Comparison of two selected railway lines
The file provided on this page compares two low-traffic railway lines that have been successfully reactivated through a sustainable tourism model. As you know, this project drives the transition toward a sustainable technical and tourism model for railways, while also targeting the decarbonization of transport. Here, we will focus on two proven success stories, but first:
The Decline of Rural Railways and the Tourism Solution
Europe has lost about 14,000 km of conventional railway over the last two decades due to depopulation and funding cuts. However, these rural lines remain vital for social equity and territorial connection. The European Tour&Rail project proposes sustainable tourism as a catalyst to boost passenger numbers and save these valuable public assets from total abandonment.
Infrastructure and Territorial Value
For railway tourism to succeed, the tracks must be usable and the surrounding region must offer appealing cultural or natural heritage. A project case study of Spain’s low-traffic network evaluated over 4,300 km of track, revealing that 77% of these lines are still well-maintained and ready for tourism development.
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Community Engagement and Governance
Technical feasibility isn’t enough if local communities don’t embrace the project. By engaging Local Action Groups (LAGs) through workshops and surveys, the initiative gauges local interest and ensures residents take ownership of the socio-economic benefits. The project will ultimately deliver a compendium of successful case studies and a governance handbook to guide future rural railway revitalisation.
This study compares two successful railway tourism revitalization projects: the Ermesinde–Pocinho line in Portugal and the Lucca–Aulla line in Italy. By evaluating socio-economic impacts, governance models, and community perceptions, the report aims to uncover the key factors behind their success to help revive other low-traffic railways and boost rural economies across Europe.
You can view and download the file in English and French via the links below!
