This website uses modern construction techniques, which may not render correctly in your old browser.
We recommend updating your browser for the best online experience.

Visit browsehappy.com to help you select an upgrade.

Skip to Content

European Wonders Rail & Sail

22 night package including 12 night rail journey from Paris to Athens + 7 night cruise onboard MSC Lirica

Paris to Venice (Marghera)

23 days / 22 nights

Rail & Sail Holiday

MSC Lirica

Departs 01 Mar 2026

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 17 night rail and sail adventure through Europe’s most iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in the enchanting city of Paris, then journey through the stunning scenery of Switzerland and the alpine beauty of St. Moritz. Continue to the historical and cultural wonders of Rome before traveling to Greece, where ancient history comes alive in Athens and the legendary Mount Olympus awaits. Make your way to the cruise terminal and board your 7-night cruise in Piraeus visiting Izmir, Istanbul, Corfu and Bari before returning to Piraeus.

MSC Lirica

MSC Lirica brings you a distinctive cruise experience centred on elegance, comfort and hospitality in the finest MSC Cruises tradition. Magnificent internal vistas from the foyer and unimpeded ocean views from the lounges’ floor-to-ceiling windows contribute to a sense of relaxed spaciousness, which is complemented by a variety of intimate lounges.

Highlights & Inclusions

Highlights

  • Discover the timeless beauty and landmarks of Paris
  • Experience breathtaking views of Paris from the summit of the Eiffel Tower
  • Explore the stunning Swiss landscapes, including a ferry ride to Chillon Castle
  • Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans at the Roman Forum and Colosseum in Rome
  • Uncover the rich history and culture of Athens, including a visit to the Acropolis
  • Enjoy a scenic ferry journey across the Adriatic Sea from Italy to Greece
  • Delve into Greek mythology with a day trip to the legendary Mount Olympus

Rail Inclusions

  • Rail travel as per itinerary
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Paris, Lausanne, St. Moritz, Rome
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Athens
  • Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour of Paris with River Cruise
  • Skip-the-Line Tickets for the Eiffel Tower with Summit Access
  • Ferry from Lausanne to Chillon Castle
  • Small-Group Walking Tour of Rome with the Roman Forum and Colosseum
  • Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour of Rome
  • Day Trip to Acropolis and Museum with a Walking Tour of Athens
  • Day Trip to Delphi Including Entrance Fees to Delphi Site & Museum
  • Overnight ferry from Bari to Patras
  • Private transfer from Patras to Athens

Cruise Inclusions

  • 7 night voyage departing Athens (Piraeus) on MSC Lirica in a stateroom of your choice
  • Port charges & government fees
  • Onboard entertainment
  • Onboard meals
  • Pool & gym access
  • Teen & youth clubs
  • Gratuities / Tipping included in your cruise fare

Itinerary

Day 1 | Your Journey Begins in Paris 

Welcome to Paris! Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel and check-in for a two-night stay. Spend the rest of the day exploring the City of Light at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a stroll along the Seine or visiting the nearby Champs-Élysées. (Overnight in Paris)

Day 2 | Paris 

After breakfast, use your 2-day Paris Hop-on, Hop-off Explore Ticket to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Arc de Triomphe. In the afternoon, ascend the Eiffel Tower with your priority boarding ticket and enjoy spectacular views of the city from the summit. Conclude the day with a relaxing Seine River Cruise, taking in the illuminated sights of Paris by night. (Overnight in Paris)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 | Paris to Lausanne

This morning, board your train to Lausanne, Switzerland. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin using your Swiss Pass to explore Lausanne’s charming old town or stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva. (Overnight in Lausanne) 

Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 | Lausanne

Today, use your Swiss Pass to take a scenic ferry ride across Lake Geneva to Chillon Castle. Explore this medieval fortress and its stunning surroundings before returning to Lausanne by ferry. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps visiting the Olympic Museum or enjoying the views from the Sauvabelin Tower. (Overnight in Lausanne)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 | Lausanne to St. Moritz

After breakfast, use your Swiss Pass to travel by train through the breathtaking Swiss Alps to the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz. Check in to your hotel for a two-night stay and spend the rest of the day relaxing in this world-renowned destination known for its natural beauty and upscale charm. 

Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 | St. Moritz

Enjoy a full day at leisure in St. Moritz. Take a scenic walk around the lake, visit the local museums, or take advantage of the many outdoor activities available, from hiking to cable car rides offering panoramic views of the Alps. (Overnight in St. Moritz)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 | St. Moritz to Rome Via The Bernina Express

Today, travel by train to Rome, the Eternal City. Join the iconic Bernina Express as you travel through the stunning scenery of the Brusio Spiral and Swiss mountains. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps dining in one of Rome’s famous trattorias or enjoying a gelato as you stroll through the historic city center. (Overnight in Rome)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 | Rome

After breakfast, join a small-group walking tour that will take you through the heart of ancient Rome. Explore the Roman Forum, once the center of Roman public life, and marvel at the grandeur of the Colosseum, the iconic symbol of Rome’s imperial past. In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour, which will allow you to visit other famous sites such as the Vatican, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. (Overnight in Rome)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 | Train to Bari and Overnight Ferry to Patras

Check out of your hotel and board a train to Bari, located on Italy’s Adriatic coast. Upon arrival, prepare for your overnight ferry journey to Patras, Greece. Enjoy the facilities onboard and take in the views as you sail across the Adriatic Sea. (Overnight onboard the ferry)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 | Athens

Arrive in Patras and meet your private transfer to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, checkin at your hotel for a three-night stay. Spend the evening exploring the lively Plaka neighborhood, known for its charming streets, shops, and traditional Greek tavernas. (Overnight in Athens)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 | Athens

After breakfast, embark on a day trip that includes a visit to the Acropolis, the most significant ancient site in the Western world. Explore the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and other iconic structures with a knowledgeable guide. In the afternoon, visit the Acropolis Museum, home to many of the original artifacts found on the Acropolis. (Overnight in Athens)

Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 | Day Trip to Delphi

It’s an early start today but so very worth it as you will be heading to the mountains and the sacred town of Delphi. In the classical world, Delphi was considered the world's center, and its location on Mount Parnassus is now an extensive archaeological site including a vast theatre, gymnasium, stadium, and the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. There are fewer sites in the world which are in such dramatic surroundings which had such an important role in the ancient world. A local lunch is included here before you make the return journey to Athens for the night. (Overnight Athens)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13 | Tour ends in Athens

Your tour ends today after breakfast. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Days 14 & 15 | Athens at Leisure

Day 16 | Athens - Piraeus

Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and make your way to Piraeus to board your 7 night cruise.

Day 17 | Izmir

Arrive 7.00am – Depart 14.30pm

Day 18 | Istanbul

Arrive 9.00am – Depart 8.00pm

Day 19 | At Sea

Day 20 | Corfu

Arrive 13.30pm – Depart 8.00pm

Day 21 | Bari

Arrive 12.01am – Depart 7.00pm

Day 22 | At Sea

Day 23 | Athens (Piraeus)

Disembark 7.00am 

*Itinerary is subject to change and availability.

Dates/Prices

DepartsJunior InteriorJunior BalconyAurea Premium SuiteYacht Club Deluxe Suite
1 March 2026$7,935pp$8,225pp$8,625pp$8,975pp

Enquire within your nearest Phil Hoffmann Travel store, click here for more information. 

*Advertised pricing based on per person twin share, correct as of 15 July 2025. 

Booking terms and conditions apply.

* Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.

Destinations featured in this deal

Europe France Paris Italy Venice Greece Turkey Ephesus Istanbul

We just need some details...

Then one of our expert Consultants will get back to you shortly.

Contact Details

Name
Are you an existing client to Phil Hoffmann Travel?
Would you like to receive our enews with last minute hot deals, invitations and travel information?
By proceeding I agree to my personal information being handled in accordance with Phil Hoffmann Travel Privacy Policy.