Europe’s legendary railways are experiencing a renaissance—and Trenitalia is helping lead the charge. This summer, the Italian national railway operator introduces a new jewel in its cross-border travel crown: the Espresso Riviera, a seasonal night train that will connect the eternal charm of Rome with the sun-drenched sophistication of Marseille. Launching on July 4, 2025, and operating until August 30, this train isn’t just a practical travel solution—it’s a romantic throwback to the golden age of overnight rail travel, reimagined for the modern, eco-conscious traveler. Rome to Marseille night train

Designed to make the journey itself part of the adventure, the Espresso Riviera invites passengers to fall asleep in the heart of Italy and awaken to panoramic views of the French Riviera. Winding through a breathtaking route along the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian coastlines and stopping in iconic destinations like Genoa, Sanremo, Nice, Monaco, and Cannes, this service links culture, coastline, and convenience in one seamless experience. More than just a new connection, it’s a luxurious escape from the hurried airport-to-airport shuffle—a slow, scenic, and sustainable alternative that’s redefining how we experience Europe.

Schedule & Route

• Outbound (Rome → Marseille): Departs Rome every Friday evening (~19:57); arrives in Marseille the next day, offering a festive summer getaway.
• Return (Marseille → Rome): Leaves Marseille Saturday afternoon (~14:46); reaches Rome by early Sunday morning.
• Route Highlights: Crosses the scenic Italian Riviera and Côte d’Azur, stopping at Genoa, Savona, Alassio, Imperia, Sanremo, Ventimiglia, Menton, Monaco-Monte Carlo, Nice, Cannes, Saint-Raphaël, and Toulon before reaching Marseille.

Onboard Experience

• Sleeping Options: Choose private cabins for one or two, or shared couchettes (four-berth, can convert to seats by day) for more budget-friendly travel.
• Vintage Flair with Modern Comfort: Restored carriages evoke “the golden age” of rail travel, while electric locomotives now allow stops in Monaco—an upgrade from last year’s diesel-only limitations.
• Daytime Comfort: After Genoa, the train switches to daytime mode with first- and second-class seating, private lounges, and panoramic windows.
• Dining & Amenities: Enjoy regional dishes in the onboard restaurant—dinner and breakfast are included for night travelers, while lunch is offered on the daytime segment. A bar car offers drinks with coastal views.

Ticketing & Pricing

• Sale Opens: May 24, 2025.
• Fares:

  • Full journey Rome ↔ Marseille starts at around €71, making it competitively priced compared to budget flights (e.g. Ryanair approximately €60).

  • Shorter legs (Marseille ↔ Genoa) from €54.90, with couchette and cabin fares increasing based on privacy level.

Partnerships with SNCF

Trenitalia’s expansion would not be possible without cooperation from France’s national rail operator, SNCF. The two companies have strengthened their partnership to coordinate schedules, ticketing, and marketing across borders. This collaboration ensures that passengers experience seamless connections when traveling between the two countries.

Such partnerships are crucial for the success of international rail in Europe. They allow operators to share resources, simplify the passenger experience, and compete more effectively with low-cost airlines. By working together, Trenitalia and SNCF are showing that rail can be both convenient and competitive for cross-border travel.

Competing with Airlines and Supporting Sustainability

One of the biggest advantages of Trenitalia’s new night train—and its high-speed daytime routes—is their role in reducing demand for short-haul flights. Airlines have long dominated Italy-France travel, but they come with high carbon emissions per passenger. Rail offers a significantly greener alternative, especially when powered by renewable energy sources.

European governments are increasingly encouraging travelers to choose trains over planes for medium distances. Night trains in particular reduce the need for hotel stays while traveling, saving both money and environmental impact. By expanding both overnight and high-speed options, Trenitalia is helping Europe meet its climate targets while giving travelers a more sustainable way to explore.

Why It Matters

• Scenic & Sustainable: The journey features spectacular coastal views and provides an eco-friendlier alternative to flights, in line with efforts to curb short-haul air travel.
• Romantic & Nostalgic: Capitalizing on growing demand for “slow travel,” the service revives the romance of overnight train journeys.
• Strategic Expansion: This operation complements Trenitalia’s high-speed daytime tie-ins (e.g. Paris–Milan–Turin), highlighting its sustained push into cross-border European travel.

Rome: The Eternal City

Rome to Marseille night train to Marseille night train, the capital of Italy, is one of the most historically rich and architecturally stunning cities in the world. Known as The Eternal City, it served as the heart of the Roman Empire for centuries, shaping much of Western civilization’s art, law, and culture. Today, visitors are drawn to its astonishing landmarks, from the ancient Colosseum and Roman Forum to the iconic Pantheon and the world’s smallest country, Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. But Rome isn’t just about the past—it thrives with vibrant piazzas, elegant cafés, designer boutiques, and a dynamic food scene that fuses rustic traditions with modern flair. Whether you’re tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain or enjoying aperitivo in Trastevere, Rome is a city that blends living history with modern lifestyle effortlessly.

Marseille: Gateway to the Mediterranean

Marseille, France’s oldest city and its second largest, is a fascinating blend of ancient charm and cosmopolitan energy. Founded by Greek settlers over 2,600 years ago, this bustling port city on the Mediterranean has long served as a crossroads of cultures, evident in its rich heritage and vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. Its historic heart, Le Panier, features narrow alleys, pastel-hued houses, and artisan shops, while the Old Port (Vieux-Port) is lined with seafood restaurants and lively markets. Overlooking the city is the striking basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, offering panoramic views of Marseille’s sun-soaked coastline. Beyond the city, nature lovers can explore the stunning Calanques National Park—limestone cliffs and turquoise coves just a short train ride away. With its mix of history, sea, sunshine, and street life, Marseille is a gateway not only to Provence but to the soul of the Mediterranean.

Sample Itinerary Rome to Marseille night train