Although I am planning on taking the 22:53 overnight intercity train from rome to venice which arrives at 5:30 a.m., when I go onto the trenitalia web-site, I find that, for 2 seats for my wife and I,there are 3 possible choices: (a):couchettes for four comfort"; (b)"2 bed compartment"; and (c)"double seat".
We are looking for the most available comfort and privacy and are unable to find an adequate definition on the various web-sites as to what each of these arrangements provides, so as to enable us to choose which one best suits us.
Could someone please help in explaining the differences,, and also advise as to whether a reservation is already included in this type of ticket ( which, on the trenitalia web-site is indicated as "mandatory reservation&quot.
Thanks to all.

(a):couchettes for four comfort";
This is a cabin with 4-bunks, 2 on either side with a window in the middle. You can reserve the bottom two bunks or the top two bunks or a top and a bottom. There may be another couple assigned the other two beds in this compartment. This is cheaper than the ....

(b)"2 bed compartment";
The two bed is a private compartment with window. It will also have a top and bottom bunk. You will not have any other people sharing this space. You probably will have a wash stand in your room.

The bathroom for both of these compartments is down at the end of the train you are in.

and (c)"double seat".
this is just what it says, 2 seats on the train. You will not be in a private compartment. These are the cheapest seats and the most uncomfortable for an overnight trip.

Rome to Venice is like what, four hours? I'm shocked that it is taking 7 hours. Am I missing something?

The Eurostar is 4.5 hours due its to high speed design (tracks and train both, I guess) - - the intercity travels about the same speed as a car would take - - plsu the time for all the stops.

I suppose you have heard the strategy of getting more sleep on this route by first going the "wrong way" to Trieste, and then getting off and getting back on, headed to Rome - - this gives you something like 9 hours from Trieste (and I think it arrives more like 7 am or after).

Best wishes,

Rex

Thanks for all of your comments. We are taking this train to save on one nite's accomodation, to allow us to have a relaxing last nite and dinner in Rome, and although we may be somewhat tired the early part of the next day, hopefully the adrenoline will kick in and we can start our first day in Venice without skipping a beat.
One last thing, if someone can help... the last choice on the seating was "double seat COMPARTMENT" and not just "double seat" - this is more costly than the other two choices. Any explanation as to what this is?
Once again, thanks for the quick responses and suggestions.

Hi N,

> "double seat COMPARTMENT" <

This is a small room (think closet) with two seats facing each other.

You will be able to recline, but not lie down.

>..advise as to whether a reservation is already included in this type of ticket <

YES. When you book your 2 bed compartment the price includes the required reservation fee.

The reservation fee is included, no matter how you travel on this train.

You are aware that it leaves from Tiburtina, not Roma TE?

PS,

If you go with rex's suggestion to go on to Trieste, you will arrive there at 8:06. You can then take the 08:26 or the 08:47 to Venice.

Extra cost about 28E.

You get a better night's sleep.

I've tried looking on the Trenitalia web site in Italian and that lists a 2-bed compartment (128.28 euros for two) and a "doppio" (153.70 euros for two). The latter is obviously a superior sleeping compartment because it is more expensive. Two seats would be a lot cheaper, and there's no such thing as a compartment with two seats. There are other options, including single-berth sleeping compartments. The most expensive option will obviously be the most comfortable. Sleeper prices include a reservation - ie, when you book, you will be allocated a specific compartment.