Golden Eagle Danube Express: Sicilian Odyssey

Begin your voyage in the enchanting city of Venice, where timeless beauty and romance are woven into every canal and cobblestone. You’ll enjoy two nights at one of the city’s most iconic five-star hotels, a perfect base from which to explore La Serenissima.

This evening, gather with fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel – a chance to savour fine Italian cuisine and cheers to the unforgettable journey that awaits.

Today, immerse yourself in the magic of Venice with a guided walking tour of its most iconic landmarks, including the magnificent St Mark’s Basilica and the bustling Rialto Market. Alternatively, enjoy the day at leisure – perhaps opt for a romantic gondola ride across the lagoon or shop for unique souvenirs.

As the sun sets, the evening begins with a spectacular private concert in the historic San Zaccaria church, followed by a sumptuous dinner at the renowned Ristorante Carpaccio.

This morning, bid farewell to Venice in true style with a private boat transfer from your hotel to Santa Lucia station, gliding along the Grand Canal to where the Golden Eagle Danube Express awaits. Settle into the comfort of your private cabin as it departs across the iconic causeway that spans the Venice Lagoon, beginning the journey along the Po River and ever-changing landscapes of northern Italy.

The first stop is the enchanting city of Cremona – this charmingly quaint and understated city carries itself with impressive architecture and deep musical heritage and is almost completely off the major tourism radar. Here, you will explore the impressive 13th century piazza and enjoy a private tour of the fabled Stradivari Museum, delving into the city’s centuries-old connection with master violin craftsmanship. This evening, a gourmet welcome dinner will be served onboard, celebrating the flavours of the region as the journey continues south.

Wake to a delicious breakfast served onboard upon arrival in Bologna, Italy’s revered culinary capital. Famed for its rich gastronomy, medieval towers, and endless porticoes, Bologna is a feast for the senses. A guided morning tour reveals the city’s charming character, from its historic university to the many famous arches that line the streets. Raise a glass atop the Torre di Prendiparte for panoramic views of the red-roofed skyline before continuing onwards to the beautiful seaside city of Rimini.

This afternoon, enjoy the freedom to tailor the experience with one of two exclusive touring options. Motoring enthusiasts may choose a visit to the thrilling Ferrari factory in nearby Maranello, complete with a museum tour and driving simulator experience. Alternatively, ascend to the Republic of San Marino, one of the world’s oldest sovereign states, to explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town and the breathtaking heights of Mount Titano. Tonight, unwind with a refined dinner served aboard the elegant Golden Eagle Danube Express, continuing the journey in comfort and style.

Today, step back almost two millennia to uncover the haunting ruins of Pompeii – the once-thriving Roman town dramatically frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Carefully preserved beneath layers of ash, this archaeological site offers a rare and evocative glimpse into daily life of a bygone era. A behind-the-scenes tour highlights the crucial preservation work that continues to protect the original splendour for future generations.

Following the exploration, travel to the slopes of Mount Vesuvius to visit Casa Setaro, a family-run vineyard nestled in the region’s volcanic soils. Enjoy a tasting of their acclaimed wines alongside delicious local specialties – a perfect way to celebrate the rich flavours and heritage of Campania.

Begin the day in Alberobello, a UNESCO-listed gem in Puglia known for its charming Trulli – conical-roofed stone houses that lend a fairytale quality to the landscape. A guided tour reveals their unique construction and cultural significance, with time to enjoy a tasting of local wine or olive oil.

This afternoon, explore elegant Lecce, the baroque heart of southern Italy. Known for its golden limestone facades and intricate sculptural details, the city’s stunning churches, including the Duomo and Santa Croce, showcase the rich artistry of Leccese Baroque.

Later, the scenic rail journey continues through the natural beauty of Cilento National Park, making its way to the southern tip of the mainland.

In the early morning, step into a truly once‑in‑a‑lifetime spectacle as the train is gently taken apart and rolled onto the waiting ferry for the Straits of Messina crossing. Watch in wide‑eyed wonder as rail meets sea in a feat of pure travel magic. You can remain aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express for this extraordinary crossing, or climb to the ferry’s top deck to feel the salt air and take in sweeping views of the Sicilian shoreline. Upon arrival, the train is carefully pieced back together, ready to carry guests onward—an unforgettable moment in an adventure few ever get to experience.

The first stop is Palermo, the lively Sicilian capital. A gentle walking tour through the vibrant old town reveals a captivating blend of architectural styles. Conclude the day with an aperitif and concert at the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house.

This afternoon, choose to delve deeper into Palermo at your own pace: visit Corleone to explore the Anti-Mafia Museum and enjoy breathtaking mountain views, or head to Monreale to admire the golden mosaics of its world-famous Norman Cathedral.

Wake in Agrigento, gateway to one of Italy’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures. While the modern town may be unassuming, the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples awaits. On a privately guided tour, explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient temples rise majestically against the Sicilian sky.

This afternoon, travel to Ragusa, a hilltop town bursting with Baroque charm. With its honey-hued churches and grey-stone houses tumbling down the hillside, it’s a photographer’s dream. Later, enjoy a fun cooking demonstration, getting hands-on with regional flavours and learning the secrets of traditional Sicilian cuisine.

Arrive in Syracuse, once a flourishing centre of the Byzantine Empire. Escape the bustle of the city with a peaceful boat tour around the Island of Ortigia, offering a unique perspective of this ancient coastal gem.

After lunch onboard, continue the journey to Caltagirone, a picturesque hilltop town famous for its exquisite ceramics – a tradition dating back to the 10th century. Visit a local artisan workshop to witness this heritage in action, then continue to the Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best-preserved Roman villas in the world, where intricate mosaics tell stories of ancient civilisations.

After a leisurely breakfast onboard, enjoy the rolling Sicilian countryside as the train arrives in Catania, nestled at the foot of Mount Etna. Spend the morning at your own pace, discovering the city’s characterful squares and richly storied churches.

Later, enjoy a delightful hands-on Sicilian pastry class at either the Società Storica Catanese or the elegant Palazzo Biscari, with guidance from the palace’s owner, adding an extra touch of grandeur. In the afternoon, rejoin the train for the final leg of the journey, heading towards the cliffside jewel of Taormina.

Perched above the glittering Gulf of Naxos with panoramic views of Mount Etna, Taormina provides a breathtaking finale to the Sicilian Odyssey. The day begins with a private visit to the Mount Etna Museum, guided by a local volcanologist who brings this formidable natural wonder to life.

Later, head to the slopes of the volcano itself for an indulgent lunch and wine tasting amongst the vineyards at a traditional Sicilian Palmento, where the region’s volcanic soil gives its wines a distinct character. This afternoon, take time to wander through Taormina’s medieval streets, visit its iconic Greek Theatre, and soak up the old-world charm at your leisure.

As evening falls on your final night, gather for a Farewell Dinner to celebrate an unforgettable journey – complete, of course, with champagne and a toast to cherished new memories made. This evening you will disembark the Golden Eagle Danube Express and check into your hotel in Taormina. 

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey. From here, you may make your way to your onward destination or transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

We hope you leave with wonderful memories and stories to share of your time exploring this remarkable region.