike somewhere around May 20 & 21. Again, not sure if that is the exact dates.

In fact there was a thread here on Fodor's a few days ago as some travellers had plans to travel via the Italian trains and their travel dates were the date of the announced strike.

I always get confused about the train strikes as not all trains go on strike. I can never keep straight what trains do and which trains don't. I think it is the local trains that go on strike. Hopefully someone here can do a better job of advising you then I am. Sorry!! Do have a beautiful cruise.

Whether strikes or just plain late, I just wouldn't cut your time too closely when using the trains. i.e. do NOT have a tight schedule to the airport.

I agree with MadamX, a very good point. Trains in Italy can be late, real late. Last time in Florence the train was 2 hours late. Fortunatly it was not a problem for me as I was going back to the small town I was staying in but if I had been going to an airport to catch a flight I would have had a nervous breakdown. And no doubt would have missed my flight.

Hi zwho, from another thread it was stated the train strike is May 12/13th so it doesn't sound like at least that train strike will be a problem for you.
And then hopefully there will not be anymore for awhile. But don't forget about them running late!

zwho,

You can find details of scheduled strike action here (scroll about halfway down the page);

http://www.seekitaly.com/news/from_roma.html

Jim

Thanks to all of you. I really appreciate the heads up on late trains. That should have occured to me and didn't. I'm still going to use the trains and hope for the best. And if the worst happens, we miss the ship leaving, well, that'll be one hell of an interesting vacation story!

Hi zwho, miss the ship? Then you will have to stay in Italy. That is not the biggest problem in the world, LOL.

Seriously, you should be fine. Do have a wonderful vacation and let us know how you enjoyed it after you return home.

I understand that the train strike is on the 17th-18th of May. I'm supposed to take the Eurostar from Venice to Florence on that day. Does anyone know if the Eurostar will be effected?

Trenitalia's website has a page that list trains guaranteed in case of a strike.
http://www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html
Go to the site, click on the "news" tab, then click on "news on strikes" on the left side. You can then look at the runs listed and find something you can use in case. Things can change so check the site just before you leave.