Can someone explain the difference between first class and second class on an italian train ?? Thank you.

First class has better seats and less people.

First class has bigger, more comfy seats, fewer people in the same space and more room for luggage. Second class is fine for shorter trips - and if you don't have a ton of luggage.

We do first just to get more room (many seats are left empty usually so you can spread out).

1st cl on ES trains have 2 seats on one side of the aisle and 1 seat on the other. 2nd cl has 2 on each side. Usually in 2nd cl there will be 2 seats facing 2 seats with a table to share. You can find pictures on Trenitalia, seat61, or Slowtrav. Slowtrav has excellent pictures with directions on using ticket machines, how to read your ticket, etc.

http://www.seat61.com/Italy.htm

http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/trains/index.htm

Well, there are lots of different trains and you may find some exceptions to the above rules. Different configurations on some trains; not all will be exactly alike.

But very generally, that is about it; more room, less people.

And sometimes there is service for beverages and such in first. And sometimes you can get first when second is already sold out. For more money of course.

On some trains there was AC in 1st class but not in 2nd and it was very hot.