After the remarkable success of the previous editions, for the sixth consecutive year Sicily is gearing up to act as the backdrop for a journey into history and culture, thanks to the historic trains of the Fondazione FS Italiane, which will once again be plying the region’s tracks.

Promoted by the Regional Department of Tourism, Sport and Entertainment in cooperation with the Fondazione FS and FS Treni Turistici Italiani, the 2024 edition of this program promises to be even richer and more immersive, with no fewer than 33 thematic journeys along the island’s most fascinating railway lines scheduled from 14 September to 8 December.

The aim is to deseasonalize tourist flows, promoting a deeper knowledge of Sicily with itineraries that take in picturesque villages, archaeological parks, and art centers. The legendary ‘terrazzini’ carriages of the 1930s, which marked an era, have been brought back to Sicily to thrill travelers with a journey back in time.

The addition of a baggage car equipped with racks for transporting 50 bicycles will allow keen cyclists to combine the pleasure of traveling with active exploration of their surroundings. The destinations selected embrace a vast heritage of culture and landscape. Agrigento with its Valley of the Temples, one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, will be the star of a special anniversary celebrating 150 years since the inauguration of the Palermo-Porto Empedocle railway that connects it. The final stretch of this railway, from Agrigento Bassa to Tempio di Vulcano and Porto Empedocle, coincides with the Templi Railway, a tourist line included in the ‘Binari senza tempo’ (Timeless Tracks) project.

Caltagirone, famous for its traditional ceramics, will offer visitors a unique experience. Siracusa and its enchanting historic island of Ortigia will offer a trip back into Greek and Roman history, while Modica will not only delight visitors with its Baroque architecture but also entice them with its annual Chocolate Festival, an event that attracts foodies from all over the world. Collaboration with the Circumetnea Railway will also allow visitors to explore the Sicilian hinterland, reaching places such as Bronte, famous for its pistachios.

Rise of travelers on Sicilian historic trains

Since 2018, historic trains have welcomed more than 20,000 tourists, 7,400 in 2023 alone, demonstrating a growing interest in these cultural and tourist initiatives that combine the charm of rail travel with the discovery of hidden treasures and unique landscapes. The data show a 12% increase in tourist presences in Sicily in September-December 2023, with an even greater rise of 21percent among foreign visitors, emphasizing just how effective these initiatives are in promoting deseasonalization. Tickets for this experience are available from all Trenitalia sales channels or can be purchased directly on board, subject to availability.

The history of the Sicilian railways

After the success of the previous editions of the historic trains in Sicily, the 2024 edition sees the addition of new ideas that, in addition to promoting the beauty of this island, also provide a glimpse of its railway past. Construction of the first railway in Sicily dates back to 1863, with the inauguration of the Palermo-Bagheria line, marking the beginning of a new era for transport on this island. In the late 1940s, another huge revolution came about with the introduction of the first electric lines such as the Palermo-Messina and the Catania-Siracusa. This transformation saw Sicily benefit from faster and more efficient connections, contributing to its economic and social growth. Today, historic trains are bringing these moments back to life, giving passengers a chance to travel the same routes that, decades ago, were the main players in the modernization of the island.

You already know that family vacations are lots of fun, but recent studies show they go even further. Getting away from daily life’s routines and responsibilities affords family members a chance to bond and improve relationships while creating special memories that last a lifetime. Family members return refreshed and more productive at work or school.

Families have traditionally scheduled vacations for summer when schools are closed. However, a fall getaway can be quite enticing and possible thanks to fast and efficient travel. As a plus most schools and colleges give students a few fall days for fall break.

Benefits of Fall Travel

The benefits of fall vacations are obvious. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, and in many locales, the period from September to November is known as the “shoulder season” with more affordable airfares and accommodations. Last but not least, you’ll find places bursting with stunning fall colors. Plan your fall getaway today and let the following ideas guide you.

National Parks

Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited national park. It’s loved for its diversity of flora and fauna, breathtaking mountain views, and the colorful Southern Appalachian culture.

Book a stay at a luxury mountain cabin near the national park and attractions around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN. Take a day for an auto tour of the park to enjoy the views and visit historic buildings. Don’t leave out a visit to Dollywood’s great attractions like the Dollywood Express scenic train ride, musical shows, shops, restaurants, and more.

For families closer to the West Coast, the Grand Canyon is America’s second most visited park. Fall temperatures hover around the 60s at the South Rim near Flagstaff and 70s near the canyon floor. Fall is also the best time to spot elk in the park.

Washington, DC

Festivals are a great way to experience culture, and the nation’s capital has one of the best in the country. The DC Art All Night Festival takes place for two nights in late September with events from 7:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. The festival began in 2011 as a way to showcase local artists and attracted a crowd of more than 30,000 attendees. Over the years the festival grew to include over 20 participating neighborhoods and a crowd of around 180,000.

The events are spread around all of DC’s 8 wards with activities varying each night. They include visual and performing arts from painting, photography, and crafts to dance, literary arts, and theater. Events take place at both indoor and outdoor spaces with a chance to experience each of DC’s wards. Venues include public and private businesses and restaurants.

Before the evening events begin you’ll have a chance to visit the free Smithsonian museums with vast experiences in art, science, and history. Then before leaving DC, sign up for one of the city’s many enlightening tours to learn about the nation’s capital.

Europe

A trip abroad may be a little more difficult for families with children to squeeze in during the fall months. However, you may find that many school systems recognize the educational value of travel and are willing to accept time off traveling as an educational experience.

With that said fall events for families across the pond are plentiful and exciting. Munich, Germany is the most exciting place on the planet to celebrate Oktoberfest. The festivities begin in late September and last through October. It’s the world’s largest folk festival and an opportunity to experience the lively culture of Bavaria.

For another exciting fall event, head to the United Kingdom for the world-famous Bonfire Night also known as Guy Fawkes Night. Guy Fawkes was a prominent member of an English Catholic group involved in 1605’s failed Gunpowder plan to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

Fabulous displays of expensive pyrotechnics can be seen and heard all around the UK, England, and Scotland. As a reference, the UK spent £155m on the event in 2017.