We plan on taking a train from Venice to Rome. We think that it will be easier than flying. We will be going on a cruise from Rome. Has anyone done this and is it a good idea? We've taken trains in Europe before and loved the experience.

The fast train from Venice travel times is about 3:45 and cost is about 100€ for 1st cl and 75€ for 2nd cl which includes your seats. From Rome, the port is an hour away. Travel time is 1:05 - 1:20 (depending on train) although there are a couple of faster trains each day that take about 40 minutes. The slower R trains (usually 2 per hour) cost from 4.50€ -7€ (these trains do not allow seat reservations).

I've taken the train from Venice to Rome and from Rome to Venice several times and have enjoyed the experience. Do search for the fastest train, the ES Italia, taking close to 4 hours. These trains are a relatively recent addition and alleviate the rather agonizing former grind of having to change trains going from the sublime to the ridiculous in train travel (actually I like all of them).

I've taken this trip a number of times and personally love train travel and love this trip. I do spring for the fast train, get a reservation, and go first class. You can search on the Trenitalia website to check out the times, type of train, stops, etc. When the DH and I do this trip together we love to have a meal on the train.

However, I don't know anything about the logistics of connecting to your cruise ship, sorry.

Just did this route in December and, as Surfergirl said, the new ES trains are fast, smooth and nicely appointed (seats aren't grungy yet). The bigger surprise, for me this time, was that all of our trains were on time!! Used to be unheard of in Italy In fact, we missed our train from Rome to Venice because the ticket-seller at FCO put us on a Leonardo Express train that didn't allow time for the transfer. However, we were able to book on the next one.

Trains to/from Venice/Rome run every hour throughout the day.

I would make sure I understood exactly how to get (and how long it will take) from Termini Station to the port before I booked anything.

Thanks, everyone! All of your replies are very helpful. Now I know what to do.