Art Cities & Milan to Paris via The Alps STANDARD Independent Rail Tour 2026

Arrival at Rome Fiumicino airport, transfer to the hotel by a private car. The rest of your day is at leisure. You can explore the city on your own to discover the most famous symbols of Rome, such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, Spain Square. 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 dinner we suggest trying a typical Roman restaurant. Overnight stay at the hotel in Rome.

Breakfast at the hotel, then another day dedicated to discovering the city. Today you join our Imperial Tour of Rome (included in the rates), to closely admire the monuments of the Roman Forum, enter the Colosseum and listen to our guide's presentation of the evocative history of ancient Rome and the gladiators' fights that took place there. In the afternoon, free time to continue exploring the Eternal City. You can join an excursion to visit Rome Catacombs. For the sporty people, there is also the option of an electric bike tour, to discover the historic center with its symbols or even a more secret and unusual Rome. For the evening, we recommend a nice walk in the Trastevere district, full of typical restaurants. Overnight stay at the hotel in Rome. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, you will reach Rome Termini station to board the high-speed train to Florence; the journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.  Upon arrival check-in to your hote, and the remainder of your day is at leisure to explore the city the 'cradle of the Renaissance'. We would suggest 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, Botticelli and many others), or the Accademia Gallery, which houses the original of Michelangelo's famous statue of David, or an half day visit to Pisa and its famous leaning tower. Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will discover two thousand years of history of the cradle of the Renaissance through the eyes of an expert local guide, who will take you on an unforgettable journey to discover the most beautiful squares and monuments of Florence. With this half day tour, you will admire with your own eyes the sites and monuments that have made Florence one of the most visited destinations in the world. Rest of the day is at leisure to visit the monuments, museums or take an excursion to see the surrounding areas. Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, we board the high-speed train to Venice S. Lucia. The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Upon arrival check-in. Later 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 try experience! Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel, then 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 colours; and Torcello, the first settlement centre in the lagoon. Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Breakfast at your hotel. Reach Santa Lucia Rail Station on your own to get the High-Speed Train to Milan. Arrival in Milan and free time to visit the city on one’s own. You can discover 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 is also available. Overnight stay at hotel. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel and then take the regional train to reach Como. The journey takes about 40 minutes. 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 and overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

Embark on a breathtaking journey that begins in the charming Italian town of Tirano and takes you to the world-renowned alpine resort of St. Moritz in Switzerland, aboard the famous Bernina Express. Your adventure starts in Tirano, where you'll board the Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage railway renowned for its scenic views. As the train ascends through the stunning landscape of the Swiss Alps, you'll be treated to panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. The journey crosses the Bernina Pass, reaching an altitude of 2,253 meters (7,391 feet), offering unparalleled vistas that change with every twist and turn. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you'll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. St. Moritz, famous for its glamorous atmosphere and pristine natural beauty, offers a range of activities to suit every taste. You might choose to stroll along the shores of Lake St. Moritz, explore the upscale boutiques, or dine in one of the town’s exquisite restaurants. After a day filled with breathtaking scenery and luxury, you'll spend the night in St. Moritz, where you can relax and unwind, ready to continue your adventure the next day. (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a morning departure from the glamorous alpine town of St. Moritz as you embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Glacier Express, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. This iconic train journey will take you across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and over the dramatic Oberalp Pass at an altitude of 2,033 meters (6,670 feet), offering panoramic views of the Swiss Alps' rugged peaks, deep gorges, and charming villages. As you arrive in Zermatt, a picturesque village nestled at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn, you'll have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure. Stroll through the car-free streets of Zermatt, visit the quaint shops, or relax in one of the cozy cafes while soaking in the stunning alpine scenery. After a day of exploration, settle in for the night in your Zermatt hotel, ready for the adventure that awaits. (B) 

The following day is dedicated to the awe-inspiring Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Have breakfast at the hotel and then begin your day with a cable car ride to the highest cable car station in Europe, at an altitude of 3,883 meters (12,739 feet). From here, you'll experience breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks. Explore the Glacier Palace, carved deep inside the glacier, or enjoy the panoramic views from the viewing platform. After your visit, return to Zermatt where you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps indulging in some local cuisine or simply relaxing after your day of high-altitude adventure. You'll spend the night in Zermatt, savouring the tranquil alpine atmosphere. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel, then start your journey in the beautiful alpine village of Zermatt as you board your train to Geneva. As you leave behind the iconic Matterhorn, the train will take you through some of Switzerland’s most picturesque landscapes. Enjoy the views as you pass through charming valleys, alongside crystal-clear lakes, and past traditional Swiss villages, all framed by the stunning backdrop of the Alps. Upon arriving in Geneva, you’ll have the afternoon and evening free to explore this cosmopolitan city. Stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva, visit the famous Jet d'Eau, or explore the vibrant international district. With its blend of Swiss precision and French flair, Geneva offers a unique cultural experience. After a day of discovery, spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Geneva, ready for the next leg of your journey. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a train journey from Geneva to the romantic city of Paris. As the train whisks you through the scenic countryside, you’ll leave behind the serene Swiss landscapes and cross into France, arriving in the heart of Paris. Once in Paris, the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Whether you choose to visit iconic landmarks like the Louvre Museum, stroll through the charming streets of Montmartre, or relax in one of the city’s many cafes, Paris offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Paris, where you can unwind and savor the magic of the City of Light. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will discover Paris of the Parisian starting from a panoramic roof bus. Visit the most famous neighbourhoods and monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame and admire the architecture of "The City of Lights". Specifics commentaries for children who will be able to discover Paris through the commentaries of Lulu and Maurice, 2 dogs who will visit the city. Then you will discover Paris from the Seine on board a glass-enclosed boat. Afterwards, you will take advantage of an incomparable panoramic view of the capital while visiting the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower. Overnight stay in Paris. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will discover the charming Palace of Versailles with its astonishing treasures. Prepare to be blown away, as we make our way to the glorious Palace of Versailles (by bus). Look out the window and watch the landscape change before your eyes as we travel by a comfortably air-conditioned bus. Once we arrive, enjoy the VIP treatment as we use the priority access to skip the long lines as well as being accompanied by a trilingual hostess to lead the way. As we enter, take note of the handy audio guide provided and with it being available in 11 languages makes it a great tool for many visitors. Wander deep into the Hall of Mirrors, a room famous for having held many ceremony during the Absolute Monarchy period in France and has since inspired various imitations throughout the world for its beauty and regency. Meander over to the State Apartments, the previous hunting lodge to Louis XIII and was later renovated to create a spectacular home for the King and Queen. After the visit, you will have free time to discover the massive gardens of the Palace designed by André Le Nôtre and explore the surroundings at your own pace. This is a fabulous way of seeing Versailles and is definitely a must-see whilst in Paris. Return to the City of lights by bus. Overnight stay in Paris. (B)

Note: Versailles Palace & Gardens are closed on Monday. In this case, our local operator reserves the right to change the order of the travel program.

Breakfast at the hotel. End of services. (B)