French & Italian Riviera by Rail

Day 1  Pisa, Italy              
Start your adventure by arriving into the iconic city of Pisa. Boasting the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, it is an obvious must-see when visiting the city, however, there is far more to the city than just the tower. Learn of its fascinating history, discover the numerous beautiful piazzas, and wander along the historic city walls before enjoying an evening dining alfresco at one of the many bars dotted along the banks of the Arno River.              

Days 2-3  Monterosso al Mare  
Today you will discover the unspoilt beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park, Cinque Terre, as you board your direct train to Monterosso. The region is dotted with colourful villages, scenic hiking trails, delicious food and turquoise waters, with Monterosso boasting the only sandy beach of the Cinque Terre coastal villages. One of the most popular things to do whilst you are here would be to walk the Sentiero Azzure hike – taking you through all of the five villages whilst admiring stunning views out to sea along coastal paths and through vineyards, olive groves and pine forest. When you’re not exploring the surrounding area, enjoy the best of what Monterosso al Mare has to offer, wandering the maze of narrow streets in its charming old town, relaxing on the beautiful Spiaggia di Fegina beach, enjoying thrilling boat trips and kayaking, or perhaps watching a breathtaking sunset from the panoramic terrace of Convento di Cappuccini.              

Days 4-5  Rapallo  
Take the direct train to Rapallo, a beautiful base for your time along the Italian Riviera, offering a more relaxed seaside atmosphere compared to Portofino, with opportunities for day trips, cultural sights, hiking, snorkelling, and laying on the beach. A feast of colours with its blue sea, green mountain backdrop and rainbow of buildings. Perhaps spend your first day meandering along the promenade, enjoying fresh gelato and focaccia, exploring the old castle and navigating its historic centre. For the best views, take the cable car up to Sanutario Basilico di monallegro, offering stunning scenes over the terracotta rooftops of Rapallo and the glistening gulf of Tigullio. Your second day could be spent with a day trip to Portofino. For the adventurous, perhaps enjoy a scenic hike there, with the enticing reward of a dip in the waters of San Furttuoso beach after, before taking a ferry back to Rapallo after a full day of exploring.    

Days 6-7  Genoa  
Spend the next two days exploring the captivating city of Genoa, boasting both a modern seaport as well as an enchanting old town filled with unique architecture, winding lanes, historic gems, and a thriving food scene. You can enjoy particularly dazzling panoramic views of the city from the Spianata Castelletto, a beautiful castle complex high up on the hill.  

Days 8-10  Nice, France      
Take the train across the border from Italy into France, with a quick change in Vitimiglia before arriving into Nice, your base for the next three days to explore the stunning French Riviera. Wander along the cobblestone streets of the Nice old town, exploring its historical buildings such as its famous baroque style cathedral, Palace and Opera House, relax on the many stunning beaches and enjoy delicious food in the markets. Nice is also a fantastic base to easily get to the other popular French Riviera cities by train. Go to Monaco and marvel at the impressive architecture, casino and glitz, shop till you drop in Cannes, or relax in the stunning St Tropez, watching the impressive yachts come into the picturesque port.

Day 11  Nice              
Perhaps enjoy one last morning relaxing on the beach before taking your flight home.