Experience the best of Italy on a curated self-guided rail journey through Venice, the Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome. Explore iconic landmarks, charming villages and world-class art on a perfectly planned itinerary designed to help you see more, stress less and savour every moment.
(twin share)
Self-guided rail journey
Venice to Rome or vice versa
Includes:
✔️ 12 Nights’ premium accommodation in Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence & Rome with Breakfast daily
✔️ Standard class rail tickets between each destination
Optional Experiences
Venice – Gondolas, canals, Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica
Burano & Murano – Colourful islands and traditional craftsmanship
Cinque Terre – Five cliffside villages along the Italian Riviera
Monterosso al Mare – Beaches and historic old town
Florence – Renaissance art, Duomo, Accademia Gallery & Michelangelo’s David, and the ancient sculptures & paintings at Uffizi Gallery
Tuscany – Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti and Pisa
Rome – Colosseum, Roman Forum and ancient landmarks
Vatican City – Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums
Itinerary:
Day 1: Venice
- Welcome to Venice! Built on an archipelago of 118 small islands connected by over 400 bridges. Renowned for its romantic gondola rides, enchanting canals, and stunning architecture. Overnight: Venice
Day 2: Venice
- Explore the Venetian sights on a guided walking tour; visit Doge's Palace and its hidden treasures, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture; visit St Mark's Basilica, one of the most important religious sites in Italy, famous for its stunning Byzantine architecture. Overnight: Venice
Day 3: Venice
- Enjoy a boat tour to discover the lagoon islands of Burano and Murano, known for their scenery, history, and traditional handicrafts. This afternoon, explore the charm of Venice on a romantic gondola ride. Overnight: Venice
Day 4: Travel Venice to Cinque Terre
- Make your way to Venezia Santa Lucia Station for your journey to the Cinque Terre - 5 centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Spend the afternoon exploring the old town of Monterosso and its narrow streets; visit Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista; relax on the beach. Overnight: Cinque Terre
Day 5: Cinque Terre
- Take a short train or ferry ride, or 1.5-2 hour hike to Vernazza, the most picturesque village; visit Doria Castle for panoramic views; explore the narrow, colourful streets and harbour; visit the Chiesa di Santa Margherita di Antiochia, perched at the edge of the sea. Another short train ride or 1.5 hour hike takes you to Corniglia, perched on a hilltop, the only village not directly on the water; explore the quaint streets, enjoy a panoramic view of the coast; visit the main square Largo Taragio; visit Santa Maria Church. Return to your accommodation in Monterosso. Please see important tips for exploring the Cinque Terre below. Overnight: Cinque Terre
Day 6: Cinque Terre
- Begin your day by taking the train or ferry to Manarola, known for its cliffside colourful houses; enjoy the stunning coastal views; walk down to the small harbour. Take the train, ferry, or the 1-hour hike on the most famous and picturesque path to Riomaggiore, the southernmost village; walk through the narrow streets, explore the shops, and visit the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista; stroll to the harbour. End your day with scenic views of the Cinque Terre by taking the 50-min ferry ride back to Monterosso. (Check the seasonal ferry schedules for the last ferry time and purchase tickets to avoid being sold out.) Overnight: Cinque Terre
Day 7: Florence
- Leave the coastal charms of the Cinque Terre for the Renaissance art and architecture of Florence, one of the most artistically significant cities in the world. Overnight: Florence
Day 8: Florence
- Join a walking tour of Florence for an introduction to this culturally rich city. Take a guided tour of the Duomo, the city's most iconic landmark, crowned by Brunelleschi's magnificent dome. Visit Accademia Gallery, famous for Michealangelo's David; and Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli (The Birth of Venus), Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Overnight: Florence
Day 9: Tuscany
- Discover the rich history, glorious scenery, and delicious produce on a full-day tour to experience the best of Tuscany. Visit medieval Siena, the hill town of San Gimignano, and the wine region of Chianti. Return to Florence via Pisa, home of the leaning tower. Overnight: Florence
Day 10: Travel Tuscany to Rome
- A 3-hour high-speed train journey takes you to the “Eternal City", Rome. Explore the historic centre's Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and the famous Spanish Steps. Overnight: Rome
Day 11: Rome
- Step inside the Ancient ruins of Rome and visit the Colosseum, the world's largest amphitheatre, which hosted gruesome gladiator battles; walk along the ruins of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Overnight: Rome
Day 12: Vatican
- Join a morning tour of the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel, housing Michelangelo’s stunning ceiling frescoes. Make your way back via Castel Sant’Angelo and Villa Borghese Gardens. Overnight: Rome
Day 13: Home time
- After breakfast, your Italian adventure comes to an end. Make your way to the port or airport, by local transport or private transfer, for your onward journey.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PASSENGERS
✅ All travellers, including infants, are required to present on check-in a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date to Australia.
✅ Visa and entry requirements vary by country and are subject to change without notice. It is your responsibility to obtain required visa and other documentation prior to travel for the countries you are travelling to and through. For the most up-to-date travel requirements, please visit: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
✅ For non-Australian passport holders, only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about visa and entry requirements. Please contact the embassy or consulate of the countries you are visiting well in advance of travel. Please also ensure that you hold a valid re-entry visa or permit for Australia.
✅ We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, that covers you for the duration of your holiday, to protect you from any possible cancellation charges, overseas medical costs, repatriation, loss of luggage, personal liability, or other expenses that may arise.
CITY TOURIST TAXES AND RESORT FEES
✅ Europe City Tourist Taxes, or other taxes & charges imposed by the hotel or city and are not included in the hotel rate. These taxes may vary by season and location within a destination and cannot be prepaid. Any such charges are mandatory and must be paid directly to the hotel.
*Transfers and Excursions are recommended but not included
*Important tips for exploring the Cinque Terre:
The Cinque Terre is a national park.
Walking shoes and water is required when hiking the paths.
Check for any trail closures before heading out.
There is a charge for the local train and to access the paths between Monterosso & Vernazza, and Vernazza & Corniglia.
There is a EUR1 charge to use the toilets in the 5 villages.
You can purchase a 2-Day Cinque Terre Treno MS Card which includes the trains, paths, and toilets.
Check the seasonal ferry schedules: https://www.cinqueterre.eu.com/en/boat-excursions
