Asmara Railway Station



  • The Asmara Railway Station is a historic transportation hub that dates back to 1911, when the Italians constructed a railway line connecting Asmara to the Red Sea port of Massawa. The station itself is a beautiful colonial-era building, featuring classic Italian design elements, arched windows, and vintage signage that evoke the golden age of railway travel.
  • Once a crucial part of Eritrea’s transportation network, the railway line was partially abandoned for decades due to wars and economic difficulties. However, restoration efforts have revived portions of the railway, allowing vintage steam locomotives to once again run between Asmara and Massawa, providing a nostalgic and scenic journey through the Eritrean highlands.
  • One of the most fascinating aspects of the Asmara Railway is its engineering marvels, including hairpin turns, stone bridges, and long tunnels that cut through the rugged mountains. The railway is considered one of the most challenging and beautiful rail routes in the world, offering passengers breathtaking views of terraced hillsides, deep valleys, and desert landscapes.
  • Even if you don’t take a train ride, visiting the Asmara Railway Station is a rewarding experience. The station houses old locomotives, railway memorabilia, and photographs of the railway’s construction, giving visitors a sense of its historical significance. For railway enthusiasts, photographers, and history lovers, this station is a must-see landmark in Asmara.