Combine two of Portugal’s key cities, Lisbon and Porto, and travel between them on the Alfa Pendular, the nation’s premier high-speed train. Travel in comfort and style through the heart of Portugal’s beautiful countryside, where hills are adorned with neatly arranged vineyards.

Once in Porto, embark on a captivating Douro River cruise. Sail through the tranquil waters where quaint villages dot the riverbank. Enjoy wine tastings and local cuisine while taking in the spectacular surroundings. Experience the best of land and water in an area famed for its Port wine.

Next, let’s go to Italy, where the Dolce Vita Orient Express awaits. With its opulent 1960s-style interiors and panoramic windows, this train presents a simply luxurious way to see Italy. Picture yourself sipping espresso as rural Italy rolls by, on a round trip from Rome with stops at iconic cities such as Siena and Venice.

After returning to the capital, board a cruise along the enchanting Amalfi Coast. You’ll visit breathtaking seaside towns where colourful cliffside villages and azure waters take centre stage. Relish days at leisure soaking up the sun and discovering charming coastal gems, all while indulging in the flavours of Italian cuisine.

Consider embarking on a Byronesque grand tour of Europe that begins with a flight to Turkey. Spend a couple of nights in the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia, where you can ascend into the early morning sky in a hot air balloon, admiring the ethereal beauty and otherworldly rock formations – an experience that echoes the spirit of adventure and romanticism of the great poet. Make your way to Istanbul and board your cruise ship. Take in the highlights of Greece and its isles as well as Albania before arriving in Rome.

From Rome, make use of the country’s comfortable high speed rail network and travel to Florence, where you can appreciate the Renaissance art and architecture that define this remarkable city. Having enjoyed the Tuscan capital in all its grandeur, continue to Venice and experience its enchanting canals and rich history, making sure to visit historic sites such as Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica.

For a taste of the dramatic scenery and natural beauty of Norway, board the Bergen Railway after a couple of days in Oslo and head north to Bergen. Known as one of the world’s most scenic rail routes, this journey takes you through lush forests, stunning mountains and awe-inspiring fjords.

Having arrived in Bergen, it’s time to properly explore the majestic fjords. A cruise along Norway’s coast provides a wonderful mix of city and sights, from historic Trondheim to some utterly unimaginable views. During the summer months, ships call at UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, offering towering mountain cliffs and incredible waterfalls including the famous Seven Sisters.