Taking the Train

I love taking the train in Italy.  No worries about renting a car or driving.  Just relax and go!  You can watch the scenery, read a book, or even nap along the way.  Here are some things I learned that will help you know what to expect.

Keep your ticket handy.  Usually train personnel will walk through and check tickets at some point on your trip.  Once it’s checked you can tuck it away.

Do your best to fit in.  Talk at a moderate volume so you don’t disturb other passengers.  If you want to listen to music or watch a video on your mobile device, use ear buds.  Don’t assume that people don’t understand you just because you’re speaking English.  Many people do understand some English, so don’t say anything you wouldn’t be proud of if everyone understood you.

Leave the windows closed.  Did you know that comfortable room temperature can be very different from one culture to another?  Most trains have air conditioning, but even so they can seem overly warm compared to US standards.  Tough it out.  Your fellow passengers will be much happier with you if you leave the windows shut. 

Find your seat.  It’s ok to sit by someone you don’t know.  Of course, if the train is mostly empty, sit where ever you’re comfortable (unless you have a reserved seat number).  In second class there are no assigned seats and it’s common for strangers to sit next to or across from each other.

Listen for the announcements.  Most announcements are made in both Italian and English.  Announcements can tell you the name of the next stop or warn you about a short platform.  Some small towns have short platforms and only the front train cars will fit along the platform.  In these cases you will be instructed to move to the front of the train to exit.

Watch the monitor.  Some trains have monitors mounted in each train car.  Monitors will keep you up to date about the name of the current or next stop, train speed and the final destination of the train.

Charge your phone.  Some trains, but not all, are equipped with charging outlets.  You’ll want to have an adapter handy if you’re on a train with outlets.  While traveling by train you may have 2G data, but be aware that service can be patchy when traveling through small towns, tunnels, or mountains.

Be ready to get off.  It’s common for passengers to grab their bags and walk toward the exit as the train nears their stop.

 

Train Station in Sacile