Transiberiana D'Italia

A Journey Discovering Natural Parks and Apennine Landscapes in Central Italy Aboard a Historic Train. Embark on a journey through the natural parks and stunning Apennine landscapes of Central Italy aboard a historic steam train. This itinerary offers undeniable charm, taking you through the historical, cultural, and natural beauties of the magnificent Central Apennine region. Glide slowly through the heights and valleys of the Abruzzo-Lazio-Molise National Park and Majella National Park, visiting some of Italy’s most beautiful ancient villages. The Ferrovia dei Parchi is the perfect route for those seeking new experiences and emotions. Departing from Sulmona between 8:45 and 9:00 in the morning, the day trip returns in the late afternoon. During the journey, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful towns in Abruzzo, enjoy local cuisine at traditional eateries, and explore historic shops. At certain times of the year (e.g., Christmas), there are themed markets and musical entertainment. In other periods, guided excursions such as trekking and mountain biking can be arranged.

After breakfast, we will head to the station to board the historic train for the Sulmona-Castel di Sangro leg of the journey. ITINERARY – FIRST DEPARTURE AT 9:00 Arrive at the station 15 minutes before the train departs, at Platform 1. Check-in takes place in front of your assigned, numbered carriage (from 1 to 5). Show the electronic ticket on your phone to our staff and provide the booking surname. 

No printouts are needed. If bringing strollers, leave them near the rear of the train, where the luggage carriage is located, before check-in. Shortly before departure, our staff will load strollers into the dedicated luggage area. Departure of the historic train from Platform 1 at Sulmona Station. 

The panoramic route ascends through the Conca Peligna and into the Maiella National Park, climbing through forests and tunnels until reaching nearly 1,300 meters above sea level on the Altipiani Maggiori d’Abruzzo and Roccaraso. After passing the mountain station, the train begins a long descent into the upper Sangro Valley along the slopes of Mount Arazecca, dropping over 400 meters in altitude. After 76 km, arrival at Castel di Sangro station. The town center is a 10-minute walk from the station. In the pedestrian areas of Piazzetta Patini and Piazza Plebiscito, you’ll find Christmas decorations, markets, and Santa’s Village, featuring entertainment, Christmas music, artisan stalls, and handmade crafts from Abruzzo and Molise. You’ll also find chocolate, sweets, mulled wine, and typical local products. For lunch, the center offers plenty of restaurants and eateries. 

Nearby, in the Civita, the upper part of the town, you can explore the Patiniana Art Gallery, located in the historic De Petra noble palace. This gallery features a stunning collection of works by Teofilo Patini, a local painter who depicted the struggles of mountain populations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Be sure to return to the station 10 minutes before departure. Departure of the historic train toward Campo di Giove. 

The train retraces its route, first ascending and then gently descending from Alto Sangro back to Maiella. Crossing at Roccaraso station with another historic train of the day, traveling from Campo di Giove to Castel di Sangro. Arrival at Campo di Giove station. A short walk takes you to the town’s historic center and the Christmas market in Piazza Duval, decorated festively for the occasion. The market features traditional wooden stalls showcasing handmade crafts, woodwork, textiles, and artisanal items. Gastronomic stands offer hot dishes, polenta, soups, desserts, beverages, and Maiella specialties, including herbal infusions, liqueurs, and dairy products. Christmas-themed entertainment and music fill the streets of the town. 

At sunset, the town’s enchanting holiday lights will be illuminated. Be sure to return to the station 10 minutes before departure. Departure of the historic train. Final return to Sulmona.