we are going to italy in july, visiting rome, florence and venice. i was hoping that somebody might recommend either training OR planing between cities and does anyone know how long the train trips take? also, does anyone have favourite, but not TOO expensive, hotels that they prefer in any or all of these cities ?? thanks for your suggestions, claire waldron

I take the train. I try to do it in short little hops of two to three hours at the most. It's a great way to meet people and to see something you might otherwise miss.

My wife and I flew to Rome last year and then traveled by rail north through Florence and Venice. Ended up in Munchen via Saltzberg. Trains are very easy and enjoyable way to go through Italy.

John

Rail is definitely the way to go. Check out
http://www.raileurope.com for schedules. Your travel agent can make reservations, including seats, through CIT.

I just called the Eurail office today and got a whole bunch of information. They can fax you times and prices.
1-800-438-7245

Milan to Florence 3 hours
Venice to Florence 3 hours
Florence to Rome 2 hours

There special passes are a great deal!

The Train Stations for the cities you mentioned are more centrally located than their airports. And trains are cheaper, by far - especially considering that taxis to and from the airports can be quite expensive.

I travelled all around Italy (with a friend) for one month last summer. We got the kilometric ticket. You can get it at any train station in Italy. With this ticket, up to 5 people can travel for up to 3000 kilometers. The ticket (unbelievably) was only $60!!! DEFINITELY THE WAY TO GO! And, the Italian rail system is terrific.