In Friuli Venezia Giulia, the Christmas period is also experienced by rail thanks to the Nativity Scene and Market Train, an experience that combines tradition, history and atmospheres of times gone by. The train is made up of a steam locomotive and the iconic Centoporte carriages from the 1930s, now part of the Italian railway heritage protected by the FS Foundation. The itinerary connects Gemona del Friuli to Sacile, following the historic local line with a fundamental stop in the village of Poffabro, one of the most evocative in the area.
Poffabro: a village that becomes a nativity scene
Arriving in Poffabro transforms the journey into a complete immersion in the magic of the holidays. Here, Christmas is a deeply felt tradition: the inhabitants set up handcrafted nativity scenes in every corner of the town, from the balconies to the windows, from the courtyards to the stone alleys. During winter, the possibility of snow makes the village even more fairytale-like, amplifying the beauty of its wood and stone architecture. The stop allows visitors to stroll among creative exhibitions and picturesque views, in one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
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Sacile and the Advent Market
In the afternoon the train reaches Sacile, where the Christmas atmosphere is manifested through lights, decorations and the traditional Advent Market. Hobbyists and artisans populate the historic center, while in the courtyard of Palazzo Ragazzoni the Casette del Gusto offer local food and wine specialties. For train passengers there is also an exclusive visit to Palazzo Ragazzoni, accessible in dedicated time slots. To complete the experience there is the traveling musical accompaniment, with walking clarinet performances, which liven up the main streets.
Hours and prices
The special trip is scheduled for December 8, with tickets available soon. The outward journey leaves Gemona at 08.15, while the return from Sacile is scheduled for 17.38. The cost of the return ticket is 15 euros for adults, 7.50 euros for children and free for children under 4 years old without a seat. An initiative organized by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region in collaboration with FS Treni Turistici Italiani, designed to help people rediscover the charm of slow travel, on a journey that celebrates landscapes, culture and Christmas traditions.
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