Historic train in Sardinia: travel aboard the Trenino Verde and beyond
Discovering the Sardinia by train is an experience that combines the magic of the past with the charm of a landscape that alternates between sea and mountains. Travelling on a historic train means being slowly transported, observing unique views that only the Sardinia's green train can give. This article will guide you through the history, curiosities and most fascinating routes, telling you why boarding a toy train or a saffron train is an experience worth having at least once in a lifetime.
Why travelling by train in Sardinia is so special
Get on a train in Sardinia does not simply mean moving from one point to another, but taking a journey through time and nature. The Sardinian railway lines, with their narrow gaugethrough authentic landscapes, offering the possibility of discover hidden, unspoilt corners.
A traveller who choose this means will have the feeling of being in an open-air museum, with carriages and steam locomotive that tell stories of a distant past. Some itineraries start from Cagliariothers connect small centres in the interior such as Mandas or Laconioffering the possibility of experiencing unforgettable days.
What is Sardinia's Green Train
The Sardinia's green train is the most famous of the island's historical convoys. The name comes from the colour of the scenery you pass through: forests, valleys and hills full of Mediterranean vegetation. Travelling aboard the green train is like entering a slow dimension, far from the hustle and bustle of modern means.
On the tracks they alternate carriages period, sometimes towed by a suggestive steam locomotivesometimes by a restored diesel railcar. It is an experience that combines historical fascination and direct contact with nature.
From Cagliari to historical journeys: the fascination of departures
Many Historical trains from Cagliari start from the historical Cagliari stationa place that still retains the charm of the old railway structures. From here begins the adventure along the railway line which leads towards the interior of the island, passing through small villages and surprising landscapes.
The return to Cagliari at the end of the day becomes an integral part of the experience, with travellers taking with them indelible memories of breathtaking views and authentic encounters. The two main stations in the south connect the town with Mandas, making possible a itinerary that runs through the heart of the island.
The experience on board a historic train
Being at aboard the historic train is like taking a dip into the past. Le carriages second class, large windows from which to observe the landscape and the possibility of sitting next to another passenger make the experience more intimate and authentic.
The boot in wood, the sound of locomotivethe whistle that accompanies the departures: every detail evokes a distant world that today lives again thanks to the commitment of volunteers and enthusiasts. There is also the emotion of travelling alongside a real railwaymanready to tell anecdotes related to the history of the line.
The commitment of the Sardinian Historical Train Association
A key role is played by thesardinian historical trains associationalso known as Sardegnavapore organiseswho has been working for years for restore and keep these wonders of rolling stock.
Thanks to them today we can still get on a vintage trainwith three carriages towed by a steam locomotivealong paths that would otherwise have remained just a memory. It is thanks to the sardinian historical trains association that special events, such as the Sunday 5 June or of the Sunday 10continue to attract tourists and enthusiasts.
What it means to cross Sardinia by train
Cross the island in train means seeing Sardinia from an unusual perspective, slowly moving from a sea to mountain, observing hills, cultivated fields and ancient villages. A landscape that changes colour and shape with the seasons, offering unique emotions to the traveller.
On board the green train, one can discover territories that often remain off the classic tourist routes, combining the pleasure of slow travel with the possibility of encountering local traditions and cultures.
The Sardinian Railway Museum and the value of memory
For those wishing to learn more about history, a visit to the Sardinian Railway Museum is not to be missed. Here you can admire old binaries, carriages, models of locomotive and evidence of the long tradition railway of the island.
The museum is not just an exhibition venue, but a cultural centre that contributes to restore and enhance historical memory, making the historical trains a heritage to be passed on to new generations.
The Saffron Train and other experiences
Among the most curious convoys is the saffron trainwhich travels routes related to the cultivation of this precious spice. It is an example of how the toy train is not only a means of transport, but also an opportunity to highlight local excellence and discover traditional products Sardinian.
Even routes such as that to the ruins of TharrosOristano and small towns, enrich the offer of travel that combine culture, nature and history.
Today's timetables and travellers
With the arrival of the 2025the calendar of Sardinian railway events is getting richer and richer. Every timetable is designed to offer maximum comfort to the passengerwho can experience the magic of travelling on board of a unique convoy.
Whether you choose arailcar period, a carriage restored or a boot original, the experience remains unforgettable. And for those who love surprises, there is no shortage of lesser-known routes, perfect for those who really want to discover the most authentic Sardinia.
FAQ on historic trains in Sardinia
What is the Green Train of Sardinia?
It is a historical convoy that crosses the island showing unique landscapes, with carriages and often a steam locomotive.
Where do historical trains depart from?
Many Historical trains from Cagliari depart from the city's main station, but there are also departures from other locations such as Mandas or Laconi.
Who organises historical train journeys?
L'sardinian historical trains associationknown as Sardegnavapore, organises tourist and cultural itineraries throughout the year.
How long is a historic train journey?
The duration varies depending on the itinerary, but these are often day trips that also allow a return to Cagliari in the evening.
What kind of carriages are on board?
You travel on three carriages vintage, restored, often second-class, with an original boot and seats.
Is the steam locomotive still there?
Yes, some routes include a real steam locomotivealthough restored diesel railcars are used on other routes.
What are the most beautiful routes to cross?
The most striking are those ranging from sea to mountainsuch as the Mandas-Laconi or those towards Oristano and the ruins of Tharros.
Are there museums related to railway history in Sardinia?
Yes, the Sardinian Railway Museum preserves locomotives, carriages and rolling stock that tell the story of rail transport.
What is the saffron train?
It is a thematic train that passes through areas related to saffron cultivation, combining travel and food and wine culture.
Why choose a historical train instead of other means?
Why travel in a vintage train means a unique, slow and fascinating experience, perfect for discover the authentic soul of Sardinia.
