Florence, Lake Garda & Swiss Alps
A Cultural, Scenic Rail Holiday
Tour Overview
Embark on an extraordinary rail tour from the UK to the heart of Europe, where breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures await.
- Begin your journey with a scenic rail ride through France and Switzerland, marvelling at the rolling countryside and towering alpine peaks.
- Arrive in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, where you can stroll through cobbled streets, admire Michelangelo’s David, and bask in the grandeur of the Duomo.
- Next, travel to the serene shores of Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, where picturesque villages, sparkling waters, and the majestic Dolomite Mountains create a captivating setting.
- From Lake Garda, continue your adventure through the awe-inspiring Swiss Alps, travelling along iconic rail routes such as the Gotthard Pass or the Bernina Express, where every turn reveals dramatic peaks, shimmering glaciers, and charming alpine towns.
- This rail tour offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration and scenic grandeur, making it an unforgettable journey through some of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.
Travel Tips
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Travelling to Switzerland by train via Italy offers a unique and scenic experience that combines efficiency, comfort, and the chance to enjoy some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes. If it’s ultimate Swiss Alpine scenery you’re after, you may wish to include a journey on the fabulous Bernina Express.
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For a relaxed experience, you may wish to allow 3-4 nights in Florence. This will allow you to not only sample some of the main sights which are within easy walking distance of each other, but to also take day trips to Pisa and the medieval town of Siena.
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If time allows, you may wish to include a stay at the port city of Genoa before heading north to Desenzano on the shores of the largest of the Italian lakes, Lake Garda.
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If you’re looking for a leisurely stay, 4 or more nights at Desenzano will allow you to fully explore this resort town, including its Roman villa and charming streets. It will also provide time for you to take several boat trips to visit the wider range of towns dotted around Lake Garda.
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Visits to towns such as Sirmione and Malcesine are a must. Malcesine’s cable car to the top of Monte Baldo is particularly breathtaking.
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You may wish to visit nearby Venice, direct services run throughout the day and a public transport ticket for the waterbuses can be included.
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Travel on the Glacier and Bernina Express trains; both unforgettable journeys that deliver breathtaking views throughout.
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Travel home via Milan and Basle using high speed Frecciarossa and TGV services. Include an overnight stay at Basel and/or Paris if time allows to really get the most out of your holiday.
What Ffestiniog Travel Will Do
Transport
- Arrange all travel - rail and flights based on your preferred dates
- Arrange travel passes
- Reserve seating based on your chosen class
- Organise car hire if required
Accommodation
- Arrange all accommodation based on your budget
Planning
- Plan a bespoke day-to-day itinerary
- Arrange excursions tailored to your desired trip