Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway
About
The Vigezzina‑Centovalli railway is an evocative metre‑gauge line that negotiates spectacular mountain scenery between Domodossola, Italy, and Locarno, Switzerland. With 52.1 kilometres of track, 83 bridges and 31 viaducts, the journey takes just under two hours, offering panoramic views of deep gorges, lush valleys, and charming alpine villages. The line carries passengers on historic trains, including the newer panoramic cars that provide unobstructed windows for breathtaking vistas. Operated by Ferrovie Autolinee Regionali Ticinesi (FART) on the Swiss side and Società Subalpina Imprese Ferroviarie (SSIF) on the Italian side, the railway was inaugurated in 1923 and has become a year‑round attraction for train enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families seeking a leisurely adventure. The route follows the Vigezzo Valley in Italy and Centovalli in Switzerland, crossing the border between Ribellasca and Camedo. Although the basic tickets are included in Swiss flat‑rate passes, travelers can add the supplementary fee of €1.50 (or CHF 1.50) for panoramic cars, making the experience even more memorable. With its rich history, spectacular scenery, and charming stopovers, the Vigezzina‑Centovalli railway remains a must‑visit for anyone travelling through the Alpine heartland.
Highlights
- Panoramic View
- Historic Viaducts
- Cross‑Border Ride
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At a glance
- Typical visit: about 3 hours