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

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Rome, Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast
Glorious Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast & Eternal Rome
10-11 days from £3,599 pp £3,299 pp
  • Enjoy 4-Star hotel accommodation in stunning Sorrento and historic Rome
  • Soak up the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi coast from a relaxing boat cruise
  • Walk among two archaeological world wonders, Pompeii and Herculaneum
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Highlights of the Basque Country
8 days from £1,349 pp £1,249 pp
  • Explore the Basque country from the traditional seaside town of Hondarribia
  • Travel on Le Petit Train de la Rhune, enjoying panoramic views of the Pyrenees
  • Discover San Sebastián's celebrated cuisine, and Bilbao's iconic art and culture
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ClassicClassic
Girolata Bay
First-Class Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia
12 days from £3,599 pp £3,299 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

Those seeking a quieter holiday will find peace and solitude beside the waters of the Italian lakes or on the idyllic islands of Ischia and Sicily. Spain, Portugal and Morocco offer an exotic blend of cultures and flavours while in Greece we unearth the infancy of civilisation itself.

Aside from being the birthplace of Western civilisation and hosting a horde of magnificent cities, the countries around the Mediterranean possess an increasingly rare quality; respite. Even in the bustling cities there is an other worldly sense that no one really takes things seriously. Taxi drivers honk their horns at the traffic but they're not doing it out of spite, they just know it's what they're supposed to do and not doing so would be silly. As you travel towards the coast this semi-serious way of life fades away entirely. So long as there is food in your belly and good company nearby nothing in the world can disturb the Mediterranean summer.

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World famous gastronomy

Northern Spain is celebrated for its culinary cities, including San Sebastián, Bilbao and Hondaribbia. Besides an abundance of fresh seafood, the Basque region's most renowned speciality is its delicious pintxos, a regional version of tapas. Join in the tradition of a lunchtime 'txikiteo' and indulge in lunch at a Rioja wine estate.

Hidden coastal gems

Discover the glistening Catalan coast, where the mediterranean sea beckons with its clear, inviting waters. Explore the historic fishing town of Roses, exuding laid-back charm with a promenade stretching along two miles of sandy beaches, and cruise to the pretty village of Cadaqués, a coastal village that has inspired many artists.

Discover the Douro

From Portugal's cinematic capital of Lisbon, explore the fairytale palaces of Sintra and visit the golden beaches of Cascais. Uncover the colourful harbour city of Porto on a guided tour, taking in its tiled façades and riverside charm, before travelling by rail into the picturesque Douro Valley for a tour and tasting of port wine at a traditional estate.

Introducing our new tours

Cruise the sparkling waters of the mediterranean on a tour through Malta and the Greek Islands, uncover the timeless wonders of Ancient Greece on a leisurely exploration of World Heritage sites, and discover the soul of Spain on a Paradors of Andalucia tour, staying in historic hotels and exploring five magnificent cities from Granada to Seville.

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64 results matching: Italy, Southern Europe & Mediterranean

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ClassicClassic
Sirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake GardaSirmione on Lake Garda
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First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
4.4 stars(376 reviews)
2025Oct
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
£2,499 pp £2,299 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
BariBariBariBariBari
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GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4.2 stars(601 reviews)
2025Oct
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...

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8 days from
£1,399 pp £1,299 pp
per person
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The Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian Riviera
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First-Class Italian Riviera & Portofino
4.1 stars(242 reviews)
2025Oct
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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10 days from
£2,699 pp £2,499 pp
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Highlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of Tuscany
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Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
4.3 stars(247 reviews)
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Savour the glorious colours, aromas and flavours of Tuscany on a holiday highlighting the true beauty of this beloved region. Discover the great Renaissance city of Florence, visit the historic Il Borgo Machiavelli for a tour and dinner, and marvel at the iconic monuments of Pisa, including the Leaning Tower. Explore the stunning sights of...

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10 days from
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RosesRosesRosesRosesRoses
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Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
4.3 stars(658 reviews)
2025Oct
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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8 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
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Puglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & BasilicataPuglia & Basilicata
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Best of Puglia: Lecce, Alberobello & Matera
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunSepOct

Travelling out by rail and flying home, this extraordinary holiday blends history, fascinating culture and opportunities to relax beside the coast. The tour features iconic sites as well as exploring less-visited locations in Puglia and Basilicata in Italy's southern heel. On sightseeing excursions, uncover unique architecture, including...

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11-12 days from
£1,999 pp
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Girolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata Bay
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First-Class Wonders of Corsica & Sardinia
2026AprMayJunSep

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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12 days from
£3,599 pp £3,299 pp
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TropeaTropeaTropeaTropeaTropea
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GRJ All Inclusive Calabria: Italy’s Hidden Gem
4.1 stars(108 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSepOct

Fly to and from the unspoilt toe of Italy to uncover the hidden beauty of Calabria from an all-inclusive hotel in coastal Tropea - regarded as one of Italy's most beautiful villages. Cruise to the volcanic island of Stromboli, the 'lighthouse of the Tyrrhenian Sea', to witness its colourful eruptions by night. Discover the timeless towns of...

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8 days from
£1,349 pp £1,249 pp
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Isola dei Pescatori, Lake MaggioreIsola dei Pescatori, Lake MaggioreIsola dei Pescatori, Lake MaggioreIsola dei Pescatori, Lake MaggioreIsola dei Pescatori, Lake Maggiore
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Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta & the Alps
4.0 stars(134 reviews)
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Explore the serene beauty of Italy's lakes from a base in the attractive town of Stresa, a haven for artists and writers over the centuries nestled on the shore of Lake Maggiore. Enjoy a cruise to an island monastery on Lake Orta and explore the lakeside village of Orta San Giulio. Journey through the Alps to Switzerland on the Centovalli...

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8 days from
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Roses, Cadaques & The Catalan CoastRoses, Cadaques & The Catalan CoastRoses, Cadaques & The Catalan CoastRoses, Cadaques & The Catalan CoastRoses, Cadaques & The Catalan Coast
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Roses, Cadaqués & the Catalan Coast
4.4 stars(140 reviews)
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct

Based in the attractive coastal town of Roses, explore the rugged Costa Brava and experience the region's cultural and gastronomic highlights. Cruise around the picturesque Cap de Creus peninsula to the fishing village of Cadaqués, savouring local flavours with lunch at a vineyard. Explore Barcelona, which showcases the fantastic...

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9 days from
£2,199 pp £1,999 pp
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DesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzanoDesenzano
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Simply Lake Garda
4.2 stars(319 reviews)
2025Oct
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...

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10 days from
£1,999 pp £1,799 pp
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FlorenceFlorenceFlorenceFlorenceFlorence
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Simply Tuscany
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Enjoy a holiday that captures the essence of Tuscany, travelling to and from the Tuscan spa town of Montecatini Terme by rail. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an ideal base for exploring this scenic and cultural region. From the grand Renaissance art and architecture of Florence to the fantastic shell-shaped Piazza del Campo and medieval...

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Save up to £300pp
9 days from
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Our customers love our Italy, Southern Europe & Mediterranean tours
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
11/Sep
Kitty Kennard
5 stars
“A wonderful experience of several locations in Tuscany
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
15/Jul
TW Davies
5 stars
“Wonderful holiday. The itinerary achieves a balanced mix of activities / visits by rail and coach to different locations within and outside the Puglia region, with sufficient time given to each, with personal downtime to relax. Brenda Stephenson our Tour Manager made the experience better through her insightful knowledge of...
Collected by Trustpilot
Roses, Cadaqués & the Catalan Coast
11/Jul
S Davidson
5 stars
“Well organised but not too overpowering
Collected by Trustpilot
Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta & the Alps
10/Jul
Mr Grey
5 stars
“Perfect weather, and a perfect hotel location facing the lake with its garden theme promenade.
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Calabria: Italy’s Hidden Gem
1/Jul
The MK Maestro
5 stars
“A good paced holiday of some rightfully described 'hidden gems' of southern Italy.
Collected by Trustpilot
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
9/Sep
E Wyatt
4 stars
“Great holiday, lovely hotel, food is buffet style, lots of choice but occasionally only warm, but considering reasonable cost of holiday not a problem, nice tour manager. Great driver on all tours and lots of lovely visits to beautiful places. Second little train journey in Alps was not as exciting as...
Collected by Trustpilot
Simply Lake Garda
6/Sep
Catherine Beckett
4 stars
“Enjoyed the trip very much. Our guide, Andy was very good. Disappointed in the hotel. It was too far from the centre and lacked character.
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Italian Riviera & Portofino
6/Sep
Kenneth Jackson
4 stars
“A lovely part of the world and well worth visiting but the lengthy train journeys out and back were somewhat tiring and took a long time with the changes required in Paris on Eurostar
Collected by Trustpilot
First-Class Lake Garda: Sirmione, Venice & Verona
29/Jul
val horsfall
4 stars
“I felt the journey to and from Sirmione seemed to take a long time even with the overnight stays The actual experience in Sirmione with Venice and Verona was interesting
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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