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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 £3,499 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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Acropolis, Athens
Highlights of Ancient Greece
8 days from £1,499 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 £3,299 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

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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68 results matching: Italy, Southern Europe & Mediterranean

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GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4.2 stars(694 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...

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8 days from
£1,299 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(401 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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RosesRosesRosesRosesRoses
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
4.3 stars(707 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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8 days from
£999 pp
per person
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The Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian RivieraThe Italian Riviera
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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10 days from
£2,299 pp
per person
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TropeaTropeaTropeaTropeaTropea
GRJ All Inclusive Calabria: Italy’s Hidden Gem
4.1 stars(134 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
£1,299 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...

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11-12 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
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Riomaggiore Cinque TerreRiomaggiore Cinque TerreRiomaggiore Cinque TerreRiomaggiore Cinque TerreRiomaggiore Cinque Terre
Highlights of the Italian Riviera
4.0 stars(363 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

Explore the enchanting destinations of the Italian Riviera while based in Chiavari on the Ligurian Sea. Cruise to the Cinque Terre villages, clinging to towering cliffsides, and Portofino, a popular village set within a natural harbor. Uncover San Fruttuoso abbey, located on a beach in a peaceful cove, and delve into the history of Genoa,...

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9 days from
£1,399 pp
per person
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Highlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of TuscanyHighlights of Tuscany
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
4.4 stars(272 reviews)
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
£2,299 pp
per person
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Girolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata BayGirolata Bay
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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12 days from
£3,299 pp
per person
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PortoPortoPortoPortoPorto
Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley
3.8 stars(54 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSepOct

Join us on this holiday, carefully crafted to showcase the best of Portugal. Immerse yourself in the rich history, diverse culture and beautiful landscapes of the country, from its cities to its verdant valleys. Discover the country's historic capital, Lisbon, to explore its stunning viewpoints, hilltop castle and magnificent squares. ...

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8 days from
£1,399 pp
per person
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El Port De La Selva TrailEl Port De La Selva TrailEl Port De La Selva TrailEl Port De La Selva TrailEl Port De La Selva Trail
Walk & Tour: Catalonia’s Coast & Culture
2026AprMaySepOct

Embark on an immersive exploration of Catalonia's ancient charm and stunning coasts during scenic hikes and visits to fascinating locations on this walking tour. Based in the picturesque towns of Roses and Calella, enjoy panoramic views while walking from a 10th-century hilltop monastery to an idyllic harbour town. Sail to Cadaqués to...

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8 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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The Magic of SicilyThe Magic of SicilyThe Magic of SicilyThe Magic of SicilyThe Magic of Sicily
Magic of Sicily: Etna, Taormina & Palermo
4.2 stars(58 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSepOct

Fly to and from Catania to uncover the charms of Sicily from bases in cosmopolitan Palermo and the laid-back coastal resort of Giardini Naxos. Discover the historic towns of Monreale and Syracuse, whose architecture showcases the history and cultural influences of Sicily. Explore the Valley of the Temples and Taormina's Greek theatre. ...

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8 days from
£1,899 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Italy, Southern Europe & Mediterranean tours
Catalonia & Little Trains of the Pyrenees
2/Nov
Professor Peter Toyne
5 stars
“From beginning to end everything was excellent - even when there was a problem when our TGV to Paris was held up because of a person having jumped under the train in front of us! Our Tour Manager was outstanding. The hotel accommodation was among the best we've ever had, and...
Collected by Trustpilot
Highlights of the Italian Riviera
2/Nov
Beverley Watts WhatTravel
5 stars
“Delightful way to see this region by rail
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
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
GRJ All Inclusive Puglia: Bari, Matera & Alberobello
4/Nov
Trudy Cook
4 stars
“Excursions certainly showed us Puglia. Tour Manager excellent. However hotel was disappointing.
Collected by Trustpilot
Tuscany: Florence, San Gimignano & Pisa
4/Nov
Graham
4 stars
“You have already received my review, but you may have confused it with the review of Mr White, which came to me last week. While writing, might I point out that myself and my two friends paid £2299 for this trip whereas the brochure of yours that I am looking...
Collected by Trustpilot
Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley
3/Nov
carole
4 stars
“Lisbon hotel great location and excellent breakfast quality and extensive choice. Lisbon guide (Sara) was exceptionally good. Lisbon evening meal out poor (not typical Portuguese and basic). Sintra and Cascais days out very good. Porto hotel great location, lovely hotel, dining room and room. However breakfast offerings were limited and poor quality....
Collected by Trustpilot
Magic of Sicily: Etna, Taormina & Palermo
16/Oct
Renate
4 stars
“Great excursions necessitating long bus journeys. Some time table tweaking required. Overall very good.
Collected by Trustpilot
GRJ All Inclusive Calabria: Italy’s Hidden Gem
14/Oct
J Lambert
4 stars
“Overall well organised tour. Good tour manager and excellent guide. Maybe less visits to churches. Visit to Reggio Calabria uninspiring although Scilla worth a visit. Nice visit to Pizzo.
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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