Hi, I'll be travelling to Italy in Sept. and was wondering how is the best way to go from Rome to Florence to Venice? I will be travelling by myself and this is my first trip to Europe.

The trains are crowded but probably the best way to go. I usually like to sit in the compartments as not so many people and less noisy. You also have the opportunity to talk with fellow travelers or natives of the country.

Eurostar takes the same route you are referring to. We just took Eurostar from Florence to Venice and were very pleased with a comfortable ride. We bought our tickets once we arrived in Italy.

I would second the use of the Eurostar on both these routes. Since a seat reservation comes as part of the ticket you won't have to worry about the "crowded" issue. The service is fast and frequent and agree that you can buy your tickets once in Italy but I would reserve at least a couple of days in advance if possible.

Hi buddha,

The Eurostar referred to are the Italian ES* high speed trains, not the one that goes between London and Paris.

Train schedules and prices are at www.trenitalia.com. You cannot buy tickets online outside Italy.