If your upcoming travels include a trip from Portugal to Italy, taking the train is an adventurous option. Set aside a couple of days for travel, since the distance covers multiple countries and connections. For this scenic trip, travelers can expect reasonable ticket prices. Follow these steps to book your tickets.
Call (888) 382-RAIL (382-7245) to book your tickets, or use the company's Web site (see the Resources section below). To save money, book a multicountry pass. These are limited to certain regions and times but likely will cost less.
Select a train speed. In Portugal, your fastest option is an interregional one. In France, it's the TGV, and in Italy, select the Eurostar.
Book the trip in at least two separate segments. For the most efficient route, book travel from Rossio Station in Lisbon to Madrid, Spain. From there, travel to Paris, and then take a TGV across to Italy.
Give yourself time to make connections between trains on this multicountry journey. For example, at peak hours the Rossio Station can be crammed with metro and train passengers.
Book a sleeper car for the longer legs of your journey. Trains from Paris and within Italy often offer very comfortable quarters.
Book tickets through a travel agent if you want professional guidance for this fairly complicated journey.
Consider booking departures during off-hours (midday and late night) in Spain and Italy, since train travel is extremely popular, particularly in summer.
Find the platform numbers on posted signs, and as you proceed to the platform, validate your ticket. Most stations in France and Italy require validation before you board the train.
Leave large bags on the racks provided at the front of the cars. In a sleeper, keep your belongings with you and lock the door for safety.
Keep your ticket handy during all legs of the journey. Present it to the conductor when requested.
