Historic Trains to Modica: Four Dates Between Baroque and Chocolate
From October 31 to December 8, four historic trains arrive in Modica from Siracusa and Caltanissetta, with vintage carriages and volunteers on board. Dates, routes, and how to purchase tickets.
On Saturday, October 31, a vintage train departs from Siracusa and arrives in Modica. It is the first of four historic runs that have the Baroque city as their terminus: three depart from Siracusa, one from Caltanissetta.
They are part of a broader program, promoted by the Tourism Department of the Sicilian Region in collaboration with Fondazione FS Italiane and FS Treni Turistici Italiani: 12 services across the island between October 11 and December 20. Out of twelve runs, four end in Modica.
The Dates of the Historic Trains to Modica
Saturday, October 31: Siracusa → Modica
Sunday, November 1: Siracusa → Modica
Sunday, November 29: Caltanissetta → Modica
Tuesday, December 8, Immaculate Conception Day: Siracusa → Modica
The three runs from Siracusa travel along the Baroque Railway. The one on November 29 departs from Caltanissetta, inland, and descends towards Modica.
Several publications have dubbed it the “Chocolate Train,” and the destination explains the name: Modica is famous for its cold-processed chocolate, with a grainy texture.
The Baroque Railway from Siracusa
It is a nineteenth-century line that crosses the countryside and dry stone walls of the South-East. Along the route, there are Noto, Rosolini, Ispica, Pozzallo, and Scicli.
Which stops each individual run makes is communicated shortly before departure. In past editions, the train has stopped, among others, in Noto, Ispica, Pozzallo, and Scicli.
Noto, Scicli, and Modica are three Baroque cities in Sicily recognized by UNESCO, and in Siracusa, you depart from a city that has Ortigia nearby.
In the 2023 edition, the journey from Siracusa to Modica lasted just under two hours. For 2026, the relevant times are those visible at the time of purchase.
What the Journey is Like Onboard
The train consists of a historic locomotive and Terrazzini and Centoporte carriages. The Centoporte are named for their many side doors, one for each compartment, while the Terrazzini have open terraces at the ends.
Onboard, there are volunteers from Sicilian associations affiliated with Fondazione FS. They assist travelers and share the history of the rolling stock and the lines being traversed.
Tickets and Information
Tickets can be purchased on trenitalia.com and through all Trenitalia channels: app, station ticket offices, self-service machines, and travel agencies. For schedules, stops, and details of each run, visit the Fondazione FS website (fondazionefs.it). You can also write to trenistorici@fondazionefs.it.
If You Are Staying in Marzamemi or the South-East
Marzamemi is not on this line, so to board the train, you need to reach a station by car. If you are departing from here, calculate the route to the boarding station and check the return schedule before purchasing.
Modica, Noto, Scicli, and Ortigia are four of the nine Gems of the South-East that we showcase on marzamemi.com. If you prefer to stay overnight in Modica, at the bottom of this page you will find the listed accommodations nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many historic trains arrive in Modica in 2026?
Four: on October 31, November 1, and December 8 from Siracusa, and on November 29 from Caltanissetta.
Where can I buy tickets?
On fondazionefs.it and through all Trenitalia sales channels: app, station ticket offices, self-service, and travel agencies.
Does the train stop in Noto and Scicli?
It depends on the service. In past editions, the Baroque Railway has stopped at both. For the 2026 dates, check the stops on the travel sheet.
Who organizes the historic trains in Sicily?
The program is promoted by the Department of Tourism, Sport, and Entertainment of the Sicilian Region in collaboration with Fondazione FS Italiane. The trains are managed by FS Treni Turistici Italiani.
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