It will feel like being in one of those Hallmark Christmas movies: from the big city, a historic train from the 1950s takes us to the snow-capped mountains, where Christmas lights create a magical atmosphere and the scent of mulled wine mingles with that of pretzels and spices.
Don’t miss the chance to ride the Historic Christmas Market Train, which departs from Milano Centrale for the Christmas markets in Bolzano and Bressanone. Trains will depart only on select dates in the morning and return to Milan in the evening.
Scheduled departures
The FS Foundation is making its historic locomotives available to take passengers to some of the most beautiful markets in Italy and Europe during the holiday season.
There are four scheduled departures, spread out between November and December 2026. Departure will always be scheduled from Milan Central Station at 7:05 a.m., arriving in Brescia at 8:25 a.m. and departing again at 8:27 a.m.
Arrival in Bolzano is scheduled for 11:05 a.m. Here, you can get off and enjoy the beautiful markets in Piazza Walther, among the largest in Italy. The 112 market stalls also extend into Piazza Duomo and Piazza Parrocchia, giving you the chance to explore this splendid city in the heart of South Tyrol.
The return trip from Bolzano is scheduled for 5:46 p.m., arriving at Milano Centrale at 9:45 p.m.
Bressanone, on the other hand, is reached at 11:37 a.m. Strolling through this charming mountain town, you can savor the true spirit of Christmas, thanks to the markets in front of the Cathedral and the Hofburg, filled with local artisans, traditional products from the Isarco Valley, activities for children, and concerts by the Advent musicians.
The return train is scheduled to depart at 5:18 p.m., arriving at Milano Centrale at 9:45 p.m.
Info and tickets for the historic train
Departures are scheduled for November 29, December 8, December 13, and December 20 (the latter will end in Merano).
Prices are as follows for first and second class (the reduced fare applies to children between the ages of 6 and 14). Children under 6 travel free of charge without an assigned seat. Pets weighing up to 20 kg are allowed free of charge and must be kept on a leash.
- 1st class:
- 2nd class:
Due to the design of the historic train, which has steps for boarding and exiting, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
