Florence & The Bernina Express

There are certain places that exist in the world that are so magnificent, they almost don’t seem real. This six-day rail journey to Florence will take you places you never imagined. Spend your one night in Zurich wandering through Old Town before boarding the Bernina Express. Known as the “Little Red Train,” the Bernina Express offers the most gorgeous railway routes and views of the Swiss Alps year-round as you travel south to Milan. Spend the remainder of your holiday exploring the curious blend of old and new in the enchanting Tuscan city of Florence. You’ll quickly discover it’s no surprise that Florence is one of the most beloved cities in the world.

Day 1: London to Zurich

Welcome to the heart of Europe! Travel on the Eurostar from London to Paris and on to Zurich. Once you arrive, check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. the remainder of the day is yours to see the sights at your leisure. Spend time strolling through Zurich's Altstadt or Old Town. the district is framed by alpine mountains and stretches along both banks of the Limmat River. You'll find cobblestone-paved streets lined with Renaissance-era architecture, charming cafes, world-class restaurants and entertainment, as well as boutique shops to buy authentic Swiss crafts from. (Overnight in Zurich)

Day 2: The Bernina Express to Milan

Following an early breakfast, take a quick train from Zurich to Chur then transfer on to the Bernina Express toward Tirano. Aboard the Bernina Express to Milan, the train will travel through the Swiss Alps on two historic mountain railways: the Albula Line and the Bernina Line altogether passing through 55 tunnels, more than 196 bridges, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Scenic sights along this route include the Montebello curve, the Morteratsch Glacier, and the Brusio Circular Viaduct. Upon arrival in Milan, check in to your hotel. Spend your evening in Milan enjoying dinner on your own and then wandering along the Naviglio Grande canal or visiting the roof terraces of the Duomo di Milano. (Overnight in Milan)

Day 3: Arrive in Florence

In the morning after breakfast, take a highspeed train from Milan to Florence and get checked in at your hotel for an overnight stay. Enjoy dinner on your own perhaps some fine regional wine and Tuscan cuisine. (Overnight in Florence)

Day 4: Tour Of Florence

Enjoy breakfast then embark on a fabulous city tour of Florence. Your outing begins with a stop at Piazzale Michelangelo, a gorgeous, romantic square offering unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the best place to take photos. From there, visit the Accademia Gallery, most famous for the David sculpture by Michelangelo as well as his other unfinished masterpieces, including Prigioni. the day's tour begins wrapping up with a stroll through the beautiful historic streets to Piazza Duomo (Cathedral Square), where you'll discover the mysteries surrounding Giotto's Bell Tower, the famous golden doors of La Porta del Paradiso, and Brunelleschi's Dome. Finally, visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore itself. Please note that the order of your visit to each attraction may change. (Overnight in Florence)

Day 5: Florence

After breakfast, the entire day is free for you to explore the "Cradle of the Renaissance." Florence is an incredibly walkable city, and can easily be navigated on your own. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets and experience a trip through history and beauty at every turn, especially when you reach Ponte Vecchio. It is one of the most famous bridges in all of Europe and the only one in Florence to survive World War II. Visit the San Lorenzo Market to shop, eat, and have a drink, gaze at Renaissance paintings at the Uffizi Gallery, or catch a sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. (Overnight in Florence)

Day 6: Depart Florence

Enjoy a final breakfast in Florence then check out of your hotel. Travel to the airport for your flight back to the UK following your fantastic holiday. If you'd prefer to return to London by rail with a night in Turin, a Rail Expert can assist you.