Genoa–Acqui Terme Rail Line to Close for Nearly a Month
Rail passengers between Genoa and Acqui Terme face nearly four weeks without direct train services as major works close the line from 18 August to 13 September. Rete Ferroviaria Italiana says the shutdown will affect the Genoa–Ovada–Acqui Terme corridor while crews carry out safety, maintenance and upgrade work. Trenitalia has confirmed that replacement buses will run throughout the closure period.
What Changes From 18 August
- Route: Genoa–Ovada–Acqui Terme
- Closure: 18 August–13 September 2026
- Train services: Suspended between Genoa and Acqui Terme
- Alternative: Replacement buses will operate
- Tickets and journey planning: Trenitalia sales channels have been updated
- Reason: Major maintenance, safety and infrastructure works
The closure covers work between Acqui Terme, Prasco and Ovada, as well as the Ovada–Genova Borzoli section. A major part of the project is a new artificial tunnel near Mele, designed to protect the railway in an area affected by landslides. Crews will also work on tunnels, track, bridges, electrical equipment and signalling during the shutdown.
The disruption matters most for trips between Liguria and southern Piedmont, including Genoa, Ovada and the spa town of Acqui Terme. Journeys that normally use the direct rail line will instead rely on buses for part or all of the route, so more time may be needed. Trenitalia says its booking and sales systems already reflect the temporary arrangements.
Anyone travelling on this route in late August or early September should check the exact journey before leaving rather than rely on the usual timetable. Replacement buses can also be affected by road traffic, making tight onward connections harder to manage. The closure is scheduled to end after 13 September, so trips during the works will need more time built into the day.