Christmas is the most magical time of the year, for adults and children alike. Some people have already put up a tree in November, without having to wait until December 8… days pass and we get closer and closer to the holidays. Schools close, offices take a break to allow everyone to experience this holiday with their families. If you want to unearth unique gifts, at the Christmas markets you will find handicrafts, local products, mulled wine, Christmas soups, Santa’s village and entertainment for the little ones.
The routes of the trip are different but are carried out by the vintage convoy of the Italian FS Foundation, consisting of the powerful “Bombardone”. It is a journey back in time in a wagon with wooden interior and a special baggage wagon to be able to carry strollers, bikes and bulky luggage free of charge. So, you’ll get to both explore different mountain villages and board a train from another time.
Christmas market stops
On the Parks Railway, there will be “Christmas Trains” with Sulmona-Roccaraso and Sulmona-Castel di Sangro routes. These trips offer stops at picturesque locations such as Roccaraso, Campo di Giove and Castel di Sangro, allowing passengers to enjoy the natural beauty and local traditions.
Departures are scheduled from Nov. 23 to Dec. 22 for the Sulmona-Roccaraso route and from Dec. 26 to Jan. 6 for the Sulmona-Castel di Sangro route.
For Christmas 2024, new special train departures have been announced from San Vito-Lanciano, Pescara and Chieti to L’Aquila and Greccio. These departures will take place aboard TUA railcars with first-class service. Events include Christmas celebrations in L’Aquila and Greccio, with specific dates for Christmas markets and other festivities.
Departures and tickets
Please see the official page for departures. Tickets can be purchased online at the Parks Railroad website, the round-trip price is as follows:
- adults 50 €
- children 4-12 years 30 €
- children 0-4 years old free of charge (without a seat)