Italian Wonders

12-DAYS | JANUARY - DECEMBER | FROM £2,599 PER PERSON

Embark on an unforgettable Italian adventure on our 12-day Italian rail holiday. Beginning your journey in London, you'll journey through the stunning landscapes of Europe via Paris and Geneva before arriving in the enchanting city of Venice, where you'll spend two nights exploring its romantic canals and historic landmarks.

From there, venture to Desenzano for two nights of lakeside tranquillity on the shores of Lake Garda, followed by two nights in the artistic haven of Florence, where you'll immerse yourself in Renaissance art and culture.

Continue your journey, to spend two nights in the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome, delving into its ancient history and vibrant atmosphere, before finishing your rail adventure with two nights in the picturesque coastal town of Sorrento, where you'll soak up the sun and enjoy the flavours of southern Italy.

To book or find out more, enquire today!

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Embark on a stunning journey through the beautiful landscapes of Europe
Enjoy the vibrant ambiance of Desenzano, situated on the southern edge of the shimmering Lake Garda
Explore the artistic haven of Florence
Discover Rome’s fascinating ancient history
Soak up the sun in the picturesque coastal town of Sorrento

WHAT'S INCLUDED

ACCOMMODATION

One night hotel accommodation in Geneva with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Venice with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Desenzano with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Florence with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Rome with breakfast included
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Sorrento with breakfast included

TRANSPORT

Secure reservations for the Eurostar, TGV Lyria (SNCF) & TrenItalia/Trenord trains
Return flight to the UK (or a roundtrip train journey from London St. Pancras, with extra night in Turin/Milan an onward rail via Paris)

EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES

Venice walking tour and gondola ride
Uffizi Gallery Entrance Ticket with Priority Access
Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum Guided Tour Skip the Line
Sorrento Farm and Food Experience including Olive Oil, Limoncello, Wine tasting

Speak to our expert team today to get prices!

Day 1 - London to Geneva (via Paris)

Embark on your journey from London's St Pancras station, with a Eurostar voyage from London to Paris. Transition seamlessly onto a high-speed train, whisking through the picturesque landscapes of France en route to Switzerland in just over three hours. Throughout the journey, you’ll be captivated by the scenic beauty of lakes and mountains unfolding outside your window.

Upon reaching the French-speaking city of Geneva, make your way to your hotel for an overnight stay. In the evening, enjoy a delectable meal at a local lakeside restaurant, or opt for a serene boat trip on the lake. Revel in the cosmopolitan ambiance of the city against the stunning backdrop of the Alps and the Jura mountains, an unforgettable setting. (Overnight in Geneva)

Day 2 - Geneva to Venice

Following breakfast, embark on your journey from Geneva in the morning, journeying over one of Europe's most picturesque routes, the Simplon Pass, on your way to Venice. Unwind as the train meanders along the shores of Lake Leman and through Swiss vineyards, treating you to breathtaking views of the Alps in the distance. Continue your journey southward upon crossing the Italian border, eventually reaching the enchanting city of Venice. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. (Overnight in Venice)

Day 3 - Venice

After breakfast at your hotel enjoy a guided walking tour, where you'll immerse yourself in tales of the city's intricate streets and charming campos (squares). Later, you’ll enjoy a gondola ride along the iconic Grand Canal. In the afternoon, consider observing the lively ambiance of the city as you enjoy a glass of local wine in one of the city’s numerous bars. (Overnight in Venice).

Day 4 - Venice to Lake Garda

After breakfast, you’ll board a train bound for Desenzano del Garda. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel for a luxurious two-night stay. Indulge in the tranquil ambiance as you spend the afternoon soaking in the shoreside elegance of Lake Garda.

Why not savour some delectable Italian cuisine with a delectable lunch at a traditional trattoria nestled by the charming harbour. (Overnight in Desenzano).

Day 5 - Desenzano (Lake Garda)

Spend another day touring the Lake Garda area. Discover nearby Sirmione, a charming medieval town nestled on a peninsula jutting into Lake Garda, boasting stunning views, historic landmarks, and thermal baths. Explore Roman ruins or ferry-hop between the charming villages that line the shore. Wine lovers should consider touring vineyards that feature in many sommeliers' top 10s: Valpolicella, Soave and Bardolino. Perhaps journey further south, to romantic Verona and enjoy a world-class opera. (Overnight in Desenzano).

Day 6 - Lake Garda to Florence

Today you’ll travel by train from Lake Garda to the cultural hub of Florence, passing through charming towns and lush vineyards. As you approach Florence, the scenery transforms into iconic Tuscan countryside, dotted with cypress trees and rustic farmhouses. Arriving in Florence, you'll be greeted by the city's timeless charm, where Renaissance masterpieces await around every corner, check-in to your hotel for a two-night stay. (Overnight in Florence)

Day 7 - Florence

Today, you’ll spend the full day exploring Florence and its historical sights. Enjoy priority access, courtesy of Marvellous Escapes, to the highly sought-after Uffizi Gallery, allowing you to skip the queues and appreciate masterpieces by Botticelli, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Michelangelo. In the afternoon, walk around the city and marvel at the magnificent Duomo Cathedral, and be sure to indulge in some exceptional Italian cuisine before bidding farewell to the "Renaissance city." (Overnight in Florence).

Day 8 - Florence to Rome

Today, you’ll check out from your hotel and embark on a train journey from Florence to Rome, where you’ll enjoy a two-night stay. Admire the historic walls of the Colosseum, soak in the breathtaking vistas from the rooftop terrace of the Capitoline Museums, and don't miss a visit to the renowned Spanish Steps. Conclude your day with a shopping excursion at Piazza di Spagna. (Overnight in Rome)

Day 9 - Rome

Full day exploring Rome and its wonders, discover the Colosseum & Palatine Hill plus enjoy a guided ‘skip the line’ tour of the Roman Forum. (Overnight in Rome)

Day 10 - Sorrento

After breakfast, head to the train station and hop aboard a direct train bound for Naples. In Naples, your private transfer will be waiting for you outside the station, ready to escort you to the picturesque town of Sorrento. Marvel at the stunning coastal vistas as you travel, and upon arrival check into your hotel for a two-night stay.. (Overnight in Sorrento)

Day 11 - Sorrento

Today you’ll have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the flavours of Italy, with an unforgettable ‘Farm and Food Experience’. Visit a local olive oil farm, where you'll learn about the art of olive oil production and taste the finest extra virgin olive oils. Next, indulge your senses with a tasting of Limoncello, a traditional Italian liqueur made from Sorrento's famous lemons. You’ll then journey to a local winery for a wine tasting session, where you'll get to enjoy the exquisite flavours of regional wines paired with delicious local snacks. After a day of culinary exploration, retreat to back to Sorrento for another overnight stay. (Overnight in Sorrento).

Day 12 - Return Home

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport with a private driver for your flight back to the UK. If you would like to extend your stay in Italy, speak to one of our specialists who can arrange this for you.