Rail & Sail: Iconic Ports and Elegant Islands of the Mediterranean

Journey through the heart of the Mediterranean, combining the timeless elegance of La Dolce Vita Orient Express with an unforgettable luxury yacht voyage. From Venice’s canals and Tuscany’s rolling landscapes to the sun-drenched shores of Sardinia, the French Riviera and Spain, discover a slower, more considered way to travel where every mile becomes part of the adventure.

Italy, France, Spain
10 nights private tour from £17,600

Journey highlights

  • A seamless blend of rail and sea travel. Experience the romance of luxury train travel aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express combined with the effortless elegance of a Mediterranean voyage.

  • Seamless without sameness. Move effortlessly from the refined elegance of luxury rail to the relaxed sophistication of a private yacht voyage, with each chapter of the journey offering a completely different way to experience Europe.

  • Unforgettable luxury experiences throughout. Indulge in Michelin-starred dining, elegant hotels, private transfers and immersive cultural discoveries, all seamlessly curated by Scott Dunn

  • Effortless luxury with Explora Journeys. Enjoy an elevated all-inclusive experience at sea, with world-class dining, premium beverages, curated experiences and exceptional service included throughout your voyage, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the journey without compromise.

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Itinerary

Day 1 - 2
  • Venice to Rome

    At a Glance

    This journey departs on July 16th 2027

     

    Day 1 | Venice | Board La Dolce Vita Orient Express

    Your Rail & Sail journey begins in Venice, where a private water taxi glides through the city's iconic canals to Venezia Santa Lucia Station. Here, you'll step aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an elegant celebration of Italian glamour inspired by the golden age of travel.

     

    As the train departs into the evening, settle into your beautifully appointed private cabin before making your way to the refined Restaurant Car for an exceptional dinner created by three-Michelin-starred Chef Heinz Beck. Later, retire to the sophisticated Bar Car, where live piano and vocals accompany handcrafted cocktails as Tuscany's rolling landscapes drift silently beyond the window. From the very first evening, the journey becomes as memorable as the destinations themselves.

     

    Day 2 | Florence & Rome | Through the Heart of Italy

    Wake to the gentle rhythm of the rails as breakfast is served in your cabin or the Restaurant Car, with vineyards, olive groves and cypress-lined hills rolling past your window. Arriving in Florence, you'll have time to immerse yourself in the birthplace of the Renaissance. Wander elegant piazzas, admire masterpieces that have shaped centuries of art and culture, or simply savour the atmosphere over an espresso in a hidden square.

     

    Later this afternoon, reboard the train as it continues south towards Rome. The landscapes gradually soften as the Tuscan countryside gives way to Lazio, before your rail journey concludes in the Eternal City. Rich in history and timeless grandeur, Rome provides the perfect transition from rail to sea.

    Where to stay

    La Dolce Vita Orient Express (1 night)

Day 2 - 4
Day 4 - 11
  • Rome to Barcelona

    At a Glance

    This Voyage Departs on July 19th 2027

    Day 4 | Rome | Embarkation Day

    Enjoy a relaxed morning in Rome before transferring to the port of Civitavecchia to board EXPLORA I. As you step aboard, settle into your elegant suite and toast the beginning of your Mediterranean voyage from the comfort of the open deck. As the coastline slips away, spend the afternoon unwinding with exceptional dining, impeccable service and uninterrupted sea views. The pace shifts once again, inviting you to experience the Mediterranean as it was always intended, unhurried, elegant and effortlessly luxurious.

     

    Day 5 | Livorno | Gateway to Florence

    Arriving in Livorno, you'll venture into the heart of Tuscany to discover magnificent Florence, home to some of the world's greatest artistic treasures. Wander beneath Brunelleschi's iconic Duomo, admire masterpieces inside the Uffizi Gallery or escape the crowds within the peaceful Boboli Gardens. As evening approaches, enjoy a glass of fine Tuscan wine overlooking the Ponte Vecchio before returning to your yacht. It's a day that perfectly captures the Italian art of dolce far niente, taking time to appreciate life's finest moments.

     

    Day 6 | Genoa | Maritime Grandeur

    Today brings you to the historic port city of Genoa, where centuries of maritime wealth have left behind magnificent palaces, grand piazzas and an atmospheric maze of medieval streets. Explore the UNESCO-listed old town, browse elegant boutiques and artisan delicatessens, or pause for freshly made pesto and creamy gelato in one of Italy's most authentic cities. As the afternoon light softens, stroll along the waterfront promenade before returning on board for another evening of exceptional dining.

     

    Day 7 | Portofino | The Italian Riviera

    Wake to one of the Mediterranean's most iconic harbours as your yacht arrives in picture-perfect Portofino. Pastel-coloured houses frame the waterfront while luxury yachts gently sway beside charming cafés and boutiques. Spend the day exploring the colourful harbour, visiting the Church of San Giorgio or discovering hidden walking trails with spectacular coastal views. For those wishing to venture further, the dramatic villages of Cinque Terre offer an unforgettable glimpse into the timeless beauty of the Italian Riviera.

     

    Day 8 | Villefranche-sur-Mer | The French Riviera

    Cross into the Côte d'Azur, where the colourful harbour of Villefranche-sur-Mer welcomes you with Provençal charm and effortless elegance.

    Wander flower-filled streets and waterfront cafés before exploring the medieval hilltop villages of Èze or Saint-Paul de Vence, both offering spectacular views across the glittering Mediterranean. Whether browsing local galleries or enjoying a leisurely lunch overlooking the coast, today embodies the relaxed sophistication for which the French Riviera is renowned.

     

    Day 9 | Olbia | Sardinia's Emerald Coast

    Discover the captivating beauty of northern Sardinia, where impossibly turquoise waters meet pristine white-sand beaches along the celebrated Costa Smeralda. Explore the authentic streets of Olbia before venturing to Porto Cervo, the glamorous heart of Sardinia's Emerald Coast. Alternatively, uncover the natural beauty of La Maddalena Archipelago or visit the charming mountain village of San Pantaleo, where artisan boutiques and local wineries provide an authentic taste of island life.

     

    Day 10 | At Sea | The Luxury of Time

    Today is devoted entirely to the simple pleasure of being at sea. Slow mornings stretch into leisurely afternoons as the Mediterranean sparkles beyond your private terrace. Perhaps begin with breakfast overlooking the open water before unwinding by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment or simply losing yourself in a good book. As evening arrives, enjoy another unforgettable dinner accompanied by spectacular sea views.

     

    Day 11 | Palma de Mallorca | Balearic Beauty

    Wake in Palma, where golden sandstone architecture, vibrant markets and sweeping Mediterranean views create one of Spain's most captivating cities. Explore the magnificent Gothic cathedral, browse stylish boutiques in the Old Town or journey into Mallorca's dramatic Tramuntana Mountains aboard a vintage railway. From traditional villages and family-run wineries to secluded beaches and exceptional cuisine, the island offers a wonderful balance of culture, nature and relaxed Mediterranean living.

     

    Day 12 | Barcelona | Journey's End

    Your Rail & Sail journey concludes in vibrant Barcelona, where Catalan creativity meets Mediterranean charm.

    Before your onward, take time to explore Ga

    Where to stay

    EXPLORA I (7 nights)

Why book a Journey by Land & Sea

When to visit

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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
May to September offers the best weather, with long sunny days, calm seas and temperatures typically ranging from 22°C to 32°C. May, June and September are particularly rewarding, combining warm, comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds, making them ideal for leisurely sightseeing and embracing the art of slow travel. July and August bring the hottest weather and a lively Mediterranean atmosphere, perfect for those seeking vibrant coastal destinations and long evenings spent dining al fresco.
Rail & Sail: Iconic Ports and Elegant Islands of the Mediterranean
Rail & Sail: Iconic Ports and Elegant Islands of the Mediterranean

We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 020 8682 5020 to start planning your holiday.

Plan your trip

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  • We listen to you, and tailor your cruise to your travel style, pairing you with the right ship and the right destinations.
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  • Whether before, after or during your luxury cruise, we curate the best experiences on land to compliment your journey by sea, accompanied by our expert local guides.
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  • Our cruises are carefully chosen for their five-star offering: fine dining, luxe facilities, attentive staff, and personal in-cabin butler service.
  • We have personally experienced these ships and will only suggest those that meet the level of service and luxury that our guests expect.

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