The Foliage Train between Italy and Switzerland

Where does the Foliage Train depart from?

The Foliage Train departs from Domodossola, an elegant town in Piedmont nestled among the mountains, and arrives in Locarno, Switzerland, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. The railway line is the historic Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway, a masterpiece of engineering and scenic beauty spanning approximately 52 kilometers.

You can start the journey from either terminus, choosing whether to depart from Italy or Switzerland. Those arriving by camper or car can leave their vehicle in the public parking lot on Via Piave in Domodossola and board the white and blue train that, with its slow pace, takes travelers through woods and valleys.

When to travel on the Foliage Train?

The best time to experience the foliage in Piedmont is from mid-October to mid-November, when nature dons its most spectacular attire. In 2025, special runs will be active from October 11 to November 16, with daily departures and the possibility of intermediate stops.

Each journey lasts about two hours one way, but thanks to the flexible ticket of the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway, it is possible to stop the journey once, either on the way or back, to visit one of the locations along the route.

How does the Foliage Train ticket work?

The Foliage Train ticket allows for an intermediate stop of your choice, both in Italian and Swiss territory. You can decide to get off, for example, at Santa Maria Maggiore, visit the village, and then continue to Locarno with another train on the same day.

It is a format designed for curious travelers, for those who love to explore at a leisurely pace, getting on and off at their own convenience. Tickets can be purchased online on the official website of the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway, and it is advisable to book in advance, as the initiative is in high demand, especially on weekends.

What to see in Domodossola before departure?

Domodossola is a refined city, rich in history and charm. Before boarding the train, it is worth spending some time exploring its historic center. The heart of the city is Piazza Mercato, one of the most beautiful squares in Piedmont, surrounded by porticoes and 15th-century buildings.

Don’t miss Palazzo San Francesco, now home to the Civic Museums, which host art exhibitions and historical collections. Strolling through the cobbled streets of the center offers an atmosphere of bygone times, with shops, cafes, and small stores selling typical Ossolan products such as cheeses, honey, and mountain cured meats.

Santa Maria Maggiore, the pearl of the Vigezzo Valley?

One of the most beloved stops along the Italian route is Santa Maria Maggiore, a village that seems to have come straight out of a fairy tale. Its stone houses, flowered balconies, and slate roofs create a cozy and authentic atmosphere.

Here you can visit the Chimney Sweep Museum, unique in Italy, which tells the story of the "little ones from Vigezzo" who went to work all over Europe. Don’t miss the Feminis-Farina Perfume House, dedicated to the history of Eau de Cologne, which was born from two emigrants from Vigezzo.

During autumn, the streets of the village fill with stalls, events, and the aromas of chestnuts, polenta, and mulled wine. It is an ideal stop to immerse yourself in Piedmontese tradition and take unforgettable photographs of the foliage that colors the surrounding woods.

The Swiss stops:

Intragna, Verdasio, and Ascona?

Crossing the border, the line enters the Swiss territory of the Canton of Ticino and offers more fascinating stops. Intragna is a small village nestled among the valleys, famous for the tallest bell tower in Ticino (65 meters) and for its regional museum, which tells the story of mountain communities.

Verdasio is the starting point for two panoramic cable cars that lead to the villages of Rasa and Monte Comino, from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Centovalli woods. The cable car ticket is not included in the train pass but can be purchased directly on-site.

Ascona, finally, can be reached in a few minutes by bus from Locarno: it is an elegant village overlooking Lake Maggiore, famous for its flowered lakeside promenade and the large panoramic swing of the Swing the World project, beloved by photographers and travelers.

Locarno, the city of cinema and elegance?

Arriving in Locarno, you are greeted by a different, more Mediterranean and bright atmosphere. The city, known worldwide for its Film Festival, is perfect for a stroll along the lakeside of Lake Maggiore or a visit to Piazza Grande, the vibrant heart of city life.

In the historic center, you will find boutiques, pastry shops, and cafes where you can taste Ticinese specialties such as bread cake or mountain cheeses. Locarno is also a starting point for excursions to the Sanctuary of Madonna del Sasso, reachable by a panoramic funicular that overlooks the entire city.

How long does the journey take and how much does it cost?

The complete journey from Domodossola to Locarno takes about one hour and fifty minutes. The Foliage Train ticket includes a round trip on the same day and an intermediate stop. Prices vary depending on the category and season, but generally range from 35 to 45 euros per adult, with discounts for children and families.

It is advisable to check the official website of the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway for schedules, rates, and any special offers.

How to get to the departure point?

For those arriving from Milan or Northern Italy, the most convenient way is to reach Locarno by train, thanks to the direct connection from Milan Centrale that crosses the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore. Alternatively, those departing from Piedmont can opt for Domodossola, easily reachable by car or train from Turin and Novara.

Why choose the Foliage Train?

The Foliage Train is not just a tourist trip, but an emotional experience. It is an opportunity to slow down, look out the window, and be enchanted by the colors of autumn, the scents of the woods, and the panoramas that unfold curve after curve.

Every stretch of the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway is a discovery: suspended bridges between the valleys, daring viaducts, small towns where time seems to stand still. It is a perfect journey for nature photography lovers, families with children, or couples seeking a romantic and relaxing experience.

A journey between Italy and Switzerland, between nature and culture?

The charm of the Foliage Train lies in its dual soul: Italian and Swiss, mountainous and lakeside, cultural and naturalistic. It is a gateway to the heart of the Alps and, at the same time, a way to rediscover the pleasure of slow travel, one that invites observation rather than rushing.

From the red leaves of the Vigezzo Valley to the blue of Lake Maggiore, the Foliage Train tells the autumn story with the most beautiful colors in Europe — and every window becomes a moving picture.