Golden skies, ancient rails, and landscapes like paintings. In the Italian autumn, traveling by train is more than just getting around: it's immersing yourself in a narrative of flavors, history, and beauty.
Between September and December 2025, Italy's state-owned railway company will offer six seasonal routes that traverse medieval villages, wine-growing hills, and historic valleys—all with the charm of vintage railcars and the tranquility of the off-season.
The routes depart from Rome towards medieval cities, wine-producing areas, and little-explored historical regions.
Below, discover the main itineraries available in the second half of the year.
Destination Assisi: faith, history and cuisine of Umbria
Period: Saturdays and Sundays, from October 5 to December 1, 2025
O Assisi Express The journey departs from Rome and takes passengers to the city of Saint Francis of Assisi, passing through Terni, Spoleto, Foligno, and Spello. The route continues to Perugia and Arezzo, crossing the regions of Umbria and Tuscany. The trip takes approximately two and a half hours.
This is the perfect time to visit medieval churches without the summer crowds. The dining car serves local specialties like strangozzi, a traditional pasta dish with seasonal black truffles.
Heading to Alba: White Truffles and Piedmont Wines
Period: Fridays and Sundays, during the month of October
O Espresso Langhe and Monferrato connects Rome to Alba, in Piedmont, during the white truffle and grape harvest season. The overnight journey includes stops in Asti and Nizza Monferrato.
The train departs from the capital on Friday nights and returns on Sunday nights. The experience is geared toward food and wine tourism enthusiasts. The region is known for its Barolo and Barbaresco wines, as well as local markets with tastings.
Tuscany in Focus: Siena and the Golden Autumn of Val d'Orcia
Period: Saturdays and Sundays, from September 6 to December 1, 2025
O Espresso Val d'Orcia and Siena takes travelers to the city of Siena, in the heart of Tuscany, passing through the Val d'Orcia region, famous for its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.
Departure from Rome is at 7:42 a.m., with arrival scheduled for 15:05 p.m. September and October are ideal months for this route, with vineyards in harvest and the intense natural light typical of the season. The mild climate makes for a comfortable journey in the vintage carriages.
Special train to Oktoberfest in Munich
Period: September 26-29 and October 3-6, 2025
O Espresso Monaco is a temporary route connecting Rome to the German city of Munich, during the two main weekends of Oktoberfest.
Departing at 20 pm on Friday, the train arrives in Germany on Saturday afternoon. On board, there's Bavarian music and craft beer. The return trip takes place on Sunday afternoon, arriving in Rome on Monday morning.
Last chance of the year for the Treno delle Meraviglie
Single date: September 6th, 2025
The last journey of the Treno delle Meraviglie departs from Ventimiglia to Tende, France, crossing the Maritime Alps. Considered one of the most beautiful rail routes in the world, the Cuneo-Ventimiglia line passes through rock-cut tunnels and Alpine landscapes.
The train, with century-old wagons of the type Centoporte, leaves at 9:55 am and arrives at its final destination at 11:40 am.
Historic trains celebrate local traditions
For those looking for short trips, the Historic Trains Historic Trains offer regional tours in restored vehicles, departing from cities such as Milan, Naples, and Siena. In October and November, the highlights are:
- Sebino Express: from Milan to Paratico Sarnico (October 26)
- Treno del Fasulin de l'öc: from Milan to Pizzighettone, for the festival of the local dish of beans (November 2)
These routes combine beautiful landscapes and cultural events. Autumn, with fewer tourists and booming cuisine, is ideal for these experiences.
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