Southern Italy & Sicily
A Touring Sensation
Tour Overview
The vibrant city of Naples is the gateway to Southern Italy’s rich history and stunning landscapes – Explore by road and rail.
- Fly or take the train via scenic Switzerland to reach Naples and begin your adventure by exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii, where time stands still amidst the preserved streets and villas of this Roman city frozen by volcanic ash.
- From Naples, marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and charming towns like Positano and Amalfi.
- Continue your journey south by rail across the Strait of Messina to the island of Sicily, a treasure trove of culture and natural beauty. Discover the historical cities of Palermo and Catania, stroll through the ancient streets of Syracuse, and soak in the coastal charm of Taormina with its views of Mount Etna. Along the way, savour Sicily’s world-renowned cuisine and explore its golden beaches, historic sites, and vibrant markets.
- This rail tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Italy’s southern treasures.
Travel Tips
- Begin your holiday with a stay in Pompeii. Flights can be arranged to Naples, or if time allows in your itinerary you may wish to travel to Italy by train via Switzerland. Why not include a journey on the iconic Bernina Express en route?
- Allow at least 3 nights in Pompeii to ensure there is time to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pompeii’s ruins, the Antiquarium, and a ride on the Circumvesuviana Narrow Gauge Railway.
- Italy’s rail network connects most major cities, towns and tourist destinations – however to maximise the potential for sightseeing you may wish to hire a car. Doing so in Cosenza would allow you to visit the Sila Steam Train.
- Taormina would also be an ideal location to rent a car. It's a great starting point to explore both the coast and the mountains, and you can easily access historical and scenic spots by road. If you would rather not think of parking and potential traffic, Ffestiniog Travel may be able to arrange excursions and day trips including hotel transfers.
- Spring and autumn are generally the best times to visit Southern Italy as they offer a balance of good weather, fewer crowds and a variety of activities.
- Sicily, and Palermo in particular, is known for its markets. Perhaps the most iconic, Ballarò Market has been in operation for centuries, making it an essential part of Palermo's cultural fabric. It's situated in the Kalsa district, a historical area that adds to the authenticity of the market experience.
- Sicilian cuisine is renowned for its rich, diverse flavours, and it reflects the island’s varied landscapes, coastal influence, and agricultural bounty. Be sure to sample arancini (fried rice balls), caponata (aubergine stew), and frittura di pesce (a fried seafood platter).
What Ffestiniog Travel Will Do
Transport
- Arrange all travel - rail and flights based on your preferred dates
- Arrange travel passes
- Reserve seating based on your chosen class
- Organise car hire if required
Accommodation
- Arrange all accommodation based on your budget
Planning
- Plan a bespoke day-to-day itinerary
- Arrange excursions tailored to your desired trip
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