I tried to book train seat reservations through Rail Europe and they informed me that there is a new policy this year that you cannot purchase seat reservations in the United States. You can only purchase them in Italy. I am travelling from May 25 from Venice to Rome and from Rome to Florence on June 1. Will I have a problem getting a seat at that time of year without reservations? Any suggestions and don't you think this is the most stupid policy which will frustrate and complicate train travel in Italy?

Dont use Rail Europe..Is way too expensive..you can reserve your seats at any train stations in Italy. I dont think you will have any trouble, because is still early in the season..If it was summer, then it will be different.. may I suggest that when you are ready to buy the tickets, buy and make seat reservations for all your travels at the same time..

All direct trains from Venice to Rome are EuroStar, the seat reservation is compulsory with ticket puchasing.
The fastest train from Rome to Florence is Eurostar too. Frequent trains serve these two routes,you shalln't have problem buying tickets at that period.

Check out all your train options.
You might not need a reservation even if you are told that you need one.

Hi kakiebell,

You can now make book tickets, with or without reservations, on Italian trains online.

See this thread
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34465647

Kakiebell,

Getting tickets for your train travel is really simple. It's not necessary to have them before you leave the US...and trying to find a way to get them before you leave will only tax your anxiety level.

Once you arrive in Italy go to the train station and you'll see the ticket machines (very similar to american atms) where you'll enter your travel info and receive a paper ticket. To ensure a reserved seat, the only requirement is that you obtain your ticket no less than 3 hrs. before your scheduled time of departure.

Good luck!