Discover Italy’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage through its finest rail journeys. Experience the breathtaking **Bernina Red Train**, marvel at the coastal views from **Reggio Calabria to Scilla**, and circle Mount Etna on the historic **Circumetnea** in Sicily. Enjoy the scenic ride from **Rome to Villa San Giovanni** and traverse the charming Adriatic coast from **Bari to Rimini**. Each route offers a unique glimpse into Italy’s diverse regions, making your travel an unforgettable adventure.
The Bernina Red Train is a breathtaking Swiss railway journey that traverses the Alps, offering panoramic views of glaciers, mountain lakes, and charming alpine villages
The rail journey from Rome to Villa San Giovanni takes travellers through the scenic landscapes of central and southern Italy, from rolling hills and vineyards to dramatic coastal vistas along the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Circumetnea is a scenic narrow-gauge railway in Sicily that circles the base of Mount Etna, offering stunning views of the volcano and surrounding countryside.
The rail journey from Bari to Rimini takes passengers along Italy’s scenic Adriatic coastline, offering views of charming seaside towns, sandy beaches, and the sparkling blue sea.
The rail journey from Reggio Calabria to Scilla in southern Italy offers stunning coastal views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, passing through picturesque seaside villages and rugged cliffs.
DAY 1 Tuesday 1 September 2026 Depart Australia
We will depart Australia for our flight to Rome.
DAY 2 Wednesday 2 September 2026 Arrive in Rome, Italy
This afternoon we arrive in Rome. After clearing customs, we will be met by our private coach and transferred to our hotel.
DAY 3 Thursday 3 September 2026 Rome
This morning, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the ‘Eternal City’ and see the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, where group members can throw a coin and make a wish. In the afternoon we will visit the Vatican with a chance to enter St. Peter's Basilica. This evening, we have an included welcome dinner to meet the group members.
DAY 4 Friday 4 September 2026 Rome to Villa San Giovanni
Today we will ride our first train from Rome to Villa San Giovanni. Embark on an unforgettable train journey covering approximately 600 kilometres and passing through mesmerizing regions including Naples, Salerno, and Messina. Upon arrival, enjoy the charming seaside town’s stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Sicilian horizon.
DAY 5 Saturday 5 September 2026 Taormina, Sicily
Today we will take the short and scenic train journey from Reggio Calabria to Scilla. This short 20-minute train ride from Reggio Calabria's scenic Stazione Lido to the seaside town of Scilla offers delightful glimpses of coves, beaches, islets, fishing boats, and views of the majestic Mount Etna. Explore the enchanting fishing village, its historic castle, and the beautiful Chianalea district. In the afternoon we will board a ferry to Sicily and from there coach to Taormina where we will check into our hotel.
DAY 6 Sunday 6 September 2026 Taormina
This morning, we will enjoy a tour of Taormina with a local guide. We walk around the medieval centre and see the terrace Piazza IX April, with its views overlooking Mt Etna and the sea. We will visit Torre dell'Orologio, a restored 12th-century clock tower and the famous ancient Greek theatre founded in the 3rd century BC and rebuilt by the Romans at the end of the 1st century.
DAY 7 Monday 7 September 2026 Syracuse, Sicily
Today we enjoy a rail journey on the Ferrovia Circumetnea from Riposto that encircles Etna's base, ending its journey in Catania. This dramatic journey sees you rattling across lava beds, past fields of prickly pears and little hamlets, then soaking up across Etna's foothills views of its snow-capped, smoking peak. Constructed in 1898, it's 110-km long and the whole route takes around three-and-a-half hours. Following this we will go on a sightseeing tour in Catania where we will see the city's expansive central square, Piazza del Duomo, which showcases the whimsical Fontana dell Elefante statue and the richly decorated Catania Cathedral. We then travel to Syracuse.
DAY 8 Tuesday 8 September 2026 Syracuse
Today we have a tour of the old town with a local guide. Founded in around 734BC by the Corinthians, this splendid city eventually established supremacy over the rest of Sicily and was a key city-state in ancient Greece. The old part of the town is on the island of Ortygia and contains churches, the cathedral, old palazzos and houses. We will have a walking tour of this historic centre. The cathedral has been converted from an ancient Greek temple and is more than 2,000 years-old. The afternoon is free for individual exploration.
DAY 9 Wednesday 9 September 2026 Bari, Italy
Today we will fly from Catania to Bari. Following the flight we will enjoy a sightseeing around Bari. We will see amazing sights such as the Basilica di San Nicola where visitors can marvel at its Romanesque architecture and explore the sacred crypt containing the revered relics of Saint Nicholas. We will also see the Teatro Petruzzelli which is the 4th largest theatre in Italy and has heard many great classics of the opera.
DAY 10 Thursday 10 September 2026 Bari
Today we will travel by coach to Matera. Here we will explore Matera's network of ancient Sassi (cave dwellings) which are cut into the region's soft tufa rock which have been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period. We will see the two labyrinthine neighbourhoods of Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso.
DAY 11 Friday 11 September 2026 Rimini
Today we will take the train from Bari to Rimini. We will embark from Bari on a scenic rail journey enjoying the scenic coastal views along Italy's Adriatic coast. This includes passing historic towns and fishing villages, and occasionally venturing inland through Tuscany and Umbria. The trip culminates in Rimini, offering a blend of cultural exploration and seaside relaxation with its vibrant beach clubs and memorable landscapes.
DAY 12 Saturday 12 September 2026 Florence
Today we will travel by coach to Florence. On the way we will stop in Bologna for a walking tour, featuring the iconic Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore. This afternoon will be free to explore Florence.
DAY 13 Sunday 13 September 2026 Florence
This morning, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour around Florence. We will visit the iconic Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, where you can admire its stunning Renaissance dome designed by Brunelleschi. Other highlights include the Ponte Vecchio, a picturesque medieval bridge lined with jewellery shops. We will also visit the Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and the Arno River below. The afternoon will be free for further exploration.
DAY 14 Monday 14 September 2026 Milan
Today we will travel by train to Milan. The train travels through the rolling hills of Tuscany, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and charming medieval villages. On arrival in Milan we enjoy a sightseeing tour, marvel at the spectacular Milan Cathedral (Duomo), Sforza Castle, Piazza della Scala and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
DAY 15 Tuesday 15 September 2026 Lake Como
Today we will travel by coach to Lake Como. On arrival, we will go on a sightseeing tour of Como. We will visit the magnificent Cattedrale di Como of whose construction began in 1396 and was the last Gothic cathedral built in Italy. Following this we will visit Villa Olmo. Villa Olmo is a stunning neoclassical villa located on the shores of Lake Como, Italy, known for its elegant architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens.
DAY 16 Wednesday 16 September 2026 Lake Como
Today will be a highlight as you'll ride the Bernina Red Train through the Swiss Alps between Tirano in Italy and St. Moritz in Switzerland. This masterpiece of engineering cuts through dramatic landscapes, majestic glaciers, and charming alpine villages where you will experience the world's steepest inclines, passing through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges amid the breathtaking Alps.
DAY 17 Thursday 17 September 2026 Lake Como
Today we take a ferry across the lake to Villa Carlotta, known for its beautiful setting and spectacular gardens. Built in 1745 and later gifted as a wedding present to Carlotta, Duchess of Saxe-Meiningen. We will then take the ferry across the lake to the lovely town of Bellagio. Occupying a magnificent site on the promontory dividing Lake Lecco from Lake Como, it is known for its pretty streets, villas, and gardens. Tonight, we will enjoy an included farewell dinner to celebrate our time in Italy.
DAY 18 Friday 18 September 2026 Depart
Travel to Milan airport and depart on our overnight flight back to Australia.
DAY 19 Saturday 19 September 2026 Arrive home in Australia
Today we arrive back in Australia and the tour concludes.
| Per person, twin-share | Single Fare |
|---|---|
| $10,770 | $12,765 |
Passengers will have to carry their luggage onto and off some of the rail journeys. Luggage will be travelling with you on the trains.
You can stay longer in Italy for minimal extra cost. Please contact Travelrite on 1800 630 343 for more information.
International touring can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair climbing in the places visited and it is important that all tour participants have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in this activity without the need for assistance from others.
Tour Operator: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is the tour organiser. All passengers must complete and sign a Travelrite International booking form.
Tour Costs: The tour costs are based on train, general transport and accommodation costs on 1 September 2025. Travelrite International reserves the right to alter the costs if any of these factors change, giving any passenger that has booked the right to withdraw with full refund of monies paid or modify arrangements. No alterations to price will be made within 60 days of departure from Australia.
Deposit and Payment: A non-refundable deposit of $900 per passenger is required at the time of booking. Final payments are due to be paid to Travelrite International 60 days prior to the commencement of the tour. A 1.5% administration fee will be added to payments made by credit card.
Cancellation Charges: Cancellations within 60 days of departure will result in the loss of all monies paid. Cancellation outside 60 days from departure will result in a cancellation fee of $900 per person. Travel insurance is recommended to cover the costs of cancellation fees due to illness, death in family, etc. Changes to the Tour Itinerary. Travelrite International reserves the right to make changes to the tour itinerary to fit in with operational requirements. Any changes to the itinerary will be replaced with similar arrangements with an equal or greater value.
Refunds:
The cruise is based on arrangements which do not allow for any refunds in respect to sightseeing, accommodation, meals or other services not utilised after the tour has commenced.
Travel Documents:
All passengers will require a valid passport with at least six months validity. If not an Australian passport holder check with Travelrite International for visa requirements.
Travel Insurance: Adequate travel insurance is highly recommended to cover cruise members for the consequences of unforeseen events during the cruise and for cancellation fees which could result from events such as illness, accident, death etc.
Baggage: Passengers qualify for a 23kg free baggage allowance on flights to join or return from the cruise. Passengers will have to carry their luggage onto and off some of the train journeys. Luggage will be travelling with you on the trains when changing destinations.
Minimum Tour Numbers: The tour arrangements have been made on the basis of a minimum number of passengers travelling. In the event that less than the required number of passengers have confirmed their booking 60 days from the date of departure, Travelrite International reserves the right to cancel the tour, giving a full refund of monies paid, or offer arrangements to proceed with the tour at a modified fare.
Tour Organisation: Travelrite reserves the right to change advertised entrances if necessary for the smooth operation of the tour.
TOUR PARTICIPATION:
Children under 5 years of age are ineligible on coach & cruise tours. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Travelrite & Cruise Offers tours provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance, and do not require special assistance from Travelrite & Cruise Offers personnel. Travelrite and Cruise Offers reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt the individual cannot cope with the requirements of coach & cruise tour travel and who may require services and facilities that Travelrite & Cruise Offers cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold the Travelrite & Cruise Offers responsible for any decision made by any of them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you.
Responsibilities: Travelrite International Pty Ltd is the tour organiser. Travelrite International Pty Ltd, its agents, officers, affiliates, and/ or suppliers of services pursuant to, or in connection with these fly/ cruises, shall act only as agents in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, including transportation by ship, restaurants, or any other service and do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of negligence or a default of any hotel, carrier restaurant company or person rendering any services included in fly/cruises, or by act of God. Further, no responsibilities are accepted for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labour disputes, machinery break-down, quarantine, government restraints, weather, terrorism or other causes beyond their control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expense, omission, delays, re-routing or acts of any government authority. Baggage is at owners’ risk throughout the fly/cruise. The passage contract between the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the purchasers of this fly/cruise and/ or the passengers. The right is reserved to withdraw any fly/cruise and/or make such changes in the fly/cruises as may be found desirable or necessary for the convenience of the parties and the proper carrying out of the fly/ cruise. This contract shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be undertaken in the State of Victoria. Attention is also directed to the terms and conditions of the Queen Victoria fly/cruise passage contract with Cunard, detailed on the Cunard website. If you do not have details of these terms please contact Travelrite International and we will send them to you.
DELAYS AND UNFORESEEN EVENTS:
You engage Travelrite International to book this tour on your behalf and you acknowledge that Travelrite International acts as your agent for the purpose of making contracts between you and the various providers of accommodation, transportation and other services that comprise the tour. Travelrite International may without reference to you provide or make available to you, or may as your agent engage any third party to provide or make available to you, any good or service which Travelrite International reasonably believes is necessary for your benefit to maintain the tour itinerary, repatriate you or otherwise accommodate, transport or sustain you in circumstances in which the tour itinerary fails wholly or partly for any reason. You appoint Travelrite International your attorney for this purpose. You agree to pay Travelrite International any cost thereof and you indemnify Travelrite International in respect of any cost it incurs in this regard. Travelrite International advises you to obtain travel insurance generally including in respect of the risk that any such good or service may become required.
How to Book: Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and sending it with a non-refundable deposit of $900 per person to:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
423 Whitehorse Road Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information can be obtained by telephoning
Toll Free: 1800 630 343
Telephone (03) 8803 6868
Email sales@travelrite.com.au
https://www.travelrite.com.au/
About Travelrite International: Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005 817 078) is a well-established family-owned business that’s been operating in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs for more than 40 years. Travelrite International is a full member of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA), is fully Accredited with ATAS (A10538) and IATA. As such they directly represent the major airlines of the world and all major domestic and international hotel, tour and transport operators.
“Being part of an organised tour was a new and enjoyable experience for us. We could relax because the Tour Manager had everything organised.”
“The Tairei Gorge out of Dunedin was our favourite – it had great scenery, bridges and tunnels!”
