Have you ever imagined boarding a train and traveling from the city of Itu to Salto like someone from the 19th century? With the Republican Train, you can! The sightseeing tour takes you along the old railway line on a journey through time that combines nature appreciation with the history of Brazil.
Launched in December 2020, the train operated by Serra Verde Express has a strong focus on experiential tourism. The name “Trem Republicano” is a reference to the 1973 Itu Convention. The gathering was Brazil’s first Republican convention and became an important milestone for the movement in the country.
Before becoming a tourist attraction, the line contributed to economic growth by transporting goods and was also responsible for passenger transport. However, with the major advances in road transport in the 20th century, it fell into disuse over time.
Finally, the tourist route we know today took nearly 15 years to be conceived and inaugurated, as a strategy to revitalize the line and revive the local economy.
What to expect from the Trem Republicano tour?
The train travels about 8 kilometers along the railway line, with a trip lasting approximately 60 minutes, depending on the type of operation.
Currently, the tour is operated by the diesel locomotive of the Antiga Companhia Mogiana and features three types of cars: the conventional car, the accessible tourist car, and the boutique car, which allows pets on board.
With onboard service and the train’s ambiance, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time. There is also a tour guide on board, narrating the entire history of the railroad, the Convention that gives the train its name, and the Proclamation of the Republic. In addition, they’ll share interesting facts about Itu and Salto.
Interested? Make plans to go!
The Republican Train offers regular trips from Friday through Sunday and on holidays. In addition, once a month it offers packages for those departing from São Paulo’s capital, directly from the Barra Funda Terminal.
They generally include road transportation, a city tour, and the train ride. As for meals, there’s no need to worry! Lunch is also included; meals are usually served at the Stazione Salto Restaurant, which is attached to the train station.
Check out the prices for the Trem Republicano tour package:
- Infants: R$ 34
- Adults: R$ 349.00
- Children ages 6–12: R$ 286.00
- Children between 3 and 5 years old: R$ 85.00 (No seat on the train)
