Museo Nazionale Ferroviario di Pietrarsa

Where the history of Italian railways began

There is no better way to get to the National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa than by train. You can choose a regional train or a historic carriage for an immediate immersion in the atmosphere of the museum, located along the Naples-Salerno line. The historic Pietrarsa Express train departs from the centre of Naples and travels directly to your destination.

This is where the history of Italian railways began. The first Italian railway line was inaugurated on 3 October 1839, connecting Naples and Portici. The following year, the Royal Mechanical, Pyrotechnic and Locomotive Factory was founded under Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies.

Today, this station houses one of Europe’s most fascinating railway museums, overlooking the Gulf of Naples with views of Vesuvius. The exhibition covers 36,000 square metres, part of which features a botanical garden with plants from all around the world.

The museum’s collection boasts a rolling stock of 55 historic vehicles, exhibited in the halls of the Officine Borboniche. The tour begins in the 19th century, among locomotives, carriages, production machinery and models. You can also embark on an augmented reality journey on Italy’s first steam locomotive, the legendary Bayard.