Stay & Play

Traveling Slowly by Train is the Ultimate Way to Experience Italy

by Olivia Liveng

Having journeyed to Italy numerous times, each visit unfurling it’s own unique cultural, historical, and–of course–gastronomical–experiences, I found myself yearning for something different—a return to the old-school way of exploring, where the journey itself is as enriching as the destinations. This time, I sought to embrace the concept of slow travel, to immerse myself deeply in the essence of Italy, not just as a tourist but as a traveler intent on savoring every moment, every flavor, and every sunset with unbridled appreciation.

With this spirit, I embarked on a grand tour, not just any tour, but a luxurious voyage aboard the legendary Arlecchino train, complemented by stays at the illustrious Sina Hotels. This journey harked back to a bygone era of glamour and leisure, where the pace was slower, and the experiences were savored, promising an intimate exploration of Italy’s grandeur through its cities and the storied halls of Sina Hotels.

Embarking on this Italian journey, the allure was not just in traversing the picturesque landscapes but in diving deep into the lap of luxury, history, and gastronomy offered by the iconic Arlecchino train and the illustrious Sina Hotels. This narrative unfolds not as a mere recounting of travel but as a personal diary, chronicling an intimate exploration of Italy’s grandeur.

The Arlecchino Train: A Revival of Glamour

Boarding the Arlecchino felt like stepping onto a movie set from the 1960s, where every detail, from the polished wood paneling to the sumptuous fabrics, was a nod to a bygone era of glamour. The journey between cities became a highlight, with landscapes that shifted from rolling vineyards to ancient cityscapes, all viewed from the luxurious comfort of the train’s interiors. Dining aboard was an event with courses that mirrored the passing regions, each dish narrating the story of its origin through taste and presentation.

Rome: The Eternal City at Sina Bernini Bristol

My first stop, Rome, was marked by the grandiosity of the Sina Bernini Bristol. Situated in the city’s pulsating heart, the hotel is a monument to luxury, standing proudly by the Piazza Barberini. Its storied history, spanning 150 years, was palpable in the opulent decor and the attentive service that made every moment spent there special. My room offered a breathtaking vista of Rome, a canvas of history and modernity. Dining at Il Vizio, the hotel’s rooftop haven, provided a symphony of flavors and an unparalleled view of the Eternal City, making each meal a memorable part of my Roman holiday.

Perugia: Unveiling History at Sina Brufani

As the Arlecchino glided into the heart of Umbria, the historic Sina Brufani in Perugia awaited. With a legacy stretching over 140 years, this hotel is a treasure chest of stories, nestled atop a hill and offering sweeping views spanning the medieval city and the green heart of Italy. The interiors were a seamless blend of antique charm and modern luxury, with rooms that felt like private sanctuaries of elegance. The highlight was undoubtedly the swimming pool, set over ancient ruins visible through a glass floor, offering a literal swim through history. And even though Italy’s March weather isn’t always synonymous with swimming.

Florence: A Renaissance Dream at Sina Villa Medici

Florence greeted me with the refined beauty of the Sina Villa Medici. This hotel, encased in a 19th-century palace, is a testament to the Renaissance spirit that permeates the city. The gardens, a lush retreat in the urban landscape, were the perfect backdrop for evenings spent dining al fresco at Harry’s Bar The Garden, where the culinary masterpieces served were rivaled only by the artistic ones adorning the city. The Sina Villa Medici was not just a place to stay; it was a portal to the past, offering a slice of Florentine life that was both luxurious and steeped in history.

Venice: Modern Majesty at Sina Centurion Palace

The decision to extend my journey to Venice brought me to the doorstep of the Sina Centurion Palace. Overlooking the Grand Canal, this hotel is a bold statement of contemporary design set against the historical canvas of Venice. Each room was a fusion of modern chic and traditional luxury, with views capturing Venetian life’s essence. Dining at the hotel was a journey through Venice’s culinary heritage, with innovative dishes that paid homage to the city’s rich gastronomic legacy. The Centurion Palace was more than a hotel; it was an experience blending the old and new in a city that defies time.

Culinary Experiences and Beyond

The culinary journey across these destinations was a highlight, with each Sina Hotel offering a unique perspective on Italy’s diverse flavors. From the rooftop elegance of Il Vizio in Rome to the serene gardens of Harry’s Bar in Florence, and the innovative cuisine of Venice’s Sina Centurion Palace, every meal was a discovery and intimate means of better digesting Italy’s steeped culture–quite literally. The ingredients, the preparation, and the presentation were all testament to Italy’s deep-rooted culinary traditions and the innovative spirit that continues to evolve them.

Coming From An Italy Afficiando–This Is The Way To Experience Italy

This Italian voyage, from the historic corridors of the Arlecchino train to the luxurious embrace of Sina Hotels, was a narrative of discovery, luxury, and unparalleled hospitality. Each hotel opened up its city to me, not just as a place to visit but as a world to inhabit, if only for a short while. They were not merely places to rest but sanctuaries that offered a deeper connection to Italy’s rich history, culture, and gastronomy. As I reflect on this journey, I realize it was not just a passage through Italy but an invitation into the heart of its beauty, a beauty that persists in the walls of its hotels, the landscapes outside my window, and the flavors that danced upon my palate. This was not merely travel; it was an experience woven into the essence of Italian splendor, leaving indelible marks on my memory and a yearning to return.

www.sinahotels.com