Begin your Italian adventure with one night in Rome, giving yourself time to settle in, enjoy your first authentic Italian meal and soak up the atmosphere before heading south. Whether it's a stroll through the historic streets, a visit to the Trevi Fountain or simply enjoying a gelato in a bustling piazza, it's the perfect way to ease into your holiday.

The following day, board one of Italy's comfortable long-distance trains and enjoy one of Europe's most memorable slow rail journeys. As you travel through Lazio, Campania and Calabria, the scenery changes from rolling countryside to dramatic coastlines, making the journey an experience in itself rather than simply a transfer.

One of the highlights is crossing the Strait of Messina, where the train is loaded into the belly of a ferry for the short crossing to Sicily. Step outside onto the deck, enjoy the fresh sea air and watch the island come into view—an unforgettable experience that many Australian travellers don't realise is possible.

Arriving in Sicily, you'll spend seven nights discovering one of Italy's most fascinating and diverse regions. With a full week, there's time to explore without rushing, whether that's wandering the historic streets of Palermo, relaxing by the sea in Cefalù, visiting local markets, sampling authentic Sicilian street food or enjoying long lunches overlooking the Mediterranean.

You will also experience the spectacular Mount Etna, explore charming hilltop villages, discover ancient history, unwind on beautiful beaches and enjoy the relaxed pace that makes Sicily so rewarding. Every day offers a different experience, from vibrant cities and coastal towns to unforgettable food and warm Sicilian hospitality.

Seven nights gives you the opportunity to truly connect with Sicily rather than simply ticking off the highlights. Combined with the scenic train journey from Rome, this itinerary is perfect for travellers who want to experience Italy at a slower pace and create memories that last long after the journey ends.

Arriving in Sicily aboard the iconic slow train is an experience you'll never forget. After crossing the Strait of Messina by ferry with the train, spend your first night in Messina, the gateway to Sicily, before continuing along the spectacular eastern coastline to Catania for two nights. From here, discover the power and beauty of Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, and experience the unique landscapes that make this region so remarkable. Next, travel to the charming seaside town of Cefalù for three nights, where you can relax on golden beaches, wander medieval laneways, explore the magnificent Norman cathedral and enjoy the laid-back Sicilian lifestyle. Your journey finishes with one night in Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, where bustling markets, grand architecture and incredible street food provide the perfect finale before your tour comes to an end.

Check into your Rome hotel and spend the afternoon settling in and soaking up the atmosphere of Italy's incredible capital. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, enjoy a coffee in a local piazza or simply relax after your journey. In the evening, savour your first authentic Italian dinner at a traditional Roman trattoria (own Expense) before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay, ready to begin your Italian adventure the following day.

After enjoying a traditional Italian breakfast on the terrace, spend a leisurely morning soaking up the atmosphere of Rome. Take one last stroll through the nearby streets, enjoy a coffee at a local café or simply relax before it's time to make your way to the train station. Board your slow train to Sicily and settle in for one of Italy's most memorable rail journeys as you travel south through breathtaking landscapes towards the island of Sicily.

The journey from Rome to Messina covers approximately 700 km by rail and takes around 9 to 10 hours, depending on the train service and connections. Travelling on an Intercity train allows you to sit back and enjoy one of Italy's most scenic rail journeys as you pass through the regions of Lazio, Campania and Calabria before reaching the Strait of Messina. Here, the train is driven onto a ferry for the short 20 minute crossing to Sicily - one of the few remaining train ferry services in Europe. Once across the strait, the train continues directly to Messina Centrale, where you'll arrive in the evening ready for your overnight stay.

Distance: Approximately 700 km
Travel Time: Approximately 9–10 hours (including the ferry crossing)

Arriving in Sicily aboard the iconic slow train is an experience you'll never forget. After crossing the Strait of Messina by ferry with the train, spend your first night in Messina, the gateway to Sicily,

After a relaxed Italian breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Messina before continuing your journey through Sicily.

Visit the impressive Piazza del Duomo and admire the magnificent cathedral, home to one of the world's largest astronomical clocks. Stroll through the elegant piazzas, browse the local shops or enjoy a coffee overlooking the Strait of Messina as ferries come and go between mainland Italy and Sicily.

Before heading to the station early afternoon, stop by a traditional Sicilian deli or gourmet food store to pick up some fresh local treats for the journey. Choose from crusty bread, Sicilian cheeses, cured meats, olives, arancini or sweet cannoli to enjoy as you travel along Sicily's spectacular east coast.

Your train journey from Messina to Catania covers approximately 95 km and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, following one of Sicily's most scenic railway lines with beautiful coastal views for much of the trip. Arrive in vibrant Catania in the afternoon, ready to begin exploring this fascinating city at the foot of the mighty Mount Etna.

Today after your Italian breakfast, you'll experience one of Sicily's greatest natural wonders with a full-day tour to Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. Travel through picturesque villages and vineyards as you ascend the slopes of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed volcano, where dramatic lava fields, ancient craters and breathtaking panoramic views reveal the incredible power of nature.

Depending on the weather you may walk around extinct craters, learn about Etna's fascinating volcanic history from a knowledgeable local guide and, take the cable car for an even more spectacular experience. Along the way, stop to sample local Sicilian products such as honey, olive oil, pistachios and wines produced from the fertile volcanic soils surrounding the mountain.

Return to Catania in the late afternoon, where you can spend the evening enjoying the city's lively atmosphere and perhaps dine in one of the many restaurants serving authentic Sicilian cuisine made with the region's famous fresh produce.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning exploring more of Catania. Wander through the bustling fish market, browse the elegant shopping streets or simply enjoy a leisurely espresso in one of the city's lively piazzas before making your way to the railway station.

Remember before you get to the train station make sure you visit a local Deli or supermarket and buy some yummy treats for your lunch.

Late morning, board your train for the scenic journey to Cefalù. The trip covers approximately 190 km and takes around 2 hours 45 minutes, depending on the service. The railway follows Sicily's spectacular northern coastline, offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, charming fishing villages and rugged mountain landscapes along the way.

On arrival in Cefalù, you'll immediately understand why this picturesque seaside town is considered one of Sicily's hidden gems. Dominated by the magnificent Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cefalù is a maze of medieval streets lined with cafés, boutiques and traditional Sicilian restaurants.

Spend the afternoon wandering the historic centre, stroll along the golden sandy beach, explore the ancient stone laneways or relax with an aperitivo overlooking the harbour. With its perfect combination of history, coastal beauty and authentic Sicilian charm, Cefalù is a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy la dolce vita over the next three nights.

First Free Day in Cefalù and today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Start the morning with breakfast at a local café before exploring the charming medieval streets of Cefalù. Visit the magnificent Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics. Wander through the historic centre, browse artisan boutiques, stop for a gelato in Piazza Duomo and discover the medieval public washhouse, Lavatoio Medievale. In the afternoon, relax on Cefalù's beautiful sandy beach or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear Mediterranean. As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant while watching fishing boats return to the harbour.

Ideas for today:

• Visit the Norman Cathedral

• Explore the Lavatoio Medievale

• Wander the medieval streets and boutique shops

• Relax on Cefalù Beach

• Enjoy a long Sicilian lunch overlooking the sea

• Watch the sunset from the harbour promenade

Second Free Day in Cefalù

Today offers the opportunity to explore beyond the town or simply continue enjoying Cefalù's relaxed atmosphere. For those feeling energetic, climb La Rocca, the towering rock above Cefalù, where the rewarding walk offers spectacular panoramic views across the town and coastline. Alternatively, spend the day discovering hidden laneways, enjoying another leisurely beach day or taking a short local train journey to explore a nearby coastal village. Food lovers may like to sample more Sicilian specialities at local bakeries and cafés, while wine enthusiasts can enjoy a leisurely afternoon aperitivo before another memorable Sicilian dinner.

Ideas for today:

• Climb La Rocca for panoramic views

• Visit the Temple of Diana ruins

• Enjoy another beach day or swim

• Take a local train to a nearby seaside town

• Sample Sicilian pastries, granita and cannoli

• Shop for local ceramics and handmade souvenirs

• Finish with sunset drinks overlooking the Mediterranean

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Cefalù before checking out of your hotel. With a late morning departure, you'll have time for some last-minute shopping, a leisurely stroll through the charming medieval streets or one final coffee overlooking the Mediterranean. Pick up some local Sicilian delicacies, handmade ceramics or souvenirs before making your way to the railway station.

In the early afternoon, board the train to Palermo. The journey covers approximately 70 km and takes around 45–60 minutes, following Sicily's picturesque northern coastline with beautiful sea views along the way.

On arrival in Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, immerse yourself in a city bursting with history, culture and unforgettable flavours. Discover magnificent churches, grand piazzas, colourful markets such as Ballarò and Vucciria, and impressive Norman and Arab architecture that reflects the city's fascinating past. Palermo is also considered the street food capital of Italy, making it the perfect place to sample local favourites including arancine, panelle, sfincione and cannoli as you enjoy your final evening in Sicily.

Enjoy your final morning in Sicily with a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel. With a late morning check out, there's still time to wander through one of Palermo's famous local markets, such as Ballarò or Capo Market, where you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere, pick up some last-minute souvenirs or sample a few more Sicilian delicacies. Alternatively, simply relax with one final Italian coffee in a bustling piazza and reflect on the unforgettable memories you've made during your journey through Sicily.

Sadly, this marks the end of our services, but it doesn't have to be the end of your Italian adventure. If you'd like to extend your holiday, our team can help you seamlessly continue your journey to other amazing destinations in Italy. Simply ask us how we can create the next chapter of your Italian experience.