Let's start this journey in northwestern Italy in this haven of peace, Genoa, less than 200 km from the French-Italian border. When you arrive at Genova Piazza Principe train station, go directly to Via Garibaldi, this narrow avenue where you can testify to a typical atmosphere thanks to the beauty of its colorful facades. On ►
Let's start this journey in northwestern Italy in this haven of peace, Genoa, less than 200 km from the French-Italian border. When you arrive at Genova Piazza Principe train station, go directly to Via Garibaldi, this narrow avenue where you can testify to a typical atmosphere thanks to the beauty of its colorful facades. On your way, Via XX Settembre is a more open avenue renowned for its picturesque architecture and the points of interest it brings together. These include the Galleria Mazzini, the gallery overlooked by its glass roof where visitors like to shop and stroll, or the Teatro Carlo Felice in the beautiful Piazza de Ferrari, recognizable thanks to its sizeable circular fountain.
Then, you should travel more than an hour and a half by train through the Lombardy region. By peeking out the window, you will discover its postcard landscapes embellished by its many lakes and mountains adorned with greenery. On your way, discover the many small villages typical of northern Italy. Milan Central Station is the second largest station in the country, with at least 120 million visitors each year. Tourists enjoy this city, famous for hosting renowned painters such as Leonardo da Vinci. In Milan, the must-see spots are three. First, the cathedral, also called Duomo, whose majestic architecture will leave you with an unforgettable memory. Also worth mentioning is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a neo-classical and baroque shopping arcade in the shape of a cross that allows you to stroll among its luxury boutiques. Finally, one of the World's most famous opera houses is not far away, called the Museo Teatrale alla Scala. You can board the high-speed trains from Milan to Turin to visit the north or Naples to visit the south. Many regional trains are also available.
Head for romantic Venice by boarding the Frecce. For a duration of 2h27, admire the quiet and rural landscapes of Lombardy and the lush greenery of Veneto. The city's flagship activity is undoubtedly the ride aboard one of the sumptuous picturesque gondolas on the Grand Canal. This crossing will introduce you to the city's bowels through the pretty bridges for which Venice is known. A stopover in St. Mark's Square is essential to combine a cultural visit through the majestic Doge's Palace with gourmet pleasure while enjoying delicious Italian ice cream.
On the railway line to Florence, you will cross the region of Emilia Romagna and the city of Bologna to arrive in Tuscany. These two regions are quite similar in the scenery, offering views of captivating villages, castles and vineyards. Bologna is a city rich in culture and history, with a fine museum collection. In addition, its historic center amazes its visitors thanks to its red brick facades, which explains its nickname of "red city".
Then continuing on the line, you will find yourself in Florence, the capital of Tuscany and Renaissance art. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is an architectural marvel thanks to its atypical terracotta dome and its marbled facade in relief. Also, head to the iconic Uffizi Gallery, a palace housing a collection of artworks by Italian artists, including Sandro Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" or Caravaggio's "Medusa". Through a one-hour ride on a regional train, you can also discover the small town of Pisa and its famous cylindrical tower of white marble. Just over an hour's train ride from Florence is the Italian capital: Rome.
Known for its cultural richness and over 28 centuries old, its cosmopolitan atmosphere shows that it has had a crucial role in Western history. Its mainly baroque architecture and picturesque streets will not leave you indifferent. The Trevi Fountain is a perfect example of this charm. Its sumptuous marble statues structured by columns make it a flagship monument of the city. In addition, passing through the Colosseum in Rome is essential. Located in the heart of the town, the one that housed the famous gladiatorial fights is admired both for its facade and for its interior that you can visit. Between the Palatine and Capitoline hills, you will find the Roman Forum, once the center of ancient Rome. This set of Roman ruins will immerse you in the life of a Roman citizen. This set of Roman ruins will immerse you in the life of a Roman citizen. But how to get to Rome without visiting the Vatican? This independent state, landlocked in the heart of the capital, is full of cultural and architectural wonders. We can mention the Sistine Chapel and its ceiling painted by Michelangelo or St. Peter's Basilica, one of the most important buildings of Catholicism.
To end your journey aboard Italian high-speed trains, head to the Amalfi Coast, starting with its capital: Naples. Its history dating back to Greek times, makes Napoli one of the oldest cities in Italy. This is reflected in its historic center, where you can see a trace of the different civilizations that have passed there, including the artery of the landmark center Spaccanapoli —a getaway to the beaches of Naples framed by white cliffs and crystal clear water. A getaway to the beaches of Naples framed by white cliffs and crystal clear water. Also do not miss visiting the legendary Vesuvius National Park which once buried Pompeii under its lava. Thanks to one of the many regional trains, go to Sorrento, a city perched on cliffs. Its picturesque architecture is clearly worth a visit, it is also remarkable in its emblematic Piazza Tasso: the emblematic square of the city gives a breathtaking view of its splendid bay with colorful facades.
◄
