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How to save time at an Italian train station | Print |  E-mail
Written by Larry Aiello   
Tuesday, 06 December 2011 16:35

If you are planning on train travel in Italy, (which is highly recommended) here is a tip that will save you a lot of time (and aggravation).

Many Italians are still afraid of using new technology. That fact is generally true anywhere you go, and is generally more apparent in older populations. The use of credit cards is also not as common in Italy as it is in the United States and Canada.

Therefore, take a look at the line at the ticket counter (biglietteria) in the train station (la stazione). Note the number of people waiting in line to buy a train ticket:

line-at-italian-train-station

Now look at the picture below - Literally, I just turned around in the same spot, approximately 120 degree turn, and found an automatic kiosk (fast ticket or biglietto veloce) where you can buy a train ticket with a valid credit card. And some of the machines even take cash. As you can see, no waiting!

biglietto-veloce-train-station

Keep your eyes open as these technologies will become more common-place at Italian train stations. The screen options have many different languages, so if you are not adverse to using this technology to purchase a train ticket, it can save you a bunch of time.

 

Comments  

 
0 #2 Addicted2Italy 2011-12-30 04:12
Thanks for posting William. One thing I forgot to add to the post, is that the price is the same whether you book from the booth, or from the machine. Happy traveling!
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0 #1 William 2011-12-06 17:56
Fantastic idea. I will surely remember your tip here when I will be in Italy. I am not actually aware that Italians are technophobic...:D
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