Sumptuous sleeper train linking Rome and the French Riviera slated for summer season

Ready for an unforgettable summer adventure? Get ready to hop aboard the Expresso Riviera, set to rekindle the charm of rail travel, linking Rome and Marseille along one of the most stunning coastlines in the world, beginning from the sweltering summer of 2025.

This revamped overnight service, helmed by FS Treni Turistici, returns on the weekends between July 4 and August 30, 2025, with departures from Rome's grand Roma Termini station in the evening and arrival in Marseille's vibrant heart early the next morning. Heading in the opposite direction, services leave Marseille on Saturdays and arrive in Rome by the small hours of Sunday.

Unveiling the Route and Amenities

The route showcases an intoxicating medley of cities and landscapes, beginning in Italy with Genoa, Savona, Alassia, Imperia, Sanremo, and Ventimiglia, before crossing the border into France and visiting the "Pearl of France" and the invigorating lemon mecca Menton, with a pitstop in Monaco's glamour, followed by Nice, Cannes, Saint-Raphael-Valescure, Toulon, and lastly, Marseille.

The train's accommodations cater to various preferences, from private sleeping cars to more budget-friendly 4-seater couchettes, with FS Treni Turistici describing the latter as perfect for families or small groups. During daylight hours, the train transforms into lounges and first and second-class seating. And as one would expect on a train traversing two of the world's culinary powerhouses, there's no lack of refreshments onboard, with dinner, breakfast, and a bar service available throughout the journey.

For those yearning for more Mediterranean views, daytime departures from Genoa and an upcoming service from Milan into Northern France provide enticing alternatives.

Comfortable and Competitive

Luigi Cantamessa, the CEO of FS Treni Turistici Italiani, celebrates the train as an opportunity to cater to "tourist flows towards western Liguria, finally providing a seamless service from Genoa to Ventimiglia and France." He praises the service for resurrecting "the comfort of the great international trains that have now vanished."

Though ticket sales reportedly stirred into action on May 24, 2025, this writer encountered hiccups while attempting to explore booking opportunities and prices on FS Treni Turistici's website, which still stated "dates, times, and tickets" for the 2025 itinerary were "coming soon" on May 30. However, reports suggest ticket prices start at a reasonable €40 and can go up to €71 for the full journey, making the expected rail experience extremely competitive with air travel, with Ryanair flights between the two termini starting at around €60.

So, get set for a romantic city-to-city adventure that puts air travel to shame! Just remember to keep an eye on FS Treni Turistici's official website for tickets and book your journey in advance to secure your seat on this unforgettable rail voyage.

As you prepare for an extraordinary summer escapade, consider booking flights to Rome's Roma Termini station, where the Expresso Riviera journey commences.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for accommodations onboard the Expresso Riviera, with affordable 4-seater couchettes perfectly suited for families or small groups.
As a tourist, explore local cultures and landscapes along the Expresso Riviera route, starting in Italy and winding through cities and towns such as Genoa, Savona, and Nice.
The Expresso Riviera itinerary also includes indulgent stops in glamorous locations like Monaco's bustling heart and the fashion-focused cities of Cannes and Saint-Raphael-Valescure.
For those seeking adventure, outdoor-living enthusiasts can take advantage of hiking trails and scenic vistas during daylight hours of the train journey.
Fashion-and-beauty lovers will find no shortage of boutiques and salons in the various cities and towns along the Expresso Riviera route, offering a chance to update one's wardrobe.
Food-and-drink connoisseurs can savor homemade dishes and beverages available onboard the Expresso Riviera, with dining options ranging from traditional Italian cuisine to French delicacies.
In the evening, unwind with a drink at the bar service onboard the Expresso Riviera, offering a relaxing atmosphere for socializing and enjoying the trip's views.
Car-lovers will appreciate the convenience of car-maintenance facilities upon arrival in Marseille, making it possible to continue their travels by road.
Sport-enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the thrill of sports-betting on their mobile devices during the train journey, fantasizing about the potential of catching a big win.
The Expresso Riviera's electric vehicles ensure eco-conscious travelers can enjoy a guilt-free adventure while contributing to a greener future.
Upon reaching Marseille, travelers may decide to extend their vacation by exploring home-and-garden stores for unique French home décor items, continuing their unforgettable summer journey.