It’s not a great train trip — nearly 8 hours on the fastest trains with no direct routing and no good option for an overnight train. I’d be looking for a cheap flight.

Yes, that’s what I was afraid of and came up with after some online train research…thanks for the tip!

What about traveling from Rome to Florence, is that an easier trip? I see some good flights leaving Nice for Rome.

I was also thinking maybe taking the Corsica ferry route, from Nice to Bastia then from Bastia to Livorno. Have you done this before? I was wondering if it is a scenic route or just a long boat ride.

Thanks for replying oldlady, you seem very well-traveled and knowledgeable, I really appreciate all your help!

Yes, this is really easy by train. Fastest trains will get you there in an hour and a half. Then there are slower, cheaper regional trains you can take as well.

I have not. If you decide to do this: If you have a railpass that covers France you’re eligible for a 50% discount on the rail line on Corsica (chemins de fer de La Corse) and a pass that covers Italy will get a 20% discount on the Grimaldi ferries from Corsica to Italy.

ooo you should really spend some time on the island of Corsica. Bastia is the ritzy side, try to get to Ajaccio and other more remote places and you will be stunned by the beauty of this island. Otherwise the ferries will be a lot of blue until you reach your destination. Otherwise the train route from Nice to Florence is doable if you take it in steps. A good option is to stay in Genoa for a night or two on the way, great up and coming tourist destination!

Thanks to all for the ideas!

I ended up booking a cheap flight from Nice to Rome, and then we are training it to Florence for a few days. Really looking forward to it!