Need help choosing train time

[lynn47]

Just a few questions please.. If my port arrival time is at 7:00 am in Livorno (port of Florence), and I want to take the cruiseships shuttle to the train station, what time should I reserve my train tickets? Also, should I reserve train tickets beforehand or buy them when I get to the train station? And how do I go about taking the shuttle/bus to the train station-do I need to reserve a seat? Thanks for any help you can provide!

[eandj]

You will get more responses to your question if you ask in your specific cruiseline boards. Mention the ship and Livorno in the question and it will attract people (who have done the same itinerary) with the answers for you. Good luck!

[chasetf]

Just a few questions please.. If my port arrival time is at 7:00 am in Livorno (port of Florence), and I want to take the cruiseships shuttle to the train station, what time should I reserve my train tickets? Also, should I reserve train tickets beforehand or buy them when I get to the train station? And how do I go about taking the shuttle/bus to the train station-do I need to reserve a seat? Thanks for any help you can provide!

My suggestion if you are planning Florence on your own is to consider going with a ship's tour. They should have an option that will transport you to the city, show you the meeting place / time, then turn you loose for the day. You meet at the pre-determined time, get escorted back to the bus for an easy ride back to the ship.

 

It will be a lot less hectic, you have a far distance to travel, you do not have so many on's and off's (to and from station) that are possible missed connections to make you late back to the ship.

[Canuker]

Use Google Earth for a good look at the port, the railway station and the city as a whole. The rail station is about 2 kilometres east of the port - a good 30 minute walk. Book rail tickets in advance if you can.

[caviargal]

I travel by train in Italy often. For this run, show up and buy your tickets from the automated kiosk. Have the schedule in hand for reference. Some stations have a window for trains leaving within a very short window so check that out as well.

 

It is easy so no worries!

 

When you get to Florence, everything is within walking distance. I would reserve the Accademia ahead of time to avoid long lines and the same with teh Uffizi if that is on your list. Otherwise, Florence is a beautiful city to explore on foot.

[landshark1950]

Just remember that the museums are closed on Mondays. . . .

[lynn47]

Thanks to all of you for your responses! Everyone of you have given me some excellent advice in which I will use. Thank you!!