Italy is best known for its historic towns, stunning coastlines and delectable cuisine, one of the most beautiful train journeys of the world is hidden in the country. Travelling by train in Italy is almost as much an experience as it is the destination. If you are planning a trip to Italy, then don’t forget that checking your visa requirements such as Italy Visa will help a lot to have a hassle free journey.
Italy’s scenic train routes transport passengers from the Amalfi Coast’s sun kissed cliffs to the dramatic Dolomites in an easy and picturesque manner. They are all train rides that offer you unforgettable landscapes when you travel from one town to another whether you are a nature lover, a history, or enthusiast or just you’ simply you are looking for the relaxing way to observe one. The following are eight of the most scenic train journeys in Italy you need to tick off your bucket list.
Here are the 8 Most Scenic Train Journeys in Italy
1. The Bernina Express (Tirano to St. Moritz)
The Bernina Express is one of Europe’s most famous train routes. The train travels from the Italian town of Tirano to the Swiss resort of St. Moritz. Located on UNESCO list this railway crosses breath taking landscapes, snow covered mountains, glittering lakes. It includes the amazing Brusio Spiral Viaduct and the highest railway crossing in Europe at Ospizio Bernina. Any nature lover needs to make it here.
2. The Cinque Terre Train (La Spezia to Levanto)
The Cinque Terre train will take you for coastal views that look like right out of a postcard. This short route is from the five beautiful fishing villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. On its route closer to the rough coasting, you’ll see colourful houses perched on cliffs, crystal clear waters, and terraced vineyards. This train is one of the best ways to explore Cinque Terre because of the convenience.
3. The Rome to Florence High-Speed Train
It’s a luxury and a speed, and the route between Rome and Florence is one of the best ways to see Italy’s heartland. In an hour-and-a-half you’ll get through rolling Tuscan hills, beautiful countryside and medieval towns. Slick Frecciarossa trains provide a quiescent ride with beautiful landscapes before suddenly they whizz you into the Renaissance beauty of Florence.
4. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Venice to London)
Go back in time riding the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, a luxurious trip that brings back to life the days of glitz and splendor of travel. This world famous train departs Venice with ancient carriages and five star dining and impeccable service. If you choose to glide through the Italian countryside, the Swiss Alps, and the beautiful countryside of France you will feel like being part of a classic novel. Passengers have taken this not as a train ride, but rather a once in a lifetime experience.
5. The InterCity Notte (Rome to Sicily)
Picture yourself going to sleep in Rome then waking up surrounded by magnificent coastline of Sicily. The InterCity Notte is certainly one of Italy’s most unique train journeys, as it actually boards a ferry to cross the Strait of Messina! Heading south you will pass through Calabria’s rustic landscapes before arriving at the beautiful island of Sicily. No matter if you are in Palermo, Catania or Taormina, this overnight train is the perfect way to begin your Sicilian adventure.
6. The Bernina Railway (Milan to Tirano)
The Milan to Tirano route is equally stunning and not to be confused with the Bernina Express. This is a beautiful scenic train ride through northern Italy’s countryside with Lake Como, charming villages and alpine valleys. The view becomes more dramatic as you near Tirano and you can see towering mountains. This is the perfect route for those travelers who want to combine a visit to Milan with a nature filled escape.
7. The Circumetnea Railway (Sicily)
The Circumetnea Railway is one of the few trains that provide a slow, scenic trip around the base of Europe’s most active volcano, Mount Etna. From its Catania departure this vintage narrow-gauge train ranges through lava fields, attractive Sicilians villages and fertile vineyards. There are spectacular views of the volcanic landscape and this is an unforgettable way to get to see the raw beauty of Sicily. Adrenaline junkies and photographers must do!
8. The Amalfi Coast Train (Salerno to Vietri sul Mare)
Due to the dramatic cliffs and heavenly seascapes of the region, the Amalfi Coast is also known and famous but there isn’t a direct train route along the entire coast, however, the short trip between Salerno, Vietri sul mare is even more mesmerizing. This is a train journey that offers beautiful views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, colourful hillside villages and sun drenched landscapes. When you get there, you can easily see other Amalfi Coast gems like Positano and Ravello.
Conclusion
Italians love their scenery and scenic train journey is a wonderful way to explore the country’s coastlines and breathtaking mountains. However it is you are looking, if you are looking for luxury, adventure, a countryside escape train adventure will go right down your street. If you are planning to take these unforgettable rail adventures, then make sure you have your Italy Visa from India sorted before you set out.
Italy it’s much more than a land of travel by train, it’s a travel through history, culture and unique beauty. Thus, pile up your luggage, reserve your tickets and prepare yourself to witness some of the most spectacular train routes in the world. Your Italian adventure awaits.