The Grand Italian Journey – 6 Nights

Lake Como, Italy’s third-largest lake nestled near the Swiss border, is a famed European summer retreat that has long attracted writers, artists, and travelers seeking lakeside tranquility. This picturesque setting also served as the romantic backdrop for Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala’s love story in Star Wars, making it a popular destination for wedding photos. Just a two-hour train ride from Milan, Lake Como is often called Milan’s secret garden. 


Don’t miss Villa Carlotta, renowned for its enchanting gardens boasting over 150 varieties of rhododendrons, century-old cedar trees, and tropical plants that create a miniature forest. Inside, an impressive collection of sculptures adds an artistic touch to this stunning lakeside paradise.

Star Wars’ iconic love scene location — Lake Como

Verona’s Roman Amphitheatre is the third-largest ancient arena in the world and hosts the annual summer opera festival, where the majestic Aida fills the night air. Imagine sitting under a starry sky in this historic venue—an unforgettable experience! 

While in Verona, visit Juliet’s House to step into the world of Shakespeare’s timeless love story Romeo and Juliet and celebrate the spirit of romance.

Known as "God’s Backyard in the Alps," the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites feature dramatic limestone peaks and lush green valleys . Visit Val di Funes or the iconic Seceda peak to witness the mesmerizing "Enrosadira" phenomenon, where the jagged Dolomite cliffs glow in shades of vibrant pink and gold at sunset—an unforgettable natural wonder of Italy! 

Alternatively, take a cable car to Alpe di Siusi, the largest high-alpine meadow in Europe . Stroll across endless green rolling hills surrounded by majestic mountain walls and charming wooden chalets, immersing yourself in the pure tranquility of the Alps!

Departing from Venice’s Santa Lucia at the F.te Nove pier, hop on the Line 12 vaporetto (water bus) or other frequent ferries for a scenic 1-hour 6-minute ride to the vibrant Burano Island, also passing by the famed Murano Island - why choose? Visit both!

Burano, once home primarily to fishermen, is famous for its brightly painted houses. Legend has it that wives painted their homes in vivid colors so husbands could spot them from afar after a long day at sea, earning Burano the nickname Rainbow Island. The island is also known as Lace Island, celebrated since the 16th century for its exquisite lace craftsmanship that captivated the world.

Murano Island is renowned worldwide for its colorful glassware. Since the 14th century, it has been exporting exquisite glass products such as beads, mirrors, and chandeliers. Jewelry and home decor lovers will find plenty to indulge in here!

Padua is a charming city rich in history, art, and academia, located just a 20-minute train ride from Venice. Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, Padua boasts impressive Renaissance and medieval architecture and art.

Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is among Europe’s oldest, with the great Galileo once teaching here. Visitors can explore the world’s oldest anatomical theatre (Teatro Anatomico) and stroll through historic campus buildings. Don’t miss Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest city squares—a sprawling elliptical green space surrounded by an artificial canal and lined with statues—perfect for relaxing walks and soaking up local life.

Just a 1.5-hour high-speed train ride from Venice, Bologna welcomes you as Italy's undisputed culinary capital and intellectual heart! Home to the world's oldest university and nearly 40 kilometers of UNESCO World Heritage red-brick porticoes, this vibrant city offers an authentic Italian experience away from heavy tourist crowds. Wander beneath the iconic Two Towers (Due Torri) and through Piazza Maggiore to absorb the lively atmosphere of this historic university town! 

A trip to Bologna is also an unforgettable gastronomic adventure! As the birthplace of authentic Tagliatelle al Ragù (Bolognese), hand-crafted Tortellini, and world-famous Mortadella, the city is a food lover's paradise. Explore bustling local markets like Mercato delle Erbe and cozy traditional trattorias to savor rich, centuries-old flavors that elevate your Italian rail holiday!

A high-speed train ride from Rome reaches the vibrant southern coastal city of Naples in just 1 hour and 10 minutes! Nestled along the breathtaking Bay of Naples under the gaze of Mount Vesuvius, the entire historic center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the iconic "Spaccanapoli" street, explore historic landmarks like Castel dell'Ovo, and admire world-class treasures at the National Archaeological Museum while soaking in the lively Mediterranean atmosphere. 

No trip to Naples is complete without tasting authentic Neapolitan Pizza! As the birthplace of Pizza Napoletana, the city offers wood-fired perfection with airy, chewy crusts, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. From Naples, you can also easily visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii or embark on a day trip to the stunning Amalfi Coast, adding unforgettable southern Italian flavor to your rail itinerary!

Just a 2-hour train ride from Rome brings you to Perugia, the hilltop capital of Umbria—often celebrated as Italy’s "Green Heart." Perched high above rolling countryside, this ancient city boasts incredibly preserved Etruscan walls and medieval architecture. Stroll through Piazza IV Novembre to admire the majestic Fontana Maggiore, explore subterranean fortress passages, and wander quiet cobblestone alleys that convey a timeless, enchanting atmosphere. 

Perugia is also renowned worldwide as the capital of chocolate, famous for its iconic Baci Perugina chocolates and hosting Europe’s largest Chocolate Festival every autumn! The surrounding Umbria region is a food lover's haven, rich in black truffles, fine wines, and rustic hill-town cuisine. With the spiritual town of Assisi just a short detour away, Perugia offers a perfectly relaxing getaway into central Italy's lush heartland!

Looking for one of Europe's most unique rail experiences? Take a direct train from Rome south to sunny Sicily! The highlight of the journey is crossing the Strait of Messina, where the entire train is loaded onto a ferry boat—allowing you to step onto the deck and enjoy panoramic Mediterranean sea views. Arrive in Taormina, the "Pearl of the Ionian," where the ancient Greek Theater offers breathtaking vistas over crystal-blue waters and the majestic Mount Etna! 

Sicily is a captivating crossroads of Greek, Arab, and Norman heritage, as well as a culinary dream! Indulge in crispy golden Arancini (stuffed rice balls), iconic sweet Cannoli, and freshly caught Mediterranean seafood. Whether taking a daytime scenic train or resting in a cozy sleeper cabin on the overnight Intercity Notte, an extension to Sicily will add unforgettable island magic to your Italian adventure!