Tiburtina or Termini?

[GJH123]

We will be arriving by train from Milan to Rome and then proceeding to Civitavecchia, I have read reviews describing Termini as too large and chaotic. Is it worth it to take the local from Tiburtina to Ostensie and then catch the train to Civitavecchia or will that pretty much guarantee we will be searching for a seat? Any helpful hints about which trains do not require taking the steps up and down at Civitavecchia? Thanks in advance for any insight you might provide!

[euro cruiser]

I don't think it's worth it to add a second climb on/climb off just to avoid the walk to the auxiliary tracks at Termini.

 

There's only one train on weekdays that is scheduled to arrive onto track one, the 10:42, arriving at 11:59. On Sundays there are two others, at 11:12 and 12:42. Note that just because they are scheduled to come into track one that is not a guarantee.

 

If you are concerned about getting a seat you might consider aiming for one of the Frecce trains so you'll be guaranteed a seat. It's only €4 more than the regional train (€9 vs €5) if you purchase in advance and get the economy fare. With the Frecce you'd also avoid the three block walk to the tracks for the regional train at Termini.

Edited April 19, 2015 by euro cruiser

[GJH123]

Thanks so much for your detailed and helpful response! We will be traveling on a Sunday, May3rd which is a holiday weekend, so not sure how crowded the trains will be.

Frecce sounds like a great idea.

[euro cruiser]

There are several €9 Frecces available for that date right now, I'd go ahead and purchase the tickets. You will be much more comfortable on that train and, again, you'll avoid the long walk to the outer tracks for the regional train.