Italy is a country that dazzles at every turn. From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the sun-kissed shores of the Amalfi Coast, traveling by train offers a front-row seat to Italy’s stunning landscapes. Traveling by rail is not just about getting from one city to another; it’s an experience in itself. Italy’s train network connects the modern with the traditional, the urban with the rural, and the popular tourist spots with hidden gems. In this guide, I’ll take you on 10 scenic train journeys across Italy that you’ll truly love. From my own personal experience, these routes are not just about the views—they’re about the journey, the culture, and the unforgettable memories you create along the way.

1. Bernina Express: Tirano to St. Moritz

While this route technically crosses into Switzerland, the Bernina Express starts in Tirano, Italy, making it an Italian adventure you shouldn’t miss. This UNESCO World Heritage route winds through the Alps, showcasing towering mountains, sparkling glaciers, and deep valleys.

Things to see and do:

  • Stop at Tirano for a local aperitivo before boarding.
  • Watch as the train glides over the Brusio Spiral Viaduct.
  • Capture photos of the Morteratsch Glacier.

This journey is perfect if you love dramatic alpine scenery. The views change with every curve of the track, and even from your seat, it feels like a cinematic experience.

2. Cinque Terre Express: La Spezia to Levanto

The Cinque Terre is famous for its colorful cliffside villages and crystal-clear waters. The Cinque Terre Express offers a fast, scenic, and convenient way to explore all five villages.

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Things to see and do:

  • Explore Monterosso’s sandy beaches.
  • Take a walk through Vernazza’s quaint streets.
  • Snap sunset pictures from Manarola’s waterfront.

This train ride isn’t just transportation; it’s the easiest way to soak in the charm of these villages without worrying about parking or traffic.

3. The Dolomites Route: Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo

Travel through jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and charming villages. This route, although not always direct, gives you a glimpse into Italy’s northern mountain beauty.

Things to see and do:

  • Enjoy the views of the Rosengarten and Marmolada mountains.
  • Stop in Brunico for a coffee and explore its medieval town center.
  • Visit Cortina d’Ampezzo for hiking or skiing, depending on the season.

The train ride offers panoramic vistas at every window, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

4. The Amalfi Coast Connection: Salerno to Sorrento

While the Amalfi Coast doesn’t have a train running along its cliffside roads, the line from Salerno to Sorrento, including the Circumvesuviana train, offers incredible coastal glimpses.

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Things to see and do:

  • Admire Mount Vesuvius from your window.
  • Explore Pompeii ruins on the way.
  • Enjoy Sorrento’s vibrant town center and sea views.

This route is ideal for travelers who want a mix of history, coastal charm, and local life.

5. Venice to Trieste: Adriatic Coastline Journey

The journey along the Adriatic coast from Venice to Trieste offers serene sea views, quaint fishing villages, and elegant coastal towns.

Things to see and do:

  • Stop in Grado for its charming beaches.
  • Visit historic Trieste and its cafes reminiscent of Vienna.
  • Enjoy the sea breeze as you watch the waves glisten.

This train ride offers a quieter, more relaxed scenic experience compared to Italy’s busier routes.

6. Florence to Rome: High-Speed with Scenic Stops

The high-speed trains between Florence and Rome are fast, but choosing the slower regional trains allows you to see Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards, and small towns.

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Things to see and do:

  • Admire the Tuscan countryside with its iconic cypress trees.
  • Stop at Orvieto or Civita di Bagnoregio for a half-day exploration.
  • Capture sunset views from the train as it nears Rome.

Traveling slower gives you the chance to connect with Italy’s heartland, beyond the famous cities.

7. Lake Como Line: Milan to Como

A short journey from Milan, this route takes you to the picturesque shores of Lake Como, surrounded by mountains and elegant villas.

Things to see and do:

  • Explore Como town’s cobbled streets.
  • Take a ferry to Bellagio or Varenna.
  • Admire the villas lining the lake from the train window.

This is a great escape from the bustling city, offering tranquility and scenic charm.

8. Palermo to Messina: Sicilian Coastline

Sicily offers dramatic coastal views, and the train from Palermo to Messina is an excellent way to see the island’s rugged beauty.

Things to see and do:

  • Snap photos of the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea.
  • Stop in Cefalù to explore its medieval streets and beach.
  • Discover Messina’s cathedral and harbor.

From my own personal experience, Sicilian train journeys combine culture, history, and breathtaking scenery in a way few other routes can match.

9. Naples to Pescara: Through Abruzzo’s Mountains and Coast

This less-traveled route offers a mix of mountains, rivers, and Adriatic beaches.

Things to see and do:

  • Stop in Sulmona for local sweets.
  • Admire the Majella mountains in Abruzzo.
  • Enjoy Pescara’s modern beachfront promenade.

It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy both coastal and inland scenery.

10. Verona to Venice: The Veneto Countryside

This train ride takes you through vineyards, small towns, and the Veneto countryside, offering a slower-paced glimpse of Italy’s rural charm.

Things to see and do:

  • Stop in Vicenza to see Palladian architecture.
  • Capture photos of vineyards and farmhouses.
  • End your journey in Venice, ready to explore its canals.

The journey is ideal for those who want to combine cultural sightseeing with peaceful landscapes.

Final Thoughts

Italy’s train journeys are more than just transport—they are experiences that immerse you in the country’s landscapes, culture, and local life. Whether it’s the alpine vistas of the Bernina Express, the colorful villages of the Cinque Terre, or the coastal beauty of Sicily, every train ride tells its own story. Based on my overall experience, taking the scenic routes allows you to discover Italy at a pace that’s both relaxing and visually stunning.

Traveling by train also gives you the flexibility to stop at hidden gems along the way, interact with locals, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. From the mountains to the coast, the lakes to the historic towns, Italy offers a train adventure for every type of traveler. Pack your camera, a good playlist, and a sense of curiosity—Italy by train is an experience you’ll cherish forever.