Rome, Florence, and Venice 9 Nights by Train

About the destination: Venice is a city like no other: a labyrinth of canals, marble palaces, and hidden courtyards floating on the Adriatic. Built on more than 100 small islands, it has no roads—only waterways and narrow alleys that suddenly open onto breathtaking piazzas. At its heart lies St. Mark’s Square, framed by the dazzling Basilica di San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and the iconic Campanile. From here, you can wander under arcades lined with cafés and listen to live orchestras as the sun sets over the lagoon. The Grand Canal is Venice’s main thoroughfare, curving through the city like a glittering highway of water. Riding a vaporetto (water bus) offers a front-row view of Gothic and Renaissance palaces, their facades reflected in the rippling surface. For a more intimate experience, slip into one of the smaller canals on a gondola and glide beneath low stone bridges, passing quiet neighborhoods where laundry hangs over the water and church bells echo between the walls. Beyond the famous sights, Venice rewards slow exploration. Lose yourself in the districts of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro, where local bacari (wine bars) serve cicchetti—small Venetian tapas—alongside spritz and local wines. Cross the Rialto Bridge to visit its bustling market, where fishmongers and fruit vendors supply the city’s kitchens, and artisans sell Murano glass and traditional masks. Each sestiere (district) has its own character, from elegant San Marco to the more bohemian, artsy feel of Dorsoduro. Venice also makes an ideal base for exploring the lagoon islands. Take a short boat ride to Murano, famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, where you can watch master glassblowers at work. Continue to Burano, a photographer’s dream with its brightly painted houses and lace workshops, and then on to Torcello, a peaceful island with ancient churches and a rare sense of quiet. Whether you come for art, history, or romance, Venice offers a dreamlike atmosphere that lingers long after you leave.

About the destination: With an almost Northern European ambiance, yet radiating Italian style, Milan is Italy's most cosmopolitan city. This capital of Lombardy is both industrious and glamorous - a powerhouse in sectors ranging from finance to fashion, and of course, football. However, what sets Milan apart is its standing as the hub of Italian fashion and interior design. International fashion enthusiasts, designers, supermodels, and paparazzi flock to the city biannually for its spring and fall fairs: Milan, which has meticulously maintained its reputation for flair, drama, and creativity, is Italy's natural stage. Undoubtedly, it's one of the best places in Italy for shopping, or even just window shopping. As Italy's primary industrial, commercial, and financial center, Milan unsurprisingly has a business-like demeanor. At first glance, it may not seem impressive, but if you take the time and make an effort to explore Milan’s streets, you’ll discover its aesthetically pleasing treasures – they do exist. Navigate through the modern metropolitan hustle, and you'll find impressive churches and palaces, the charming Navigli area, the trendy Brera district and vibrant university quarter, not to mention a landmark like the Duomo, or the fact that the city proudly houses Leonardo da Vinci's 15th-century masterpiece, The Last Supper. Milan leaves no room for criticism when it comes to having a good time. The Milanese know how to celebrate – and they don’t waste time getting started. Nightlife usually begins at 6pm; enjoying an aperitivo, where locals relax with after-work drinks and snacks before heading home, is more the norm than the exception. So, whether you’re in search of affordable fashion, an alternative city getaway, or an opportunity to paint the town red, Milan undoubtedly has it all.

About the destination: Florence remains as vibrant and beautiful today as it was when its wool and silk traders and bankers revolutionized the economy of 13th century Tuscany, and the art of Dante and Michelangelo left the world in awe. Florence was the heart of the Italian Renaissance. The results of the city's revival can still be seen in its seemingly endless array of museums, churches, and palaces. With its historic center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Duomo, the elegant and stunning cathedral, towers over the city and serves as a clear landmark during your explorations. The River Arno, which runs through the oldest part of the city, is topped with the Ponte Vecchio bridge, which is lined with shops and supported by stilts. Dating back to the 14th century, it is the only bridge that withstood attacks during WWII. Standing by the river at night, when the city is lit up with countless twinkling lights, is an unforgettable experience. But more than just stones and paint remain of Florence's unparalleled heritage; the city's unyielding spirit has also endured through the centuries, ensuring that Florentine life today is vibrant and sophisticated.