Explore Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia on Europe’s new rail route for just 8 Euros

Historic European train route, built 150 years ago, has reopened, connecting Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia. The train service covers three countries and eight towns and cities in just two hours.

The scenic line, offering a picturesque journey with eight stops, has been revived after being closed for over 30 years.

It has been revived for the summer months, running until September 30, 2024. Tickets start at just €8, making it an affordable rail adventure this summer.

Train timings

The service, operated by Slovenian Railways, begins at Villa Opicina train station in Trieste, Italy, at 7.50 am.

The journey includes stops in Slovenia at Sežana, Divača, Pivka, and Ilirska Bistrica, before crossing into Croatia with stops at Šapjane, Opatija Matulji, and finally Rijeka. The entire trip takes about two hours and runs in both directions.

The train reaches Ilirska Bistrica by 8.54 am, and arrives in Rijeka at 9.54 am. In the opposite direction, the train leaves Rijeka at 6.25 pm and arrives back at Villa Opicina at 8.40 pm. This schedule allows for convenient day trips and longer stays along the route.

This newly reintroduced route was previously a five-hour journey before its closure over three decades ago.

The new rail route follows a railway line first built over 150 years ago under the Austro-Hungarian empire.

Where to buy tickets?

The Slovenian Railways recommends buying tickets in advance at train stations with an international ticket office. Passengers travelling by this train from Villa Opicina or Ilirska Bistrica can buy tickets on board (cash only) at no extra charge.

Ticket price

A single train ticket from Villa Opicina to Rijeka costs €8.00. Children aged 6 to 12 travel at a 50% discount. Children under 6 travel free of charge.

Train stops

The train’s journey from Trieste, a city known for its waterside palaces and Art Nouveau cafes.

In Slovenia, Ilirska Bistrica is a notable stop for cycling enthusiasts, with e-bikes available for hire to explore the area’s forested tracks and snow-capped peaks.

In Croatia, the train stops at Opatija Matulji, where passengers can enjoy a stay at the nearby Opatija resort, known for its rococo villas and grand hotels overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

The final destination, Rijeka, is a port city famous for its Habsburg-era palaces and a 19th-century theater adorned by Gustav Klimt.

The service’s affordability and scenic views make it an attractive weekend escape for travelers. Travelers can hop on and off at various stops to explore different areas.

Operators hope to make the route permanent beyond the current schedule, which runs until the end of September 2024. The train service began on April 24, 2024.

Train timings from Vila Opicina to Rijeka

Route: Vila Opicina – Ilirska Bistrica – Opatija Matulji (HR) – Rijeka (HR)

Train timings from Rijeka to Vila Opicina

Route: Rijeka (HR) – Opatija Matulji (HR) – Ilirska Bistrica – Pivka – Vila Opicina (I)