In a big step for Southern Italy’s tourism and transport, Italian Rail Network (RFI) has handed out a €1.6 billion civil works contract for the Paola – Cosenza part of the high-speed rail line from Salerno to Reggio Calabria. The contract, given to a Webuild-led group, will build a 22.2-kilometre stretch of track that will benefit tourists and daily commuters when it’s done.

The new high-speed rail line will cut journey times between major cities in Southern Italy, especially in Calabria and Campania. Tourists will enjoy the quicker and smoother trains when moving among popular spots like Cosenza, Reggio Calabria, and Salerno, and they will also reach Naples and other Southern Italian tourist centres more easily.