
Best Holiday Destinations for 2026
29/12/2025 · By Ian Holt
To inspire your travels for 2026, Great Rail Journeys reveals our Top 10 best holiday destinations and expert tips, from bucket list sights to hidden gems.
Read moreA country of vivid coastlines and stunning cities steeped in history, Italy has long captured the hearts of travellers. At Great Rail Journeys, unforgettable explorations against these breathtaking backdrops come standard, and our luxury rail holidays offer a glimpse into the soul of Italy.
Expertly curated details guide each itinerary, taking you to locations where culture, art, cuisine and tradition create an enchanting environment for discovery. Enjoy the freedom to soak up Italy's allures with the knowledge that our 50 years of experience backs your adventures.
Utilising Italy's extensive rail network, our memorable itineraries travel to places like the canals of Venice, the ancient city of Rome, quaint towns amongst Tuscany's hills, the colourful Cinque Terre, and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Open your eyes and heart to Italian splendours with luxury rail tours from Great Rail Journeys.





Take the opulent Venice Simplon Orient Express between two romantic cities, Venice and Paris. Spending time in Venice, a city of islands connected by bridges and walkways, languishing in its winding streets and tasting it delicate dishes, is an honour for any traveller, but coupling this with a trip aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express is...





Take a once in a lifetime trip on the Venice Simplon Orient Express to travel between Paris and Venice, two of the most romantic and mesmerising cities in the world. Relax in style as this luxury train takes you from Paris to Venice, where you'll explore the city at leisure and delve deeper into its culture. Aboard the Venice Simplon Express...





On this journey of a lifetime experience the golden age of travel aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express and enjoy the luxury of this vintage hotel on rails. Your journey begins on the banks of the shimmering Lake Garda where you can explore the medieval town of Sirmione, before you journey on to Venice where the canals and bridges await...





Experience a majestic journey aboard the opulent Venice Simplon Orient Express on this tour of three iconic trains. Travel on the world-renowned Glacier Express and Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps, passing the dramatic Swiss scenery of mountains and lakes, as you experience this unique journey. Stay in Swiss towns of Zermatt and St...





Step into a world of timeless elegance as you journey between two of Europe's most romantic cities, Venice and Paris, aboard the opulent Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This iconic train, with its exquisite Art Deco interiors and unparalleled luxury, transforms travel into an indulgent experience. Let its charm and sophistication make your...





Experience absolute luxury aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express on this tour, when you visit the water city and the eternal city on this tour of two Italian giants, and travel back to Paris on the luxurious Venice Simplon Orient Express. Start in Rome where the Vatican City, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain, are iconic tourist...





Take a once-in-a-lifetime trip to two magical Italian cities and journey home aboard the luxurious Venice Simplon Orient Express. Begin your journey in Florence, the city of art and an Italian cultural hub like no other, and then travel to Venice, the water city where you can ride a gondola and eat gelato in the pretty squares. Finally, your...





Embark on a luxurious journey aboard the Orient Express La Dolce Vita, travelling from Rome into the enchanting heart of Tuscany. In Montalcino, a town that epitomises Tuscan charm, explore quaint streets and historic landmarks. As evening falls, the train comes alive with "Le Grand Soir" dinner, featuring exquisite culinary creations...





After two wonderful days taking in the sights, sounds and tastes of Rome, your journey on the La Dolce Vita Orient Express begins with a sumptuous meal curated by 3-Michelin starred chef Heinz Beck. As the train travels northwards, disembark for time in magical Venice, followed by an evening of cocktails and live music that creates a...





Embark on a luxurious journey aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, departing from Rome. Indulge in the exceptional culinary creations of 3-Michelin starred Chef Heinz Beck, featuring Italian-inspired dishes crafted from seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Awake to the allure of an Italian breakfast as you prepare to explore the UNESCO...





Begin your adventure with three unforgettable nights in the iconic city of Rome, immersing yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture. Then, board the luxurious Orient Express La Dolce Vita Train and travel in opulent style to Venice. Savor a gourmet lunch curated by Michelin 3-star chef Hans Beck as you glide through Tuscany. In Venice...





Take a truly memorable trip aboard the luxurious Venice Simplon Orient Express and visit two of the most romantic cities on earth - Venice and Paris. On this atmospheric tour you'll discover your love for Paris as you walk by the Eiffel Tower and you'll fall in love with the water city when you ride a gondola along the canals of Venice. Your...