Heritage trains boost rail tourism in Friuli Venezia Giulia in 2026

Heritage trains: 2026 reinvigorates rail tourism in Friuli Venezia Giulia

The Friuli Venezia Giulia region has presented an expanded 2026 programme for heritage trains, supported by an investment of more than €760,000. After a 20% increase in passengers in 2025 (over 13,000 travellers), the initiative aims to strengthen ties between tourism and territorial promotion.

The programme features 38 themed itineraries, including eight new routes, with particular attention to areas affected by the 1976 earthquake. The legendary Etr 252 "Arlecchino" will be among the historic rolling stock in service.

• Season start: 12 April 2026 with the "Festa di primavera" train (Trieste–Latisana).
• First new route: 2 May 2026 with the "Treno degli alpini e della ricostruzione" (Treviso–Pinzano al Tagliamento).
• Season close: 20 December 2026 with the "Treno dei castelli e dei mosaici" (Treviso–Spilimbergo).

The regional strategy sees heritage trains as cultural and promotional links to major events, including the run-up to Pordenone Italian Capital of Culture 2027, aiming to involve municipalities and local operators to make rail tourism a coordinated driver of local development.