great rail journeys sardinia

Trenino Verde Train – Sardinia, Italy

• Post author By railwaytraveller123
• Post date 11th July 2020
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Trenino Verde Train, Sardinia, Italy

The Trenino Verde (green train) is one of Sardinia’s hidden gems, and is a must-do for visitors to this paradise Mediterranean island. It’s easily the best way to explore Sardinia’s rugged landscapes and the exciting ports dotted all over the island. Designed especially for travellers, the line has been around for almost 150 years and is now operated by ARST, running five trips all year round. Each journey takes just a couple of hours and trundles past mountainous countryside, glittering coastline and pastel-hued Italian ports . Almost 100 years have passed since DH Lawrence regaled audiences with his tale of riding the train in Sea and Sardinia, and the truth is it really hasn’t changed much at all. 

Prices from: €15 Departing from: Mandas; Arbatax; Sindia; Palau  Journey length: 1 hour, 50 mins – 3 hours, 40 mins 

Trentino Verde route

The Trentino Verde is the longest tourist railway network in Europe, travelling on five different routes across 438 kilometres. The train operates routes all over the country, Mandas–Sadali, Mandas–Laconi, Arbatax–Gairo, Sindia–Bosa and Palau–Tempio. For those visiting the capital of Cagliari a metro runs from the metro station on Piazza Repubblica to Monserrato where you can connect with trains for Mandas. The average journey time is 3 hours, 30 mins, with two shorter journeys at 1 hour, 50mins and 2 hours, 45 mins. Tickets for the Trentino Verde can be purchased at the station or online (the official website is in Italian only). 

Trentino Verde train

The train is adorable, quite literally a little green train trundling along the Sardinian countryside. It hasn’t changed much from when DH Lawrence first rode the train back in 1921 and passengers should expect a rickety old wagon (though it is clean and comfortable). 

Why we love it

Nostalgia, countryside and the chance to explore hidden Sardinia away from the tourist traps. Riding this train is like stepping back in time and will make you feel like DH Lawrence.

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10 of the best railway journeys in Italy

On train rides from Venice to Sicily, best book a window seat on these spectacular Italian trips

The Cinque Terre Express

One of Italy’s loveliest rail routes is the coast-hugging track along the Cinque Terre in Liguria. Called an express, it’s more of a gentle pootle above all five of the Unesco-listed seaside villages in this celebrated national park. Setting off from La Spezia, the route ends in Levanto. You can hop on and off for strolls along the labyrinthine lanes of colourful villages, such as Riomaggiore, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia and Manarola – or stay put and drink in the sight of tiny village-crested bays and inlets, fronted by pristine thumbnail beaches. The Cinque Terre Train Card allows access to all hiking routes and unlimited train travel between the villages. One- to three-day options from €18.20 at cinqueterre.eu.com

The Circumetnea, Sicily

If you don’t fancy hiking Sicily’s most famous volcano, a thrilling alternative is the Ferrovia Circumetnea from Catania that encircles Etna’s base, ending its journey in Riposto. This dramatic journey sees you rattling across lava beds, past fields of prickly pears and little hamlets, then soaking up across Etna’s foothills views of its snow-capped, smoking peak. Constructed in 1898, it’s 110-km long and the whole route takes around three-and-a-half hours. Try to board one of the green or red vintage rolling stock that look like dinky vintage school buses – they were made by Fiat in the 1950s. Tickets cost €7.25 from circumetnea.it

The Bernina Express

Train buffs consider the legendary Unesco-listed Bernina Express route from Italian Tirano to St Moritz to be one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world. The highest railway in Europe, it has spiral viaducts to get up the mountains. At times, the train clings to the mountainside thousands of feet up – and you’re rewarded head-swivelling with views across the Brusio viaduct, then there are waterfalls and glaciers, and up to the ear-popping peaks of the Italian and Swiss Alps. Autumn is pretty when the leaves change colour and begin to fall and winter, when the mountains are snow-draped. The Italian section of the Bernina Express starts from Tirano, which has links with trains from Milan. The four-hour train journey costs from £49. Panoramic carriage seats need to be booked in advance at rhb.ch

Reggio Calabria to Scilla

It only takes 20 minutes, but if you have time to kill before catching the ferry to Sicily, the train ride from Reggio Calabria’s promenade-set Stazione Lido to the seaside town of Scilla is a delight. Leaving the rather ugly port area, you can expect glimpses of neat coves and sandy beaches, then little islets and fishing boats, and, on the approach towards the Strait of Messina, Mount Etna itself. Arriving at Scilla, spend time exploring this charming fishing village set on ochre-green cliffs. Highlights include its sprawling clifftop castle, broad sandy beach and excellent seafood restaurants. Tickets one way from £2.10 through Rail Europe

Trenino Verde, Sardinia

Sardinia’s dinky Trenino Verde (little green trains) trundle along narrow-gauge tracks across some of the island’s most stunning regions – all the way from the coast to the mountains. Don’t expect speed: tThese dedicated routes are famously slow as recounted by DH Lawrence in The Sea and Sardinia . But who needs to be in a rush when you have the chance to discover the wild heart of this extraordinary island? Pulled by a 1956 diesel locomotive, one of the most dazzling routes travels from Arbatax to Villagrande. Across the flats of Tortoli, you climb to mountainous Gennargentu national park. Daylong guided Trenino Verde train journeys including multiple stop-offs at points of interest and delicious food tastings cost from €55pp, sardegnatreninoverde.com

Little Trains of the Dolomites

The elegant vintage Renon narrow-gauge mountain railway is one of the oldest and steepest funicular railways in Europe. It chugs all the way to Collalbo, past undulating meadows and towering jagged mountain ranges. Join an escorted rail holiday and you get expert guidance around the mountainous rail routes. The trip includes a ride on line 700 between Mezzolombardo and Caldes, with spectacular views over Dolomiti castles and a dramatic ascent up one of Europe’s steepest tracks, the Mendola funicular railway. The nine-day Little Trains of the Dolomites tour runs in September and May from £1,499pp, including B&B accommodation and excursions, arenatravel.com

Rome to Siracuse

Travel to Sicily by rail doesn’t sound easy and yet it’s one of the best direct long-haul Italian journeys around. Your train is shunted across the Strait of Messina via ferry while you can go up on deck for a breath of sea air. Kick off from Rome in your air-conditioned carriage for the 11-hour scenic ride to Naples and Salerno, then on to Taormina, Catania and Syracuse. Once in Sicily, coastal and mountain views turn to seascapes as well as glimpses of snow-dusted Mount Etna. Book in advance for super-economy tickets from £66.70 one way, second class at Rail Europe , links with Trenitalia

Venice to Florence

Ditch the car and link two of Italy’s top must-see cities by rail. It takes just over two hours to swap the canals of Venice for Florence’s meandering Arno. Travelling by train ensures a stress-free ride and some of the most gorgeous snapshots of the country along the way. En route you pass the exquisite Renaissance towns of Bologna, Prato and Ravenna, then through the mountains of Emilia-Romagna and alongside the vine-terraced hills of Tuscany. If you’re after a direct route, catch the high-speed Frecciarossa – but a more leisurely journey, admittedly with changes, ensures time to absorb those dreamy panoramas. Tickets from £26.50 one way, booked in advance from Rail Europe

Venice to Rome rail holiday

A small-group rail holiday is a great way to take in Venice, Florence and Rome, staying in hotels along the way and experiencing local culture. Highlights include leisurely walks, museum visits and sipping an Aperol spritz in the quieter canal-side cafés of Venice; then a detour rail trip to Pisa. In Bologna, the focus is on food, with a tasting session of DOP meats, cheeses, wines and tortellini-making in the food markets of the Quadrilatero quarter, and in Florence and Rome, there’s plenty of time to explore the highlights of both these cities. A seven-day Venice to Rome by Railway tour costs from £1,498pp, including return flights, with responsibletravel.com

Rimini to Lecce

Follow Italy’s sparkling Adriatic by regional rail and you’ll be rewarded with dreamy sea views and glimpses of historic towns and small fishing villages. The line from Rimini down to Lecce is an absolute treat – and though it takes about six hours, you’ll shore up some unforgettable images. Swapping Rimini’s glitzy beach clubs for workaday Pesaro, the Frecciabianca stops at Ancona, Pescara and Foggia in Puglia. Occasionally, the track heads inland beneath the hills of Umbria and Tuscany, finally reaching dazzling baroque Lecce. Celebrate with a local pasticciotto and a spritz – almost as delightful as the journey itself. Tickets one way from £55.70, through Rail Europe or Trenitali

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Journey with the Green Trains of Sardinia

In Sardinia there is a train, a green train, capable of introducing you to the inland wonders of the most beautiful island in the Mediterranean.

A unique experience to traverse unexplored places through the island's old railway line.

Several places were traversed due to the presence of different routes in different parts of the island:

Mandas-Arbatax. Mandas-Isili-Sorgono. Bosa-Macomer. Nulvi-Tempio-Palau.

Not just a train ride, but the discovery of a genuine territory, its villages, museums, archaeological sites and food and wine traditions.

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Sardinia’s Trenino Verde

Sardinia’s Trenino Verde will take you to the most picturesque places of the island, experience them through its historic rail routes.

A slow journey, but exceptionally authentic, immersed in breathtaking landscapes.

A historic railway for a journey full of emotions

Sardinia’s Trenino Verde is a unique experience. A slow journey, like those of the past, which allows the traveler to admire the most authentic Sardinia and discover its passages, from the sea to the woods of the hinterland, rediscovering scents and flavors of times gone by.

Your journey starts here

The railway of Sardinia’s Trenino Verde is the historic gateway to Sardinia. For over 130 years it has been connecting the interior of the island to the coast, crossing different landscapes and scenarios, and all of them are spectacular.

On board the Trenino Verde you can live the experience of a journey through time.

Five routes, a thousand emotions

Sardinia’s Trenino Verde winds for 438 km on the territory of Sardinia, offering visitors five different routes. All routes are different from each other and offer a unique travel experience.

They go from the seascapes of Bosa and Arbatax, to the secular forests of Barbagia di Seulo.

One land, one railroad, but a thousand stories to live and tell.

Trenino Verde of Sardinia

Lakes Navigation Company Srl a socio unico Registered office in Via Carducci, 5 – 09038 Serramanna (SU) Partita IVA 02393000928 Registro REA: CA – 192729 PEC: [email protected]

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All rights reserved. Any use, total or partial, of the contents included in this web site, including the memorization, reproduction, reworking, diffusion, or distribution of the contents themselves through any technological platform, paper, support or telematic network, is forbidden without prior written authorization from the Lakes Navigation Company.

Acknowledgements

For the photographic material we thank ARST – “On kind concession by ARST” Mario Dessì – Flickr Gallery Salvatore Di Martino – Flickr Gallery

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© 2022 – Website created by Why Company

Rail Journeys

Rail wonders of sardinia and corsica.

Tour Date: 2 to 11 October 2024 Location: Italy, France

It was easy enough to build a standard gauge railway along the wide north-south valley of Sardinia, but the towns in the hills either side of it, or the ports and fishing villages on the east and west coasts could only be reached by narrow-gauge feeder lines

Think of the Douro Valley in Portugal—though here in Sardinia the narrow-gauge lines are longer and the best sections are still open for tourist trains (and charter hire).

Our tour of Sardinia gives you the chance to travel over every open railway line on the island, both standard and narrow gauge, and includes the two tramway systems.

Corsica, the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean is also called “The island of beauty”; a veritable mountain in the sea and an island of strong character. Just look at the wild and rugged natural environment and the island’s tumultuous history. We start our tour in Pisa and tour the sights before travelling to Corsica and its narrow-gauge lines.

Tour Highlights

• Historic cities
• Great scenery
• Vintage trains
• Good hotels
• Stunning narrow gauge railways
• Plenty of off-train options

Tour Itinerary

Pisa and corsica (pre-tour option), day 1 thursday 26 september 2024 (d).

We leave Gatwick at 14:20 on the Easyjet flight to the Italian city of Pisa. Overnight in Pisa. Welcome dinner.

Day 2 Friday 27 September (B)

Pisa straddles the River Arno just before it empties into the Tyrrhenian Sea. Although known worldwide for its Leaning Tower, the city of over 90,000 residents contains more than 20 other historic churches, several medieval palaces and various bridges across the River Arno. Much of the city’s architecture was financed from its history as one of the Italian maritime republics. We have a guided tour of the main sites in the morning leaving the afternoon free for your own exploration.

Day 3 Saturday 28 September (B)

We travel by charter bus to Livorno where we board a Corsica Ferries ferry for the four hour crossing from Livorno to Bastia. Short transfer to hotel.

Day 4 Sunday 29 September (B)

Bastia is the principal port of the island and the city centre is mainly composed of the “Citadelle”, the stronghold, also called Terra-Nova, the Genoese Governor’s Palace, the old port and its popular quarter and the market plaza. In the morning we have a guided tour. The afternoon is free.

Day 5 Monday 30 September (B)

Today we travel by train to Calvi, so covering the upper branch of the Corsica railway. From Ponte Leccia the train goes up a dry and uninhabited valley but soon we have a view of the sea in the distance and before long we are travelling alongside the sea stopping at seaside villages. In Calvi we have a guided tour of the city, built on a promontory in a beautiful bay. We have time for a lunch break before taking our charter bus back to Bastia through the Balagna which is considered to be the most pleasant region of the island.

Day 6 Tuesday 1 October (B)

Today we travel by service train from Bastia to Ajaccio, the Corsican capital city. The train crosses the island, winding round the mountains, crossing some superb bridges and passing through magnificent forest before reaching the tropical atmosphere of the Gulf of Ajaccio, one of the most beautiful locations in Corsica. Leaving Bastia at 08.55 we arrive in Ajaccio in time for lunch and a free afternoon exploring this pretty town. Overnight in Ajaccio.

Day 7 Wednesday 2 October (B)

We transfer by coach to Bonifacio stopping in Sartene for a short visit. Time to visit Bonifacio old town built on a promontory of white rocks. We board the 15:30 ferry for the one hour crossing of the Bocche di Bonifacio strait to Santa Teresa di Gallura on Sardinia. Coach transfer, of just under an hour, to our hotel near Tempio Pausania to join the main Sardinia group.

Sardinia Itinerary

Day 1 wednesday 2 october, 2024.

We have options of two late afternoon flights from London Gatwick (Easyjet) and London Heathrow (BA) to Olbia Airport. There are also indirect flights from Bristol and Manchester. Transfer by road (50 minutes) in our tour bus to our hotel near the village of Tempio Pausania. An overland option via Eurostar, a night in Turin, and ferry (from Genoa) is also available.

Day 2 Thursday 3 October (B,L,D)

Nearby is a fascinating narrow-gauge railway line that used to run from Palau on the coast to Sassari. Sadly, only a short section of this line is still open and only for special “green train” rides in the summer months. But it is still an interesting ride and scenic ride. Our narrow gauge loco-hauled vintage train over the line from Arzachena to Tempio Pausania. This will be a special train just for our group.

We can also visit the depot at to see the vintage vehicles that are stored here. Lunch by the Nuraghe Majori after which we have a guided tour of this, one of the 10,000 stone towers built on the Island during the bronze age.   At the time of writing (December 2023) we have had news that the full railway line is to be reopened but we do not know how much will be in time for our visit.  Welcome dinner.

Day 3 Friday 4 October (B)

Today we transfer to Sassari. If the railway line (or part of it) has reopened then we will make as much of the journey as we can by rail. If not then our coach will take us by road to the coast at Punta Tramontana. We will break here for some lunch before driving along the coast (for about 25 minutes) to Sorso. Sorso is at the end of a narrow-gauge branch line from Sassari and we will travel by train from here, at 14:00, to Sassari arriving at 14:15.

Enthusiast option: Visit the Sassari workshop (TBC). Only the outside yard is open for visits, here we will see 2 Breda 1930: Wally and Elsa! The names were given to them by the owner of the railways, count Pasquini, he named them after his 2 lovers! Free time to ride the Sassari tram system end-to-end and after time for lunch travel the lines to Porto Torres Marittima. Cultural Option: Our bus and a professional guide will take us to Santissima Trinità di Sarcargia, the most important Romanesque site on the island and dating from 1116. If there is time we will also visit Nuraghe S. Antine. We return to Sassari and have a 2-hour guided city tour.  Evening train to Alghero for the first of our two nights at the excellent Hotel Alma di Alghero.

Day 4 Saturday 5 October (B)

Enthusiasts: Catch the 10:20 train south from Sassari, on the standard gauge line to the junction at Ozieri-Chilivani a 45 minute journey. Returning on the same train to Sassari arriving 11:50. Culture option: Free morning for your own relaxation. Everyone: has free time for lunch and to check out of the hotels before we take the 13:50 train along the branch line to Alghero, a pretty city at the seaside with the rest of the afternoon and evening for your relaxation. A visit to the caves at Grotta di Nettuno is recommended. We stay at Hotel Alma di Alghero.

Day 5 Sunday 6 October (B,L)

Transfer by road southwards along the spectacular coastal road to Bosa Marina, dominated by an imposing medieval castle, where we board another loco-hauled narrow-gauge train to Sindia and then by bus to Macomer, (Dec 2023 – we are told the whole Bosa to Macomer line will reopen in time for our visit) a junction with both the FS standard gauge railway and another FdS narrow gauge line to Nuoro, the largest city in the interior of the island. Our train should consist of diesel loco type LDe in brown livery with a parcels coach and a beautifully restored “bauchiero” coach dating from 1913 made from varnished wood. The journey starts virtually “on the level” along the coast for a while and then twists and turns for a considerable distance to gain height, still giving splendid views of the coast. Lunch will be in a local restaurant in Macomer. Overnight in Macomer.

Day 6 Monday 7 October (B)

Then we board a narrow guage train (at 12:25) to on the pretty branch line to Nuoro. A journey of around and hour and a half. We have two hours in Nouro for exploration and lunch (own cost). Nuoro is called the “Sardinian Athens” by locals because of its continuous, eternal cycle of cultural innovations and constant change. It’s located in the heart of the Sardinian mountains, in the Barbagia area, and will leave you stunned by its beauty and unique atmosphere. After three hours we return to Macomer, arriving 18:20.  Timings based on the 2023 timetable.

Day 7 Tuesday 8 October (B,L)

After breakfast we leave Macomer by coach we head south (for about 50 minutes) to the village of Samugheo – the “capital” of textiles craft, and is also famous for its ancient buildings, beautiful landscapes, carnival and bread-making traditions. We have an hour here for a comfort break before we continue by coach (another 50 minutes) to Mandas. We aim to arrive by 12:00 giving time for lunch before we catch the narrow gauge train at 13:34 south to the city of Caglairi (arriving 15:07) where our overnight accommodation for the next three nights is in the 4 star Hotel Regina Margherita. Cagliari has been the capital city of Sardinia for over 2,000 years; today, it has a still-busy, working port and a large student population, grand boulevards, neo-Gothic palaces and art-nouveau cafés.

Day 8 Wednesday 9 October (B)

We start today with a visit to the small FS (or standard gauge) railway museum. We will also visit the narrow-gauge museum if it has reopened (it has been closed for repairs). We arrive back at Cagliari station in time to join the guided city tour. The Culture group in the morning will visit the archaeological site of Nora, 40 kilometres from Cagliari. Nora is an ancient Roman town located on a peninsula and the ruins function as an open-air museum with mosaics and the remains of the amphitheatre and several buildings. We return to Cagliari for lunch and then a guided tour of the old city with a professional local guide.

Day 9 Monday 10 October (B,L)

Today we ride the FS lines in the area, using service trains Cagliari – Carbonia – Villamassargia – Iglesias – Cagliari. There is not much to see in Carbonia but we will have a break in the Iglesias. Iglesias is the most important town in the region, characterized by its many churches and its traditions linked to the medieval folklore. It’s a lovely place to explore, The vibe is great, and while it has a lot to offer – it’s a great base to explore the southwestern coast of Sardinia – it remains humble and not nearly as touristy as other places on the island. You can spend as long as you like here before taking one of the hourly trains back to Cagliari. For those who want to, there is a mining museum near Carbonia that we can visit.

Day 10 Tuesday 11 October (B)

We take the FS service train from Cagliari to Golfo Aranci, a four-hour ride from the south to the north of the island, then transfer by road from Golfo Aranci to Olbia airport for the evening flights back to Gatwick (direct) or Manchester (via Munich).  For those flying back to Heathrow or Bristol you have a night in Golfo Aranci before your direct flights from Olbia on  Wednesday 12 October . Gatwick and Manchester customers can opt for an extra night here should you wish. Flights to Gatwick are at 10:25 or 17:10 and to Manchester there is a direct flight with Jet2 at 10:35 but is quite expensive.

Prices & Options

Holiday Prices (per person)

• 11-day Sardinia holiday from London Gatwick, Bristol or Manchester: £2,250
• Own travel to and from Sardinia: £1,995
• 7-day Pisa and Corsica holiday from London Gatwick: £1,475
• Own travel to Pisa (or joining from Sardinia): £1,275
• Combined 17-day trip from Gatwick, Bristol or Manchester: £3,475
• Single room Supplement (Sardinia at Main Hotel): £420
• Single room Supplement (Sardinia at Alternative Hotels): £195
• Single room Supplement (Corsica at Main Hotel): £310
• Single room Supplement (Corsica at Alternative Hotels): £120
• Overland from St Pancras: POA
• Travelling by air: £500
• Travelling overland: £1,000
• Own travel: £300

Price includes

• All travel and excursions as outlined in the itinerary
• Good quality en-suite accommodation
• Meals as shown in the itinerary; B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
• Services of our tour manager. Holiday is fully escorted
• 1 October for 2 nights: Hotel Pisa Tower
• 3 October for 4 nights: Hotel Port Toga
• 7 October for 2 nights: Hotel Palau, Palau
• 9 October for 1 night: Hotel Vittorio Emanuele, Sassari
• 10 October for 2 nights: Hotel Alma di Alghero
• 12 October for 2 nights: Hotel La Bitta, Arbatax
• 14 October for 4 nights: Hotel Regina Margherita, Cagliali

Direct flights from Bristol, Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester with Easyjet.

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Using Public Transport In Sardinia

From my experiences using public transport to navigate my way through the island, I can sum the rail and bus network like this:

Travelling by train is very reliable with trains leaving on time and arriving within ten minutes or so of the scheduled arrival time, but the network is limited. The mainline links Cagliari via Oristano to Ozieri-Chilvani, before branching off to Sassari & Porto Torres in the northwest or Olbia in the northeast.

When it comes to travelling by bus and coach, the routes are extensive covering almost every town, but I have found the schedules to be unreliable, some cities are restricted to one or two buses a day, and occasionally there are no buses during the school holidays.

Table of Contents

Travelling By Train In Sardinia

The train network is pretty good; the trains connect most of the larger towns, from where the bus networks link up the rest of the island if you need to travel to another town or village.

Sardinian Train Operators

The trains are operated by two different companies: Trenitalia (Ferrovie Dello Stato Italiane) & ARST (Azienda Regionale Sarda Transporti)

The trains linking Cagliari to nearby Iglesias and Carbonia are frequent, as is the route in the north that connects Sassari and Alghero.

Is Train Travel Expensive?

I have put the prices below, for traveling across the rain network. You may be able to find lower rates by booking further in advance or looking for an offer. The fares can be surprisingly cheap the longest journey possible is from Cagliari to Oblia in the northeast, its a 3 hour 30 minutes journey only costing €18. All train fares are calculated by the distance traveled.

Chance Of Delays?

Traveling by train can sometimes be slow, a there is the chance of delays. Because some parts of the rail network only have one track, meaning that if an opposing train is delayed, it can have knock-on effects on other journeys.

Where Can I Find Train Schedules?

You can head to the Trenitalia website or use a travel app on your phone. The schedules can also be found on boards at every station or at local tourist information shops.

Trenitalia and ARST schedules can be found by searching below using Moovit , which is a great resource for getting train and bus times in Sardinia.

How To Buy Tickets?

Buying Tickets Online

You can purchase your tickets online on the Trenitalia website (you can change the language to English, German or French) You can also buy tickets on popular travelling apps like trainline.com or olio.com (GoEuro.) Buying online will give you the option of purchasing a flexible ticket.

Buying Tickets At The Station

Tickets can also be purchased at stations either in person or at machines. At some smaller stations, tickets can also be bought from a tobacconist.

Validating Paper Tickets

In Italy and Sardinia, if you buy a paper ticket, it’s essential to get it validated. There are small machines located around the station that punch and date your ticket. Usually, they can be found by the side of the doors leading on to the platform.

If you didn’t have time to buy a ticket without missing your train, then you can buy on board with the conductor, but not there will be an extra charge.

Find A Window Seat And Take In The Countryside

I have enjoyed all of my train rides through Sardinia, its nice to sit back and look out at the beautiful landscape, as it goes by. There are also many chances to spot Nuraghi through the window. The trains can get quite full during school runs, in the early morning and late afternoon.

ARST Train Journeys

Trenitalia train journeys, italian phrases that may be helpful.

• Dov’e la stazione dei treni? – Where is the train station?
• Dove si comprano i biglietti? – Where can I buy ticket?
• Un biglietto per (Alghero), per favore? – A ticket for alghero, please?
• Vorrei comprare un biglietto per (Sassari), per favore . – I would like to buy a ticket to (Sassari), please.
• Dov’e il binario (uno)? – Where is platform one?
• Il treno è in ritardo. – The train is late.
• C’è un ritardo di (cinque) minuti. – There is a 5-minute delay.
• Qual è la prossima fermata? – What is the next stop?
• È questo il treno per…? – Is this the train for…?
• Sola andata – Oneway
• Andata e ritorno – Both ways
• Regionale – Local trains

Traveling By Bus In Sardinia

ARST is the public transport company that connects Sardinia towns and villages together. 

Where Can I Find Timetables?

You can see the timetable at the bus stations and usually at bus stops.

Alternatively, an extensive list of bus routes in Sardinia can be found on the ARST website , it allows you to download the timetables as a PDF. It can be a difficult website to navigate. I recommend using the search below if you are looking for bus times in Sardinia.

This search works for regional bus services, urban buses, and airport buses.

Is Traveling By Bus Expensive In Sardinia?

The fares are reasonable, only slightly more expensive than train fares at the same distance. Short trips can be as little as €1.30, whereas journeys the length of the island are just under €20.

Where To Buy Bus Tickets?

You can buy tickets at bus stations prior to travel. In smaller towns, you should be able to buy a ticket from the local tobacconist or bar. In most cases, you should be able to buy a ticket with the drive, but the best practice is to buy them before boarding.

Limited Routes On Sundays

On Sundays and during holidays the bus services are cut back, meaning there could only be one or two services on this day or none at all. It is easy to get stranded in Sardinia when traveling on a Sunday, especially when traveling to smaller towns inland. Make sure that you check the times online before traveling.

Tourist Bus Pass

A tourist bus pass can be purchased by non-resident visitors, from 1st June to the 30th September. This pass will permit access to all ARST services excluding the Green Tourist Train . There are four types of passes, for different durations.

• A 7-day pass is €45
• A 14-day pass is €70
• A 21-day pass is €100
• A 28-day pass is €130

These tickets can be purchased in any ARST ticket office (Cagliari, Sassari, Oristano, Nuoro, Olbia, Lanusei, Guspini, Iglesias).

• Dov’e la fermata di autobus più vicina? – Where’s the nearest bus stop?
• Quale autobus devo prendere per raggiungere l’ aereoporto? – Which bus do I take to get to the airport?
• Quanto frequenti sono gli autobus? – How frequent are the buses?
• Quando c’è l’ultimo autobus? – When is the last bus?
• Ho perso l’ultimo autobus? – Have I missed the last bus?
• Ci sono posti liberi? – Are there any free seats?
• Questo posto è occupato. – This seat is taken.
• Qual è la prossima fermata? – What is the next stop?

Navigating Sardinia: 10 Insider Tips for Using Public Transport

When it comes to exploring the captivating island of Sardinia, public transport can be a reliable and cost-effective way to get around. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, here are 10 valuable insights to help you make the most of Sardinia’s public transportation system.

1. Diverse Options, Seamless Connections:

Sardinia offers a mix of transportation options, including buses, trains, and ferries. The key is to plan your routes in advance to ensure smooth connections between different modes of transport.

2. Buses: The Island’s Lifeline:

Buses are the backbone of Sardinia’s public transport network. They connect cities, towns, and even the most remote villages. Keep an eye on schedules, as they might vary based on the route and the time of year.

3. Trains for Scenic Journeys:

Sardinia’s rail network might not be extensive, but it offers scenic routes that showcase the island’s beauty. Trains are a fantastic way to enjoy the picturesque landscapes while traveling between major cities.

4. Pre-Book Tickets for Peace of Mind:

If you’re planning to explore multiple destinations, consider pre-booking tickets online or at station kiosks. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a seat, especially during peak seasons.

5. Cash vs. Cards: Be Prepared:

While larger towns and cities generally accept credit and debit cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller businesses and rural areas where card payments might not be as common.

6. Respect the Siesta: Afternoon Breaks:

Sardinians value their siesta time, and you might find some shops and transport services closed during the afternoon hours. Plan your travel accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.

7. Language Matters:

While many locals speak Italian, some areas might have their own dialects. Learning a few basic Italian phrases can go a long way in making your interactions smoother.

8. Summer Rush: Plan Ahead:

During the summer months, Sardinia attracts a surge of tourists. Public transport services can get busier, so plan your journeys in advance and consider booking tickets early.

9. Ferries: Island Hopping Adventures:

If you’re looking to explore Sardinia’s enchanting neighboring islands, ferries are your go-to option. From bustling cities to secluded paradises, ferries provide a gateway to diverse experiences.

10. Embrace the Local Pace:

Public transport in Sardinia operates at a relaxed pace, aligning with the island’s laid-back lifestyle. Embrace this leisurely rhythm, and you’ll discover a more authentic side of Sardinia.

As you traverse Sardinia’s charming landscapes and vibrant towns using its public transport system, these tips will help you navigate with ease and make the most of your island adventure. From buses to ferries, each journey offers a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s unique charm.

Jason Matthew Warland

Sardinia is a place beyond time. I visited the island for the first time over five years ago to volunteer on a farm. Now, I am living in the United Kingdom, working in regenerative agriculture, and education. Eevery time I have a holiday it will be in Sardinia. And maybe one day I will be able to combine my passions for agriculture and Sardinia together once again. Thanks for reading the article I hope it was useful to you.

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Very positive experience making a phone booking.

Very easy to make a phone booking. All our questions about luggage were answered and advice about booking hotels and rail journeys before and after our trip was given - we have booked for June 2025 so it is too early to book rail tickets. We were given a rough idea of when our outgoing train might be leaving St.Pancras International and told we would to be there an hour beforehand.

Date of experience : 14 April 2024

Experience in booking train holiday

Excellent service from person at company but disappointed they could not book train tickets from my home town, saying I had to go into London. I live in St Albans, Herts

Date of experience : 17 April 2024

Norway to Rhone

We have already enjoyed holidays with GRJ around the world and we have always been treated well. The booking process is a pleasure as there is always time to share experiences and memories and advice is freely and generously given. On this occasion Lynn was helpful regarding the quality and experiences of this holiday and I enjoyed our conversation. At no time was I coerced into something that I did not require..indeed she actually was able to offer some help/advice on a holiday which we take with GRJ in a few months. We were advised of an extra discount on our 2025 which we had not been aware of and we can now sit back and look forward to this holiday which coincides with the month of our 60th wedding anniversary. Thanks Lynn and GRJ

Date of experience : 16 April 2024

A RELIABLE EXPERIENCED COMPANY

We are only at the organising stage of our holiday but have found your Customer Service to be Very Good and Helpful. We have holidayed with your sister company R.Discoveries and so were confident of good service.

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff who answered all my pre booking queries. Had no hesitation in booking this second holiday with GRJ after our first adventure with them.

Date of experience : 15 April 2024

Very helpful staff member

Very helpful staff member. Our booking was quickly concluded though deposits requested were a bit steep.

Date of experience : 18 April 2024

Just the help with the booking by phone…

Just the help with the booking by phone that I've come to expect. A friendly voice, patient (with the technology and me!), careful and efficient. Name of Adele. And the confirmation email came promptly the same day.

Professional Service

A couple of phone calls was all it needed to have some questions answered and then a very quick and efficient booking process over the phone. Good service by knowledgeable staff.

Happy that we got the last two spaces

Luckily for us Thomas was very patient and was able to update the tour we were enquiring about to say there was only two spaces left, which is exactly what we wanted to hear! He confirmed everything and was able to hold for a couple of days, but we only needed one day to decide to book this adventure. Very helpful Thomas, thank you.

Date of experience : 11 April 2024

Reply from Great Rail Journeys

Dear Mrs. Lane, Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that Thomas was able to assist you in booking your adventure with us. His patience and promptness in updating the tour information were truly commendable. We appreciate your kind words and are thrilled that you found our service helpful. We look forward to welcoming you on this exciting adventure! Kind regards, Kim

I have just booked my third trip with…

I have just booked my third trip with Rail Discoveries/Great Rail Journeys. Excecellent. Knowledgeable, helpful team.

Phone answered promptly

Phone answered promptly, friendly and helpful rep who listened to my questions/requests . Successful booking, now looking forward to the trip. Have used Great Rail a number of times and never had a bad experience! Thank you.

Date of experience : 13 April 2024

Dear Mr. Boland, Thank you for your lovely review. I am so pleased to hear that you have had numerous fabulous trips with us and are still coming back for more. Kind regards, Kim

Website excellent, payment online frustrating

The website is excellent and very easy to use, particularly choosing a date and seeing the price once a holiday was been chosen. However, after completing an easy booking process on-line, I was unable to book using either Amex or Barclaycard and was left with a frustrating 'complete your booking' instruction with no way of doing so. I rang the phone line the following day and competed the booking - luckily most of my details had been saved. If I had been in a different frame of mind, I might well have decided not to bother going ahead with the holiday.

Date of experience : 09 April 2024

Dear Mr Goldring, Thank you for your review. We're delighted to hear that you found our website easy to use. I am truly sorry to hear it was not as smooth as we would have hoped for you to pay using your card of choice, our team is actively working on resolving this issue to ensure a seamless booking experience for all our customers We very much look forward to welcoming you on tour with us. Best wishes, Kate

Initial request for information made…

Initial request for information made via the website. There was a quick and useful response. Subsequently the tour details were published and any follow up questions were answered. Booking was simple and thorough by the efficient staff.

Date of experience : 12 April 2024

Dear Mrs. Pickard, Thank you so much for take the time to leave us such a glowing review. Kind regards, Kim

It's worth a phone call

Very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable adviser. I wanted a tour date that had sold out and a few days later he telephoned to say he had secured a place for me. He had also put a hold on an alternative tour as back up. A happy and satisfied customer.

Date of experience : 06 April 2024

Dear Mrs. Powell, Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience. We're delighted to hear that our advisor's efforts to secure a spot for you on your preferred tour date and provide a backup option exceeded your expectations. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we're thrilled to have made your experience a happy and fulfilling one. Kind regards, Kim

Quick and no hassle

Very short waiting time and knowledgeable person able to deal with all inquiries. Booking was quick and easy with confirmation email arriving within a few minutes.

I have read about complaints on a FB…

I have read about complaints on a FB page. Yes some will complain . This is my first experience with TUI and so far it has been exceptional. Easy to book.. great customer service ..and quick to respond. Of course it might all go pear shaped and l could be writing on FB but at the moment l am fully satisfied and tickled pink with this great service

Dear Mrs. Upton, Thank you so much for your kind words! We are so glad to hear you are happy with the the service you have had so far! Kind regards, Kim

Good website and when I contacted them…

Good website and when I contacted them by phone they answered and dealt with my question efficiently

I booked my holiday on line and it was…

I booked my holiday on line and it was very easy. Lots of information about the trip before booking.

A late booking.

I booked the holiday by phone and the experience was excellent. It was a late booking but Lyndsey took me through the process efficiently. Everything was explained to me and I am confident that all my questions were answered.

Dear Mr. Ham, Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with us. We're delighted to hear that Lyndsey was able to assist you efficiently and provide you with all the necessary information. Kind regards, Kim

Easy to book online

Easy to book online and when wanted an upgrade very helpful and friendly customer service Looking forward to my trip

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Rail Holidays In Corsica

Often referred to as the ‘Isle of Beauty’, there’s no better way to take in Corsica’s splendorous views than via its historic and charming narrow-gauge railway

French culture meets Italian sun on the island of Corsica. With 1,000 miles of coastlines, warm Mediterranean waters and beaches covered with multi-coloured pebbles or fine white sand, Corsica is a paradise to many.

Beyond beaches, a wealth of heritage and culture awaits. Follow the footsteps of Napoleon in the city of Ajaccio, descend the 187 steps of the ‘Escalier du Roi d’Aragon’ (King of Aragon Steps) in Bonifacio, take a history lesson at the 13th-century Bastion de I’Etendard, the list is endless and will definitely keep you well entertained.

To truly experience Corsica, travel on the island’s famous 150-year-old narrow-gauge railway. Known locally as the ‘Trinicellu’ (‘little train’), the railway is not just a convenient form of travel but delivers some of the most stunning sights you’ll see from a train carriage. PTG is proud to offer the ‘Rail Wonders of Sardinia and Corsica’ tour which sees our guests take in the wonderful sights of neighbouring Sardinia before travelling to Corsica and journeying on its memorable railway.

Rail & Cultural Journeys In Corsica

Rail wonders of sardinia and corsica, privacy overview, privacy preference center, privacy preferences.

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I am also looking for customer reviews for Great Rail Journeys, the UK company. Has anyone been on them? What are they like? Good? Bad?

I have not been on a 'Great Rail Journeys ' holiday but as something of a regular European rail traveller I read the small print of their adverts with some interest.

Do they use the Eurostar service ? apparently not

Do they use a specially chartered train ? apparently not

Do they use named 4/5 * hotels ? apparently not

Do they include all meals ? apparently not

Is all porterage of luggage included ? apparently not

My conclusion is that the £1500 aprox' price verges on the extortionate.

Remember the Alpine scenic trains such as the 'Glacia' and the 'Panoramic' are available to all from any ticket office.

I will admit the cost in good hotels could be 1K for 9 days but I would love to do it.

Most of the hotels we stayed in were fine. Luggage was transported where necessary (ie anywhere where there was anything other than a very short walk), the travel was first class, the tour manager was excellent. We met people who'd been with them before the change in ownership, and they said how different things now were. We met no-one who would repeat the experience, although the company told us they had a 50% repeat booking figure.

They appear to have a huge advertising budget (front page adverts in the Telegraph, many in the Mail on Sunday and Sunday Times). It may perhaps be better to spend some of that on the food budget so that people recommend them to others. They will certainly get no free advertising from us.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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