I know that this question has been proposed a million times, but reading through all the posts I did not find a clear answer. Is it better to buy the train tickets from Rome to Venice in Italy or should I buy them now (where can I find the better deal)? If I buy them now what are some websites with good deals? How much should I expect to pay (I’m traveling on June 15). I want second class tickets, so any suggestions?

The only quote I have is from Rail Europe (close to $100) and Euro railways which is ($111). Both of which are high! This is per person, there will be a total of 4 individuals.

Thank you in advance,

I've always bought my point to point train tickets in Italy once I arrive. You can buy them at the train station the day you arrive in Rome.

Buy in Italy. You might get a discount using the Amica fare if you order before midnight the day before you leave. Sometimes available, sometimes not.

Look at trenitalia.com's English website, pick a close to now date for estimates of what it will cost. They don't post the schedule online too far out, but they stay roughly the same.

If I may ask, how much did u pay for them in Italy?

Standard 2nd class fare on ES train is 61.80 €. When I look online I see a 15% discount, 55.00 €.

Not sure how far in advance you need to book to get the 15% discount. These are the same prices you'll pay in Italy.

According to the new discount offer of trenitalia, I think you can get discout of 60% if you purchase the ticket one month before your travel. If you look at www.trenitalia.it (click 'English' at the top for english language), you will find the details. Venice is included in the offer. If you are able to get the discount, please let me know also at my e-mail Id: [email protected] and also at this site for the use of Fodorites.

Nice, does this price (with trenitalia) include seat reservation?

I get the 15% off option, but not the 30% or 60%. I wonder if the only had a limited amount of tickets...

I was able to buy tickets for my family on line Amica fare. I took ticketless option for a total of 225 Euros for 1st class (the difference between 1st and 2nd was 40 Euros in total and our apartment rental guy said since the travel time is more 4 hours, it would be more comfortable for us).

BTW, when our friend tried to but the same fare 2 week later, Amica fare for this day was not available... I guess they have a certain number of seat reserved for this special price.

I've tried other dates for 60% offer, but I could not get it. If anyone can do it, let us know.

Yes, the discounts are limited and can sell out. When you purchase tickets with Trenitalia (which is the official Italian train website/company) your seats are included in the Trenitalia price if you are booking AV, ES, ICPlus trains. There won't be a mailing fee (they don't mail to US) because you will print the ticket code they send you and that is your ticket. The resellers like RailEurope, Euro Railways and others, mark the tickets up to make a profit and then charge a hefty mailing fee. Many people in the US have trouble purchasing on Trenitalia (problems with credit cards, etc.). 2nd class is fine and much more comfortable than coach on airplanes.

Okay, thanks everyone. I will try to get the discount before I leave in June. If not, no problem, I will by my tickets upon arrival.