Centovalli Railway

• Attraction type: scenic trip, by train
• Escort: independent (no guide)
• Region: Upper Rhone valley (Valais), Lake Maggiore (Ticino)
• Duration: 1 day or less

A journey on the Centovalli Railway

The scenic route runs through the Centovalli (meaning "100 valleys" in Italian) and shows another kind of Switzerland: rocky gorges, quaint stone villages, and many waterfalls. A ride on this train is either a very nice day trip, or a good way to travel from south-west Switzerland (Geneva, Montreux, Zermatt) to south-east Switzerland (Locarno, Lugano, St. Moritz)

The route

The Centovalli trains run between the Italian town of Domodossola to Locarno, in the canton of Ticino, Switzerland. It runs across 83 bridges, 31 tunnels and along numerous waterfalls as it winds its way through the narrow valleys in the region.

Read more about the route here.

The trains

There are two types of trains that travel this route. The most attractive one is the panoramic windowed trapezoidally shaped Treno Panoramico Vigezzo Vision, in which you can listen to free audioguides providing information about the route. Additionally there is the more standard train named Centovalli Express. Both trains run quite slowly, but make for a pleasant experience to soak up the views and take pictures. Snacks and beverages can be purchased on board.

The Treno Panoramico Vigezzo Vision offers one special seat situated beside the driver in the first train carriage. Great for photographers and videographers!

What’s the best season?

Any season can be great if the sky is clear enough to enjoy the views. However, with several waterfalls along the route, spring time (late March to mid June) can make a for a very pleasant experience. We think winter is the least interesting as this area typically does not get much snowfall, and there can be some grey, rainy days instead.

Lago Maggiore Express

The Centovalli railway is part of the Lago Maggiore Express: a day trip including a boat ride and a regular train as well.