Taste Your Way Through Italy on a 13-Day Culinary Rail Adventure
Embark on a 13-day culinary rail tour through Italy, where every stop introduces you to the country’s rich gastronomic traditions. From the iconic dishes of Rome to the artisanal pasta of Bologna and the coastal flavours of Liguria, this journey blends cultural discovery with mouth-watering experiences.
From: London St Pancras / UK Airport
Overview
On this 13-day Italian rail tour, you’ll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of the country through its iconic cuisine. Your food tour across Italy offers 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, this food tour across Italy will give you the opportunity to delve hands-on into traditional cooking methods through a variety of engaging cooking classes and demonstrations.
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
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Rome with breakfast included
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in La Spezia with breakfast included
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Florence with breakfast included
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Bologna with breakfast included
- 2-night’s hotel accommodation in Verona with breakfast included
- 2-night’s hotel accommodation in Milan with breakfast included
Transport
- Flights to and from the UK (or a roundtrip train journey from London St. Pancras)
- Secure reservations for the Eurostar, TGV Lyria and Trenitalia trains
Excursions & Activities
- Rome Trastevere Guided Food & Wine Tour
- Cinque Terre Rail Card
- A Special Day In Tuscany: Full Day Tour
- Taste Bologna Food Walking Tour
- Guided Walking Tour Of Verona In A Small Group
- Gelato and Pizza Making Class In Milan
Day’s Itinerary
Get PricesRome
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 on this food holiday through Italy, 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)
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 experience this evening at your Twilight Trastevere Food Tour. (Overnight in Rome).
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)
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)
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)
Florence
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 food tour in Italy? Simply inquire with Marvellous Escapes about upgrading to a private tour! (Overnight in Florence)
Bologna
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast on this day of your food holiday in Italy, 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)
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)
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)
Verona
Fully immerse yourself in an exploration of Verona today, with a small group walking tour. This Roman amphitheatre built in 30 AD is astonishingly still in use today, for large scale productions. (Overnight in Verona)
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)
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)
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.
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Testimonials & Reviews
Got questions about your rail holiday?
What makes Marvellous Escapes’ rail holidays different?
All our trips are 100% tailor-made. We design your journey around your interests, pace, budget, and preferred travel style.
Can you customise my itinerary?
Absolutely. Nothing is off the shelf. Whether you want a scenic rail journey through the Alps, a cultural city break, or a multi-country adventure, we design your itinerary from scratch.
What happens if my train is delayed or cancelled?
If your train is delayed or cancelled, don’t worry, we’re here to help. You’ll have access to our 24-hour on-trip support, and our team will assist with rebooking your journey, adjusting connections, or arranging alternatives where needed. We’ll make sure you can continue your trip with as little disruption as possible.
Do I need to print my train tickets?
We’ll send you a full printed ticket pack 2–3 weeks before departure, which includes all your train tickets, itinerary and travel documents. You’ll also receive a digital copy of your tickets, so you can choose whichever format you prefer when travelling.
What financial protection do you provide?
We protect every booking with our ATOL licence, the UK Package Travel Regulations, and a secure trust account (Protected Trust Services), ensuring your money and your holiday are safe.
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