The atmosphere of the Christmas holidays rediscovers all the charm of the past thanks to the vintage trips promoted by the Verbano Express association. Based in Luino, on the Lombard side of Lake Maggiore, the association of volunteers reactivates historic carriages and locomotives from times gone by to enhance the territory through unique itineraries towards Switzerland.
Between the lowering windows and the classic rhythm of the wheels on the tracks, the first appointment is set for Sunday 29 November 2026 towards the Einsiedeln Christmas Markets, just two days after the official inauguration of the Christmas village scheduled for 27 November. The second stage will be held on Sunday 13 December 2026 at the Christkindlimärt of Rapperswil-Jona, the suggestive City of Roseswhere over 200 wooden stalls dress up the medieval center and the lakeside promenade at the foot of the castle.
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The journey to Einsiedeln on November 29, 2026: route, stops and times
The itinerary towards Einsiedeln, organized in collaboration with Rail Event and Ticino Rail Club, takes passengers through the historic Gotthard line, between helical tunnels, viaducts and Alpine peaks. The convoy leaves Luino at 08.10, makes the intermediate stop in Bellinzona at 08.54 and reaches the square of the Benedictine monastery of Einsiedeln at 12.07. After a few hours available among artisan products and typical tastings, the return train leaves the Swiss station at 4.49pm, passes through Bellinzona again at 8.05pm and returns to Luino at 8.49pm. A dedicated bar service is guaranteed on board the historic train for the entire journey.
The stage in Rapperswil on 13 December 2026 and ticket costs
The second itinerary will lead travelers to the Rapperswil-Jona Christmas market, winding through the historic Fischmarktplatz, Marktgasse and Hauptplatz. Departure from Luino is scheduled for 07:14, with a stop in Bellinzona at 07:53 and arrival at destination in Rapperswil at 11:44. For the return, the vintage convoy leaves at 4.40pm, stops in Bellinzona at 8.34pm and concludes the journey in Luino at 9.08pm. For each of the two trips the ticket prices include a cost of 65 euros for adults, 35 euros for children aged 6 to 12 and free access for children under 6 years old, including the return journey.
