by InTrieste
Italy’s beloved “Centoporte” trains—vintage railcars named for their rows of wooden doors—are returning to the tracks this May, offering passengers a chance to travel not just through the countryside of Friuli Venezia Giulia, but through layers of history, botany, and maritime heritage. The month’s three excursions, one of which is part of the official GO! 2025 programming for Nova Gorica and Gorizia’s European Capital of Culture designation, blend scenic journeys with immersive cultural experiences.
The first trip, Trieste e il Mare, departs Sunday, May 11, from Pordenone, making stops in Udine, Gorizia, and Monfalcone before arriving in the storied port city of Trieste. Here, passengers will embark on a guided tour exploring the city’s deep connection to the sea—past and present. The itinerary includes stops at the Museo del Mare, the hydrodynamic power station, and the historic electrical substation, giving travelers a comprehensive look at Trieste’s maritime roots and industrial legacy. The tour is exclusive to train passengers and is coordinated by PromoTurismo FVG, which can be contacted at +39 040 3478312 or +39 335 7429440 for details and bookings.
On Sunday, May 18, the Treno storico delle Orchidee marks the first of the GO! 2025 cultural excursions, coinciding with the vibrant Orchid Festival in Osoppo. The event animates the village and surrounding natural areas with a celebration of the region’s flora. Guided excursions lead visitors through the botanical garden and forested landscapes, culminating in a visit to the Fort of Osoppo—a hilltop stronghold declared a national monument in 1923 and repurposed in 1951 as a venue for cultural events. Activities include horseback and carriage rides, musical performances, show-cooking demonstrations, and parades. For information and reservations, consult the IAT Osoppo tourist office.
The series concludes on Sunday, May 25, with another thematic journey to be announced in detail in the coming days, rounding out a month that invites locals and tourists alike to rediscover the region’s natural beauty and historical wealth—one train car at a time.
From the scent of orchids in bloom to the salt air of an ancient port, May aboard the “Centoporte” offers a rare blend of nostalgia, discovery, and celebration.
