We spent about three weeks in Italy, travelled exclusively by train, all second class.
The Freccia trains are quite comfortable in Second class. The regionales are no-frills workhorses, but they get you where you are going.
If the fare difference is large, it's not really worth it, IMO.
One word to the wise, pack lighter! Luggage space is at a premium, and anything over a medium sized suitcase will be problematic.
Apologies, OP, saw you're a Scot after posting, but the comment below I'm going to leave - in case any other Americans find this thread in a later search!
American steamer trunks and Italian trains ... Ain't gonna end well!
Last edited by LowlyDLsilver; Jul 5, 2015 at 5:43 pm