What is the Strait of Messina train-ferry crossing?

The Strait of Messina train-ferry crossing is a unique daily ritual in Italy where passenger trains are transported across the sea between the mainland and the island of Sicily.

How much will the proposed suspension bridge over the Strait of Messina cost?

The proposed suspension bridge over the Strait of Messina is estimated to cost €13.5bn, making it one of the world's most ambitious engineering projects.

What impact could the proposed Strait of Messina bridge have on southern Italy?

Critics warn that the proposed €13.5bn Strait of Messina bridge could drain resources from southern Italy's more urgent infrastructure needs, while supporters see it as progress.

Home / Lifestyle / Italy's Iconic Train-Ferry Crossing Threatened by Proposed €13.5bn Bridge

Italy's Iconic Train-Ferry Crossing Threatened by Proposed €13.5bn Bridge

25 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Unique train-ferry crossing in Italy's Strait of Messina
Proposed €13.5bn suspension bridge could end this centuries-old ritual
Crossing connects two shores and two worlds, carrying students, workers, and tourists

Italy's Iconic Train-Ferry Crossing Threatened by Proposed €13.5bn Bridge

As of October 25th, 2025, Italy's sleeper train from Milan to Sicily still ends with a rare rail-ferry crossing across the Strait of Messina. This centuries-old ritual, governed by strong tidal currents, is now under threat from a proposed €13.5bn suspension bridge.

Every morning, passengers aboard the Intercity Notte train watch as their carriages are split, shunted onto the ferry's tracks, and carried across the strait to the city of Messina before being reassembled for the final journey to Palermo or Syracuse. This "small engineering choreography" connects two shores and two worlds, transporting students, workers, families, and tourists who choose the slow pace of the night train.