In Casentino in the footsteps of St. Francis: a sunday on the historic train
Discovering the history, art, nature, and flavors of the Casentino
A journey back in time aboard an authentic historic train, featuring iconic "Centoporte" carriages as well as elegant 1st and 2nd class coaches. A unique experience to rediscover the charm of railways of times past, crossing some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Arezzo valleys: La Verna, "Mercatino del Tempo che Fu" (vintage market), Pieve a Sietina, and the Archaeological Museum of Bibbiena.
Railway Line: Arezzo – Subbiano – Bibbiena
The trip offers three itineraries to choose from.
9:30 AM – Departure of the historic train from platform 1 of Arezzo railway Station.
Itinerary 1: Pieve a Sietina & the "Mercatino del Tempo che Fu"
10:00 AM – arrival in Capolona.
Bus transfer for a guided tour of the stunning Pieve a Sietina, one of FAI's "Places of the Heart" and an extraordinary, perfectly preserved example of Romanesque architecture.
Afterwards, transfer to Subbiano to visit the traditional Mercatino del Tempo che Fu (vintage market), set up on the occasion of the historic Festa dell'Uva (grape festival).
Stroll through the historic center with the option to visit the "Quelli della Karin" museum, dedicated to the memory of the passage of the front line during World War II.Lunch on your own (packed lunch) or at a partner restaurant.
In the afternoon, return to Subbiano station and departure aboard the historic train.
Itinerary 2: spirituality & nature at La Verna, in the footsteps of St. Francis
10:30 AM – arrival in Bibbiena.
Bus transfer to Chiusi della Verna.
Walk through the enchanting Bosco delle Fate (fairies' wood) up to the Sanctuary (alternatively, it is possible to reach the complex's parking lot directly by bus).
Visit to the Franciscan sites with the option to take part in religious celebrations. On the occasion of the celebrations dedicated to the Sacred Stigmata of St. Francis, the Sanctuary offers a rich program of events.
Optional short uphill hike to Monte Penna for interested participants.
Lunch: packed lunch or lunch at the restaurant "Il Pellegrino" (by reservation at the time of ticket purchase).
In the afternoon, return to Bibbiena station and departure aboard the historic train.
Itinerary 3: history & archaeology in the heart of Casentino
10:30 AM – arrival in Bibbiena
Bus transfer to the historic town center.
Visit to the Casentino Archaeological Museum, famous for its prestigious collection of votive bronzes from Lake Idoli, part of which is also kept at the British Museum in London.
Lunch at a partner restaurant.
Return
5:00 PM – Departure of the historic train from Bibbiena to Arezzo.
5:30 PM – Departure of the historic train from Subbiano to Arezzo.
Participation fees
Adults
2nd Class €35
1st Class €45
Children (Ages 6–10)
2nd Class €20
1st Class €30
Children under 6: free
Lunch at a partner restaurant: €25
The fee includes travel aboard the historic train and the bus transfers included in the chosen itinerary.
When booking, please select the day's itinerary.
