Travelling by train through Europe offers a timeless blend of comfort, culture, and captivating scenery. For Europeans looking to explore closer to home while still embracing the sense of adventure, few travel experiences rival a well-planned train tour. Italy stands out as a particularly enchanting destination, easily accessible and brimming with art, food, romance, and history. Combined with key cities and hidden gems across Europe, train travel creates an ideal way to explore the continent.
Top Italian Train Tours to Experience in 2025
Italy’s rail network is extensive, punctual, and perfect for both short getaways and longer, immersive journeys. Here are some must-experience train routes through Italy:
1. Venice – Florence – Rome – Naples (Classic Italy)
Duration: 7–10 days
Highlights:
Venice’s canals and architecture
Florence’s Renaissance art and Tuscany vineyards
Rome’s ancient history and modern piazzas
Naples as the gateway to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast
Suggested for: First-time travellers or romantic escapes
2. The Bernina Express + Northern Italy Lakes
Route: Chur (Switzerland) → Tirano → Lake Como → Milan
Duration: 5–7 days
Highlights:
The scenic Swiss Alps crossing
Lakeside villages like Bellagio
Milan’s fashion and architecture
Suggested for: Nature lovers and photographers
3. Sicily by Train
Route: Palermo → Catania → Taormina → Syracuse
Duration: 7 days
Highlights:
Mediterranean coastlines
Baroque cities and ancient ruins
Mount Etna excursions
Suggested for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers
Top European Destinations by Train from Italy
Europe’s interconnected rail system means you can begin in Italy and expand outward to other top destinations.
1. Paris, France
Route: Milan → Paris (TGV – approx. 7 hrs)
Why go: Culture, cuisine, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower
Best for: Couples, solo adventurers, cultural enthusiasts
2. Vienna, Austria
Route: Venice → Vienna (NightJet or EC Trains)
Why go: Classical music, imperial palaces, vibrant cafés
Best for: Arts and history lovers
3. Munich & The Romantic Road, Germany
Route: Verona → Munich → Füssen (for Neuschwanstein Castle)
Why go: Bavarian charm, castles, beer gardens
Best for: Summer holidays and Christmas markets
4. Barcelona, Spain
Route: Milan → Marseille → Barcelona
Why go: Mediterranean vibes, Gaudí architecture, tapas culture
Best for: Summer beach holidays, food trips
5. Ljubljana & Lake Bled, Slovenia
Route: Venice → Ljubljana (approx. 3 hrs)
Why go: Fairytale lakes, compact capital, alpine scenery
Best for: Weekend trips and nature escapes
Popular Travel Plans & Packages Available Now (Summer–Autumn 2025)
These multi-country rail travel plans are currently trending:
Eurail Global Pass (Flexible Option)
Access to 33 countries
Choose 5, 10, 15, or continuous travel days
Great for custom itineraries across Italy, France, Germany, etc.
Thello Train Italy–France Packages (Discontinued but alternatives like Trenitalia + SNCF now available)
Milan ↔ Nice ↔ Marseille ↔ Paris
Ideal for Italian–French Riviera travel
Interrail Premium Tours (Europeans only)
Curated experiences with hotel, transfers, and activities included
Available from providers like Railbookers, Interrail.eu, and Eurail.com
Suggestions Based on Occasion
To help you plan based on your mood or reason for travel, here are curated suggestions:
Romantic Getaway
Destinations: Venice, Lake Como, Paris, Vienna, Santorini (via ferry from Italy)
Activities: Gondola rides, candlelit dinners, thermal spas
🎨 Cultural Journey
Destinations: Florence, Rome, Salzburg, Prague, Budapest
Must-sees: Uffizi Gallery, Roman Forum, Schönbrunn Palace, Buda Castle
Nature & Wellness
Destinations: Dolomites, Swiss Alps, Lake Bled, Cinque Terre
Activities: Hiking, thermal baths, boat rides
Food & Wine Lovers
Destinations: Tuscany (Chianti), Piedmont (Barolo), Emilia-Romagna, Provence
Activities: Wine tastings, cooking classes, food markets
Christmas & Winter Magic
Destinations: Munich, Vienna, Strasbourg, Bolzano, Lucerne
Experiences: Christmas markets, alpine villages, mulled wine
Final Tips for Planning Your European Train Tour
Book Early: High-speed routes and scenic trains often sell out in peak season.
Travel Light: European trains have limited luggage storage.
Download Rail Apps: Use Rail Planner, Trainline, or Omio for real-time schedules.
Consider Night Trains: Save on hotel costs and arrive refreshed.
With a train pass and some curiosity, you can experience the heart of Europe in a truly immersive way. Whether sipping espresso in a Roman piazza or gazing out over Alpine peaks, Europe’s train journeys promise memories that linger well beyond the tracks.
Let the journey begin — your next great rail adventure is only a station away.