Sicilian Odyssey Rail Journey

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 travelers for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel, a chance to savor 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 we depart across the iconic causeway that spans the Venice Lagoon, beginning our journey along the Po River and ever-changing landscapes of northern Italy.

Our 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, we 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 flavors of the region as you continue our journey south

Awake to a delicious breakfast served onboard as you arrive 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 its streets. Raise a glass atop the Torre di Prendiparte, offering panoramic views of the red-roofed skyline, before traveling onward to the beautiful seaside city of Rimini.

This afternoon, enjoy the freedom to tailor your experience with one of two exclusive touring options. Motoring enthusiasts may opt to visit 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, as you continue our voyage in comfort and style.

Step back almost two millennia as you 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 from bygone times. In our behind-the-scenes tour, you will take a look at how crucial preservation work is a continuous race against time to protect the original splendor for future generations. Following your exploration, continue to the slopes of Mount Vesuvius itself to visit Casa Setaro, a family-run vineyard nestled in the volcanic soils of the region. Here, you will enjoy a tasting of their acclaimed wines and delicious local specialties, a perfect way to toast the rich flavors 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 bring a fairytale quality to the landscape. A guided tour will reveal their unique construction and cultural significance, with time to enjoy a tasting of local wine or olive oil. In the afternoon, visit elegant Lecce, the baroque heart of southern Italy and known for its golden limestone facades and flamboyant sculptural details. Explore the city's stunning churches including the Duomo and Santa Croce, showcasing the rich artistry of Leccese Baroque. Later, your scenic rail journey continues through the wild natural beauty of Cilento National Park, as you make your way to the southern tip of the mainland.

Wake up to a gourmet breakfast in the elegant dining car of the Golden Eagle Danube Express, as you roll into Sicily following a rare overnight train crossing of the Straits of Messina, a unique and memorable moment of the journey. Framed by the panoramic windows, the island’s rugged hills and olive groves offer a spectacular welcome. Your first stop is the lively Sicilian capital, Palermo. A gentle walking tour through its vibrant old town reveals a captivating blend of architectural styles. Conclude with an aperitif and concert at the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house. In the afternoon, 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.

Arrive in Agrigento, gateway to one of Italy’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures. While the modern town may be unassuming, the focus is the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples. On a privately guided tour, explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, where the remains of ancient temples rise majestically against the Sicilian sky. In the afternoon, continue to Ragusa, a hilltop town bursting with Baroque charm. With its honey-hued churches and gray 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 flavors and learn the secrets of traditional Sicilian cuisine.

Arrive in Syracuse, once a flourishing center of the Byzantine Empire. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city itself and enjoy a peaceful boat tour around the Island of Ortigia, offering a unique perspective of this ancient coastal gem. After lunch back on board the train, journey to Caltagirone, a picturesque hilltop town famed for its exquisite ceramics, a tradition dating back to the 10th century. Visit a local artisan workshop to see this heritage brought to life before continuing to the Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best-preserved Roman villas in the world, where intricate mosaics tell stories of the ancient civilizations that once ruled the island.

Take in the rolling Sicilian countryside as you arrive 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, where your culinary experience will be guided by the palace’s owner, adding an extra touch of grandeur. In the afternoon, rejoin the train for the final leg of the journey as the train glides toward your last destination: the cliffside jewel of Taormina.

Perched above the glittering Gulf of Naxos with panoramic views of Mount Etna, Taormina provides a breathtaking finale to your 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. You’ll then head to the slopes of the volcano itself for an indulgent lunch and wine tasting among 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 the unforgettable journey—complete, of course, with champagne and a toast to cherished new memories made. Depart on Day 12.