Travel by train to Ancona in the region of Le Marche is relatively easy because of its location on the Adriatic Sea and its short distance from Bologna, only about 2 1/2 hours away. It is not traditionally a tourist destination, but more of a stop along the way to bigger cities.
Find the Bologna Train Station on the north side of the city.
Arrive early; the Bologna Train Station is one of the most heavily trafficked train stations in Italy because it is home to the connecting railways between northern and southern Italy.
Book your ticket from a ticket window or a ticket machine at the Bologna Train Station, both of which accept cash and credit cards. Know your travel information to book the ticket: your destination, your departure time, how many people are traveling, what class of seat you want to purchase, and what type of train you want to book.
Find the platform from where your train is departing but continue to check the departure board until the train actually arrives. Trains in Bologna are often rerouted at the last minute and the changes are only mentioned in Italian.
Find the correct train car based on your traveling specifications.
Ask the conductor or train personnel on board to check your ticket when you board to ensure you are on the correct train and in the correct car; train cars sometimes break apart from the rest of the train and continue travel to alternate destinations. Always double check that you are on the right train.
Stamp your ticket in the required yellow machine before you board the train to Ancona. You can be fined if your ticket has not been stamped.
Look for a 'non-reserve' sign on either the glass door of the train car or on the back of the seat.
Sit in a non-reserved seat.
Confirm with the conductor that you are in an appropriate car.
