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Italian escorted rail holidays

If you're searching for a leisurely yet engaging way to traverse Italy, consider embarking on an Italian escorted rail holiday. Italy is a country bursting with historical landmarks, unparalleled art, and a deep-seated culture that charms every visitor. Traveling by train offers an exceptional perspective on the country's diverse landscapes and architectural wonders.

From Florence, fondly referred to as the 'Jewel of the Renaissance' for its preserved historical treasures and breathtaking architecture, to the Vatican City, a sovereign enclave within Rome, where centuries of religious art and culture are preserved in its sacred edifices, there's an abundance of splendors to uncover.

And, of course, no journey through Italy would be complete without experiencing its world-renowned cultural assets. You can admire the intricate designs of Venetian glass, explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, or enjoy a sunset stroll along the Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic cliffs and azure seas.

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Why not secure your next Italian holiday today and uncover all the wonders that Southern Italy has in store? Whether you're in search of thrilling exploration or serene relaxation, there's something for every traveler in this stunning region. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the ancient city of Paestum to the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the charm of Southern Italy is waiting to be discovered.

Holiday ideas for Italy

Sirmione on Lake Garda
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
4.3 stars(139 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
2024MarAprMayJunJul...
10 days from
£1,895 pp £1,745 pp
View Details
The Italian Riviera
Small Group
4.0 stars(93 reviews)
2023AugSepOct
10 days from
£2,195 pp
View Details
Varenna
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
3.9 stars(56 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
10 days from
£2,095 pp £1,995 pp
View Details
Puglia & Basilicata
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
3.9 stars(66 reviews)
2023SepOct
12 days from
£2,295 pp £2,095 pp
View Details
Rome, Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast
Small Group
3.8 stars(69 reviews)
2023AugSepOct
12 days from
£2,995 pp
View Details
Stresa & Lake Maggiore
Small Group
3.9 stars(36 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
10 days from
£2,295 pp
View Details
The Magic of Sicily
Small Group
4.1 stars(14 reviews)
2023SepOct
8 days from
£1,595 pp
View Details

Where to go and what to see

Top 5 destinations

Amalfi Coast

 

  • Rome
  • Venice
  • Lake Garda
  • Portofino
  • Amalfi Coast

Find out more

Top 5 sights

Alberobello

 

  • Colosseum - Rome
  • Leaning Tower - Pisa
  • Pompeii
  • Trulli - Alberobello
  • Cinque Terre

Find out more

Expert opinions & guides

Destination information & travelling tips

Currency

Euro (€)

Main language

Italian

Capital city

Rome

Timezone

Central European Standard Time (Greenwich Mean Time plus 1 hour).

Travel times

Eight hours by rail to Northern Italy (Turin). Flight times vary between 3-5 hours, depending on whereabouts in the country you fly to/from.

When to travel

Italy is known for its warm weather and Mediterranean climes throughout the year. In summer, head to the Tuscan hills, the shores of the great lakes or the beaches of the Italian Riviera, where fresh breezes help to keep things cool. Spring and autumn are best for visiting the big cities when the crowds are smaller, and the famous art galleries and museums aren't so busy. In winter, the Dolomites and Alps provide a wintry backdrop to some of the country's chicest resorts.

What to pack

What to pack depends largely on where you go and when. If you're travelling at the hottest time of year (June-August), you'll want to make sure you've got plenty of loose, preferably linen, clothes as well as suncream, sunglasses and a hat. If you're visiting places of worship, make sure not to wear shorts (men and women), while ladies will need to ensure they have something that can cover their shoulders. A waterproof in case of inclement weather and a light jacket or two for cooler evenings are also recommended; don't forget your swimsuit if you want to cool off with a swim! If you're travelling in the shoulder months, then layers are a good idea as they leave you prepared for whatever the weather has to throw at you, and a sturdy pair of water-resistant shoes will keep you comfortable on excursion days.

Local customs and cultures

Religion, food and family are some of the most important traditions across Italy. The country is predominantly Catholic and modest dress is required for men and women when you visit any of its places of worship. While eating out, don't expect the high turnover of tables that you see in many restaurants in the UK; meals here are meant to be savoured, with adults and children alike choosing from the same menu. While there are a few exceptions, even in the big cities, most eateries focus on traditional Italian food, so if you feel like you need a carb break, it's worth doing a bit of research about the different cuisines available in the destinations you'll be visiting. This will also help you ensure you try the specialities of each region you travel through. Coffee drinking has some fundamental rules in Italy, with lattes, cappuccinos and any other milky coffee reserved for breakfast time only, espressos, however, are acceptable any time of day, or night! You'll have no problem being understood speaking English pretty much anywhere you go in Italy, but like most countries, they do appreciate a little bit of the local lingo, so be sure to brush up on the basics before you go.

17 results matching: Italy

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Europe 2023

Order your rail holiday brochure today

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Simply Lake Garda
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
4.3 stars(156 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
2024MarAprMayJunJul...
10 days from
£1,595 pp £1,495 pp
View Details
Last-Minute Savings
10 days from
£1,595
£1,495
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Highlights of Tuscany
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
4.1 stars(87 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
2024AprMayJunJulAug...
10 days from
£1,695 pp
View Details
Last-Minute Savings
10 days from
£1,695
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Malcesine, Lake Garda
Rail Discoveries
2023AugSepOct
10 days from
£1,499 pp
View Details
Rail Discoveries
10 days from
£1,499
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Sirmione on Lake Garda
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
4.3 stars(139 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
2024MarAprMayJunJul...
10 days from
£1,895 pp £1,745 pp
View Details
Last-Minute Savings
10 days from
£1,895
£1,745
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
The Italian Riviera
Small Group
4.0 stars(93 reviews)
2023AugSepOct
10 days from
£2,195 pp
View Details
10 days from
£2,195
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Varenna
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
3.9 stars(56 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
10 days from
£2,095 pp £1,995 pp
View Details
Last-Minute Savings
10 days from
£2,095
£1,995
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly, Switzerland
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation

Europe 2023

Order your rail holiday brochure today

Order today
Puglia & Basilicata
Small Group
Last-Minute Savings
3.9 stars(66 reviews)
2023SepOct
12 days from
£2,295 pp £2,095 pp
View Details
Last-Minute Savings
12 days from
£2,295
£2,095
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International / St Pancras International, London Gatwick
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Rome, Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast
Small Group
3.8 stars(69 reviews)
2023AugSepOct
12 days from
£2,995 pp
View Details
12 days from
£2,995
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Stresa & Lake Maggiore
Small Group
3.9 stars(36 reviews)
2023JulAugSepOct
10 days from
£2,295 pp
View Details
10 days from
£2,295
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail, Coach
Map and accommodation
Girolata Bay
Small Group
2023Sep
2024AprMayJunAugSepOct
12 days from
£3,295 pp
View Details
12 days from
£3,295
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationFrance, Italy
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
The Magic of Sicily
Small Group
4.1 stars(14 reviews)
2023SepOct
8 days from
£1,595 pp
View Details
8 days from
£1,595
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsLondon Gatwick
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportFlight, Rail
Map and accommodation
Chianti Hills, Italy
Small Group
2023SepOct
10 days from
£2,795 pp
View Details
10 days from
£2,795
per person
View Details
tour map
  • DestinationItaly
  • Starts / EndsSt Pancras International
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportRail
Map and accommodation
Our customers love our Italy tours
Highlights of Tuscany
7/Jun
Linda
5 stars
“The countryside of Tuscany is beautiful. The rail trips to Pisa, Lucca, and Florence from our base in Montecatini Terme were well organised. Our first hotel in Turin was fabulous, the NH Lingotto Congress, go up to the test track on the roof where the mini cars raced in The Italian Job. Coach visits to Sienna and San Gimignano were great. One of the highlights was the wine tasting at Castello Di Verrazzano. The hotel in Montecatini Terme was OK, but not really 4 star, I'm not sure why this hotel was chosen when there are many others in the town. Our return hotel in Nice was OK for an overnight stop, breakfast in the roof restaurant was amazing. The services of our tour manager was excellent. The guides in Sienna and Pisa were excellent, the one in Florence less so. You need to be fairly fit for this tour, but we can thoroughly recommend it.
Collected by Trustpilot
Sirmione on Lake Garda
7/Jun
customer
5 stars
“Chris and Mike Latham Excellent hotel, excellent tour manager, Mike, excellent food and service in hotel restaurant. In fact an excellent tour all round. It was our second stay at the Hotel Continental and we were not disappointed, everyone at the hotel was helpful and friendly.
Collected by Trustpilot
Simply Lake Garda
6/Jun
J Crisp
5 stars
“lovely holiday fantastic tour manager
Collected by Trustpilot
A Grand Tour of Italy
29/May
K Clark
5 stars
“We had a fantastic time with GRJ and their Grand Tour of Italy. We met wonderful people along the way, and saw fantastic parts of the country. Italy is a very busy place this year, nearly everywhere was full to the rafters! Even when the weather let us down most days, the whole group carried on and we made the most of it. Our tour manager, Georgina, was an absolute star, ensuring every thing was in place and going beyond to make sure nothing got in the way of us enjoying our time. The train journeys were comfortable and scenic. Hotels on the whole were nice, albeit 2 were not really in ideal locations insofar as after a good day of walking, on the nights meals were not provided meant you had a 25 minute walk back into Florence which is a tad too long or a journey on a water bus back into Venice to go eat as everything shut down in Murano of an evening. On the whole we loved it and would strongly recommend it being a great way to make memories. TIP: Pre-book the attractions before you go as tickets are not available on the day and GRJ don't actually inform you of this. It was a phone call from the tour manager 2 days before the trip which left little time really to get your head together to where you wanted to go to.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Italian Riviera
29/May
Mary
5 stars
“A wonderful adventure!! We were looked after all the way by our amazing tour manager. The places we visited had been on my bucket list for some time and didn’t disappoint. Our whole group got on really well together. A wonderful experience. It’s our fourth Great Rail Journey’s holiday. Can’t praise them enough.
Collected by Trustpilot
Rome, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
26/May
Mr Knox
5 stars
“This is a holiday I long wanted to go on seeing Pompeii and Herculaneum. It did not disappoint though the weather was not quite as expected due to some rain and low cloud. Amalfi and it’s history is amazing. The Archaeological Museum in Naples should be a must as well.
Collected by Trustpilot
Top to Toe of Italy
20/May
D Togwell
5 stars
“Absolutely fabulous ! Itinerary Guide Etc Dave & Gail
Collected by Trustpilot
Lakes and Mountains of Switzerland and Italy
24 Sep 2022
Mr Joe Bannister
5 stars
“Friendly group really well organised holiday and great fun
Collected by Trustpilot
Stresa and Lake Maggiore
7/Jun
E Popple
4 stars
“Excellent apart from meals, which were disappointing for a 4 star hotel holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
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