If you’re planning on heading to Italy, there’s no better way to get around than by train. Here are the top scenic train journeys in Italy…
Italy is a country with so much to give. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real once you have gone. It’s somewhere you can stick a pin into a map of and you are guaranteed to stumble across somewhere beautiful, with bustling piazzas, stunning squares, romantic ruins and a mouth-watering culinary scene. It’s a destination that caters for those with an inclination for discovering art, fashion, architecture and food and begs for days spent ambling up and down the streets and taking in the culture. Each city and town offers something different, making it a country you can’t just see one part of. And what better way to travel around than by train? We’ve put together some of the best rail holidays in Italy you’re guaranteed to fall in love with. Here are some of the most scenic train journeys in Italy.
Genoa to Casella
Genoa is a relatively undiscovered gem in the Cinque Terre, with colourful buildings perched against vertiginously high cliffs. The water is crystal clear and their local foodie scene is one that you don’t want to miss. Take the old historic railway line between Genoa and Casella that last for twenty-five miles and offers breathtaking views. The views alternative between either side so it doesn’t matter much which side you sit on – just switch for the way back. Once you reach the end in Casella, be sure to walk a bit further uphill where you can discover the main town square with plenty of places to stop for a drink or bite to eat, before you head off and explore.
Rimini to Catania
Rimini is a true Italian hidden gem, with beautiful golden beaches, historic architecture and a burgeoning street food scene. Begin your journey here before travelling along Italy’s east coast to Catania. As the train runs parallel to the coast you are spoilt by some of the most beautiful views. Expect to see stunning coastlines, lemon groves, lava flows and plenty of lush greenery and countryside. When in Catania – an ancient port in Sicily – be sure to check out the city’s wide central square, Piazza del Duomo as well as the city’s castles and cathedrals. If you have time take a trip to the volcano – you can hike, cycle or even ride an ATV or jeep!
Renon Line near Bolzano
The only way to explore and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Dolomites is by boarding the small “Renon” Train. The line runs from Bolzano and goes through the remote villages of South Tyrol and passes in front of the incredible rock sculptures that are also known as fairy chimneys”. These sculptures are the slow and impressive work of wind and ice. It’s a beautiful scenic route that is guaranteed to impress from start to end.
Along the Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a string of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. It is famed for its beautiful jewel-coloured houses and vineyards that cling to steep terraces – a particularly beautiful sight as the sun begins to set. The harbours are filled with fishing boars and there is an abundance of delicious places to eat. If you stop off, be sure to try the Liguria region’s famous pesto. The train journey goes right along the coast and offers mesmerizing views the whole way along.
Milan to Bolzano
Another beautiful scenic train journey in Italy is from Milan to Bolzano. Enjoy the wonderful train ride from the fashion capital of the world that will take you to the dramatic rock mountains of the Italian Alps. Do not miss the chance to see the magnificent countryside, the most beautiful mountains and some of the oldest towns.
Circumetnea Line between Catania e Riposto
Circumetnea goes alongside the volcano Etna and stops at small stations that are well known for ancient medieval villages that are well worth exploring. Trains run in both directions and cross Etna villages like Paternò, Adrano, Bronte and Randazzo.
Domodossola to Locarno
Bernina Express is the ‘red train’ that takes you from Domodossola to Locarno and over the border into Switzerland. The journey takes about three hours, and you reach an altitude of more than 2k feet at times. Take in the stunning scenery of the Centovaali and the Valle Vigezzo, watching as the city landscape slides into beautiful luscious countryside peppered with snow-topped mountains.
Siena and Val d’Orcia
The “Nature Train” between Siena and Val d’Orcia takes you through the Val d’Orcia, which is one of the most famous Italian landscapes. You can enjoy the views of clay hills, charming villages, and golden fields of sunflowers through the window. Sit comfortably in the antique wooden carriages run by the steam locomotive and feel as though you’ve taken a step back in time.
Milan to Como
Naples to Sorrento
The train from Naples to Sorrento boasts some of the most stunning views. The fabulous trip will take you through the Herculaneum and Pompeii archaeological sites and offer views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius along the way. As far as scenic train journeys in Italy go, this is not one to be missed.
Some tips for scenic train journeys in Italy…
- Be punctual and arrive on time as Italian trains are rarely late.
- Keep in mind that some of the most beautiful train journeys are along the international borders of Italy with its neighbours. Most of the regional trains pass through spectacular scenery
- The state-owned subsidiary controls the country’s rolling stock and train types and presides over the complex lines that penetrate all regions.
- Travel on regional trains if you want to explore the smaller towns and villages and especially if you have a tighter budget.
- The new Italo trains provide free wifi, and lunch boxes and the high-velocity trains provide a bit of competition.
- Eurail and InterRail passes are popular, but it is usually cheaper to buy separate tickets for each journey.
- Buy your tickets in advance, especially for the high-speed train tickets and you can buy the tickets online, or at the multi-lingual machines in stations. Get the time-stamp on the platform before you board the train.
- Trenitalia and Italo are the two leading train companies that cover the majority of routes throughout the country. Use GoEuro to locate the most efficient routes throughout the country.
Let us know if you have any more tips for scenic train journeys in Italy please let me know.
