In the autumn months, a special little train connects Italy and Switzerland shuttling between Domodossola (in region Piedmont) and the city of Locarno (Canton Ticino). This is the “Vigezzina Centovalli” scenic railway , also known as the “foliage train” or the “Red Leaves Railway”. While the route covered by this small train is spectacular in every season—running through Alpine mountains and valleys of rare beauty—it takes on a special magic in autumn thanks to the vibrant autumn colors. We recommend experiencing it during this period (between October and November); you might fall in love with it and perhaps even return in the summer!
How do you plan your trip on “Vigezzina Train”?
Milan’s Linate (LIN) and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) airports serve as the main hubs for both departure stations—the Italian and the Swiss ones. These airports are very close to both Domodossola (just over 100 km away) and Locarno (between 80 and 90 km away).
From the airports, you can book a comfortable chauffeur-driven transfer on our website. The professional drivers taking you to your destination can also share insights about the places and help you plan any further trip. Once you arrive at your chosen station, all that’s left to do is board the train and have your camera or smartphone ready to take countless photos along the way.
History of the Red Leaf Railway
This railway line, conceived by engineer Giacomo Sutter in 1913, has had a turbulent history. It took ten years to secure the necessary operating permits, and the project was subsequently stalled by wars and the ensuing reconstruction efforts. In 1968, the line was shut down due to track gauge issues and replaced by a bus service. In the 1980s—following a devastating flood—it was finally restored and put back into operation. Since then, it has been used first for commercial purposes and, more recently, for tourism.
It covers a distance of 52 km, 32 of which lie within Italian territory; it runs on a 1,000 mm gauge track, is electrically powered, and reaches a top speed of 60 km/h. The terrain is mountainous, but thanks to bridges, the gradient the train must tackle is not excessive (6%), even though it becomes quite steep in certain sections. Tickets for the railway can be booked online via the official website or purchased directly at the departure and intermediate stations.
An interesting fact about the name: «Vigezzina» comes from Vigezzo Valley —an integral part of the Val d’Ossola area where Domodossola is located—while «Centovalli» (100 valleys) refers to the many valleys the train traverses, particularly in Swiss territory, before reaching Locarno.
The route…
A journey aboard the Vigezzina Centovalli is far more than just a train ride: it is a scenic route through Alpine landscapes, charming villages, and valleys rich in history. In autumn, with the colors of the foliage in full splendor, the train passes through spectacular scenery featuring hues ranging from vibrant red to gold and orange!
Before departing from Domodossola station, it is worth visiting the city’s historic core —particularly the charming Piazza Mercato, surrounded by medieval and Renaissance buildings such as the elegant Town Hall, noble palaces, and ancient churches. Once aboard the train, you can admire the scenery of the Vigezzo Valley as you pass through forests, streams, and small mountain villages. One of the most interesting stops is Santa Maria Maggiore, renowned for its traditional houses, beautiful medieval churches, towers, museums, and alpine atmosphere. The surrounding area offers stunning valley views and, depending on the season, opportunities for outdoor activities. Another recommendation is to visit the village of Re, famous for its sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which is easily recognizable by its large dome.
After crossing the Swiss border, the spectacular «Centovalli» region begins, characterized by deep gorges, waterfalls, bridges, and lush, green slopes. A nice stop on this part of the route may be the village of Intragna—with its main church’s imposing 67-meter bell tower, the 18th-century church of San Gottardo, the Roman Bridge, and the Centovalli Museum—as well as numerous surrounding villages that preserve traditional Ticinese architecture.
The journey ends in Locarno, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Here, you can visit the lively Piazza Grande – the historic central square and the quarter around, the lakefront promenade, the Visconti Castle, and numerous 17th-century churches (such as Sant’Antonio Abate, San Francesco, Santa Maria Assunta, and San Rocco). Alternatively, you can continue on to Ascona, famous for its elegant lakeside village. The charm of the Vigezzina Centovalli railway line lies in the variety of the route: in just a few hours, you travel from the mountains of Piedmont to the landscapes of the Canton of Ticino, experiencing a constantly changing mix of nature, culture, and scenery. Taking this excursion in autumn adds an extra touch of beauty and enchantment to a journey that is always exciting.
Arriving at the lake
The «Red Leaves Railway» route ends at Lake Maggiore, one of the major pre-Alpine lakes situated between Italy and Switzerland. It is Italy’s second-largest lake by surface area—after Lake Garda—and a key tourist attraction in the region. Its landscape is defined by mountains, hills, woodlands, and small towns overlooking the water.
The northern section of the lake—the Swiss part in the Canton Ticino—is particularly prized for its scenic beauty and for tourist destinations such as Locarno, Ascona, and Brissago. While Locarno is a gem in its own, Ascona is certainly worth a visit too, with its historic center full of ancient buildings, squares, cafes, as well as stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. You should also take a boat trip to the Brissago Islands, a small archipelago of two islets; the larger one is home to a significant botanical garden featuring plants from all over the world.
The Swiss side of Lake Maggiore offers a wealth of tourism and leisure opportunities. The relatively mild climate also fosters unique vegetation, including palms, camellias, and other species typical of warmer regions. Visitors can go hiking, cycling, and enjoy water sports, or simply stroll along the shores and explore the region’s charming towns. You can reach high view points so to admire the lake in all its glory or simply explore the wooded surroundings and catch glimpses of the water through the trees. Relaxation is guaranteed here; and what better way to follow up the train journey than with a lovely walk or a nice dinner with a view of the lake?
