A Flavour of Italy

13-DAYS | JANUARY - DECEMBER | FROM £2,499 PER PERSON

On this 13-day rail adventure, you'll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of Italy through its iconic cuisine. Your destinations offer tastes that are simply irresistible. From classic carbonara to creamy gelato, hearty Bolognese, artisanal pasta, fragrant focaccia, delectable cheeses, and rich, slow-cooked sauces, Italy's culinary heritage is a journey worth embarking on. What's more, you'll have the opportunity to delve hands-on into traditional cooking methods through a variety of engaging cooking classes and demonstrations.

To book or find out more, enquire today!

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Experience the essence of Italian cuisine with hands-on cooking classes featuring pasta, risotto, gelato, and pizza-making sessions.
Embark on a culinary journey through the picturesque coastal villages of Cinque Terre.
Uncover the renowned wine region of Tuscany, indulging in tastings of exquisite local varieties
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local markets and trattorias, enjoying authentic flavours.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

ACCOMMODATION

Two night’s hotel accommodation in Rome with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in La Spezia with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Florence with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Bologna with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Verona with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Milan with breakfast included

TRANSPORT

Secure reservations on TrenItalia and Regional trains.
Flights to and from the UK to Rome (or a roundtrip train journey from London St. Pancras, with 1 night in Milan on the outbound and a night in Geneva on the return.

EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES

VIP Rome Twilight Trastevere Food Tour
Cinque Terre Rail Card
Tuscany day trip from Florence and lunch at a winery
Classic Bologna food tour
Verona small group walking tour with cable car and arena tickets
Pizza making class in Milan

Speak to our expert team today to get prices!

Day 1 - Rome

Upon arrive into the Eternal City, you will settle into your hotel and then begin your exploration of this historic metropolis. Wander through the city streets and discover its iconic attractions and landmarks. With an abundance of sights to behold, the possibilities for creating unforgettable memories are endless. Be sure to indulge in Rome's culinary delights whilst you’re here. In the evening, venture just outside the city centre to dine like a local in one of the charming neighbourhoods.

Treat yourself to the classic and delectable Pasta alla Carbonara, known for its velvety texture. Additionally, enjoy other Roman delicacies such as Carciofi alla Romana (artichokes cooked in olive oil), Suppli (bite-sized snacks filled with mozzarella cheese, coated in risotto, egg, tomato sauce, and breadcrumbs, then deep-fried), or Coda alla Vaccinara (traditional oxtail stew). (Overnight in Rome)

Day 2 - Rome

Explore Rome at your leisure today, walk in the footsteps of gladiators at the famous Colosseum and stroll through the ruins of the Roman Forum. Why not stop for a delicious Italian treat in one of the pretty cafés by the Trevi fountain or order a delicious plate of Cacio e Pepe pasta at a trattoria near the Pantheon? Save some room for your VIP experience this evening at your Twilight Trastevere Food Tour. (Overnight in Rome).

Day 3 - Rome to La Spezia

Head to the train station after breakfast and embark on a picturesque train ride along the stunning Mediterranean coast to La Spezia. Upon arrival and settling into your hotel, it's time to start your exploration! Positioned conveniently close to the enchanting Cinque Terre villages, La Spezia serves as the perfect hub for your two-night stay. Make use of your included Cinque Terre Rail Card to hop on short, scenic train rides between Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monterosso, indulging in the breathtaking landscapes along the way. Later, choose one of the villages to savour a delectable dinner, where the fresh seafood is an absolute must-try! (Overnight in La Spezia)

Day 4 - La Spezia

Spend another day making use of your included Cinque Terre Rail Card, there is so much scenery to enjoy and many charming scenic villages to visit. (Overnight in La Spezia)

Day 5 - La Spezia to Florence

Today you’ll head to Florence! Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and get settled in before stepping out and getting to know the sprawling metropolis. After exploring the famous Uffizi Gallery with your skip-the-line ticket, head over to the Mercato Centrale, which features two floors of vendors selling everything from meat to cheese to coffee. Come dinner, why not try the famous Bistecca alla Fiorentina (the Tuscan steak) with some local wine? (Overnight in Florence)

Day 6 - Tuscany day trip

Embark on a guided day trip to discover the enchanting wonders of Tuscany's most iconic destinations. Visit the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa, immerse yourself in the medieval allure of Siena, wander through the ancient hilltop town of San Gimignano, and soak in the picturesque landscapes of Chianti. During your time in Chianti, indulge in a tour of a charming winery nestled amidst the Tuscan hills, where you'll enjoy a delightful Tuscan lunch paired with exquisite wine tastings. Looking for a more personalised experience? Simply inquire with Marvellous Escapes about upgrading to a private tour! (Overnight in Florence)

Day 7 - Florence to Bologna

Enjoy breakfast this morning then make your own way to the train station for your 40-minute journey to Bologna. After checking into your hotel stroll along the ancient arcades that line the main streets and visit the Axinellid and Griselda towers, two of the most visited landmarks in the city. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, go see the canals. Not many people know about them, but Bologna has canals that resemble the ones found in Venice! One of the best is the Canaled Dell Moline, which you’ll find near Via Paella. (Overnight in Bologna)

Day 8 - Bologna

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, and many people claim that it is also Italy’s gastronomic capital. It’s nickname? La Grassa or “the fat one.” Join your local food walking tour where you will taste your way through this incredible city. Learning all the history along the way with your expert guide, trying Italy’s best meats, cheeses, and of course, the Bolognese that the city is famous for. Afterwards, why not visit age-old markets where you can buy freshly made pasta and handmade mozzarella? (Overnight in Bologna)

Day 9 - Bologna to Verona

After breakfast, it's time for a short train ride over to Verona, arriving in just under an hour. There’s a reason why travellers call Verona Italy’s most underrated gem. Check out Casa di Giulietta at 23 Via Cappello, the supposed home of Shakespeare’s Juliet. Right around the corner, you’ll find Piazza delle Erbe, one of Italy’s most picturesque squares. The top of Torre dei Lamberti offers incredible views of the entire city and surrounding landscape. (Overnight in Verona)

Day 10 - Verona

Fully immerse yourself in an exploration of Verona today, with a small group walking tour, which also includes cable car and arena tickets. This Roman amphitheatre built in 30 AD is astonishingly still in use today, for large scale productions. (Overnight in Verona)

Day 11 - Verona to Milan

Your last destination in Italy is Milan, only a quick train ride from Verona. Enjoy a day leisurely exploring the Duomo, the Galleria, or any of the other popular sights in Italy’s fashion capital. (Overnight in Milan)

Day 12 - Milan

On your second day in Milan you’ll enjoy your final culinary immersion, with a pizza making class! Finally enjoy the evening sights of this great city before heading home tomorrow. (Overnight in Milan)

Day 13 - Return Home

Following breakfast, check-out of your hotel, and begin your onward travel plans from Milan. If you would like to extend your time in Italy, spend some additional days in another city, or region, the Marvellous Escapes team are on hand to assist you.