by InTrieste
Regional authorities have unveiled an expanded 2026 schedule for historic train journeys aimed at promoting tourism and cultural heritage across northeastern Italy.
The program, presented by regional officials, builds on strong growth in recent years, with more than 13,000 passengers recorded in 2025—an increase of 20 percent—reflecting rising interest in themed rail experiences that connect landscapes, small towns and cultural sites across Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Cristina Amirante, the regional councillor for infrastructure and territory, said the initiative continues to grow through cooperation between transport operators and tourism bodies. She described it as a way to “enhance the value of the territory” while strengthening links between mobility and cultural promotion. Cristina Amirante
The 2026 calendar includes 38 themed itineraries, eight of them new, with special focus on the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Friuli earthquake. Several routes are designed to highlight areas affected by the disaster and the region’s reconstruction efforts.
Officials said the project is also intended to support broader cultural programming in the lead-up to major events such as Pordenone Capitale italiana della Cultura 2027.
The season will open on April 12 with the “Spring Festival” train from Trieste to Latisana, and will include new thematic routes such as a journey from Treviso to Pinzano al Tagliamento dedicated to the Alpini and post-earthquake reconstruction.
The program will conclude in December with a “Castles and Mosaics” itinerary linking Treviso to Spilimbergo.
Officials also highlighted the continued use of historic rolling stock, including the vintage ETR 252 Arlecchino, which has become a symbol of Italy’s railway heritage and design excellence.
