Tours Rail Tours Italy Rail Express

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Summary

Experience the highlights of Italy by train! Begin your Italian adventure in Rome and immerse yourself in centuries of history. When touring Italy by train, you’ll visit Naples and the ancient city of Pompeii and see the mighty Mount Vesuvius. Experience Florence; a city soaked in art and culture. Explore the vibrant cities of Milan and Venice. Italy escorted train holidays would simply not be complete without the chance to cruise on Venice’s Grand Canal. With art, culture, fine cuisine, spectacular landscapes, history, architecture and, of course, passion - our guided rail tour packages showcase Italy at its finest! 

Highlights

  • Walking tours of Rome and Florence with expert local guides
  • Explore Venice and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Free days to explore Rome and Naples in-depth
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii

Itinerary View Full ItineraryDownload PDF

Start Point

Hotel in Rome | 03:00 PM

End Point

Hotel in Milan | 10:00 AM
DAY 1: Arrive in Rome

It's the start of an Italian rail travel adventure! Welcome to Rome, the “Eternal City”. Check into the hotel before meeting up with your tour guide and travel mates for an informative walking tour of this historic city. A local guide will showcase some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum, and will let you in on all of Rome’s secrets. Tonight’s welcome dinner features delicious Italian dishes and is the perfect opportunity to get to know the rest of the group.

Meals: Dinner

DAY 1: Arrive in Rome

It's the start of an Italian rail travel adventure! Welcome to Rome, the “Eternal City”. Check into the hotel before meeting up with your tour guide and travel mates for an informative walking tour of this historic city. A local guide will showcase some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum, and will let you in on all of Rome’s secrets. Tonight’s welcome dinner features delicious Italian dishes and is the perfect opportunity to get to know the rest of the group.

Experiences

Rome guided walking tour: Embark on a walking tour with a local guide to discover Italy’s Eternal City! See major sites including the incredible Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum and the Pantheon. This guided walking tour will share stories about how Rome came to be and what it is today!

Italian welcome dinner: Tonight, dine like the Italians do! Enjoy a three-course welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Rome and take this chance to get to know your travel friends who will be with you for the next nine days.

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 2: Rome: Free Day

There is so much to discover in Rome and today offers a full free day to explore as you wish! Why not pay a visit to the stunning Colosseum and the ruins of the Roman Forum and walk in the footsteps of ancient gladiators? You could also discover more ancient history by visiting one of the city’s many museums. Of course, there are many delicious delicacies to try on this free day. Eat at one of Rome’s many buzzing restaurants, grab an espresso at a charming café or walk the buzzing streets with a gelato in hand. The options for this free day in the Italian capital are endless!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 3: Rome - Pompeii - Naples

Today, board a high-speed train and travel from Rome to Naples. Arrive and embark on an orientation tour around the buzzing city. For lunch, look forward to sampling some local pizzas - this is what Naples is most famous for! Later in the afternoon, take a local train to the ancient Roman city of Pompeii for a late afternoon guided tour of this city that was covered in the ash and debris of Mount Vesuvius nearly two thousand years ago. This fascinating archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a visit here offers a truly unforgettable experience. This evening, return to Naples for a free evening to relax or explore further.

Experiences

Orientation tour of Naples: Enjoy an orientation tour through Naples and see sights throughout the three main squares. Walk down Via Toledo, pass by the Castel Nuova and the Teatro di San Carlo and through Piazza Trieste e Trento to reach Piazza del Plebiscito. See Pizzeria Brandi, where the world-famous Pizza Margherita was supposedly invented in honour of the Queen of Italy, Margherita of Savoy!

Lunch in Naples: Enjoy a traditional light lunch and take the chance to try some of Naples’ famous pizza! Naples is considered the birthplace of pizza and the art of pizza making is taken very seriously, meaning that you can be assured of some truly delectable slices.

Visit Pompeii: Pompeii is so remarkable because it was almost frozen in time as the ash and volcanic debris of Mount Vesuvius covered the city for many centuries. The preservation of Pompeii allows its visitors a glimpse into ancient times. Enjoy a two-hour guided walking tour through this fascinating ancient site.

Meals

BreakfastLunch

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 4: Naples: Free Day

Enjoy a free day to explore Naples. This unique city boasts an intoxicating charm! Although it is the third-largest city in Italy, it almost feels like a country on its own. The city seems immune to modernity and preserves the traditional way of doing things. Naples is also the perfect launchpad to visit the enchanting islands nearby. Join an optional day trip to the Isle of Capri, explore the island and enjoy a speed boat tour. The jaw-dropping beauty of the coastline is just one of the reasons to visit this enthralling destination! This evening, why not join a Naples food tour to learn more about the history of Neapolitan pizza and sample more delicious local delights?

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 5: Naples - Florence

Take a fast train to Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region. Arrive and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before exploring Florence with a local guide. Marvel at the terracotta tiled Duomo at the Palazzo Vecchio, while learning about the Medici family’s influence, which ultimately led to the Renaissance. This artistic period started in Florence and later spread around Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries. See the replica statue of David and the Uffizi gallery before visiting the Ponte Vecchio viewpoint. Later, attend a leather demonstration at a local Italian leather shop to learn from the talented craftsmen. This evening is yours to explore the city a little more along the banks of the Arno river.

Experiences

Guided tour of Florence: See some of the cultural and historic sights that have made the city of Florence a favourite among travellers. Discover top sights including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Della Signoria and the replica statue of David. Known as the ‘Jewel of the Renaissance’, Florence boasts a huge variety of important buildings and famous artworks.

Lunch in Florence: Try some authentic Tuscan cuisine at an excellent local restaurant over a group lunch in Florence. 

Leather-making demonstration: Step inside the world of Italian leather crafting; visit a local leather shop and factory, Leonardo Leather and Gold, for insight into how bespoke Italian leather goods are produced. Italy has been famous for leather production for centuries!

Meals

BreakfastLunch

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 6: Pisa - Cinque Terre (Optional) - Florence

Today’s free day offers many options! Start the day with a trip to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and snap some memorable pictures! Afterwards, return to Florence or join the optional tour to Cinque Terre. These five seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera  can only be accessed by boat, train or on foot and the colourful houses and vineyards that overlook the ocean offer a unique charm. Your tour leader will transport the group to the starting point and provide all the information needed to explore these picturesque villages by yourself before returning to Florence together in the evening.

Experiences

See the Leaning Tower of Pisa: A bucket-list item for most, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most iconic monuments in Italy and perhaps one of the most recognisable structures in the world.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 7: Florence - Venice

The train journey meanders through the Tuscan region and into Venice today. Arrive in Mestre and drop your bags off at the hotel. Next, head to Piazzale Roma for an orientation walking tour complete with an included lunch. Afterwards, venture further into the heart of Venice with your tour leader, over the Rialto Bridge and on to St. Mark’s Square. Enjoy a lace workshop and glass-blowing demonstration, two of Venice’s traditional crafts, before having some free time to explore on your own. Grab this opportunity to cruise the canals with an optional gondola trip or water taxi ride this afternoon - seeing the city from the waterways is a classic Venice bucket-list experience!

Experiences

Orientation tour of Venice: Join your tour leader on an orientation tour and a trip into the heart of this unique floating city. See St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, St. Mark’s Museum, Campanile, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Market and Scuola Grande di San Rocco.

Lunch in Venice: Weaving through the tiny alleys and crossing the many bridges of Venice is hungry work! This exploration will be rewarded with a taste of Venice. Look forward to some authentic Italian gelato for dessert!

Lacemaking demonstration: The art of lacemaking dates back to the 1500s and Venice’s importance in this industry was largely due to the Doge’s wife who employed 130 lace makers in her day. Venetian lace became highly sought after - you’ll get to learn about its history and popularity during this demonstration. 

Glass-blowing demonstration: The city has a very long history of glass-blowing dating as far back as the 8th century. Today Venetian glass is still considered a luxury art. Get a glimpse into how it's made and possibly purchase a unique souvenir.

Meals

BreakfastLunch

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 8: Venice - Milan

The fashion capital of the world awaits! After another fast train journey, dive right into Milan. Start off with an orientation tour of the city centre, stand in awe of the Duomo and rub shoulders with Italy’s most stylish occupants. Your tour leader will point out the main sights to help you plan the rest of your day in Milan. This afternoon, enjoy the opportunity to head out on your own and explore all that this vibrant, cosmopolitan city has to offer. This is the perfect time to further explore the Duomo, do some shopping or simply relax at a café. Enjoy a farewell dinner with the group in Milan tonight.

Experiences

Orientation tour of Milan: Travel to the centre of the fashion capital with your tour leader. Your tour leader will point out some of Milan’s top sights and offer tips for how to spend the free afternoon.

Farewell dinner in Milan: After a full day of sightseeing, enjoy a final farewell dinner with the group at a local restaurant.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 9: End of tour in Milan

After nine exciting days, this unforgettable rail tour of Italy comes to an end today. Say goodbye to your new travel friends over breakfast and be sure to swap contact details before you part ways. We hope that you have enjoyed this tour of beautiful Italy and wish you a safe onward journey. Arrivederci!

Meals

Breakfast

What's Included

Accommodation

  • 8 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
  • Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room

Meals

  • 8 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
    *Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

  • All rail travel throughout your tour with reserved seat selection 
  • Standard Class Rail
  • Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Tour Leader

  • Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
  • Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

14 Experiences!

  • Discover Rome on a locally guided walking tour
  • Enjoy an Italian welcome dinner in Rome
  • See the sights of Naples on an orientation tour
  • Taste authentic Neapolitan pizza 
  • Visit the ancient city of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore Florence, the “Jewel of the Renaissance”
  • Taste Tuscan cuisine in Florence
  • Enjoy an Italian leather-making demonstration
  • Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Explore Venice on an orientation tour
  • Enjoy lunch in the heart of Venice 
  • Attend a lacemaking and glass-blowing demonstration
  • Visit Milan, the world‘s fashion capital
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner in Milan

Accommodation

Hotels are chosen closer to departure date. We do use a variety of hotels in each destination, so you may stay in a hotel different to that listed here.

Rome

Photos of the tour

Scenic Capri

Live like the rich and famous and jet off to the picture-perfect island of Capri! Take a ride on a water jet from Naples to Capri and marvel at the breathtaking coastal scenery. Once you have arrived, a tour guide will show you some of the island’s highlights. Take in the views and admire the flowers at Anacapri, watch the yachts go by in the Marina Grande and visit the Gardens of Augustus. This excursion includes a return jetfoil ride.

Optional Excursions

Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader.
Prices and availability are subject to change

Dates & Rates

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Our pricing model: Lowest-priced seats are sold first, then the price increases slightly. The quicker you book, the less you pay. Select a date below to secure your seat.
Years
Start Date / End DateFlexible BookingStatusPrice Per Person
24 Dec 2023 - 01 Jan 2024Flexible booking date for 24 Dec 2023 - 01 Jan 2024SOLD OUT!

Additional Information

For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre.

Additional Information Help Centre

Reviews

Reviews powered by: Power Reviews

26 reviews
C
Cathy Verified Buyer 2023-10-30
Wonderful experience!
Had an amazing time in Italy on the 9 day rail tour. Got to see so much in a short time. Tour leader was wonderful, very patient, organized and witty! Highly recommend the trip! Found many places I want to return to!
C
Connie Verified Buyer 2023-10-29
Italy tour with Firo.
Great time! Firo was personable, relatable, fun, and thorough. He was able to navigate 20+ people through Italy with ease. I would recommend this tour to anyone who likes the concept of a tour experience but with freedom to explore on your own part of the time. Good people…Good food… Good times!
M
Mel Verified Buyer 2023-10-29
Amazing!!!!
My first time with expat and it didn't disappoint. Firo our guide was AMAZING!!! He kept us safe, on time and shared his passion and knowledge on all things Italy. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. The free days were perfect to explore independently or choose optional tours, this was great! We made many friends along the way, so much fun. Thankyou for making my Italy trip memorable. AMAZING!!!!!
J
Jennifer Verified Buyer 2023-10-29
Amazing experience
I had an amazing experience on the tour. Our tour group was full of kind, respectful, and amazing people from around the world. Our tour guide Firo was exceptional. He made sure we all felt comfortable right from the start. We all left feeling like a big family.
L
Lyn Verified Buyer 2023-10-29
A very well organised, efficient tour
We can definitely recommend this tour. The best way to see the whole of Italy

Why this tour?

Exploring Italy by train is an adventure unlike any other! Not only do you get to visit top cities, you also get to see spectacular scenery along the way. Italian train tours are about the journey as well as the destination! 

Travel from Rome to Naples and see the ancient city of Pompeii! Witness the wonders of Florence and Pisa. Explore the magical city of Venice and visit Milan, Italy’s fashion capital. Enjoy the options to visit the colourful coastal town of Cinque Terre and the luxurious island of Capri. 

This Italian rail tour features a number of highlights: 

  • Experience guided tours of Rome, Florence and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pompeii as well as orientation tours of Naples, Venice and Milan. 
  • Enjoy a welcome dinner in Rome and delicious group lunches in Naples, Florence, Venice and Milan!
  • Visit and take a picture with the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa!
  • Discover how local crafts are made with a leather making workshop in Florence and lacemaking and glass blowing workshops in Venice.
  • Fantastic optional activities such as a gondola ride in Venice and visits to Cinque Terre, Capri and Lake Como.
  • Free days to spend as you wish in Rome and Naples.
  • Admire the gorgeous scenery between destinations along the Italian railroad!

Is this the right tour for me?

Italy is one of the world’s top bucket-list destinations due to its incredible art, history, culture and cuisine. Travelling through Italy by train allows you to experience all of this and more! Italian train tours showcase the country’s natural beauty and allow you to travel in a unique, comfortable and convenient way.

How much does it cost to travel in Italy by train? 

Travelling to Italy can be expensive. However, the great thing about travelling with Expat Explore is that you won’t have to worry about any unnecessary fees as transportation and accommodation costs are already covered. Most activities and meals are included too!

Is 9 days enough to tour Italy by train?

9 Days is a great amount of time to see some of Italy’s top highlights! This Italy by train tour is a great mix of visits to top tourist attractions, included activities and free time.

What will the transportation be like?

You’ll enjoy 9 days of travel in Italy by train on this tour. Rail travel is fast, scenic and offers travellers extra space and comfort. Admire the views and even walk around the train as you go. Rail travel is generally faster than coach travel and the itinerary has been designed to maximise time spent at each destination. 

Spend 9 days on this bella Italia rail journey to discover many of Italy’s bucket-list attractions in a fun, convenient and affordable way!