I know this has been discussed many times in the past but I don't want to get stranded. We are leaving for Italy Mid September and returning early October. Is it smart to buy our train tickets ahead? I know most travelers on this board purchase them while in Italy but I heard in Sept. train tickets sell out quicker because its a busy time. We need tix to Naples to Rome to Florence to Venice.
So ....
Purchase now or press mt Luck in Italy ?

Not sure where you heard in Sept. train tickets sell out quicker because its a busy time. There are hourly trains from Naples to Rome, and every 2hrs Florence to to Venice. Plenty of choices.

If you can purchase tickets on trenitlalia ahead of time and get the 20% discount Amica fare go for it.

You can also get the same fare in Italy. The number of tickets with the discount are limited, and may be purchased up to the day before the departure (either 24hrs or midnight - not sure which).

September indeed is busy in Italy. To me the main reason to get tickets in advance is to make absolutely sure you get the time you want and desirable seat assignments. If you are flexible and are not that picky where you sit you probably can easily do while there

It's important to buy train tickets in advance for:

overnight trips - which can sell out

if there is only one good (no changes or few stops) train per day

if it's a major holiday

Otherwise buying them once you get there ( a day or two in advance) is fine. We've never had any trouble - even just walking up for shorter trips with lots of trains.

Those are *very* common routes, I don't see any reason to try to purchase them before you are in Italy. I definitely do not believe it is pressing your luck to simply go to the train station and buy them as you go along, or maybe the day before.

Ok , So I will do it once in Italy Thanks