Discover the magic of Italy with Eurail

From the rolling vineyards that grace Tuscany and sun-soaked island of Sicily to the ancient Roman monuments in Rome and the ash-covered ruins of Pompeii. All yours to discover with your Italy Rail Pass!

Eurail video: Venice

Cities in Italy you shouldn't miss

Grab your Eurail Pass and head for Italy’s capital Rome. This ancient city is brimming with an abundance of splendid sights, sounds and smells. Have a breakfast as the Romans with a strong espresso and a Tramezino sandwich. Be dazzled by St. Peters square and visit the many Roman antiquities. Explore the city of Pisa with its famous leaning tower, hop on a train and take a private gondola tour through the maze of canals in Venice. Head south and enjoy Mediterranean atmosphere at its best in the historic city of Palermo where you can still feel its Middle East origins.

Ten things to experience in Italy

Colosseum

Probably the most famous landmark in Rome, this amphitheater was built in the 1st century AD and was the largest of its time, accommodating some 50-thousand spectators. Today, the remains of this sacred place stand as a monument to a bygone civilization

St. Peter's Basilica

Located in enclave of Vatican City, St. Peter’s is one of the largest churches in the world and was erected on the site where the apostle Peter was crucified and buried. From the stunning altar and buried tombs to the ornate workmanship of Renaissance masters like Bramante, Michelangelo and Bernini, the sights are breathtaking. Construction on this holy site was completed in 1626.

Fontana di Trevi

The most famous fountain in Rome is right in the center of the city and is a stunning example of Baroque art. If you want to come back to Rome, bring a coin or two. Legend has it that if you toss one into the fountain, you’ll return to the city (don’t forget that Italy Rail Pass!). Two coins bring a marriage, and three coins means a divorce or breakup.

Forum Romanum

The Roman Forum was the heart of ancient Rome and boasted many temples, arches and basilicas. The ruins include a modern statue of Julius Caesar and a variety of stunning ancient monuments and buildings.

Florence

If you are an art lover Italy is a blessing and the city of Florence is your heaven. This famous city from the Renaissance period truly is Italia's capital of art.

Venice

From the stunning architecture, historic buildings and romantic balconies, to the Grand Canal, its picturesque bridges and famous gondolas, this city truly is magical.

Pompeii

Once a wealthy retreat for ancient Romans, the eruption Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD changed all that. Today, the ruins feature impressive temples, a forum, a massive amphitheatre, houses and more.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

A must-see on any visit to Italy, construction on the infamous tower began in the late 12th century, but came to a halt when the ground gave way. Hence, the famous “lean.”  The tower is right behind another amazing sight: Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa), a jewel of Romanesque architecture, featuring beautiful arches, bronze doors and artistic masterpieces.

Assisi

With its stark, glimmering white buildings and its famous 14th-century fortress, a stop here is a definite must. Home to St. Francis, the patron saint of animals born here in 1182, the basilica built in his honor is absolutely stunning.  The town also hosts many churches, including San Pietro, St Clare and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Sicily

Golden beaches and sun-soaked pleasure await you here. You’ll also find a potpourri of historic sites, including Greek temples, Roman ruins, Norman castles, and Byzantine domes. Be sure to sample the mouthwatering seafood.

When to go

The best moments to use your Italian Rail Pass are early spring and autumn. Summer is the prime tourist season when the country is at its busiest and prices are at their highest. Check what the weather will be like when you travel to Italy.

Events

  • Saint Agatha's Feast Day
    Be amazed by one of the largest religious processions in the world. Held every february in the city of Catania, Sicily.
  • Verona Opera Festival
    Every summer Verona organizes this delight for your ears and your eyes. The city's ancient Roman amphitheatre is the epicentre for this event.
  • Regata Storica
    Every first Sunday in September Venice hosts the Regata Storica, the annual trial of strength and skill for the city's gondoliers and other expert rowers.
  • Umbria Jazz festival
    If you have a soft spot for jazz, use your Eurail Pass to visit the city of Perugia in July. The Umbria Jazz Festival is one of the leading jazz events in Europe.

More information about Italy

Italy

 

Eurail Passes for Italy