So, if I'm understanding this correctly, if I buy a point to point ticket at the train station and request a reservation (the reservation portion is free)?

Then, I will have to validate the train ticket in the validation machine before getting on the train. Is this correct?

Thanks so much!
You all are, as always, wonderful!
Patricia

If your ticket is for an ES* train, the reservation fee is part of the price.

For the IC trains, the reservation is about 3E.

If your ticket is on an ES* train, you needn't stamp it, since it is good for only that one trip.

All other tickets must be stamped.

There is one caveat. If you buy a ticket on an ES* train from an agent outside Italy (RailEurope, Euraide..) that is an "open ticket" and must be stamped. it also requires an additional reservation - about 10E.