This romantic route enables you to enjoy the most classic Italian cities on short train journeys.

• Start your trip in world-famous Rome to visit its marvellous landmarks such as the Roman Colosseum, the Vatican City and the Roman Forum.

• Continue your trip in Florence, Venice and Verona to experience authentic Italian history, romance and cuisine among other Italian delights.

• Finish your trip in the fashion capital, Milan, before heading to the tranquillity of the Cinque Terre.

Cities visited in this trip:

1. Rome

2. Florence

3. Venice

4. Verona

5. Milan

6. Manarola (Cinque Terre)

For this itinerary we recommend:

Travel days: 8 days within 1 month

Rome

As one of Italy's highlights, Rome's ancient monuments will fascinate you, but don't forget to indulge yourself with an Italian espresso. 

• Visit the largest Colosseum, one of the greatest examples of Roman architecture.

• Close by, the hip quarter of Monti hosts an urban market every weekend.

• Explore the world's Roman Catholic hub and residence of the Pope - the Vatican City.

Train tip: Roma Termini station is only 15 minutes from the city centre. 

Florence

Florence (Firenze), birthplace of the Renaissance, will enchant you whether you're an art lover, a history buff or just a curious adventurer.

• Visit Michelangelo's Statue of David in Galleria dell'Accademia, one of the most recognised sculptures on the planet.

• Walk through Florence Cathedral (il Duomo) and climb the 463 steps up to the top for a panoramic vista of the city.

• Walk to San Miniato al Monte above Florence and enjoy the beautiful view at sunset.

Train tip: Travel from Rome to Florence in 1h 30m, making sure to reserve a seat.

Venice

Venice, one of the most romantic cities worldwide, promises to charm even the most hardened of souls.

• Admire grand Renaissance palaces and intricate arch bridges, on board of the iconic Venetian gondola.

• Visit San Marco Basilica at Piazza San Marco, a perfect example of Venetian-Byzantine architecture.

• Be part of one of the most famous carnivals in the world. The Carnavele di Venezia makes the whole of Venice come alive every February.

Train tip: Travel from Florence to Venice in just over 2 hours with a seat reservation.

Verona

Verona is the city of love. As the birthplace of the ultimate romantic tragedy ‘Romeo and Juliet’, the city has become famous around the world.

• Visit the house of Juliet, Casa di Giulietta, and the most famous balcony of all time.

• Walk through picturesque Piazza delle Erbe.

• Enjoy Verona Opera Festival held in a 2000-year old Roman amphitheatre. Even if opera isn’t your bag, you’ll still come away feeling spellbound.

Train tip: You can reach Verona by train in just under 1 hour from Venice. Don't forget a seat reservation!

Milan

Milan may be Italy's economic centre, but don't let that fool you. As the fashion capital of the world, this stunning city brings the best of the past and the present into its architecture, culture and gastronomy. 

• Visit the biggest cathedral in Italy, Milan's Duomo.

• Marvel at Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, painted inside the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazia. 

• Visit La Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest shopping centre in the city, housing the world's most famous fashion houses. 

Train tip: It's just under 2 hours by train from Verona to Milan, making sure to reserve a seat.

Manarola (Cinque Terre)

Known as the 'Five Lands', the Cinque Terre are five picturesque fishing villages perched on the Northern Italy coastline. With Manarola as your base, discover the unique romantic charm of each village. 

• Snap a photo with Riomaggiore's colourful houses in the background - head down to the waterfront or the left harbour wall for the best angles.

• Wander along ancient coastal paths between the towns, and prepare to be amazed by the views.

• Swim in the shallows around Manarola and Corniglia.

Train tip: Travel just over 3 hours from Milan to La Spezia, the main jumping off station for the Cinque Terre.