Great Rail Journeys
Best of Switzerland
Eight-day independent Swiss tour on Bernina, Glacier and GoldenPass Express trains
8 daysfrom $3,639
63% rail
Marvellous Escapes · Tailor-made rail holiday
Puglia & Beyond
Embark on an extraordinary rail journey from Switzerland to the sun-soaked Italian Riviera and the charming towns of Apulia.
Day by day
- Day 1railovernight: Zurich
Zurich
This morning, you will board the Eurostar from London to Zurich via Paris. Upon arrival in Zurich complete your check-in at the hotel where you will spend the night. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll through Zurich's Old Town (Altstadt) which is nestled between the alpine mountains and straddles both banks of the Limmat River.
- Day 2railovernight: Ancona
Ancona
After breakfast, begin your day with a scenic rail journey from Zurich, traveling south through the Swiss Alps aboard a comfortable First-Class Swiss train. Admire the dramatic alpine landscapes as you cross into Italy, arriving in the bustling city of Milan. Board your high-speed train from Milan to Ancona, gliding through picturesque Italian countryside along the Adriatic coast. Upon arrival in Ancona, a historic port city, settle into your hotel for a relaxing evening.
- Day 3railovernight: Bari
Bari
After enjoying a morning in Ancona, embark on a scenic rail journey to Bari, a historic port city on Italy's Adriatic coast. Upon arrival in Bari, check into your hotel and take the evening to explore the charming Old Town. Wander the narrow streets, discover the ancient Basilica di San Nicola, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Lungomare.
- Day 4overnight: Bari
Bari
Today, embark on an unforgettable small-group day trip to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the stunning Murgia Hills. Matera's ancient Sassi districts, carved into the rock, offer a fascinating glimpse into history. Next, discover Altamura, perched high on the Murgia Hills within a national park, famous for its impressive Cathedral of Altamura and DOP-certified Altamura bread.
- Day 5railovernight: Brindisi
Brindisi
This morning, take a short and scenic rail journey from Bari to Brindisi, a historic port city with a fascinating blend of ancient history and Mediterranean charm. Arrive in Brindisi and stroll through the charming Piazza del Popolo, visit the Castello Svevo, and admire the stunning Roman Column.
- Day 6overnight: Brindisi
Brindisi
Today, embark on a unique tour of three of Apulia's most stunning towns: Alberobello, renowned for its iconic trulli; Locorotondo, a quaint hilltop town known for its whitewashed houses; and Ostuni, the 'White City'. Along the way, enjoy an Apulian brunch featuring local delicacies and a tasting of Olive Oil.
- Day 7railovernight: Lecce
Lecce
Today, embark on a short and scenic train journey from Brindisi to Lecce, a city renowned for its magnificent Baroque architecture and rich cultural heritage. Arrive in Lecce, often referred to as the 'Florence of the South,' and begin exploring this stunning city, with highlights including the Piazza del Duomo, the Basilica di Santa Croce, and the ancient Roman Amphitheatre.
- Day 8overnight: Lecce
Lecce
On your second-day in Lecce, enjoy a 2-hour guided walking tour through its historic heart, a city famed for its Baroque art and architecture. Along with your exploration, you'll be treated to a refreshing caffè leccese, a cool local coffee made with almond milk, paired with typical Apulian appetisers.
- Day 9overnight: Lecce
Lecce
On your final day in Lecce, you'll embark on a scenic tour of four of Salento's most picturesque towns: Galatina, Otranto, Santa Maria di Leuca, and Gallipoli. Admire the stunning coastal views, rocky cliffs, hidden bays, and Caribbean-style white beaches that make this region famous.
- Day 10rail
Return home
Check out of your hotel today and take a private transfer back to Bari/Brindisi and head to the airport for your flight back to the UK. Alternatively, if you'd like to extend your stay to explore more of Italy by rail, speak to your travel designer.
Included
- Overnight hotel accommodation in Zurich with breakfast included
- Overnight hotel accommodation in Ancona with breakfast included
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Bari with breakfast included
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Brindisi with breakfast included
- 3-nights hotel accommodation in Lecce with breakfast included
- Rail journey from London to Zurich (via Paris) and a return flight to the UK (or a roundtrip train journey from London St. Pancras)
- Secure reservations for the Eurostar, TGV Lyria, EuroCity and Trenitalia trains
- Private Transfer to airport for return flight
- Alberobello, Locorotondo, Ostuni & Apulian brunch
- Discovering Lecce, city of Baroque art walking tour
- Tour to 4 Towns of Salento: Otranto, Leuca, Gallipoli, Galatina
