FS Treni Turistici Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato

Tourist

Railway of Wonders in "Centoporte" carriages.

A spectacular journey between the Alps and the Mediterranean

The Railway of Wonders is one of Europe's most fascinating railway routes: a historic international line that connects Alpine peaks to the Ligurian coast through breathtaking landscapes, deep gorges, and engineering masterpieces such as daring viaducts and spectacular spiral tunnels. Aboard the Centoporte carriages, the journey becomes an experience from a bygone era, where every window opens onto unexpected views and panoramas that change with every curve.

The Route

The journey begins in the elegant setting of Turin, from where the train departs to cross the Piedmontese plain and head straight for the heart of the Maritime Alps. While the entire route is steeped in history, the most scenic and exciting part is concentrated in the section between Cuneo and Tende: here, the tracks defy gravity, climbing up the Vermenagna Valley and venturing into the belly of the mountains with tunnels that twist upon themselves to overcome steep gradients.

Once over the pass, the train continues its panoramic descent along the wild Roya Valley, passing through villages nestled in the rock and silent valleys, until reaching the Ventimiglia terminus. In just a few hours, passengers experience a unique contrast: from the crisp air of the high Alpine altitudes to the gentle breeze of the Mediterranean Sea.

A unique railway, born as a cross-border link and today a symbol of slow tourism, ideal for those who love nature, history, and the pleasure of traveling without haste, admiring the essential beauty of the border valleys.

On the ground, the region offers charming villages, panoramic trails, small local markets, and unique viewpoints—perfect to explore at your own pace. An invitation to immerse yourself in the essential beauty of the border valleys, without organized activities, embracing the authentic mood of travel.

Travel Details

Schedule:
Every Sunday, round trip on the same day, from 5 July to 6 September, and again throughout the month of December.

Route:
Torino → Cuneo → Limone → Tende → Breil-sur-Roya → Ventimiglia → Sanremo → Imperia

  • The Centoporte Coaches
  • TTI Special -25%

The Centoporte Coaches

The Centoporte coaches are among the most iconic historic vehicles of the Italian railway network. Introduced in the 1930s as sturdy, essential carriages designed for the commuter services of the time, they owe their name to the numerous side doors that made passenger boarding and alighting easier. Built in steel and featuring simple yet authentic interiors, they served regional and local lines across Italy for decades.

Today, thanks to the restoration work of Fondazione FS, these coaches have been brought back to their original charm, with wooden seats and sliding windows that allow travelers to fully enjoy the landscape. On the Railway of Wonders, the Centoporte express their true value: a simple and genuine way of travelling, perfect for rediscovering a historic line that has become a symbol of international slow tourism.