#1 Is it better to get your train tickets ahead of time?

#2 If so, best web site to use? (Trenitalia is rather challenging)

#3 Worth it to upgrade to first class? Each of us will have one piece of luggage.

Itinerary for 5 adults: (after attending a Wedding and spending 4 days in the Lake Como area)

8/27 Train Como to Monterosso
8/29 Train from Monterosso to Florence
8/31 Train from Florence to Venice

Thank you!

I can't comment on Italian trains, but in France, I indulge in 1st class when: a) the segment is at least 2 hours long; b) the cost of upgrading to 1st class is no more than the lesser of 25% and about 40 euros; and c) I don't need a flexible ticket (since the cheap 1st class tickets usually can't be changed or refunded). So, we travelled in 1st class to Bordeaux, La Rochelle and Avignon, but in 2nd class to Dijon (1.75 hours). I'm sure glad we were in first class on the La Rochelle trip, because on our return journey, the train was delayed almost 5 hours (because of an accident on the tracks), so we got home at 5:00 am instead of midnight.

Hi sb,

What has challenged you at www.trenitalia.com?

The "Buy" symbol won't come up. Just tried again. Was able to book the first two but not the third???

i'm no expert, but have just booked my train tickets as i go, after i am in europe.

We do 2nd class for day trips and 1st class for anytime we have luggage - just prefer the additional room - and frequently the lack of other passeners.

Unless you're doing overnight or on a holiday you can get your tickets once you arrive in europe. Just totter over to the train station a couple of days in advance. We've never had problems getting whatever we wanted.

I book online in advance if:
I need a very specific run, very busy run during high season or a train strike is expected. Otherwise I use the self service machines as needed. I like 1st class on long runs, but second class is fine for short one. 1st class has more room, less people and is very relaxing.