Italy's Cities & Sorrento by Rail

Day 1  Venice    
Upon arrival in Venice, transfer to your hotel. Once you’ve settled in, start exploring this mesmerising city; wander along its intricate network of back lanes and canals, admire the Venetian mansions teetering at the water’s edge and the sea of gondolas moored nearby.    

Day 2  Venice    
Take a full day to discover Venice’s many treasures. Why not start at St Mark’s Square to explore the elegant Basilica di San Marco and venerable Palazzo Ducale, and, later, take to the water on your included Grand Canal Boat Tour to experience the landmarks of Venice from its most iconic waterway.    

Day 3  Venice to Florence    
This morning, head to the station and travel to Florence on board Italy’s comfortable rail network. Admire the rolling Italian countryside outside your window as you journey south. Once you’ve arrived into this historic city, you have the afternoon to get acquainted with your new surroundings and indulge in some of Tuscany’s best food and wine.    

Day 4  Florence  
Start today at Florence’s majestic Il Duomo, which dominates the city skyline. Skip the queues with your included ticket and ascend the 463 steps to the very top of the cupola for commanding views. Spend the afternoon discovering Florence’s many other highlights at your own pace; why not visit the famous Uffizi Gallery, home to  the world’s best collection of Renaissance art, or walk along the River Arno to the medieval Ponte Vecchio, or perhaps enjoy the beautiful landscaping at the Boboli Gardens.    

Day 5  Florence to Rome    
This morning, board your train to Rome, Italy’s Eternal City. Once you’ve arrived, transfer to your hotel before heading out to explore this magnificent city. Stroll along its bustling thoroughfares, admire the many architectural gems and spend the evening dining al fresco on mouthwatering Italian classics.    

Day 6  Rome    
Start today discovering two of Rome’s greatest sites on your included walking tour. First, visit the Vatican City, home to the palatial St Peter’s Basilica and the magnificent Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s famous frescoes. Next, discover the awe-inspiring Colosseum, dating back to AD 70, and the bustling Forum, once the social heart of the Roman Empire. Spend the rest of the day exploring Rome; perhaps make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, climb the iconic Spanish Steps, marvel at the Pantheon, or wander the colourful streets of Trastevere.    

Day 7  Rome to Sorrento    
Leave Italy’s energetic capital behind and catch your train to Naples. Upon arrival, your private transfer will whisk you away to your hotel in the heart of sophisticated Sorrento, the gateway to the stunning Amalfi Coast. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon strolling along the town’s picturesque streets lined by fragrant lemon trees, relaxing in one of the many cafés in Piazza Tasso, or perhaps head to the promenade for unforgettable sunset views across the Gulf of Naples.    

Days 8-10  Sorrento    
Spend the next three days exploring Sorrento and its fascinating surroundings. On one day, join a small group tour to explore the world-renowned archaeological site of Pompeii, which was buried by the erupting Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Wander amongst the well-preserved ruins of this once vibrant, ancient city before climbing to the rim of the volcano itself. On another day, discover the beautiful towns and scenery of the Amalfi Coast and maybe visit glamorous Positano, brimming with stylish boutiques, and the clifftop village of Ravello, home to colourful gardens and wonderful sea views.

Day 11  Sorrento    
Enjoy a final walk around Sorrento’s cobblestone streets, before transferring back to Naples for your onward flight.