Venice to Taormina
SICILIAN ODYSSEY
Golden Eagle Danube Express
VENICE – CREMONA – BOLOGNA – RIMINI – SAN MARINO – POMPEII – ALBEROBELLO – LECCE – PALERMO – AGRIGENTO – RAGUSA – SYRACUSE – CALTAGIRONE – CATANIA – TAORMINA
Discover the soul of Italy on this luxurious rail voyage from Venice to Sicily, where timeless beauty and rich heritage unfold at every turn. Travel through the musical charm of Cremona, the culinary capital of Bologna, and the clifftop Republic of San Marino, before exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the fairytale Trulli of Alberobello.
Crossing into Sicily, the journey unfolds through a rich mosaic of experience: barter with locals amid the vibrant buzz of Palermo’s ancient markets, admire the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and dazzling mosaics of Syracuse, with each destination weaving a unique thread in this unforgettable tapestry of culture and heritage.
Conclude your odyssey in the dramatic shadow of Mount Etna, with time to savour Taormina’s clifftop vistas and the coastal elegance of Catania. With handpicked excursions, fine dining, and impeccable service throughout, the Sicilian Odyssey is a curated exploration of Italy’s most evocative landscapes.
Dates & Prices
All prices are per person and published in Euros (€).
We also accept payment in both US Dollars ($) and Pound Sterling (£). Please note we use a fixed exchange rate that is reviewed quarterly – contact us to receive a confirmed price in your preferred currency.
2027
| EUR (€) | Deluxe Class | Superior Deluxe Class | ||
| Twin (€) | Single (€) | Twin (€) | Single (€) | |
| Aug 29 – Sep 9 | 27,900 | 46,900 | 34,900 | 58,500 |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | ||
DAY 1 Venice
Begin your voyage in the enchanting city of Venice, where timeless beauty and romance are woven into every canal and cobblestone. You’ll enjoy two nights at one of the city’s most iconic five-star hotels, a perfect base from which to explore La Serenissima.
This evening, gather with fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel – a chance to savour fine Italian cuisine and cheers to the unforgettable journey that awaits.
DAY 2 Venice
Today, immerse yourself in the magic of Venice with a guided walking tour of its most iconic landmarks, including the magnificent St Mark’s Basilica and the bustling Rialto Market. Alternatively, enjoy the day at leisure – perhaps opt for a romantic gondola ride across the lagoon or shop for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, the evening begins with a spectacular private concert in the historic San Zaccaria church, followed by a sumptuous dinner at the renowned Ristorante Carpaccio.
DAY 3 Cremona
This morning, bid farewell to Venice in true style with a private boat transfer from your hotel to Santa Lucia station, gliding along the Grand Canal to where the Golden Eagle Danube Express awaits. Settle into the comfort of your private cabin as we depart across the iconic causeway that spans the Venice Lagoon, beginning our journey along the Po River and ever-changing landscapes of northern Italy.
Our first stop is the enchanting city of Cremona – this charmingly quaint and understated city carries itself with impressive architecture and deep musical heritage and is almost completely off the major tourism radar. Here, we will explore the impressive 13th century piazza and enjoy a private tour of the fabled Stradivari Museum, delving into the city’s centuries-old connection with master violin craftsmanship. This evening, a gourmet welcome dinner will be served onboard, celebrating the flavours of the region as we continue our journey south.
DAY 4 Bologna, Rimini & San Marino
Awake to a delicious breakfast served onboard as we arrive in Bologna, Italy’s revered culinary capital. Famed for its rich gastronomy, medieval towers, and endless porticoes, Bologna is a feast for the senses. A guided morning tour reveals the city’s charming character, from its historic university to the many famous arches that line its streets. We’ll raise a glass atop the Torre di Prendiparte, offering panoramic views of the red-roofed skyline, before travelling onwards to the beautiful seaside city of Rimini.
This afternoon, enjoy the freedom to tailor your experience with one of two exclusive touring options. Motoring enthusiasts may opt to visit the thrilling Ferrari factory in nearby Maranello, complete with a museum tour and driving simulator experience. Alternatively, ascend to the Republic of San Marino, one of the world’s oldest sovereign states, to explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town and the breathtaking heights of Mount Titano. Tonight, unwind with a refined dinner served aboard the elegant Golden Eagle Danube Express, as we continue our voyage in comfort and style.
DAY 5 Pompeii
Today, step back almost two millennia as we uncover the haunting ruins of Pompeii – the once-thriving Roman town dramatically frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Carefully preserved beneath layers of ash, this archaeological site offers a rare and evocative glimpse into daily life from bygone times. In our behind-the-scenes tour, we will take a look at how crucial preservation work is a continuous race against time to protect the original splendour for future generations.
Following our exploration, we continue to the slopes of Mount Vesuvius itself to visit Casa Setaro, a family-run vineyard nestled in the volcanic soils of the region. Here, we will enjoy a tasting of their acclaimed wines and delicious local specialities – a perfect way to toast the rich flavours and heritage of Campania.
DAY 6 Alberobello & Lecce
Begin the day in Alberobello, a UNESCO-listed gem in Puglia known for its charming Trulli – conical-roofed stone house that bring a fairytale quality to the landscape. A guided tour will reveal their unique construction and cultural significance, with time to enjoy a tasting of local wine or olive oil.
This afternoon, visit elegant Lecce, the baroque heart of southern Italy. Known for its golden limestone facades and flamboyant sculptural details, explore the city’s stunning churches including the Duomo and Santa Croce, showcasing the rich artistry of Leccese Baroque.
Later, our scenic rail journey continues through the wild natural beauty of Cilento National Park, as we make our way to the southern tip of the mainland.
DAY 7 Palermo
In the early morning, step into a truly once‑in‑a‑lifetime spectacle as the train is gently taken apart and rolled onto the waiting ferry for the Straits of Messina crossing. Watch in wide‑eyed wonder as rail meets sea in a feat of pure travel magic. You can remain aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express for this extraordinary crossing, or climb to the ferry’s top deck to feel the salt air and take in sweeping views of the Sicilian shoreline. Upon arrival, the train is carefully pieced back together, ready to carry us onward—an unforgettable moment in an adventure few ever get to experience.
Our first stop is the lively Sicilian capital, Palermo. A gentle walking tour through its vibrant old town reveals a captivating blend of architectural styles. We conclude with an aperitif and concert at the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house.
This afternoon, choose to delve deeper into Palermo at your own pace: visit Corleone to explore its Anti-Mafia Museum and enjoy breathtaking mountain views, or head to Monreale to admire the golden mosaics of its world-famous Norman Cathedral.
DAY 8 Agrigento & Ragusa
Wake in Agrigento, gateway to one of Italy’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures. While the modern town may be unassuming, our focus is the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples. On a privately guided tour, explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, where the remains of ancient temples rise majestically against the Sicilian sky.
This afternoon, we continue to Ragusa, a hilltop town bursting with Baroque charm. With its honey-hued churches and grey-stone houses tumbling down the hillside, it’s a photographer’s dream. Later, enjoy a fun cooking demonstration, where we’ll get hands-on with regional flavours and learn the secrets of traditional Sicilian cuisine.
DAY 9 Syracuse & Caltagirone
This morning, we arrive in Syracuse, once a flourishing centre of the Roman Empire. We will escape the hustle and bustle of the city itself and enjoy a peaceful boat tour around the Island of Ortigia, offering a unique perspective of this ancient coastal gem.
After lunch back on board the train, we journey to Caltagirone, a picturesque hilltop town famed for its exquisite ceramics – a tradition dating back to the 10th century. Visit a local artisan workshop to see this heritage brought to life before continuing to the Villa Romana del Casale, one of the best-preserved Roman villas in the world, where intricate mosaics tell stories of the ancient civilisations that once ruled the island.
DAY 10 Catania and Taormina
Following a leisurely breakfast onboard, take in the rolling Sicilian countryside as we arrive in Catania, nestled at the foot of Mount Etna. Spend the morning at your own pace, discovering the city’s characterful squares and richly storied churches.
Later, enjoy a delightful hands-on Sicilian pastry class at either the Società Storica Catanese or the elegant Palazzo Biscari, where your culinary experience will be guided by the palace’s owner, adding an extra touch of grandeur. In the afternoon, we rejoin the train for the final leg of our journey as we glide towards our last destination: the cliffside jewel of Taormina.
DAY 11 Taormina
Perched above the glittering Gulf of Naxos with panoramic views of Mount Etna, Taormina provides a breathtaking finale to our Sicilian Odyssey. The day begins with a private visit to the Mount Etna Museum, guided by a local volcanologist who brings this formidable natural wonder to life.
We then head to the slopes of the volcano itself for an indulgent lunch and wine tasting amongst the vineyards at a traditional Sicilian Palmento, where the region’s volcanic soil gives its wines a distinct character. This afternoon, take time to wander through Taormina’s medieval streets, visit its iconic Greek Theatre, and soak up the old-world charm at your leisure.
As evening falls on our final night, we will gather for a Farewell Dinner to celebrate our unforgettable journey – complete, of course, with champagne and a toast to cherished new memories made.
DAY 12 Taormina
On the final morning following breakfast in the hotel you will be transferred to the airport for onward departures.
Why not extend your stay in Taormina to explore more of this fascinating city?
Tour Inclusions
Accommodation
- Five-star pre and post tour hotel accommodation
- Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle Danube Express train
Service
- Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
- Experienced Tour Management team
- Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
- Arrival and departure transfers
- All gratuities – on and off the train
- Luggage porterage throughout the journey
Dining
- Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
- Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
- Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Excursions
- Expertly guided off-train excursions as detailed in the itinerary
- Freedom of Choice touring options
Tour Highlights
- Visit the thrilling Ferrari factory in nearby Maranello, complete with a museum tour and driving simulator experience
- Travel up the slopes of Mount Vesuvius to visit a family-run vineyard nestled in the volcanic soils – later enjoying a tasting of their acclaimed wines and delicious local specialities.
- Explore UNESCO-listed gems – including the Valley of the Temples, Alberobello, and the San Marino Old Town – one of the world’s oldest sovereign states.
- Enjoy a concert at the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house.
GOLDEN EAGLE DANUBE EXPRESS
The Golden Eagle Danube Express is your luxurious hotel-on-wheels. Unpack just the once and settle into your well-appointed and comfortable cabin as you begin the voyage of a lifetime.
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