All aboard Italy’s Christmas Express: Rome to Arezzo 🎄🚂

A Christmas train through Tuscany

Running every Sunday from 30 November to 28 December 2025, the L’Espresso Natale departs Rome’s Termini station at 08:30 and rolls north through the hills of Umbria before reaching Arezzo just after noon.

This is not an ordinary train ride. The carriages are decked out for the holidays, Christmas music fills the air and every passenger receives a small gift. There is even a dining car serving espresso, hot chocolate and snacks because in Italy food is always part of the celebration.

Tickets start at €58 (about £46.90) for second class and €78 (about £63.30) for first class, with half-price fares for children aged 3 to 11. The return trip to Rome leaves Arezzo at 17:30, getting you back to Termini just before 23:00, tired but happy and full of Christmas cheer.

Arezzo’s Christmas magic

Step off the train and you’re immediately in the heart of Arezzo’s festive cheer. Nestled among Renaissance buildings and rolling Tuscan hills, the city really comes alive in December.

Piazza Grande hosts the Tyrolean Christmas Market, with wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments and traditional Tyrolean treats like pretzels, raclette and roasted ham. Perfect for wandering, tasting and spotting unique souvenirs.

This year sees a few new additions. The Medici Fortress has opened a Santa Claus House — a big holiday space with workshops, games and even a planetarium. There’s also the Brick House, a LEGO exhibition with more than 40 festive creations. In the evenings, don’t miss the Big Lights Show, when Piazza Grande is lit up from 17:00 to 21:00.

Arezzo may be small, but in December it’s packed with charm, lights and just enough festive magic to make you linger.

Tuscany’s best-kept secret

While Florence and Siena draw the bigger crowds, Arezzo stays delightfully local. This is a city of artists, home to Renaissance master Giorgio Vasari and poet Francesco Petrarch, and its cobbled streets are still full of everyday Tuscan life.

You’ll find trattorias serving pici pasta with local wine, antique shops stacked with hidden treasures, and sunny piazzas perfect for an afternoon espresso. Film buffs might recognise Piazza Grande from Life is Beautiful, which shot several memorable scenes here.

The perfect day trip from Rome

For around €30 return (about £22.30), you can step straight into a storybook Christmas village — no stress over driving or parking. The L’Espresso Natale takes you right into the heart of Tuscany’s festive season, with scenic views, tasty treats and holiday charm all around.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family, or flying solo, Arezzo offers a peaceful and authentic Italian Christmas that feels both magical and real. Skip the Florence crowds this year and explore Tuscany’s quieter side. Arezzo’s Christmas lights, food and small-town warmth will remind you exactly why Italy does the holidays so well.

Booking tickets

Train dates: Every Sunday, 30 November to 28 December 2025

Departure: Rome Termini 08:30 → Arrives Arezzo 12:10

Return: Arezzo 17:30 → Arrives Rome Termini 22:42

Book:

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FAQ: Rome to Arezzo Christmas Train

What is the L’Espresso Natale train?

L’Espresso Natale, also called the Christmas Express, is a special holiday train running from Rome to Arezzo. The carriages are decorated for Christmas, festive music fills the air, and every passenger receives a small gift — a cosy way to travel through Tuscany in winter.

When does the Christmas train run?

The train runs every Sunday from 30 November to 28 December 2025. It departs Rome Termini at 08:30, arrives in Arezzo around 12:10, and returns to Rome the same evening.

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets start at about €58 (around £46.90) for second class and €78 (around £63.30) for first class. Children aged 3 to 11 get a 50% discount.

Where can I buy tickets for the Christmas Express?

Tickets can be purchased directly on the official Ferrovia dei Parchi website. Seats are limited, so it’s best to book early.

What can I expect on board?

The train is decked out for Christmas, with background music and a dining car serving drinks and snacks. Passengers can enjoy the scenic Tuscan countryside and a festive atmosphere throughout the trip.

What is there to do in Arezzo at Christmas?

Arezzo’s Christmas market in Piazza Grande features handmade crafts, local food, and holiday entertainment. Highlights include Father Christmas House, the LEGO Brick House exhibition, and the Big Lights Show every evening.

How far is the market from the station?

Piazza Grande is just a 10-minute walk from Arezzo’s train station, making it easy for a day trip.

Is the Christmas Express family-friendly?

Yes. Families enjoy this trip for the fun on board and the many child-friendly activities in Arezzo, from Father Christmas House to the Christmas light shows.

Can I visit Arezzo as a day trip from Rome?

Yes. The train schedule allows a full day in Arezzo, giving plenty of time to explore the market, enjoy lunch, and soak up the festive atmosphere before heading back to Rome.

Why visit Arezzo instead of Florence?

Arezzo offers a quieter, more local Christmas experience with fewer crowds but just as much charm. It’s perfect for travellers looking for an authentic Tuscan holiday atmosphere.