Italy and France Unveil a Spectacular Overnight Train Journey Through Stunning Mediterranean Coastlines Connecting Historic Cities and Glamorous Seaside Havens – Travel And Tour World

Italy and France unveil a spectacular overnight train journey through stunning Mediterranean coastlines connecting historic cities and glamorous seaside havens. This unique travel experience offers passengers the perfect blend of comfort, culture, and breathtaking scenery, allowing them to explore some of Europe’s most iconic coastal towns while enjoying the luxury and charm of vintage rail travel. By linking vibrant cities like Rome and Marseille with picturesque destinations along the Riviera, this train journey provides an immersive and unforgettable way to discover the beauty and heritage of the Mediterranean region, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

This summer, a charming and scenic night train service will reconnect Italy and France, inviting travelers to experience a breathtaking journey along the Mediterranean coast. Named the Espresso Riviera, this night train returns for a second season after its successful debut last year, promising a relaxing and picturesque ride through 14 iconic seaside towns stretching from Rome to Marseille.

The Espresso Riviera offers a rare opportunity to fall asleep in the heart of Italy’s capital city and awaken to the stunning vistas of the French Riviera. This unique rail journey is part of Italy’s growing tourist train initiative, which reintroduces vintage-style trains to showcase some of the country’s most beautiful and culturally rich destinations. The concept behind this program is to offer travelers a slower, more immersive way to explore Italy and neighboring France, combining comfort with spectacular coastal scenery.

Operating on weekends from early July through the end of August, the train departs Roma Termini station every Friday evening and arrives in Marseille the following Saturday morning. The return trip leaves Marseille Saturday night, arriving back in Rome by Sunday morning. This overnight schedule allows passengers to maximize their time exploring the cities while enjoying a leisurely journey between destinations.

Travelers have the option of choosing between private sleeping compartments or more affordable couchette accommodations. The sleeping cars offer privacy and comfort with well-appointed cabins, perfect for a restful night on the rails. For those seeking budget-friendly options, couchettes provide shared sleeping arrangements while still offering a cozy and authentic train experience. Onboard dining services include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, allowing passengers to savor freshly prepared meals during the journey.

For travelers who prefer daytime travel, a complementary service operates from Genoa. This daytime route provides private lounges and first- and second-class seats designed to maximize the enjoyment of the spectacular Mediterranean coastline. Passengers can relax in comfort while taking in panoramic views of the Ligurian and French Rivieras bathed in sunlight. Looking ahead, the train company is planning to add a departure point in Milan, which would directly link northern Italy with the French Riviera through a swift connection to Genoa.

One of the highlights of the Espresso Riviera is its itinerary, which features stops in some of the most glamorous and scenic coastal towns in both Italy and France. After leaving Rome, the train travels northwest to Genoa, the bustling port city known for its historic architecture and vibrant culinary scene. It then continues along the Italian Riviera, stopping in Savona, Alassio, Imperia, Sanremo, and Ventimiglia—each offering its own charm with picturesque harbors, beaches, and local culture.

Crossing the border into France, the train visits the elegant town of Menton before continuing to Monaco, home to the famous Monte Carlo casino and luxury lifestyle. The journey proceeds to Nice, a city celebrated for its beautiful Promenade des Anglais and Mediterranean climate. Further along the route are Cannes, known for its prestigious film festival, and Saint-Raphaël–Valescure, a lively coastal town popular with both tourists and locals. The train also stops in Toulon, a historic naval base with beautiful bay views, before reaching its final destination, Marseille—the vibrant port city and France’s second-largest metropolis.

This extension to Marseille marks a significant upgrade from last year’s route, which ended in Nice. The inclusion of Marseille broadens the scope of the journey and provides travelers with access to a diverse city rich in culture, cuisine, and history. Marseille’s dynamic atmosphere, combined with its coastal location, offers the perfect conclusion to this scenic train adventure.

The Espresso Riviera is operated by FS Treni Turistici, a division of Italy’s national railway company focused on promoting tourism by rail. The initiative reflects a growing interest in sustainable travel and the desire to slow down and connect more deeply with destinations. Vintage trains like the Espresso Riviera provide an alternative to faster, more impersonal modes of travel, allowing passengers to unwind, socialize, and take in spectacular views at a leisurely pace.

Tickets for the Espresso Riviera are already available for purchase, with weekend departures scheduled between July 4 and August 30. This timing coincides with the peak summer season, making the train an appealing choice for travelers seeking to explore the Mediterranean coastline without the hassle of driving or the rush of short flights. The overnight service also means passengers can maximize their daytime hours at each destination, whether in Rome, Marseille, or the charming towns along the route.

Beyond the convenience and comfort, the train journey itself becomes part of the travel experience. Passengers will pass through scenic landscapes dotted with pastel-colored seaside villages, rugged cliffs, and glistening blue waters. This route offers an immersive glimpse into the rich culture and natural beauty of the Ligurian and French Rivieras, celebrated for their sun-soaked beaches, historic architecture, and world-class cuisine.

Italy and France introduce a stunning overnight train journey connecting historic cities and glamorous seaside towns. This scenic route offers travelers a unique way to experience the beauty and culture of the Mediterranean coast in comfort and style.

In conclusion, the return of the Espresso Riviera night train provides a unique and enchanting way to travel between Italy and France. It combines the romance of vintage rail travel with modern comforts, all set against one of Europe’s most stunning coastal backdrops. Whether travelers choose the overnight service between Rome and Marseille or the daytime journey from Genoa, this scenic route promises an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking views, charming towns, and leisurely exploration. For anyone planning a summer trip to the Mediterranean, the Espresso Riviera is an invitation to discover the magic of coastal Europe by rail.