Absolute Italy by Rail

Absolute Italy by Rail

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12 Days From

$2992

Absolute Italy by Rail

12 Days Starting in Rome, Italy and ending in Venice, Italy

Visiting: Rome, Florence, La Spezia, Milan, Como, Venice

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 2

Physical rating:

EASY

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2992

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy with the "Absolute Italy by Rail" tour. This adventure takes you from the historic streets of Rome, where you'll explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, to the romantic canals of Venice. Discover the artistic treasures of Florence, the medieval charm of Siena and San Gimignano, and the breathtaking beauty of the Cinque Terre. Enjoy a full-day excursion to Naples and Pompeii, marvel at the Last Supper in Milan, and relax with a wine tasting in the Chianti region. Travel seamlessly between destinations with high-speed and regional trains, ensuring a comfortable and scenic experience.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a guided tour in Rome and see Campo Dei Fiori, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps

  • Explore the major tourist attractions near Milan that include Lake Como and Bellagio

  • Discover the Last Supper of Leonardo Da Vinci and the famous Gothic Cathedral in Milan

  • Visit Chianti Area and enjoy a wine tasting experience of the Chianti Red wine

  • Marvel at the beauty of Venice by visiting Piazza San Marco with the Basilica and the Clock Tower

  • Full day tour to Naples and Pompeii from Naples railway station

  • Visit the walled town of San Gimignano, famous for its white wine, Vernaccia

  • Explore the famous Cinque Terre, the stretch of coast with 5 fishing villages

Places You'll See

The Colosseum, Rome

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Rome Arrival

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Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Hotel

On your arrival at the airport, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. During the rest of the day free time at your disposal for a first exploratory tour of the Eternal City. In case of an early arrival in Rome, we recommend a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, to admire Michelangelo's famous Sistine Chapel and other masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance more closely. It is also possible to participate in a series of other optional activities, such as a cooking lesson to learn how to make pizza or pasta and ice cream. For the evening, we recommend a nice walk in the Trastevere district, full of typical restaurants.Overnight in Rome

Day 2: Rome (B/-/-)

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Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel and discover Imperial Rome on a group tour including the Forum and the magnificent Colosseum. The rest of the day is free to explore the city. You can join an excursion to visit Rome Catacombs or for the sporty ones there is also the option of an electric bike tour, to discover the historic centre with its symbols or even a more secret and unusual Rome.




Overnight in Rome

Day 3: Rome – Naples – Pompeii – Rome (B/-/-)

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Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, you will board the high-speed train to Naples; the journey takes about 1h 15. Upon arrival at Naples station you will begin a full day excursion to visit Pompeii and Naples. You will first discover the famous archaeological site of Pompeii, ancient Roman city destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD and then you will immerse yourself in the undisputed charm of the city of Naples. In the evening, return to Rome by train




Overnight in Rome

Day 4: Rome – Florence (B/-/-)

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Location: Florence

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, you will reach Rome Termini station to board the high-speed train to Florence; the journey takes about 1h 30. After arriving, hotel accommodation and free time available for an independent visit of the city, the 'cradle of the Renaissance'. It is possible to participate in a guided walking tour that reaches the symbols of the city (Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza della Signoria, the Ponte Vecchio with the goldsmiths' shops), or a guided tour of one of the main museums: the Uffizi Galleries, with the masterpieces of the masters of the Italian Renaissance (Leonardo, Caravaggio, Raffaello, Tiziano, Botticelliand many others), or the Accademia Gallery, which houses the original of Michelangelo's famous statue of David.Overnight in Florence

Day 5: Florence – Siena – San Gimignano – Monteriggioni - Chianti Area - Florence (B/-/-)

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Location: Florence

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Full-day tour heading to the Chianti area and visiting Monteriggioni, with its still intact medieval walls. The tour continues to Siena, where you will discover the suggestive Piazza del Campo, Piazza Duomo, the Cathedral, Palazzo Pubblico and the famous Torre del Mangia. After Siena, the tour will head to the walled town of San Gimignano, renowned for its white wine, the world-renowned Vernaccia, and its skyscrapers, also declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO! The tour will continue with a visit to Chianti area and a wine-tasting experience of the Chianti red wine. Return to Florence in the evening.Overnight in Florence

Day 6: Florence – La Spenzia (B/-/-)

Location: La Spezia

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we board the regional train to La Spezia. The journey takes about 2h30m. La Spezia is the starting city to explore the famous Cinque Terre, the stretch of coast with five fishing villages perched over the sea: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The two-day Cinque Terre Train Card is included, allowing access to the National Park area and using regional trains that connect the villages and local buses.Overnight in La Spenzia

Day 7: La Spenzia – Le Cinque Terre – La Spenzia (B/-/-)

Location: La Spezia

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel, then free day to continue the visit of the Cinque Terre, you can participate in a food tour to taste the typical season specialties of the territory. Sports enthusiasts can opt for a mountain e-bike ride with a guide on one of the many scenic routes of the Gulf of Poets.




Overnight in La Spenzia

Day 8: La Spenzia – Milan (B/-/-)

Location: Milan

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we board the intercity train to Milan. The journey takes about 3h20m. After arriving, hotel accommodation and free time for all to visit the city on ones own. We suggest discovering the most famous symbols of Milan, such as the Duomo, the Castello Sforzesco, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio and the Navigli, the famous canals, the very hub of the Milanese nightlife. You can continue your visit to the city with an internal visit of the Teatro alla Scala and its museum, a unique experience to visit one of the most famous theatre houses in the world. For the sports enthusiasts, a bike tour tour is also available.Overnight in Milan

Day 9: Milan – Como - Lake Como – Milan (B/-/-)

Location: Como

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel and then take the regional train to reach Como. The journey takes about 40 min. Discover the city of Como and its famous lake on your own. A day ticket is included for the hop-on / hop-off public boat to discover the lake departing from Como. You can choose the best stops to get off for a walk according to the departures of the boats and the time of the train back to Milan. Enjoy some free time in Como to get to know the town and shop in the many local boutiques. Return to Milan in the evening.Overnight in Milan

Day 10: Milan – Venice (B/-/-)

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Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we board the high-speed train to Venice. The journey takes about 2h30m. After arriving, hotel accommodation, so in the afternoon there will be a 30-minute “gondola ride” with commentary via app on your mobile phone. Before dinner in Venice, it is traditional to have an aperitif based on “cichéti” (small snacks) in one of the many “bacari” (taverns) scattered along the “calli” (that is what the Venetian streets are called): a must experience to try.Overnight in Venice

Day 11: Venice (B/-/-)

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Location: Venice

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel, then a full day dedicated to the discovery of Venice or its lagoon. You can take a guided walking tour through the most famous places in the city (Piazza San Marco with the Basilica and the Clock Tower, the Rialto Bridge, Campo Santa Maria Formosa) and others less known; or a skip-the-line guided tour of the Doge's Palace, with the Doge's luxurious apartments and the famous Bridge of Sighs. Alternatively, you can go on a boat trip to the islands of the Venice lagoon: Murano, known all over the world for its famous glass craftmanship; Burano, famous not only for its lace but also for the picturesque fishermen's houses all painted in bright colors; and Torcello, the first settlement center in the lagoon.Overnight in Venice

Day 12: Venice (B/-/-)

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Location: Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, after breakfast at the hotel, make your own way to your airport for your flight back.

What's Included

  • 11 nights accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar

    Stay in comfortable accommodations for 11 nights on a twin-sharing basis at the listed hotels or similar.

  • Daily breakfast

    Enjoy daily breakfast during your stay.

  • Arrival transfer in Rome by private Car/Minibus

    Receive a private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Rome upon arrival.

  • Service of English-speaking tour guide

    Benefit from the services of an English-speaking tour guide throughout the tour.

  • Sightseeing as per the itinerary

    Participate in sightseeing activities as outlined in the itinerary.

  • Entrance to Colosseum & Roman Forum Group tour (3hrs)

    Gain entrance to the Colosseum and Roman Forum for a 3-hour group tour.

  • Full Day Tour to Naples and Pompeii from Naples railway station

    Enjoy a full-day tour to Naples and Pompeii starting from Naples railway station.

  • Entrance ticket to Pompeii

    Receive an entrance ticket to explore the archaeological site of Pompeii.

  • Full Day Tour by modern AC coach to Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Area from Florence

    Take a full-day tour by modern air-conditioned coach to Siena, San Gimignano, and the Chianti Area from Florence.

  • 48hrs Cinque Terre Train Card

    Get a 48-hour Cinque Terre Train Card for access to the National Park area and regional trains connecting the villages.

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What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities

    Expenses of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Departure airport transfers

    Transfers from the hotel to the airport at the end of the tour are not included.

  • Return train station transfers

    Transfers to and from train stations are not included.

  • Local city taxes (to be paid directly at the hotel)

    Local city taxes, which must be paid directly at the hotel, are not included.

  • Items not mentioned as included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

Travel conveniently with high-speed and regional train tickets, private car/minibus transfers, and a modern AC coach for various excursions, ensuring seamless connectivity between Rome, Naples, Florence, La Spezia, Milan, and Venice.

Accommodation

Enjoy 11 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring a restful stay throughout your Italian adventure.

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Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes high-speed and regional train tickets, private car/minibus transfers, and a modern air-conditioned coach for various excursions, ensuring seamless connectivity between Rome, Naples, Florence, La Spezia, Milan, and Venice.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides 11 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring a restful stay throughout your Italian adventure.

  • Is breakfast included in the tour package?

    Yes, daily breakfast is included during your stay.

  • Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?

    Yes, the tour includes several guided tours such as a group tour of Imperial Rome including the Forum and Colosseum, a full-day tour to Naples and Pompeii, and a full-day tour to Siena, San Gimignano, and the Chianti Area from Florence.

  • What activities are available on the free days?

    On free days, you can explore the cities on your own or participate in optional activities such as guided tours of the Vatican Museums, cooking lessons in Rome, electric bike tours, food tours in Cinque Terre, and guided walking tours in Venice.

  • Is there a wine tasting experience included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a wine tasting experience in the Chianti Area.

  • What is the duration of the gondola ride in Venice?

    The gondola ride in Venice is 30 minutes long and includes commentary via an app on your mobile phone.

  • Are entrance fees to major attractions included?

    Yes, entrance fees to major attractions such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pompeii are included in the tour package.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour?

    Arrival transfer in Rome by private car/minibus is included, but departure airport transfers are not included.

  • What is the Cinque Terre Train Card and what does it include?

    The Cinque Terre Train Card is a 48-hour pass that allows access to the National Park area and the use of regional trains connecting the five fishing villages, as well as local buses.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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