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Italy | Tour Code: 16396
Discover Italy through a six-day journey that weaves together classical beauty, regional character, and unforgettable landscapes.
Highlights
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Visit Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Europe’s most famous active volcano
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Explore the Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for elegant Sicilian Baroque architecture
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Discover Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site reflecting a unique cultural fusion
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Wander the City of Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its Roman and medieval heritage
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Experience Venice and its Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its iconic canals and historic palaces
Overview
Embark on a six-day journey through Italy, blending classical beauty, rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Explore Taormina’s ancient Greek theatres, Ragusa’s baroque elegance and Palermo’s vibrant mix of cultures. Visit Maratea’s coastal charm, Verona’s romantic history and Venice’s unique canals. From historic streets to timeless love stories, this unforgettable adventure offers a perfect blend of Italy’s art, architecture and breathtaking scenery.
Inclusions
- Five-star pre and post tour accommodation in Taormina and Venice
- Private ensuite accommodation on the Golden Eagle Danube Express train
- Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
- Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
- Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Expertly guided off-train excursions
- Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
- Experienced Tour Management Team
- Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
- All gratuities - on and off the train
- Luggage porterage throughout the journey
Itinerary
Arrive in Sicily, where you will be met and transferred to a centrally located, five-star hotel for a one-night stay.
If time permits, perhaps take some 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 first night, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a 5-star hotel complete, of course, with champagne and a toast to cherished new memories soon to be made.
Overnight stay in Taormina.
After a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into your cabin and watch the dreamy Sicilian landscapes pass by outside your window.
Today, continue 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, where you'll get hands-on with regional flavours and learn the secrets of traditional Sicilian cuisine.
Overnight on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express.
Wake up to a gourmet breakfast in the elegant dining car of the Golden Eagle Danube Express, as it rolls into the lively Sicilian capital, Palermo. A gentle walking tour through its vibrant old town reveals a captivating blend of architectural styles. Here, pause for an aperitif and private concert at the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house.
After lunch, choose to delve deeper into Palermo at your own pace: visit Corleone to explore its Anti-Mafia Museum and enjoy breathtaking mountain views, or head to Monreale to admire the golden mosaics of its world-famous Norman Cathedral.
Overnight on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express.
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 Italian mainland. Upon arrival, the train is carefully pieced back together, ready to carry us onward—an unforgettable moment in an adventure few ever get to experience.
Arrive in the charming coastal town of Maratea, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,” set dramatically between the mountains and the sea. This morning, ascend to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, where sweeping panoramic views stretch across the Tyrrhenian coastline, offering one of southern Italy’s most breathtaking vistas.
Later, continue to the elegant Santavenere Hotel, beautifully positioned above the sea. Here, enjoy a relaxed and immersive pizza-making class, led by expert chefs who will introduce you to the art of traditional Italian pizza — from preparing the dough to selecting authentic local ingredients. The experience concludes with the pleasure of enjoying your freshly made pizza in refined coastal surroundings, combining regional flavour with effortless Italian hospitality.
Overnight on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express.
This morning begins with arrival in the elegant city of Verona. Immortalised as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona unfolds a rich tapestry of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance heritage during an informative guided walking tour. Highlights include the magnificent first-century Roman Amphitheatre in Piazza Bra—one of the best preserved in the world—along with the city’s historic squares and atmospheric streets.
Later this afternoon, travel continues onward to Venice, with arrival in time for a one-night hotel stay in the heart of this extraordinary city. There is time to unwind and soak up the unique ambience of the canals and palazzi ahead of the final day.
In the evening, a farewell reception dinner provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the journey through Italy and raise a glass to the memories made.
Overnight stay in Venice.
On the final morning, following breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for onward departures. Alternatively, consider extending the stay in Venice to allow more time to explore this fascinating city.
Additional Information
Departure dates:
07 Sep - 12 Sep, 2027
Excluded
- International airfares and taxes
- Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
- Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
- Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
- Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
- Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package
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