
The new Espresso Riviera night train will connect Rome and Marseille this summer, offering a scenic and relaxing alternative to flying.Credit : Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock
A new night train will run between Marseille and Rome this summer and it’s seriously scenic
If you’ve ever dreamt of falling asleep in Italy and waking up on the French Riviera — this summer, you actually can. A brand-new night train, the Espresso Riviera, is set to launch, and it’s probably the most romantic way to cross the Mediterranean coast.
New night train from Rome to Marseille: route, stops and what to expect
The train will run just during the summer months, with a departure every Friday night from Rome and a return trip every Saturday night from Marseille. By morning, you’ll be sipping your coffee in a new country — no airport queues, no cramped budget flights, just the gentle rhythm of the train and the coastline rolling by in the dark.
This isn’t just a city-to-city journey either. The Espresso Riviera winds its way along the Mediterranean, stopping in beautiful places like Nice, Menton, Toulon, San Remo and Genoa. Whether you’re into seaside strolls, local food or vintage postcards, it’s the kind of route that makes the journey feel like part of the holiday.
On board, you’ll have options, from private sleepers for one or two people, to shared four-person couchettes. There’ll also be a bar carriage and a restaurant serving regional dishes, so you can have a proper dinner before curling up for the night.
Night train from Rome to Marseille: ticket prices and booking info
A ticket from Marseille to Rome will start at just €44.90, which makes this not just one of the most charming ways to travel, but also one of the most affordable. Booking isn’t open yet, but you can keep an eye on the Treni Turistici Italiani website for updates.
And if you’d rather travel by day, there’ll be a daytime option from Genoa too, with private lounges in first class, comfy second-class seats, and those same stunning sea views all the way across the Riviera.
The comeback of night trains in Europe: why travellers are choosing sleepover journeys
The Espresso Riviera isn’t launching in a vacuum — Europe’s falling back in love with night trains, and for good reason. They’re quieter, greener, and a lot more romantic than anything that involves airport security and tiny baggage allowances.
From the Paris–Alps sleeper due next winter to this new Marseille–Rome route, it’s clear: slow travel is back. And with tickets this cheap and views this good, it might just be time to swap your boarding pass for a pillow.
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