2024 2025
SPAIN AND PORTUGAL BY RAIL
RAIL NETWORK
Bergen Orkney Islands
ACROSS EUROPE
John o’Groats
Ferry
Ullapool
Outer Hebrides
Mallaig
S
Inverness
Jacobite
Fort William Glencoe
Aberdeen
EDINBURGH Glasgow BELFAST
Local Intercity Carlisle
Newcastle
Local Intercity Galway
York
Leeds
Ferry
DUBLIN
Liverpool
Holyhead
Hull
Manchester
Chester
UNITED KINGDOM
Killarney
Ferry
Stratford-upon-Avon Swansea
Cambridge
Oxford
Bristol
Ijmuiden
Harwich
AMSTERDAM
Den Haag Penzance
LONDON Totnes
Falmouth
Ebbsfleet Ashford
Eurostar
Calais-Frethun
Lannion
Le Havre
Quimper
Morlaix
St-Brieuc Redon
Lorient Vannes
St-Malo
Vitré
Laval
Nantes
Poitiers Ruffec TGV
Angoulême La Coruña
Pontevedra
Monforte de Lemos
Vigo
Ourense
Oviedo
Agen
Man Saarbrü
TGV
Strasbourg
Mulhouse Dijon Belfort Besançon
La Souterraine
FRANCE
Nancy
Basel
Golden Pass Lucerne Interlaken Lausanne Geneva Lyon
Arcachon Local Intercity
Santander
Kaiserslautern Metz
Limoges Brive-la-Gaillarde
G
LUXEMBOURG
Thalys
Châteauroux
Bordeaux Gijón
BELGIUM Reims
Les AubraisOrléans Eurostar Vierzon
Tours
Niort
Cologne
Forbach
Angers
La Rochelle
Santiago de Compostela
Rouen
BRUSSELS
Le Mans
TGV Les Sables d’Olonne
Lille
Mantes-la-Jolie PARIS
Rennes
St-Nazaire
Le Croisic
Hoek van Rotterdam Holland Bruges Calais Ghent Ypres Antwerp
Rang-du-Fliers-Verton Local Intercity
Brest
NETHERLANDS Netherland
SWITZ.
Montreux Zermatt
Glacier Express
Brig
Lake Maggiore
Eurocity Milan
Mâcon San Biarritz Dax Montauban TGV Sebastiá /Donostia Hendaye Pau Puebla de Sanabria Altsasu Turin Irún Toulouse Local Intercity Porto Nimes Avignon Lourdes Tarbes Vitoria/ Local Intercity Palencia Montpellier Zamora Pamplona Burgos Gasteiz Carcassonne Aix-en-Provence Arles Sestri Levante Sud Express Fuentes Valladolid Beziers TGV Cinque Ter de Oñoro Cannes Medina del Campo Tudela Narbonne Nice Coimbra Marseille de N. Salamanca St-Raphaël Huesca Perpignan TGV Toulon Segovia Calatayud Zaragoza Ávila Figueres Entroncamento Valencia de Lleida Girona Alcántara Guadalajara AVE MADRID Barcelona Cáceres LISBON Teruel Badajoz Tarragona Toledo Mérida Cuenca Bilbao
León
Miranda de Ebro
SPAIN
PORTUGAL
Ciudad Real AVE
Bus Faro
Alcazar de San Juan
Requena
València
Linares
Huelva
Seville
Jaén Córdoba
Cádiz
Antequera
Granada
Local Intercity Murcia
Málaga Ferry
Castelló Sagunt
Albacete
Algeciras Tangiers
Alicante Cartagena
Almería
RABAT Al-Boraq train Casablanca
MOROCCO
Local train
Marrakech Bus Agadir 2 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
The Flåm Railway
Flam
Local trains to Umeå, Luleå, Narvik & Galivare
Local trains to Trondheim & Bodø
Myrdal
NORWAY
FINLAND
SWEDEN
OSLO
Allegro
HELSINKI
Stavanger X2000
Ferry
STOCKHOLM
TALLINN
St. Petersburg
ESTONIA
Gothenburg
Local Intercity
DENMARK
RIGA
Ferry
Bus
COPENHAGEN
LATVIA
Trans-Siberian and Trans-Mongolian routes to Beijing & Vladivostock
LITHUANIA Eurocity
ds
ICE
Local Intercity
GERMANY
BERLIN
VILNIUS
Bus Poznan
Hannover
Local Intercity
Berlin-Warsaw Express
POLAND
Leipzig Dresden Eurocity
Frankfurt
RUSSIA
Gdansk
Hamburg
Wroclaw
WARSAW
Nightjet
n
PRAGUE
nnheim ücken
ICE Nuremberg
ALX
CZECH REPUBLIC
Stuttgart
Krakow
TGV Munich
Zurich
Salzburg
Innsbruck
AUSTRIA
Chur
Bernina Express Tirano
St. Moritz
Villach Euronight
Lake Como
Lake Garda
Eurocity
Railjet
BUDAPEST
HUNGARY
LJUBLJANA
Nightjet
Verona
Eurocity
CROATIA
Venice
Subotica
Novi Sad
Bologna
Sighișoara Sibiu
Local Intercity Brasov
BELGRADE Split
Siena Nightjet
Euronight
Local Intercity
Florence
Pisa
ROMANIA
ZAGREB
rre Lucca
VIENNA
Nightjet
SERBIA
BUCHAREST
La Frecce Dubrovnik ROME
ITALY Bari
Naples Sorrento Circumvesuviana
Ferry Local Intercity Palermo Taormina Catania
GREECE Patras
Siracusa Pozzallo Ferry VALLETTA
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 3
WHY RAILBOOKERS? Railbookers offers expertly planned tailor made holidays, with an extensive range of holidays to Europe, North America and beyond. We take the complexity out of independent rail travel and offer all our customers unparalleled service, incredible travel experiences and the very best value. The team at Railbookers is made up of proud ‘train geeks’ with comprehensive knowledge and passion for all things rail.
Lisbon
RAIL EXPERT KNOWLEDGE
MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY
We know rail; from the best routes to the best times ensuring you have the best holiday.
Any destination, any date for any length of time…simply put, if the train goes there, so do we.
BOOK AND TRAVEL FROM TODAY TO 2 YEARS AHEAD You can depart today or book your bucket-list trip 2 years ahead; either way, we have you covered.
7579
ABTA No.Y6401
Book with confidence. Railbookers is a member of ABTA Y6401 and ATOL 7579. Which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct, as well as financial protection for your holiday. All packages inclusive of flights will be financially protected by the ATOL scheme.’
4 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
CONTENTS Rail network across Europe
2-3
Why Railbookers
4-5
Everything you need to know about our holidays
6
Our Rail Partners
7
Spain and Portugal
8-21
Andalucian Explorer
10-11
Madrid and Andalucia
12
Grand Barcelona, Seville and Madrid
13
The Basque Explorer
14
Lisbon, Porto and the Douro River
15
El Transcantabrico - Gran Lujo from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela 16-17 The Best of Iberia
LARGEST RAIL HOLIDAY SELECTION
NO RAIL TRIP IS TOO COMPLICATED FOR US
From luxurious, multi-country journeys to extending your cruise, or creating a tailor made rail itinerary, we have it all.
What is confusing is our easy and anything can be customised.
18-19
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 5
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OUR HOLIDAYS HOW DO I MAKE A BOOKING?
WHAT IS IT LIKE ON A SLEEPER TRAIN?
Please visit your local Travel Agent Call us on 020 3780 2222 Or visit www.railbookers.co.uk
The sleeper trains in our packages are comfortable, fun and adventurous ways of travelling long distances. Most sleeper trains offer private cabins for one, two or sometimes three passengers. Some routes also offer the opportunity to upgrade to deluxe compartments with private en-suite facilities.
CAN I START OR FINISH MY JOURNEY AT MY LOCAL STATION? Of course! Most of our holidays start from London St.Pancras station, where the Eurostar departs. However train tickets can be booked from any UK rail station to coincide with the timings of your onward or return journey. CAN I TAILOR MAKE MY TRIP? Absolutely. We can add hotel nights to give you extra time to explore your destination, or add in additional stopovers to help you discover new ones! We can also add transfers and sightseeing options so you can make the most of your trip. Just talk to us or your Travel Agent and we’ll start creating the perfect holiday for you. CAN I TAKE A HOLIDAY YOU OFFER IN REVERSE? We can offer a reverse option on any of our packages. If you would like to visit cities in a different order or start/finish in a different location, please speak with us or your local Travel Agent. CAN I UPGRADE TO FIRST CLASS RAIL ON SOME OR EVEN ALL OF MY TRAIN JOURNEYS? You certainly can. This could entitle you to a larger seat, more legroom and even a meal and drinks on certain routes. To find out more please speak with us or your local Travel Agent, who will tell you the advantages of First class on your specific route.
CAN YOU RECOMMEND THE MOST SCENIC ROUTE TO GET TO MY DESTINATION? We’re always advocates of taking the scenic route! With so much to see from the train windows on all our holidays, you’re in for a treat. If there’s a different route you could take for some extra special scenery, we’ll be excited to let you know!
AM I ABLE TO TRAVEL ON MY CHOICE OF DATES?
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
There are no set departure dates with our holidays, with the exception of private train journeys such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Most trains will run every day, which means our holidays do too.
If you’re used to strict luggage policies and weight limits, rail travel will be a breath of fresh air. Each passenger can take two main items of luggage plus an item of hand luggage. There are no weight restrictions.
CAN I CHOOSE MY TRAIN TIMES? Our packages don’t have set departure times. When there are multiple trains a day, if there’s a particularly convenient time or a departure that will ensure you catch the best scenery, we’ll be sure to recommend it. WHERE ARE YOUR HOTELS LOCATED? Our hotels are centrally located within each city we offer. Most are within a short distance of local sights and/or your railway stations. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL? Whenever works for you! Whether you’re looking for the best weather, the best scenery or the best value, just talk to us or your local Travel Agent about what you’re looking to get from your holiday and they can arrange the perfect trip.
HOW LONG BEFORE THE TRAIN DEPARTS SHOULD I BE AT THE STATION? With the exception of Eurostar, which has a 45-minute check-in time, there is no official check-in required for train journeys in Europe. Of course, we always recommend arriving at the station in plenty of time. CAN I TRAIN HOME FROM THE LAST CITY ON MY HOLIDAY? Absolutely. We can arrange rail or fly back options to the UK. You are also able to fly or rail out to one destination and continue your holiday by rail from there - whatever works for you.
6 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
OUR RAIL PARTNERS
Railbookers are able to offer professionally planned holidays and a seamless booking process due to our strong partnerships with suppliers throughout Europe, America and Canada.
EUROSTAR
AMTRAK
DEUTSCHE BAHN
Eurostar is the only high speed train that directly links the UK to France and Belgium via the Channel Tunnel.
Amtrak is the USA’s national rail operator. It connects North America in a safer, greener and healthier way with thousands of route miles across 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces. Amtrak operates more than 300 trains every day, travelling at speeds up to 150 mph, to more than 500 spectacular destinations.
Founded in 1994, Deutsche Bahn AG is one of the world’s leading passenger companies operating in 130 countries. Deutsche Bahn are committed to providing efficient travel services for customers around the world, operating over 26,000 train trips on its modern 33,000 kilometre long track network every day.
Eurostar take thousands of people a day to Paris, Brussels, Lille, Calais and more, as well as running much-loved direct trains to the South of France and the French and Swiss Alps. Eurostar runs services from London St. Pancras International, Ebbsfleet International and Ashford International in Kent. BELMOND: VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENTEXPRESS The ultimate travel curator and connoisseur, Belmond creates exceptional experiences worldwide. Their collection of iconic trains brings together some of the world’s most thrilling journeys and destinations. From the vintage carriages of the British Pullman to its sister train the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. A work of art in itself and a true Art Deco icon, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is one of the world’s most famous luxury trains. Step aboard and experience truly elegant travel, wrapped in timeless romance.
VIA RAIL Established by the Canadian government in 1977, VIA Rail Canada breathed new life into the country’s railways by becoming its first national passenger rail company. Boasting an impressive array of train cars, VIA provides a reliable and secure way to travel across Canada. Its fleet is equipped with all the amenities and technology that you’ve come to expect from modern travel, including wireless Internet access. TRENITALIA ‘With a total network of more than 180 highspeed daily connections from city centre to city centre, including all of Italy’s major art cities, its wide domestic network that helps you reach every destination and its high-level catering services on board.
RENFE OPERADORA Renfe Operadora is a state owned Spanish rail company, which was founded in 2005. The name “Renfe” was formed from the former Spanish National Railway Network, RENFE (acronym of Red Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Españoles). Their mission is to provide rail transport to passengers in the safest and most efficient way. SNCF The official European distribution channel of the French railways (SNCF) for sales of high-speed and conventional rail travel throughout France and Europe.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 7
SPAIN & PORTUGAL Explore Spain and discover Moorish palaces and Baroque squares in Andalucia, colorful Gaudí creations in Catalonia, the tiled terraces of Park Guell, and the incredible Alhambra in Granada. In Portugal, explore the cobbled streets, grand cathedrals and river views of places such as Lisbon and Porto. Taking the train makes it easy to combine any number of these fantastic destinations in one amazing holiday.
8 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Barcelona
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 9
ANDALUCIAN EXPLORER
Malaga ➡ Granada ➡ Cordoba ➡ Seville ➡ Malaga
Bay of Biscay
SPAIN Spend 2 nights in Seville before returning to Malaga via Cordoba for your flight back to the UK
2
2 CORDOBA
SEVILLE North Atlantic Ocean
The Mezquita, Cordoba
2 GRANADA 2 MALAGA
Your journey begins with your flight from the UK to Malaga
Mediterranean Sea
KEY
1 Nights stay Return flights
10 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
The Alcazabar, Madrid
Caption
9 DAYS
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP HOLIDAY INCLUDES: • Return flight from the UK to Malaga • Rail travel throughout • 8 nights hotel stay with breakfast in • Skip the line walking tour of the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens in Granada, of Cordoba including the Mezquita and Alcázar and of Seville Cathedral and Alcazar
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Malaga - NH Malaga Granada - Hospes Palacio De Los Patos Cordoba - Hospes Palacio Del Bailio Seville - Hospes Las Casas Del Rey De Baeza Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
Torre del Oro, Seville
DAY 1 - ARRIVE IN MALAGA
DAY 4 - GRANADA TO CORDOBA
DAY 8 - SEVILLE TO MALAGA
Depart from the UK for your flight to Malaga, your gateway to Andalucia. On arrival in Malaga, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay. Perhaps wander around the Alcazaba, an 11th-century Moorish castle with ramparts overlooking the city, visit the Picasso Museum for works by the famous artist who was born here, or relax in the tranquil surroundings of La Conception Botanical and Historical Garden.
Journey by train to Cordoba via Antequera today, and check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. A smaller city than its Andalucian neighbours of Seville and Granada, Cordoba makes up for its lack of size with history, charm and more than a few spectacular sights.
Return to Malaga by train today and enjoy a final night in the city. Perhaps visit some of the sights you missed at the beginning of the trip, or revisit some of your favourites.
DAY 2 - MALAGA TO GRANADA Board the train for a scenic ride to Granada, which includes a transfer to the pretty city Andalucian city of Antequera. Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the city of Granada and the surrounding Granada province is steeped in medieval history, and its fascinating Moorish architectural heritage draws thousands of visitors every year from around the world.
DAY 9 - DEPART MALAGA
DAY 5 - CORDOBA After breakfast this morning, explore one of Spain’s most celebrated historic monuments on a guided tour of the Great Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba.
DAY 6 - CORDOBA TO SEVILLE Board the train from Cordoba to Seville today. As the artistic, cultural, and financial capital of southern Spain, Seville is a historical masterpiece full of Islamic monuments, gardens and lively Flamenco festivals.
DAY 3 - GRANADA
DAY 7 - SEVILLE
After breakfast this morning, immerse yourself in Spain’s Moorish past with your included entrance to the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens, the most popular attraction in the city and one of the most beloved monuments in all of Spain. With construction starting in the 11th century, and numerous additions and revisions over hundreds of years, the palace is now a painstakingly restored love letter to Moorish architecture.
After an early breakfast, miss the crowds with an early access tour of the spectacular Royal Palace of Alcázar and the magnificent Seville Cathedral - home to many riches of Spanish Colonialism as well as the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
Seville
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MADRID AND ANDALUCIA
Old Town, Cordoba
UK ➡ Madrid ➡ Granada ➡ Cordoba ➡ Seville ➡ UK
8 DAYS
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP HOLIDAY INCLUDES: • Return flights between UK and Madrid • Onward rail travel • 7 nights hotel stay with breakfast • Skip the line walking tour of the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens in Granada • Skip the line tour in Cordoba of the Mezquite and Alcázar • Skip the line tour of Seville Cathedral and Alcázar
Bay of Biscay
North Atlantic Ocean
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Madrid - NH Nacional Madrid Granada - Hospes Palacio De Los Patos Cordoba - NH Amistad Seville - H10 Corregidor Boutique Hotel Spend 2 nights in Seville before returning to Madrid for your flight to the UK
MADRID 1
Your journey begins with your flight from the UK to Madrid
Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
SPAIN 2 CORDOBA
SEVILLE 2
2 GRANADA KEY
1 Nights stay
Mediterranean Sea
Return flights
The Alhambra Palace
DAY 1 - UK TO MADRID
DAY 3 - GRANADA
DAY 7 - SEVILLE
Fly to Madrid. Head out to explore the vibrant capital of Spain. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Bakery House, which dominates the area.
Lose yourself in the exceptional Moorish architecture of the Alhambra or simply enjoy the panoramic view from the ‘palace city’, which dominates Granada’s cityscape. Explore the old cobbled Carrera del Darro, or admire the baroque Basilica de San Juan de Dios with its magnificent paintings and other breathtaking ornaments.
Start your exploration in the Parque de María Luisa, one of the many green havens in Seville. Visit the Cathedral of Seville. The Gothic construction is one of the largest churches in the world and is especially renowned for its nave, the longest in Spain.
DAY 2 - MADRID TO GRANADA Travel to Granada and check in at your hotel.
DAY 4 - GRANADA TO CORDOBA Journey through the striking countryside to Cordoba.
DAY 8 - DEPART SEVILLE After breakfast, board your train to Madrid and fly back to the UK.
DAY 5 - CORDOBA Spend time roaming the picturesque alleys of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town, dominated by the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba with its colossal Roman columns and marvellous interior.
DAY 6 - CORDOBA TO SEVILLE Seville
Continue to Andalucia by catching a train to Seville.
12 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Madrid
GRAND BARCELONA, SEVILLE AND MADRID
Barcelona
UK ➡ Barcelona ➡ Seville ➡ Madrid ➡ UK
9 DAYS
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP HOLIDAY INCLUDES: • Flights from UK to Barcelona, Madrid to UK • First class train travel as specified in the itinerary • 8 nights hotel stay with breakfast • Skip the Line: Barcelona Sagrada Familia Tour • Barcelona hop-on, hop-off pass • Hop-on, hop-off bus pass and choice of walking tours in Seville • Skip the Line: Alcazar Guided Tour in Seville • Tapas and Wine tasting tour in Madrid • And much more
Bay of Biscay
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Spend 3 nights in Madrid before flying back to the UK
Barcelona - NH Barcelona Sants Seville - Occidental Sevilla Viapol Madrid - NH Collection Madrid Suecia
BARCELONA 3
MADRID 3
Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
Your journey begins with your flight from the UK to Barcelona
SPAIN KEY
SEVILLE 2
1 Nights stay
Madrid
Return flights
DAY 1 - UK TO BARCELONA
DAY 3 - BARCELONA
Travel from UK to Barcelona, widely considered Today spend some time spotting Gaudi’s iconic Mediterraneanarchitectural masterpieces throughout the city, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Sea then avoid the queues at his masterpiece the DAY 2 - BARCELONA Sagrada Familia with a guided tour. A great way to easily get between the sights of the DAY 4 - BARCELONA TO SEVILLE city is by your included city sightseeing hop-on, Take the high-speed AVE service to Seville. Make hop-off tour, valid for 48hrs. use of your included City Card for free entry to many of the city’s attractions, and discounts on a plethora of others.
DAY 5 - SEVILLE Enjoy your early access tour of the spectacular Royal Palace of Alcázar and the magnificent Seville Cathedral. Perhaps climb the steady slope to the top of La Giralda for an impressive view, or even atop the futurist Metropol Parasol for a unique photo opportunity, then see the rest of this amazing city in comfort with your hop-on, hop-off pass.
DAY 6 - SEVILLE TO MADRID Ride the rails to Madrid aboard an AVE service direct from Seville. Settle into your hotel and then why not head out to explore the city using your City Card?
DAY 7 - MADRID Use your included skip-the-line tour of the Prado Museum.
DAY 8 - MADRID Continue your exploration of the city on your included open-top hop-on, hop-off tour. There are 37 stops along two routes transporting you to the city’s main sights.
DAY 9 - DEPART MADRID Check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
Seville
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THE BASQUE EXPLORER
San Sebastian
Bordeaux ➡ San Sebastian ➡ Bilbao ➡ Madrid
10 DAYS
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP
LONDON
KEY
1 Nights stay
Your journey begins in London
English Channel
Flight to UK
HOLIDAY INCLUDES: • Rail travel as per itinerary • 9 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast • 2-day Bordeaux Pass including entrance to Cité du Vin • 24hr Hop-on-Hop-off pass in San Sebastian • 24hr Hop-on-Hop-off pass in Bilbao
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
PARIS
Travel from London to Paris direct on Eurostar
North Atlantic Ocean
Bordeaux - Best Western Bayonne Etche Ona San Sebastian - Barcelo Costa Brava Bilbao - Barcelo Nervion Madrid - NH Nacional Madrid Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
FRANCE Bay of Biscay
2 BORDEAUX
BILBAO SPAIN
MADRID 1
3
3
SAN SEBASTIAN
Spend 1 night in Madrid before flying back to the UK
Mediterranean Sea
Bilbao
DAY 1 - BORDEAUX
DAY 4 - SAN SEBASTIAN
DAY 7 - BILBAO
Speed to Paris onboard the Eurostar, then change onto a highspeed TGV train to Bordeaux. Head to your hotel and check-in for a two-night stay.
Use your included Hop-on-Hop-off sightseeing tour to explore the best of the city, such as Miramar Palace, Playa de la Concha beach, and much more! Be sure to see Basque art at Museo de San Telmo and the iconic Combo of the Winds sculpture.
Venture out to the Vizcaya Bridge and take the escalator to the top for an impressive view of the Nervion river or stay in town and enjoy the hustle and bustle of Plaza Ensanche.
DAY 5 - SAN SEBASTIAN
Head over to the unmistakable Guggenheim museum today for your quota of breath-taking architecture and contemporary art. Enjoy a light lunch as this evening you’ll be taken on a gastronomic walking tour of Bilbao, where you’ll enjoy the best pintxos and miniature cuisine paired with local wines.
DAY 2 - BORDEAUX Take advantage of your two-day pass today, with access to all Bordeaux’s great museums and galleries. Make your way to the Cité du Vin before midday to skip the line and learn everything about the world of wine. In the evening make your way to the Place de la Bourse for a beautiful picture, then head for dinner in one of the city’s many great restaurants.
DAY 3 - SAN SEBASTIAN Continue to use your Sightseeing Pass today and some last bits of souvenir shopping before hoping onto the TGV to the border town of Hendaye, where you change onto the train to San Sebastian. After checking in at your hotel head out to the old town to enjoy some fresh seafood in one of San Sebastian’s fantastic restaurants.
Why not ride the funicular railway to the top of Monte Igueldo on your own for sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscapes? Then, enjoy some pintxos (the Basque version of tapas) and continue exploring this beautiful town on your own.
DAY 6 - BILBAO After breakfast take the train through the Basque countryside from San Sebastian to Miranda de Ebro then Miranda de Ebro to Bilbao Abando station. On arrival, make your way to your hotel for a three-night stay.
DAY 8 - BILBAO
DAY 9 - MADRID Depart Bilbao in the morning on the direct train to Madrid, then check-in for your final night. then enjoy some tapas off Puerta del Sol.
DAY 10 - END OF TOUR Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to the airport for your flight home.
14 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
LISBON, PORTO AND THE DOURO RIVER
Porto
Lisbon Porto ➡ Pinhao ➡ Porto
• Douro river cruise from Porto to Pinhão including lunch. • Tour of a Douro wine estate including tastings and lunch. • Local train from Pinhão to Porto
Visit a Quintas with wine tasting
North Atlantic Ocean
PORTO 3
1 ALIJÓ
PINHÃO Spend your final night in Porto before flying back to the UK
8 DAYS
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP HOLIDAY INCLUDES: • Rail travel as per itinerary • 6 nights’ accommodation with breakfast • 1 night’s accommodation with dinner and breakfast in the Douro Valley • Lisbon Card including: • Free entry to over 20 museums and attractions • Unlimited public transportation • Specials offers in numerous restaurants and shops • Day trip to Sintra and Cascais • Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour in Porto
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Cruise from Porto to Pinhão along the Douro River
Lisbon - Hotel Marques de Pombal Porto - NH Collection Porto Batalha Overnight stay at Pousada Barao de Forrester Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
Your journey begins with your flight from the UK to Lisbon
SINTRA CABO DA ROCA CASCAIS ESTORIL
3
LISBON
PORTUGAL KEY
1 Nights stay
Day trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais and Estoril
DAY 1 - YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS IN LISBON Welcome to Lisbon! On arrival head to your hotel for check-in, then get out to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
DAY 2 - LISBON Use your Lisbon Card to save both time and money while discovering the best attractions and experiences the city has to offer. Featuring free entry to more than 20 museums and attractions and unlimited public transport, it is the perfect way to get to know Lisbon.
DAY 3 - SINTRA, CABO DA ROCA, CASCAIS & ESTORIL DAY TRIP Join a very small group tour today to Sintra – a village of UNESCO World Heritage. The former summer residence of the Portuguese Kings is home to the Pena Palace. Dating from the 16th century it is considered one of the world’s most beautiful castles. In the evening be sure to wander the historic Barrio Alto neighborhood for
Return flights
a great selection of local bars and restaurants for dinner, as well as some fantastic views of the city to match.
DAY 4 - PORTO Travel by highspeed train to Porto and enjoy the wonderful scenery as the line follows the coastline. Famous for its delicious wine and cuisine, historic city centre, and friendly locals. Once settled head out and start making use of your 2-day sightseeing pass.
DAY 5 - PORTO Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to create your own itinerary and explore the city! Popular stops include Villa Nova de Gaia, Sé Catedral, Clérigos Church, Teleférico, and traditional wine cellars. In the evening perhaps feast of a Francesinha - The sauce-soaked meat sandwich is a local favorite!
DAY 6 - THE DOURO RIVER
Sintra
stream along the picturesque Douro River. Lunch is served on board to the sound of nearby crickets, and the boat navigates its way through several impressive dams before arriving in Pinhão, from where you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the Douro Valley. Dinner is included this evening.
DAY 7 - THE DOURO VALLEY Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then visit a nearby Quintas. Here, explore the spectacular gardens and vineyards before tasting some of the wines this land produces. You will be served a delicious lunch cooked the traditional way in iron pots and be treated to some wonderful local music. Following lunch, you are transferred to Pinhão station for your scenic train ride back to Porto.
DAY 8 - PORTO Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Make your way down to the river this morning and enjoy breakfast onboard as your boat sets sail up-
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 15
EL TRANSCANTABRICO - GRAN LUJO FROM SAN SEBASTIAN TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Madrid ➡ San Sebastian ➡ Santiago De Compostela ➡ Madrid
Travel by luxury coach from San Sebastian to Bilbao where you board the Transcantabrico for your 7 night journey to Santiago de Compostela
North Atlantic Ocean
VIVEIRO 1 FERROL SANTIAGO DE 1 COMPOSTELA
Spend 1 night in Santiago de Compostela before returning to Madrid for your final night
SANTANDER SANTILLANA DEL MAR 1 LLANES
GIJON CANDAS 1
RIBADEO 1 LUARCA OVIEDO RIBADESELLA COVADONGA POTES CABEZON DE LA SAL
1
Bay of Biscay
BILBAO
1 1
CARRANZA
1
Dining onboard the Transcantabrico
SAN SEBASTIAN
SPAIN KEY
1 Nights stay 1 Nights onboard
Transcantabrico
Your journey begins with 2 nights in Madrid
3 MADRID
16 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Madrid
Catedrais Beach, Ribadeo
13 DAYS
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP HOLIDAY INCLUDES: • Rail Travel as per the itinerary • 7 nights accommodation in a Deluxe Suite onboard the Transcantabrico • 3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Madrid • 1 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela • Go Madrid Sightseeing Pass • Real Madrid Bernabeu Stadium tour • Las Ventas Tour • Private All-inclusive pintxos tour in San Sebastian • Return private airport transfers in Madrid
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Madrid - Barcelo Torre de Madrid Santiago de Compostela - NH Collection Santiago San Sebastian -Barcelo Costa Vasca Madrid - Barcelo Torre de Madrid Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
DAY 8 - TRANSCANTABRICO (ARRIONDAS - CANDÁS) After breakfast it’s a coach ride deep into the Picos de Europa National Park, then visit the spectacular Sanctuary of Covadonga, a sacred shrine tucked away in a cave high in the mountains. Once back onboard settled in for lunch before disembarking again in the regions capital - Orvieto, home of the magnificent Cathedral de San Salvord and the San Julian de los Prados basilica. Following a city tour and free time to explore enjoy dinner on board en-route to the seaside town of Candás.
DAY 9 - TRANSCANTABRICO (CANDÁS LUARCA) First today is a tour of the ancient seafaring town of Avilés, then it’s on to Gijón to explore is Roman archaeological sites, Romanesque churches, and 19th-century shipyards. Once back onboard the train, enjoy the coastal views as you continue to the pretty fishing village of Luarca.
DAY 10 - TRANSCANTABRICO (LUARCA VIVEIRO)
DAY 1 - YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS IN MADRID
DAY 5 - TRANSCANTABRICO (CARRANZA - SANTANDER)
Welcome to Madrid! You will be met on arrival at the airport and taken to your hotel for a 2-night stay. Then in the evening enjoy a drink and some tapas in the Puerta del Sol.
Following breakfast onboard the train returns to Bilbao for a city tour and visit to the amazing Guggenheim Museum. Enjoy lunch onboard together with some beautiful scenery along the way before arriving in Santander where you have some free time to wander. Following dinner, a visit to the historic Grand Casino is included.
The train crossed the border into the ancient region of Galicia this morning, as you arrive in the seaside town of Ribadeo, and from here travel by coach to Las Catedrales - one of the world’s finest beaches. Back onboard, you will continue onto the gorgeous town of Viveiro. Explore its medieval city walls, Romanesque churches, and enjoy dinner in one of its fantastic restaurants.
DAY 6 - TRANSCANTABRICO (SANTANDER - CABEZÓN DE LA SAL)
DAY 11 - TRANSCANTABRICO (VIVEIRO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA)
Depart the train in Unquera and cross the impressive gorge of La Hermina en-route to the charming Cantabrian village of Potes and beautiful views of the Liébana Valley. Then, perhaps take a dip at the Hermida Spa and re-join the train for lunch and continue to Cabezón de la Sal where you will have some free time to explore.
As the train pulls into Ferrol, you will wave goodbye to the impressive coastal fortress of Castello de San Felipe and take a coach ride to Santiago de Compostela. Follow in the footsteps of thousands of years of pilgrims to its famous cathedral and resting place of St James.
DAY 2 - MADRID Discover masterpieces by Valazquez, Goya and Bosch in the Prado perhaps, or maybe visit Las Ventras - the most important bullring in the world, or in the evening enjoy a traditional Flamenco show in Torres Bermejas.
DAY 3 - MADRID TO SAN SEBASTIAN Head up to Madrid Chamartín station for your train north to San Sebastian for a 1-night stay. In the evening meet your local guide who will take you on a tour of some of the city’s best pintxos bars bustling with locals.
DAY 4 - TRANSCANTABRICO DEPARTURE (SAN SEBASTIAN - CARRANZA) Meet your travelling companions for the next 7 days and enjoy lunch before taking a coach journey to Bilbao where you board the train and settle into your luxurious private suite - home for the next 7 nights. Dinner is served onboard as you travel to Carranza.
DAY 7 - TRANSCANTABRICO (CABEZÓN DE LA SAL - ARRIONDAS) Your first stop today will be Santillana del Mar, a pretty village with a beautifully preserved medieval centre. Then it is on to Altamira and its breath-taking cave art, arguably the finest example of late Stone Age art known. Following lunch, you will travel by rail to the seaside resort of Ribadesella for some fresh Atlantic air before finally arriving in the riverside village of Arriondas.
DAY 12 - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA TO MADRID Make your way to the station for your train to the Spanish capital for your final night in Spain. Once checked in why not take a stroll to the enormous Royal Palace.
DAY 13 - YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN MADRID Enjoy breakfast at your hotel then met your driver for the journey to the airport for your flight home.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 17
BEST OF IBERIA
Barcelona ➡ Malaga ➡ Granada ➡ Seville ➡ Lisbon ➡ Porto ➡ Vigo ➡ Santiago De Compostela ➡ Leon ➡ Bilbao ➡ Madrid
Bay of Biscay
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA 2
North Atlantic Ocean
1
Your journey begins with 3 nights in Barcelona
2 PORTO
SPAIN
LISBON 3 Bus from Seville to Lisbon
1 Nights stay
3 BARCELONA
MADRID 3
PORTUGAL
KEY
2 BILBAO
LEON
VIGO 1
Barcelona
Your journey ends with 3 nights in Madrid
2
SEVILLE
CORDOBA 2 GRANADA 2 MALAGA
Mediterranean Sea
Lisbon
18 I To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent
Porto
24 DAYS
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP HOLIDAY INCLUDES: • Rail travel as per itinerary • 23 nights hotel accommodation • Tour of Casa Batlló and Sagrada Familia in Barcelona • Skip the Line tickets to the Picasso Museum in Malaga • Flamenco show and a drink in Malaga • And more
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Barcelona - NH Sants Malaga - NH Malaga Granada - Hospes De Los Patos Granada Seville - H10 Corregidor Boutique Lisbon - Hotel Marques de Pombal Vigo - Occidental Vigo Porto - NH Collection Porto Batalha Vigo - Occidental Vigo Santiago de Compostela - NH Collection Santiago Leon - NH Collection Leon Plaza Mayor Bilbao - Barcelo Bilbao Nervion Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
DAY 13 - LISBON TO PORTO Catch a direct train from Lisbon to Porto. Spend the next two days at leisure in Porto, the beautiful, historic city on the banks of the River Duoro.
DAY 14 - PORTO Enjoy the views of this beautiful city and its famous bridges with a 50min cruise along the Duoro river.
DAY 15 - PORTO TO VIGO Take a morning train from Porto to the fishing port town of Vigo.
DAY 16 - VIGO TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Board a direct train to Santiago de Compostela, the final stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail.
DAY 17 - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Today, a 2hr tour of the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela will surely be a highlight.
DAY 1 - WELCOME TO BARCELONA
DAY 7 - GRANADA
Upon arrival into Barcelona, make your own way to your hotel and check in for a three-night stay. Bask in the sun amidst the mosaics of the Parc Guell, catch a boat out on the ocean, or ride the cable car to the top of Montjuïc hill.
This Andalusian city in southern Spain is famous for a single monument — the Alhambra. Use your skip the line admission to the incredible Moorish fortress and experience it for yourself. The UNESCO World Heritage site houses breathtaking 13th- to 15th-century palaces and gardens, grand archways and delicate ornamental mosaics.
DAY 2 - BARCELONA After breakfast embark on a tour of Gaudi’s 2 master pieces; Casa Batlló and the spectacular Sagrada Familia.
DAY 3 - BARCELONA Art lovers also won’t want to miss a visit to the Picasso Museum to view a huge collection of the famous artist’s work.
DAY 4 - BARCELONA TO MÁLAGA Travel to Málaga, the capital of Andalusia. This evening enjoy a Flamenco show full of colour and passion!
DAY 5 - MÁLAGA On your second day in Málaga, stroll along the vibrant port and climb the Gibralfaro for some spectacular views and the Alcazaba fortress. Entrance to the Picasso Museum here is included.
DAY 8 - GRANADA TO SEVILLE Take train to Seville via Antequera Santa-Ana. Seville is a stunning city with grand, Moorish influenced architecture and a vibrant Andalusian culture.
DAY 9 - SEVILLE Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to discover this beautiful city.
DAY 10 - SEVILLE TO LISBON Ride the bus from Seville to Faro, then catch your train to Lisbon. Portugal’s historic capital city is draped over seven hills overlooking the mouth of the River Tagus.
DAY 11 - LISBON Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to get to know the city.
DAY 6 - MÁLAGA TO GRANADA
DAY 12 - LISBON
Relax onboard the train ride from Málaga to Granada, the land of a thousand castles.
Enjoy your included guided day trip to both Sintra and Cascais.
DAY 18 - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA TO LEON Travel by train to Leon. Visit the Basilica de San Isodoro and Gaudi’s Casa Botines.
DAY 19 - LEON TO BILBAO After breakfast, catch a direct train from Leon to Bilbao, surrounded by rolling green hills and a breath-taking coastline.
DAY 20 - BILBAO Spend your day exploring and in the evening embark on a Chef led walking tour around this world famous hub of gastronomy.
DAY 21 - BILBAO TO MADRID Catch a direct train from Bilbao to Madrid. Stroll around the impressive Buen Retiro Park, one of the largest parks in all of Madrid.
DAY 22 - MADRID Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to continue exploring the city.
DAY 23 - MADRID Head out to one of the world-famous museums that make up Madrid’s ‘Golden Triangle of Art,’ including the iconic Prado Museum.
DAY 24 - YOUR HOLIDAY ENDS IN MADRID Enjoy breakfast and then check out of your hotel and continue with your travels.
To book call us on 020 3780 2222, visit www.railbookers.co.uk or see your Travel Agent I 19
OUR RAIL PARTNERS
HOW TO BOOK Call 020 3780 2222 Visit www.railbookers.co.uk Call your local Travel Agent
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