From the classical cities of Rome, Venice and Florence to rolling vineyards, hilltop villages and dramatic coastlines, each sight is more enchanting than the next in Italy. With more than 50 years of expertise in crafting memorable journeys, we've expertly crafted journeys to uncover Italy from Top to Toe, combining scenic rail journeys with carefully chosen experiences and destinations.
Immerse yourself in centuries of history in Rome, admire the changing landscapes as you travel through the Tuscan countryside and explore the colorful villages of the Cinque Terre by rail. Further north, discover the picturesque Italian Lakes, while in the south, experience the sun-soaked landscapes of Puglia and the timeless towns and ancient heritage of Sicily.
Travel alongside a professional Tour Manager and expert local guides on an escorted journey, or discover Italy at your own pace on a thoughtfully designed independent vacation. Our itineraries bring together the experiences that make Italy so unforgettable - delicious regional cuisine, remarkable art and architecture, spectacular scenery and, whenever the route allows, the pleasure of seeing this captivating country unfold from the window of a train.
Experience the best of Italy with a dedicated Tour Manager in 2027
Many of our most popular Italy departures and accommodations sell out first – book your preferred dates today.
(75 reviews)
(173 reviews)
From high-speed journeys between Italy's great cities to scenic railways that reveal spectacular landscapes, rail travel offers a wonderful way to experience Italy. Travel through the rolling hills of Tuscany, journey along the shores of the Italian Lakes or take the Circumetnea Train around the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily.
Throughout your vacation, a knowledgeable Tour Manager is on hand to take care of all of the details and help you get the most from your time in Italy. Tour Manager Gilly Albrow has a particular affection for Italy, saying "Every region has its own character, making it a wonderful country to explore again and again."
Some journeys become destinations in their own right. Experience
the timeless glamour of the Venice
Simplon-Orient-Express, traveling through spectacular
landscapes in the style of a bygone era, or step aboard the La Dolce
Vita Orient Express for a luxurious journey inspired by the
golden age of Italian travel.
(73 reviews)From the alpine foothills to Sicily and all that lies between, uncover Italy's rich culture on an expertly crafted itinerary. See the highlights of Italy while traveling the country's length, delving into remarkable destinations, including Venice, Florence and Rome. Bask in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and marvel at the remains of ancient...
Travel through centuries of history on this journey of cultural epicenters and romantic views. Staying in four bases, Venice, Montecatini Terme, Rome and Sorrento, uncover Italian wonders from coast to coast with the convenience of well-connected railways. Begin in the "Floating City," discovering its canals before moving onto Tuscany to...
From Europe's exciting cityscapes to the stunning heights of the Swiss Alps and the idyllic Tuscan countryside, this 13-day exploration opens the doors to Europe's rich history, culture and traditions. Uncover iconic landmarks in London, sail along the romantic Seine in Paris and marvel at Switzerland's stunning Alps during a lake cruise and...
Traveling by First Class rail, discover landmark-lined rivers, alpine peaks and iconic cities while delving into the heart of Europe, relishing its best features from varied perspectives. Begin under the Eiffel Tower in Paris, cruising the Seine and touring its sites before venturing into the Swiss Alps, staying in the medieval city of Lucerne. ...
Experience the diverse culture of southern Italy and the sun-drenched island of Sicily on this captivating vacation, immersing yourself in history, landscapes and local cuisine. Each stop reveals layers of local character - from the unique trulli of Alberobello and the cave dwellings of Matera to Sicily's awe-inspiring Greek temples, ornate...
(202 reviews)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 Bay of Naples, the gateway to Capri and the...
Experience the breathtaking wonders of two countries on one trip during this spectacular exploration of Switzerland and northern Italy. Discover sparkling Lake Lucerne from a lakefront hotel, including a trip to the summit of Mount Rigi on Europe's first mountain railway. Traveling through alpine scenery on the iconic Gotthard Panorama ...
(75 reviews)Join us on a tour of six of Italy's great historic cities, travelling by First Class rail throughout. Encounter a wealth of artistic and cultural treasures, with guided tours of ancient Rome and the world's Renaissance capital, Florence. On day trips to the walled Tuscan city of Lucca, Pisa's iconic tower and gleaming Duomo, the beautiful town of...
This superb Mediterranean adventure features five dazzling cities - Barcelona, Carcassonne, Nîmes, Nice and Genoa - and the idyllic French and Italian Rivieras. From Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and its unique culture, discover the medieval citadel of Carcassonne, and savor a private lunch with wine tasting at a French Château. Explore...
Explore iconic cities, delectable cuisine and remarkable scenery on this northern Italy vacation from three exceptional bases: Montecatini, Parma and Como. Travel through Tuscany to Florence and San Gimignano, where we witness centuries of art and architecture and learn about pizza and wine at a 300-year-old estate. Continuing to Emilia-Romagna,...
Become immersed in the history, art and cuisine of Italy on this expertly curated tour. Beginning in its ancient capital, marvel at centuries-old Roman remains including the Colosseum, and view Michelangelo's masterpieces at the Sistine Chapel and the Accademia gallery in Florence. Traveling to the Tuscan spa town of Montecatini Terme,...
Landmark
Embark on an opulent European vacation like no other, savoring world-class service, unparalleled luxury and one-of-a-kind moments - a once-in-a-lifetime journey exclusive to us. Board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Venice for an unforgettable tour of Europe. Indulge in fine-dining and hand-crafted cocktails as this glamorous train...
From local trains weaving between the villages of the Cinque Terre to the captivating Circumetnea railway circling Mount Etna, Italy's railways offer many memorable ways to see the country. Travel further afield aboard the Bernina Express or experience the timeless luxury of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and La Dolce Vits Orient Express, where the journey begins long before the train leaves the station.
Italy's flavours are as diverse as its landscapes, with every region bringing its own ingredients and traditions. Dine among the vineyards of San Gimignano on our Treasures of Tuscany tour, try your hand at making authentic pizza on the Amalfi Coast or sample local flavours at a bustling Sicilian food market during our Highlights of Southern Italy and Sicily vacation.
From the waterways of Venice to the ancient streets of Rome, Italy's cities are filled with history, art and unforgettable character. Explore both on Iconic Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome, discover Rome alongside the rolling landscapes of Tuscany and the Cinque Terre, or journey from Venice to Sicily on our Top to Toe of Italy tour.
Discover Italy's enchanting coastal towns, where colorful buildings cling to dramatic cliffs and sparkling waters stretch towards the horizon. Explore these spectacular shores on our Glorious Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast & Eternal Rome tour, or combine the Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast with Tuscany and Venice on First Class Italy: Featuring Tuscany & Venice.
Spring brings blooming landscapes and quieter piazzas, while summer bathes the Amalfi Coast in golden light and brings Italy's coastlines to life. Autumn is a feast for the senses, with harvest season and Tuscany's landscapes ablaze with color. In winter, discover a quieter side of Italy, from festive markets to peaceful historic streets.
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Sep 25, 2026 · By Sam Steele
Marvel at the layered history and remarkable cities of Italy on a First-Class vacation with Great Rail Journeys, traveling from Venice to the Amalfi Coast.
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Aug 01, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Discover countries filled with culture, cuisine and remarkable scenery in the top-trending vacation destinations for 2026, from Europe to Asia and Australasia.
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Jul 15, 2025 · By Todd Powell
Whenever a train passes, I’m reminded of when—and where—I first fell in love with rail travel: Switzerland, 1992, on a solo trip between Rome, Italy, and Interlaken, Switzerland.
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Jul 03, 2025 · By Great Rail Journeys
Fresh and exciting opportunities await to explore Europe next year, and you can be among the first to explore our collection of brand-new vacations for 2026.
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