Sicilian Odyssey

DAY ONE - VENICE

Your adventure begins in the captivating city of Venice, where timeless beauty and romance can be found around every corner. You'll spend two nights at one of the city's most renowned five-star hotels, serving as an ideal base for your exploration of La Serenissima.

This evening, join fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel. This will be the ultimate opportunity to indulge in exquisite Italian cuisine and toast to the memorable journey that lies ahead.

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DAY TWO - VENICE

Today, dive into the allure of Venice with a guided walking tour that showcases its most famous landmarks, such as the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the lively Rialto Market. Alternatively, you may choose to spend the day at your own pace—consider a romantic gondola ride across the lagoon or a shopping trip to search for unique souvenirs.

As the sun dips below the horizon, your evening will commence with a captivating private concert at the historic San Zaccaria church, followed by an exquisite dinner at the acclaimed Ristorante Carpaccio.

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DAY THREE - CREMONA

This morning, wave goodbye to Venice in style with a private boat transfer from your hotel to Santa Lucia station. Enjoy a serene glide along the Grand Canal, where the Golden Eagle Danube Express awaits you. Settle into the comfort of your private cabin as you set off on your journey across the iconic causeway that stretches over the Venice Lagoon.

Your first destination is the enchanting city of Cremona. This charming and unassuming city boasts impressive architecture and a fascinating musical heritage, remaining largely under the radar of mainstream tourism. Here, you will explore the stunning 13th-century piazza and enjoy a private tour of the renowned Stradivari Museum, immersing yourself in the city’s centuries-old tradition of master violin craftsmanship. This evening, a gourmet welcome dinner will be served onboard, celebrating the delightful flavours of the region as you continue your journey south.

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DAY FOUR - BOLOGNA, RIMINI & SAN MARINO

Wake to a delightful breakfast served on board as you approach Bologna, Italy’s esteemed culinary capital. Renowned for its gastronomy, medieval towers, and endless porticoes, Bologna is truly a feast for the senses. A guided morning tour will unveil the city’s charming essence, highlighting its historic university and the iconic arches that grace its streets. Toast atop the Torre di Prendiparte, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the red-roofed skyline, before you continue your journey to the picturesque seaside city of Rimini.

This afternoon, you have the freedom to customise your experience with one of two exclusive touring options:

• For motoring enthusiasts: Consider a visit to the exhilarating Ferrari factory in nearby Maranello, which includes a museum tour and a thrilling driving simulator experience.
• For history buffs: Ascend to the Republic of San Marino, one of the world’s oldest sovereign states, where you can explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town and the stunning heights of Mount Titano.

As night falls, relax with an exquisite dinner served aboard the elegant Golden Eagle Danube Express.

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DAY FIVE - POMPEII

Today, you are invited to step back nearly two thousand years as you unveil the haunting ruins of Pompeii—an ancient Roman town dramatically preserved in the wake of the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Lying beneath layers of ash, this archaeological site provides a rare and poignant insight into the daily life of a bygone era. During your exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, you will delve into the vital preservation efforts that represent an ongoing race against time, aimed at safeguarding the original splendour for future generations.

After your exploration, you will ascend to the slopes of Mount Vesuvius to visit Casa Setaro, a family-owned vineyard nestled in the region's volcanic soils. Here, you will indulge in a tasting of their renowned wines alongside delicious local specialities—an ideal way to celebrate the flavours and heritage of Campania.

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DAY SIX - ALBEROBELLO & LECCE

Start your day in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Puglia, celebrated for its enchanting Trulli – conical-roofed stone houses that add a fairytale charm to the landscape. A guided tour will unveil their distinctive construction techniques and cultural importance, followed by a delightful tasting of local wine or olive oil.

In the afternoon, head to the elegant city of Lecce, the baroque heart of southern Italy. Renowned for its golden limestone facades and extravagant sculptural details, explore the city’s breathtaking churches, including the Duomo and Santa Croce.

Later, continue your scenic rail journey through the stunning natural beauty of Cilento National Park, as you travel towards the southern tip of the mainland.

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DAY SEVEN - PALERMO

Start your day with a gourmet breakfast in the elegant dining car of the Golden Eagle Danube Express as you arrive in Sicily. Framed by panoramic windows, the island's rugged hills and olive groves provide a stunning welcome.

Your first destination is the vibrant Sicilian capital, Palermo. Enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the lively old town, where you’ll discover a fascinating mix of architectural styles. Wrap up the day with an aperitif and a concert at the grand Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy.

This afternoon, you have the option to explore Palermo at your own pace. You can choose to visit Corleone and take in breathtaking mountain views, or head to Monreale to admire the stunning golden mosaics of its renowned Norman Cathedral.

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DAY EIGHT - AGRIGENTO & RAGUSA

Awake in Agrigento, the gateway to one of Italy’s most remarkable archaeological wonders. While this contemporary town may appear modest, today’s primary focus is the breathtaking Valley of the Temples. During a private guided tour, delve into this UNESCO World Heritage site, where the remnants of ancient temples rise majestically against the Sicilian sky.

In the afternoon, proceed to Ragusa, a hilltop town rich in Baroque beauty. With its golden-hued churches and grey-stone homes cascading down the hillside, it’s a paradise for photographers. Later, partake in an engaging cooking demonstration, where you will immerse yourself in regional flavours and uncover the secrets of traditional Sicilian cuisine.

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DAY NINE - SYRACUSE & CALTAGIRONE

On the morning of your ninth day, you will arrive in Syracuse, a once-thriving centre of the Byzantine Empire. From here, you will escape the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy a serene boat tour around the Island of Ortigia, providing a unique view of this ancient coastal treasure.

After a delicious lunch on the train, you will continue your journey to Caltagirone, a charming hilltop town renowned for its beautiful ceramics, a tradition that dates back to the 10th century. Here, you will visit a local artisan workshop to witness this heritage come to life before proceeding to the Villa Romana del Casale, one of the world's best-preserved Roman villas. Intricate mosaics narrate the stories of the ancient civilisations that once ruled the island.

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DAY TEN - CATANIA & TAORMINA

Following a relaxed breakfast on board, enjoy the picturesque Sicilian countryside as you approach Catania, located at the base of Mount Etna. Take the morning at your leisure to explore the city’s charming squares and the many historical churches.

Later on, take part in a delightful hands-on Sicilian pastry class at either the Società Storica Catanese or the elegant Palazzo Biscari. This culinary experience will be led by the palace’s owner. In the afternoon, reunite with the train for the final stretch of our journey as you make your way to your last stop: the breathtaking cliffside gem of Taormina.

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DAY ELEVEN & TWELVE - TAORMINA

Nestled above the sparkling Gulf of Naxos with sweeping views of Mount Etna, Taormina offers a magnificent conclusion to your Sicilian adventure. The day begins with an exclusive visit to the Mount Etna Museum, where a local volcanologist will guide you, bringing this awe-inspiring natural wonder to life.

Next, venture to the slopes of the volcano for a delightful lunch and wine tasting among the vineyards at a traditional Sicilian Palmento. Here, the region's volcanic soil imparts a unique character to its wines. In the afternoon, take the opportunity to meander through Taormina's medieval streets, explore its famous Greek Theatre, and embrace the enchanting old-world atmosphere at your own pace.

As the sun sets on your final evening, gather for a Farewell Dinner to commemorate your unforgettable journey, complete with champagne and a heartfelt toast to the cherished memories you have created together.