Train & Rail Tours from Venice

What our customers ask about Train & Rail Tours from Venice

• What destinations can I reach by train from Venice on these tours?

  You can easily get from Venice to most major Italian cities by train. Florence is about 2 hours away, Bologna takes 1.5 hours, Rome is 4 hours, and Naples is 5 hours down the line. The route to Florence takes you through beautiful Tuscan countryside, while the trip from Naples to Palermo follows the dramatic coastline. Many travelers love stopping in Bologna to check out the food markets or spending time at the Roman Forum. The trains are comfortable and give you a great view of Italy as you travel.

• What are the typical travel times between Venice and major Italian cities by train?

  The fast trains from Venice will get you to Florence in about 2 hours, Rome in 3.5 hours, and Naples in 5 hours. One traveler told us "traveling by train in Italy was incredibly efficient and comfortable" while another said "the high-speed trains made getting between cities quick and enjoyable, with ever-changing views at your window." You can easily connect to other Italian cities from the main stations in Rome (Roma Termini) or Florence (Firenze Santa Maria Novella).

• What should I explore in Venice before starting my train journey?

  Take time to see the main sights in Venice before you head out - St. Mark's Basilica, a gondola ride on the Grand Canal, and the Doge's Palace are must-sees. As one traveler put it: "highlights included just being in Venice, seeing St Mark's Basilica, and getting the view from the tower on the island near Venice - over the whole city." Try to visit Murano to watch the traditional glassblowers at work, and make sure you try some cicchetti (Venetian tapas) near the Rialto Bridge.

• What's the best season for train tours starting from Venice?

  Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are perfect times for train tours from Venice. The weather is pleasant with temperatures between 59-77°F (15-25°C). One traveler told us "traveling in September meant comfortable temperatures for exploring cities and less crowded trains." Summer can get pretty hot with temperatures going above 86°F (30°C), so keep that in mind when planning.

• What are the most popular train routes from Venice?

  Most people take either the Venice-Florence-Rome route or go from Venice through Bologna to Florence. One traveler mentioned that "the rail journey from Venice through Bologna to Florence offered stunning views of the Italian countryside." You can stay at nice places like Hotel Villa Rosa or Hotel Massimo D'Azeglio along these routes, making it easy to see several cities during your trip.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on train tours from Venice?

  You'll usually stay in 3-4 star hotels like Hotel Villa Rosa in Venice, Hotel Michelangelo in Florence, or Hotel Massimo D'Azeglio in Rome. One traveler noted that "the hotels were always conveniently located near train stations while still being close to major attractions." The hotels typically include breakfast and are picked because they're close to both the train stations and the places you'll want to visit.

• How early should I arrive at Venice's Santa Lucia station for train departures?

  Plan to get to Venice Santa Lucia station about 30-45 minutes before your train leaves. The station is about a 10-minute walk (0.4 miles) from central Venice hotels like NH Collection Murano Villa or Hotel Continental. A traveler told us "the station is easily accessible by water bus (vaporetto) from most parts of Venice, and luggage storage facilities are available if needed."