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Eurail Pass and reservations?
Wed, 07/25/2007 - 14:34
punkzip
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I am going to be using a Eurail Global Flexi Pass. I am confused as to how the pass works with reservations.
 
First of all, how do you find out if you need a reservation? I have read that you always need a reservation in Italy, is this true?
 
If you don’t have or need a reservation, how do you use the pass? Do you just board the train and find an open seat?
 
If you do need a reservation, how does this work if you have the pass? I understand you need to pay an additional fee to get the reservation?
 
 

Wed, 07/25/2007 - 16:19
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Quote:
First of all, how do you find out if you need a reservation?
There will be an “R” somewhere on the train schedule —either on-line or ont the departure board at the train station.  It will also show in the abbreviated schedule of the most popular trains that comes with your railpass.
Quote:
I have read that you always need a reservation in Italy, is this true?
  No, but lots of trains in Italy do require reservations and some of the trains that don’t require reservations are very crowded so reservations are recommended.
Quote:
If you don’t have or need a reservation, how do you use the pass? Do you just board the train and find an open seat?

If the train requires a reservation then you must have a reservation to board the train.  If it isn’t required you can board the train and search for an empty, un-reserved seat.
Quote:
If you do need a reservation, how does this work if you have the pass? I understand you need to pay an additional fee to get the reservation?

Just buy your reservation at the train station — about 1 day in advance for day trains and about 3 days in advance for overnight trains.  If you the train you want is sold out, just try for the next train — there’s usually at least one train an hour on routes in Italy.