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Southern Europe & Mediterranean
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Soak up the culture and cuisine of Southern Europe

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Parador de San Esteban
Paradors of Northern Spain: Burgos to Santiago
9 days from £2,699 pp
  • Stay in three of Spain’s luxurious Parador hotels, set in restored heritage buildings
  • Visit key locations on the ‘Way of St James’ -Burgos, León and Santiago de Compostela
  • Experience northern Spain’s culture and cuisine during food and wine tastings
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Acropolis, Athens
Highlights of Ancient Greece
8 days from £1,599 pp
  • Explore World Heritage sites, from ancient Mycenae and Epidaurus to the Acropolis
  • Savour local wines at a Nemea winery and sample golden Peloponnese olive oil
  • Stay in a 4-Star hotel in the pretty Peloponnese city of Nafplion
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Girolata Bay
First-Class Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia
12 days from £3,599 pp
  • Explore two Mediterranean islands, with First-Class rail travel and elegant hotels
  • Enjoy a 5-Star stay in Alghero, discovering Sardinia's famed beaches and cuisine
  • Embrace island life in Corsica, staying in medieval Calvi and relaxed Propriano
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Southern Europe & Mediterranean Escorted Rail Holidays

Southern Europe offers a rich and vibrant mix of history, culture and natural beauty - all enhanced by the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle and an irresistible climate. Discover the glorious Italian Lakes or the idyllic islands of Ischia, Sardinia and Corsica; uncover Sicily's hidden jewels, or explore Catalonia's rugged coastline and artistic heritage; discover the magnificent cities, unique heritage and enigmatic past of Spain, Portugal and Morocco or gaze in awe at the ancient wonders of Greece.

When touring Southern Europe's inviting destinations with GRJ, you can expect warm hospitality, astonishing archaeological treasures, and many memorable flavours. Whether exploring Spain's historic cities or Italy's picturesque villages; visiting the souks and kasbahs of Morocco or basking on a perfect beach in Sardinia, one thing you are certain to encounter is the Mediterranean appreciation of simple pleasures - from humble meals to fine gastronomy and wine - a cultural pride, and a laissez-faire attitude to life.

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Savour world famous gastronomy

Spain's pintxos, paella and other unique dishes reflect a rich history while Portugal produces different flavours with similar ingredients. Italy's proud gastronomic tradition pays equal attention to both simple and lavish meals. And, in Greece, you can taste the sunshine in fresh produce, while herb-infused dishes evoke Middle Eastern flavours.

Uncover hidden coastal gems

Discover Italy's gorgeous Amalfi coast, visiting picture-perfect Portofino. Explore Spain's rugged Costa Brava and sail around the Cap de Creus peninsula to the fishing village of Cadaqués. Or embark on a cruise into the sparkling Mediterranean, stopping in Valletta enroute to the glorious Greek Islands, including Santorini and Mykonos.

Discover exquisite waterways

Explore Portugal's sun-kissed waterside city of Porto, then sail into the spectacular Douro Valley visiting a traditional wine estate. Soak up the peaceful ambiance of Italy's Lake Garda and cruise to picturesque lakeside towns. Or uncover the culinary delights of Spain's Basque Country on the north coast, from a restored medieval castle.

Enjoy our new tours, led by expert guides

Uncover the Highlights of Ancient Greece on a leisurely exploration of World Heritage sites - from ancient Mycenae and Epidaurus to the amazing Acropolis in Athens - or discover the soul of Spain on our new Paradors of Andalucia tour, staying in prestigious hotels, and exploring five magnificent cities from Granada to Seville.

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70 results matching: Italy, Southern Europe & Mediterranean

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BariBariBariBariBari
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4.2 stars(700 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Arriving by plane, enjoy our scenic base in a hotel overlooking the coast of Monopoli. From here, experience the incredible sights and traditions of Puglia, a place untouched by the hands of time. Rich with UNESCO World Heritage sites, discover the spectacular trulli homes of Alberobello and the sassi cave dwellings in the cliffside town of...

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8 days from
£1,399 pp
per person
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Sirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake Garda
First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
4.4 stars(402 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Staying in a spa hotel in the fortress town of Sirmione, set on a picturesque peninsula overlooking Lake Garda, this captivating holiday includes many unforgettable experiences. Join us to uncover the elegance and treasures of northern Italy. Glide along Venice's turquoise canals on a gondola ride - passing Venetian palazzos, intriguing...

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10 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
RosesRosesRosesRosesRoses
Free pre-night stay
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
4.3 stars(716 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

From the coastal town of Roses, discover the glistening Catalan coast and ride into the Pyrenees, taking in the stunning scenery of France and Spain on this relaxing holiday. Journey through peaceful landscapes on the Núria Valley Rack Railway and ride the Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat in France's Pyrenean foothills. Explore...

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Free pre-night stay
8 days from
£1,099 pp
per person
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The Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian Riviera
Free pre-night stay
First-Class Italian Riviera & Portofino
4.1 stars(249 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the towns and villages of the Italian Riviera which sparkle beside the Mediterranean Sea, as we explore the Cinque Terre and the harbour town of Portofino. Explore the pastel-hued fishing village of Camogli, a hidden gem, and relax in Sestri Levante - a town between two bays. Sail to San Fruttuoso abbey, set in a secluded cove and...

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Free pre-night stay
10 days from
£2,599 pp
per person
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DesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzano
Free pre-night stay
Simply Lake Garda
4.2 stars(337 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

A family-run hotel in the lakeside town of Desenzano is our charming base. With a panoramic terrace providing beautiful views of the lake, the hotel is perfectly positioned near to the characterful Old Town and train station. This holiday includes a cruise to enchanting Isola del Garda to explore the renowned Venetian Villa Borghese-Cavazza and...

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Free pre-night stay
10 days from
£1,799 pp
per person
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Girolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata Bay
Free pre-night stay
First-Class Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia
2026AprMayJunAugSep

Uncover the laid-back island lifestyle on a fantastic tour of this 'forgotten corner of Europe'. Explore the glistening coast of unspoilt Corsica, a paradise of old-world French towns and hilltop villages, connected by charming train journeys through spectacular scenery. Indulge in the delicious cuisine of Sardinia, discover beautiful ...

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Free pre-night stay
12 days from
£3,599 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
PortoPortoPortoPortoPorto
Half-price upgrades
Premium Golden Douro
2026MayJunOct

Combining five-star luxury with superb excursions and stunning views of the golden Douro from our outstanding ship, custom-built to navigate the delightful Douro, this brand-new tour delivers a fascinating insight into Portuguese culture on guided tours, onboard events and port tastings. The MS Estrela offers unparalleled comfort and a smaller...

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8 days from
£3,599 pp
per person
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Puglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & Basilicata
Best of Puglia & Eternal Rome
2026AprMayJunSepOct

Enjoy stays in two scenic bases, both perfectly located for relaxing and uncovering this unspoilt region of Italy. Travel by First Class rail to admire the iconic sites of ancient Rome before exploring the unique dwellings and UNESCO World Heritage sites of Puglia and Basilicata. Marvel at the otherworldly sassi caves of cliffside Matera and...

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11-12 days from
£2,999 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
LisbonLisbonLisbonLisbonLisbon
Half-price upgrades
Lisbon & the Douro Valley Cruise
4.3 stars(36 reviews)
2026MaySep

Fly to Lisbon and explore Sintra's palaces on a Portuguese voyage of discovery before embarking on a seven-night Douro cruise. Drifting through golden valleys and past enchanting towns and wine estates, our cruise reveals the best of this serene river, stopping at wonderful ports enroute. We set sail from Porto, tracing the Douro's path. Visit...

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11 days from
£3,799 pp
per person
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Rome, Sorrento & the Amalfi CoastRome, Sorrento & the Amalfi CoastRome, Sorrento & the Amalfi CoastRome, Sorrento & the Amalfi CoastRome, Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast
Glorious Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast & Eternal Rome
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Uncover the beauty of one of Europe's most enchanting regions, the captivating Amalfi Coast. The journey begins with two nights in the 'Eternal City' of Rome, where ancient landmarks and vibrant culture set the stage. From here, continue to the charming clifftop town of Sorrento, overlooking the glittering bay of Naples, the gateway to Capri and...

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10-11 days from
£3,799 pp
per person
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Taormina SicilyTaormina SicilyTaormina SicilyTaormina SicilyTaormina Sicily
Sicily, Etna & the Aeolian Islands
4.3 stars(83 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSepOct

From a base in the laid-back coastal town of Giardini Naxos, explore enchanting eastern Sicily - a perfect combination of scenic coastline, historic cities and unique culture. Enjoy a guided tour of Taormina and its beautiful Greek theatre overlooking the Ionian Sea and uncover the ancient town of Syracuse, the birthplace of Archimedes.

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8 days from
£1,399 pp
per person
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Andalucian ExplorerAndalucian ExplorerAndalucian ExplorerAndalucian ExplorerAndalucian Explorer
Historic Cities of Spain
4.4 stars(73 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSep

Discover the rich cultural heritage and artistry of Spain. On a journey through iconic cities, we travel from the capital of Madrid, into Moorish Andalucía and Barcelona. We explore Granada's World Heritage Alhambra palaces and gardens, Seville's vibrant landmarks including its historic cathedral, and wander through Córdoba's magnificent Mezquita...

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10-11 days from
£3,299 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Italy, Southern Europe & Mediterranean tours
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
15/Nov
Wendy Rakestrow
5 stars
“The holiday exceeded our expectations and was very enjoyable as something totally different from what we normally do.
Collected by Trustpilot
Simply Lake Garda
8/Nov
mick c
5 stars
“Very enjoyable holiday
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Italian Riviera & Portofino
21/Oct
Terence Jehan
5 stars
“On the whole, this was a good holiday. However, our bedroom & bathroom needed updating. The room was small, not enough hooks or rails or surfaces on which to put our stuff, only one chair. No English stations on TV. Floor not cleaned. Pool freezing - not tempted to use...
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
10/Nov
S Cook
4 stars
“Good fun thanks to a brilliant tour leader (Kate) and friendly crowd. I was travelling alone so a little apprehensive, but I need not have worried. Our group was 38, mostly couples, some single women, average age was probably 65-70. We all got on well, helped by the 'all inclusive'...
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
4/Nov
Jeremy Spindlow
4 stars
“Good value holiday, bad start first tarin Eurostar cancellec in curred £300.00 cost not recovered from GRJ. Dis well to book flights to Geneva for 32 people saving GRJ £1000,s. First night in Chambery very good nice hotel and meal, met travellers, good fin. Off to Milan next day . Excellent hotel In...
Collected by Trustpilot
Sicily, Etna & the Aeolian Islands
27/Oct
Chris Skelton
4 stars
“We loved Sicily but were a bit disappointed with the package Group was too big Hotel was monstrous and the sleeping arrangements too remote from Reception and restaurants WiFi was very poor Buffet food in the evenings was second rate and not very appealing Very limited gluten free choices. GF food should be labelled...
Collected by Trustpilot
Historic Cities of Spain
23/Oct
David
4 stars
“The journey and the whole experience lived up to our expectations. For the most part the hotels were very good and our only issue was with some of the guides who wished to impart as much as possible that it soon became overload. But the architecture and the amazing views...
Collected by Trustpilot
Lisbon & the Douro Valley Cruise
30/Sep
customer
4 stars
“Excellent food, good program of visits, let down by very cramped cabin.
Collected by Trustpilot

The Rail Heritage of Italy, Southern Europe & the Mediterranean

Discover the fantastic railways of Italy, Southern Europe & the Mediterranean. It should come as no surprise that we love railways and we know many of you do too! That's why our tours feature some of the most iconic railways and trains on the continent.

The Yellow Train
Yellow Train
Nuria Valley Rack Railway
Nuria Valley Rack
Bernina Express Italy
Bernina Express
The Circumetnea
Circumetnea
Train des Merveilles
Train des Merveilles
Train des Mouettes
Train des Mouettes
Centovalli Railway
Centovalli
Altaria
Altaria

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Southern Europe?

The best time to visit Southern Europe depends on your preferences. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is ideal for beach lovers but can be hot and busy, while winter is great for festive markets and fewer tourists in cities.

What are the must-visit destinations in Southern Europe?

Southern Europe is home to many stunning locations, including:

  • Italy - Venice, Florence, Amalfi Coast
  • Spain - Barcelona, Madrid, Catalonia
  • Portugal - Lisbon, Porto, Douro River Cruises

What languages are spoken in Southern Europe?

The main languages spoken are Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Greek and French. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated.

What should I pack for my trip?

Pack according to the season. In summer, lightweight clothing, sun cream, and a hat are essential. In cooler months, bring layers and a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as many historic areas have cobbled streets.

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

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