Day 2 - Milan

After breakfast in your hotel, enjoy some free time exploring Milan! Visit the grand Sforza Castle or the Santa Maria delle Grazie, where da Vinci's Last Supper is housed. Don’t miss the chance to see the magnificent Milan Duomo before dinner. Be sure to bring provisions with you as you board the sleeper train heading south. (Overnight onboard your sleeper train InterCity Notte)

Day 3 - Milan to Taormina

After a restful night's sleep in your private cabin, wake up to the stunning Italian coastline, with the train tracks often just feet from the water. The train reaches the end of the Italian mainline and is then ferried across the Straits of Messina, certainly a unique experience!

During the crossing, you can step off the train to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh Mediterranean air before arriving in Messina. From there, continue your rail journey to Taormina. Upon arrival, head to your hotel and check in for a two-night stay. (Overnight in Taormina)

Day 4 - Taormina

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the sights today. Visit the ancient Teatro Antico di Taormina or relax on the beach. Take a stroll to the picturesque Isola Bella for a swim or hop on a boat to visit the stunning Grotta Azzurra. (Overnight in Taormina).

Day 5 - Taormina to Catania

After breakfast at your hotel, board the regional train south to Catania, where you will check in for a two-night stay at your hotel. Explore the city's expansive Piazza del Duomo and consider visiting La Pescheria, a bustling weekday fish market surrounded by excellent seafood restaurants. (Overnight in Catania).

Day 6 - Mount Etna

Situated on the island of Sicily, Mount Etna stands as Europe's highest active volcano. Today, your morning tour from Catania allows you to delve into various facets of this majestic mountain. Experience hiking to its inner craters and safely exploring a lava cave.

Witness ancient lava flows, uncover the geological history of the volcano, and soak in panoramic views of eastern Sicily. This full-day excursion includes guided exploration, offering insights into local geology and history, along with the use of essential equipment like headlamps and helmets for lava cave exploration. (Overnight in Catania)

Day 7 - Catania to Palermo 

Travel by regional train through the stunning Sicilian countryside to the capital city of Palermo. Check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. With a history spanning over 2,700 years, Palermo has played a pivotal role in Mediterranean history and boasts some of the world's finest examples of Byzantine architecture that are exceptionally well-preserved (Overnight in Palermo)

Day 8 - Catania to Palermo 

Today you’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of beautiful Palermo. Embark on a captivating three-hour journey through Baroque and Norman-Arabic architecture.

Discover Piazza Pretoria, renowned as the "Square of Shame," featuring a majestic marble fountain adorned with striking nude statues. Explore the 14th-century Praetorian Palace, housing the Town Hall and open to the public.  

Visit the Royal Palace, now home to the Regional Parliament, and marvel at the stunning golden mosaics of the Palatine Chapel. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Martorana Church, celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful monuments, and the Cathedral of Palermo, showcasing diverse architectural styles. (Overnight in Palermo)

Day 9 - Return Home 

After breakfast, check out of your hotel, and head to the airport for your return flight back to the UK. If you would like to explore more of Italy, speak to your Travel Designer.