Classic Rail Holidays – London to Italy

When it came to choosing from a host of classic rail holidays the trip from London to northern Italy stole the crown. The scenery transforms from the sweeping fields of rural France to the Swiss Alps, finally opening out into the vineyards and olive groves of Italy. Combined with a tour of northern Italy’s top treasures, this promised to be an unforgettable experience.

From the VIP departure service, we experienced a luxury break fit for the royalty and elite who would have embarked upon rail holidays in the golden age. The British Pullman Carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient- Express were done out like a gentleman’s parlour: the perfect setting to recline and relax whist rolling through the Kent countryside and enjoying brunch and a Bellini, served by our own personal steward who attended us throughout the journey.

After the Euro crossing to Calais the glitzy carriages of the Continental Wagons-Lits awaited. Our private cabin was a wonderfully comfortable space to rest before a four-course dinner accompanied by fine wine and champagne.

The first leg of the journey toured through the snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps and then on to the rocky summits of the Italian Dolomites. Afternoon tea was served in the cabin as the train travelled through the Brenner Pass, the gateway to Italy. Gorgeous mountains and countryside are a great introduction to the country, with Venice an ideal place to start an Italian exploration.

A guided tour began in St Mark’s Square where the domes and spires of the basilica looked positively radiant, flocks of birds casting shadows against the gleaming faÁade. Exploring Venice’s 117 islands is a unique experience, where it’s possible to forget the traffic and mayhem of the outside world and be transported back to a bygone time of theatre and romance. Ornate palaces and picturesque squares greet you at every turn. Even getting lost is always rewarding in Venice, with secret treasures to discover around every corner. A gondola trip is a must do, a stripy shirted Italian singing traditional songs whilst weaving through the vast network of canals.

The small village of San Gimignano was next on the itinerary; one of the most popular locations in Italy. Well preserved architecture conjures medieval Tuscany in a skyline of towers and turrets. The surrounding landscape of olive groves and vineyards adds to the timeless quality of this hilltop village. Nearby Siena is equally as beautifully, alive with history and tradition which sweeps up visitors and transports them back in time. This tranquil village holds centre stage for two days of the year when the wild Palio horserace is held.

Lucca and Pisa were next for a visit, the streets of Lucca possessing a refined, proud quality which exemplifies the heart of Italian culture. Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower is a true sight to behold, three hundred years in the making from gleaming white marble.

The trip ended in Florence with a guided walking tour. Lovers of art and beauty in general will be blown away by this city, which is the centre of Renaissance art.