Hop On Italy’s Espresso Monaco and Assisi Trains: A Festive Ride from Rome to Munich and Umbria’s Christmas Fairs, Details Travelers Need to Know Before Packing Their Bags

Published on November 14, 2025

As the holiday season approaches, Italy is offering travellers a unique and nostalgic way to experience Europe’s renowned Christmas markets. Italy’s state-owned rail operator, FS Treni Turistici Italiani, has launched two specially designed heritage trains that promise to take you on a festive journey like no other. The Espresso Monaco and Espresso Assisi will transport passengers from Rome to the grand markets of Munich and Umbria, recreating the golden age of festive rail travel. These vintage trains are more than just a means of transportation—they are an experience in themselves, complete with seasonal treats, live music, and scenic views. If you’ve always wanted to travel in style during the Christmas season, these trains are a dream come true.

Explore Festive Journeys Aboard Vintage Trains

This December, travellers can step aboard two very special trains that combine the charm of vintage travel with the magic of Christmas. The Espresso Monaco, a sleeper train, will run from Rome to Munich, stopping at stunning locations like Verona, Trento, and Innsbruck before arriving at Munich—home to the world-famous Christkindlmarkt. For those who prefer daytime travel, the Espresso Assisi will journey through Umbria, visiting cities like Assisi, Perugia, and Arezzo, all famous for their local Christmas fairs.

Both of these unique train services offer a festive atmosphere onboard, including Christmas-themed dining cars with seasonal menus, live music, and a variety of holiday treats. The Espresso Monaco operates only for two weekends in December, while the Espresso Assisi runs every Sunday until January.

The Espresso Monaco: A Journey Through Italy’s Countryside and the Alps

The Espresso Monaco will embark on its journey from Rome to Munich on the weekends of December 5th and 12th, 2025. Passengers will be treated to a scenic route through the Italian countryside and the majestic Alps. On its way to Munich, the train stops in picturesque cities such as Verona, Trento, Bolzano, and Bressanone, all offering a glimpse of Italy’s natural beauty before entering Germany.

The night journey offers a variety of seating options, including single and double cabins, as well as four-berth and six-berth compartments. Travellers can also book shared overnight seating for a more budget-friendly experience. The Espresso Monaco features a festive dining car that is the perfect place to enjoy a warm cup of glühwein while listening to live Christmas music. Whether travelling by day or night, this train offers a stress-free journey, away from the traffic and chaos of the holiday season.

The Espresso Assisi: A Daytime Delight Through Central Italy

For those who prefer a daytime trip, the Espresso Assisi offers a scenic route through central Italy, connecting Rome to Arezzo, Assisi, Perugia, and Spoleto, stopping at some of the region’s most beautiful towns known for their Christmas markets. This train, running every Sunday between November and January, is the ideal way to enjoy a leisurely journey through the festive Italian countryside.

Onboard the Espresso Assisi, travellers will find comfort and elegance with blue velvet seating, bar service, and seasonal gifts for sale. The first-class cabins offer ample space and well-lit compartments, while second-class areas provide a more casual, relaxed setting. For those making overnight trips, there are sleeper cabins and four-berth couchettes for a restful night’s sleep before continuing the journey. The train is perfect for both families and couples looking to experience the magic of Italy’s Christmas markets in style.

Book Early for Special Discounts

Tickets for both the Espresso Monaco and Espresso Assisi are available for booking on the FS Treni Turistici Italiani website. For a limited time, passengers can take advantage of a 25% discount on select journeys by using the “TTI SPECIAL 25!” offer during booking. However, be warned—seats are limited and released in batches, so it’s important to book early to secure your spot on these festive trains.

The Espresso Monaco operates only on December 5th and 12th, while the Espresso Assisi runs every Sunday through the end of January 2025. If you’re looking for a memorable holiday experience, travelling by heritage train is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas across Europe.

Travel Tips for Christmas Market Enthusiasts

• Book Early: Seats on these festive trains are limited, so it’s best to secure your tickets well in advance.
• Pack for Comfort: Depending on your choice of train and route, the weather can change drastically from Italy to Germany, so be sure to bring warm clothing.
• Prepare for the Festivities: The dining cars offer seasonal menus, so be ready to indulge in traditional holiday treats, including mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and Christmas pastries.
• Embrace the Atmosphere: Take advantage of the onboard live music and holiday-themed entertainment to make your journey truly memorable.
• Explore the Markets: Make sure to plan some extra time to explore the Christmas markets at Munich, Assisi, and the other charming stops along the way. Don’t forget to pick up unique holiday gifts and souvenirs!

Experience Christmas Magic in Style

These two heritage trains are more than just a way to get to your destination—they are part of the journey itself. Whether you’re heading to Munich for Germany’s iconic Christmas markets or exploring the charming markets of Umbria, the Espresso Monaco and Espresso Assisi offer a unique, festive travel experience. This is your chance to experience Christmas travel like never before—onboard classic trains with all the comfort and charm of a bygone era.