Mocănița Steam Train – Vișeu de Sus, Maramureș, Romania
What Is the Mocănița Steam Train in Vișeu de Sus?
The Mocănița Steam Train in Vișeu de Sus is a historic narrow-gauge forest railway powered by steam locomotives, located in Maramureș County, Romania. Originally built in the 1930s, this railway was used to transport timber from the Vaser Valley. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania and one of the last fully operational steam railways in Europe.
The train offers visitors a picturesque journey through mountains and forests, creating a truly authentic travel experience. Departures take place from the CFF Vișeu de Sus Station, and the tourist route reaches the Paltin area, passing through impressive natural landscapes.
A complete round trip takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
The Mocănița Steam Train in Vișeu de Sus offers a special experience in every season.
In summer, passengers can enjoy lush green forests, fresh mountain air, and clear views of the river. In winter, the journey transforms into a magical ride through snow-covered valleys, frozen streams, and peaceful mountain landscapes, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.
Both seasons offer unique photo opportunities and unforgettable moments in nature.
Mocănița Steam Train Tickets – What Is Included?
Tickets for the steam train can be purchased online through the official website, mocanita-maramures.com, or directly at the ticket office at the CFF Vișeu de Sus Station.
Standard Ticket
136 RON Adult
126 RON Student/Senior
95 RON Child (3–18 years)
Includes: Train ticket only
Special Steam Train Package
198 RON Adult
189 RON Student/Senior
149 RON Child (3–18 years)
Includes: Train ticket, grilled platter, coffee, soft drink, and pastry
Several ticket options are available, including standard travel tickets and special packages that may include additional services such as food and drinks.
Approximate round-trip prices during the tourist season are:
Special holiday packages are also available for Easter and Christmas.
The full experience lasts around six hours.
Important: Please select your departure date and time carefully when booking.
Steam Train Schedule
Trains usually depart in the morning, at 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM.
The operating schedule varies depending on the season:
January, February, March, April: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
May, June, July, August, September, October: Daily
November, December: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
During spring and autumn, trains usually run from Thursday to Sunday, while in summer they operate daily. For exact departure dates and times, visitors are advised to check the official booking website before planning their trip.
Route Length and Itinerary
Total route length: 21.6 km
Route:
CFF Station (Departure)
Fabrica Trei – 5.2 km
Valea Scradei – 6.8 km
Novăț – 12.4 km
Glimboaca – 16 km
Cozia – 18.5 km
Novicior – 20.6 km
Paltin – 21.6 km
Accommodation During Your Stay
Located just 20 kilometers away, the Complex Pescăresc Gura Repezii in Borșa is an excellent accommodation option for visitors exploring the area.
The guesthouse offers spacious and clean rooms, a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxing after a day in nature, and an on-site restaurant where guests can enjoy traditional fish dishes and Romanian cuisine.
Surrounded by rivers and forested landscapes, the complex provides an authentic and tranquil setting. Friendly staff and quality services make it a comfortable choice for families, couples, and groups visiting Maramureș.
The Steam Train in Summer and Winter
In summer, passengers can enjoy lush green forests, fresh mountain air, and clear views of the river. In winter, the journey transforms into a magical ride through snow-covered valleys, frozen streams, and peaceful mountain landscapes, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.
Both seasons offer unique photo opportunities and unforgettable moments in nature.
CFF Vișeu de Sus Station
The starting point of the steam train journey is the CFF Vișeu de Sus Station. This is a special station operated by the Forest Railways (CFF) and is different from the main national railway station in Vișeu de Sus.
Originally built to support forestry activities, the station has become the departure point for steam-powered tourist trains traveling into the Vaser Valley.
Journey Duration
The complete round-trip journey from CFF Vișeu de Sus to Paltin and back lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including scheduled stops and breaks.
The train follows the Vaser Valley, passing through dense forests and wild mountain landscapes. Along the way, passengers can enjoy peaceful scenery, fresh air, and excellent photography opportunities.
This experience is designed as a full-day excursion, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the charm of steam trains, traditional railway heritage, and the natural beauty of Maramureș.
Regulations – The Mocănița Steam Train Vișeu de Sus, Maramureș
During the journey, all passengers are required to follow the official regulations of the Vișeu de Sus Steam Train. These rules define proper passenger conduct and ensure safety throughout the trip.
The information below has been taken from the official website of the steam railway.
The Vișeu de Sus Steam Train is a privately operated forest railway, mainly used for timber transportation. Therefore, it does not function as a standard public passenger railway, and no special claims can be made regarding passenger transport conditions or train schedules.
Please avoid crowding at the ticket office or during boarding and disembarking. Respect other visitors. The allocated time is sufficient for safe and orderly procedures.
Access to the platform is permitted only to passengers holding valid travel tickets. Electronic booking confirmations are used only for collecting physical tickets at the ticket office.
Tickets are checked by the train conductor during boarding.
All instructions given by the train conductor must be strictly followed. If necessary, access to the train may be denied to certain individuals.
Passengers are allowed to travel only in carriages designated for passenger transport. Access to platforms, timber wagons, or freight cars is strictly prohibited.
Do not stand in entrance areas or on carriage steps.
Boarding or leaving the train while it is moving is strictly forbidden.
Remaining in maneuvering areas, timber handling zones, or other forestry work areas is prohibited due to the high risk of accidents.
Opening and closing windows may only be done by train staff.
For your safety, please remain seated during the journey.
Travel on tourist trains takes place at the passenger’s own risk. SC Saorsa Turism SRL and SC RG Holz Company SRL assume no responsibility in case passengers fail to comply with these basic regulations.
Departure times, routes, and stops are subject to operational requirements and may change at any time. Therefore, no guarantees can be provided regarding transport conditions or published schedules.
The journey is made using historic rolling stock, in compliance with safety regulations. The privilege of traveling in vintage carriages compensates for any lack of modern comfort. Passengers are kindly asked to show understanding in case of technical issues or delays.
In exceptional cases, steam locomotives may be replaced with diesel engines or railcars. In such situations, ticket prices remain unchanged, and no claims can be made.
Cancellation Policy – Withdrawal from Contracted Services
Customers may cancel services contracted with SC Saorsa Turism SRL under the following conditions. Cancellations must be made in writing and sent to office@mocanita-maramures.com or by SMS to 0790103010. The cancellation request must include the booking code, name, reservation date, and any other relevant details.
If the cancellation is submitted at least 72 hours before departure, a full refund will be issued within a maximum of 14 days.
If the cancellation is submitted between 24 and 72 hours before departure, 50% of the prepaid amount will be refunded within 14 days.
If the cancellation is submitted on the day of departure, no refund will be granted.
Cancellations made under other conditions will not be considered.
In cases of unfavorable weather, hydrological warnings, legal restrictions (pandemics, etc.), or other situations that make safe operation impossible, trips may be postponed, canceled, or shortened. In such cases, SC Saorsa Turism SRL will proceed as follows:
– Full refund if the trip is canceled (via bank transfer)
– Rescheduling to a mutually agreed date if postponed, with a full refund if the customer declines
– A 25% refund (excluding meals) if the route is shortenedPassengers who are intoxicated, under the influence of substances, or behaving aggressively will not be allowed to use the company’s services in order to protect the experience of other travelers.
Once passengers are assigned seats, they must keep the same seats for the entire round trip.
The Vișeu de Sus Steam Train is an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking an authentic holiday in the heart of Maramureș, combining tradition with breathtaking natural scenery.
For the best travel experience, we recommend booking your tickets in advance and checking the latest schedules and package options on the official booking website.
Final Thoughts
The Mocănița Steam Train in Vișeu de Sus, Maramureș, is an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking an authentic holiday in northern Romania. By combining history, tradition, and breathtaking scenery, it offers one of the most unique railway journeys in Europe.
For the best experience, we recommend booking your tickets in advance and checking the latest schedules and package options on the official website.