Florence, Venice, Milan, Zurich & Paris by Rail

Day 1  Florence                    
Arrive in Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, and make your way to your hotel. Spend your afternoon meandering the cobblestone streets of the famed historical centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perhaps walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo to admire the panoramic views of the stunning skyline before tucking into some tasty local cuisine.                    

Day 2  Florence            
Head over to Il Duomo di Firenze, the impressive landmark which dominates the Florentine skyline. With your included skip the line ticket, marvel at the exquisite architecture and artwork including Brunelleschi’s magnificent terracotta tiled dome. Climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and admire the extraordinary views of this wonderful city. After lunch (and a gelato), perhaps visit the picturesque Ponte Vecchio bridge and browse the jewellery shops before weaving through the curved pathways of the beautiful Boboli Gardens.                    
               
Day 3  Florence to Venice      
After a leisurely morning, make your way to the train station for your journey to Venice. Enjoy the lovely views of the Tuscan countryside as you relax. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel before heading out to explore the sprawling canals of this unique floating city.        

Day 4  Venice                    
Take a full day to appreciate this mesmerising and intricate city with marvellous views around every corner. Head over to St Mark’s Square, home to the magnificent Basilica di San Marco to start your tour. Skip the line and marvel at the ornate intricacies of this incredible structure and discover the history behind it. Next door is Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) a symbol of Venice and a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture. Journey back through time as you roam the corridors and absorb the fascinating history of the building. Experience the beauty of Venice from the water as you cruise along on a typical gondola, exploring the majestic waterways framed by towering Venetian Palaces.                    
             
Day 5  Venice to Milan      
Have a final mooch through the narrow streets and over the numerous bridges before travelling to the station to catch your train to Milan, a city synonymous with style and often referred to as the world’s fashion capital. Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel and check in. Perhaps spend the afternoon ambling through a tangle of some of the chicest streets, known as the Golden Rectangle, to browse some of the high-end designer shops.  

Day 6  Milan              
Today, opt to visit the iconic Gothic Duomo di Milano, one of the largest churches in the world, uniquely constructed with pink Candoglia marble. Climb the 256 steps to the terrace for stunning city views. Afterwards, wander over to Sforza Castle, a trove of exquisite treasures from art collections and archaeological exhibits to library archives. Meander the pathways of Parco Sempione, Milan’s largest green space and built to imitate an English garden. Perhaps relax beside the pretty lake or stop for a refreshing beverage in one of the cafés. This evening, why not watch a fantastic opera performance at the celebrated Scala Theatre.  
           
Day 7  Milan to Zurich      
Take the train to Zurich, a splendid alpine city, set on a lake and the capital of Switzerland. After checking in to your hotel opt to pop by the historic Confiserie Sprüngli to relax and sample some tasty treats. Perhaps browse the shops in the vibrant Bahnhofstrasse shopping area or mosey on over to the Grossmünster Church, Zurich’s most prominent landmark, and discover some of the history behind the Swiss-German reformation.  
           
Day 8  Zurich              
Weather permitting, why not spend the morning at Lake Zurich and perhaps enjoy a boat trip passing by charming municipalities located on the lake edges and appreciating the lovely scenery. Relax while basking in the sun and appreciating the views of the city, lake and even the Alps. Later this afternoon, opt to catch a tram to Lindt, Home of Chocolate to learn how chocolate is made, drink in the sweet aromas and inevitably leave with a large bag of goodies.  

Day 9  Zurich to Paris      
Arrive in Paris, fondly nicknamed the City of Light for being the first city in Europe to use gas lighting. Perhaps stretch your legs after your train journey and potter around the gorgeous Tuileries Garden located in the heart of city, which was once a royal family playground.    

Day 10  Paris            
Choose to start your day by admiring a wondrous collection of artwork including the masterpiece from the Renaissance era, the Mona Lisa, at the Louve Museum. Roam the decorative corridors encasing more than 35,000 displays and be bowled over by the talent through the ages. Opt to indulge in a tasty croque monsieur before your tour. Meet your guide at the designated spot for the start of your tour of the Eiffel Tower, a beautifully structured masterpiece standing 330m high which dominates the Parisian skyline. Explore the iconic symbol of France and marvel at the unparalleled views of this amazing city. Relax on a boat as your cruise down the River Seine taking in some of the notable sites while you sip on a glass of champagne.                      

Day 11  Paris to London      
Enjoy a leisurely morning with a final stroll down the Champs Élysées, savouring the aromas of the surrounding patisseries and perhaps indulge in a freshly baked croissant alongside a delightful cup of coffee. Head to the station for your onward journey to London.