No Fly Capitals, Culture & The Mediterranean Coast by Rail

Day 1  London to Paris      
Board your train at St Pancras International station and relax. Upon arrival to Paris, head out to sample some glorious French cuisine, from cosy neighbourhood bistros to fine dining, Paris caters to every taste!          

Day 2  Paris          
Visit the magnificent façade of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, wander through the Louvre Museum in search of the famous Mona Lisa painting and climb the Eiffel tower for views of the spectacular skyline. Stroll the Champs-Élysées and the famous L’Arc de Triomphe, the backdrop of many a national celebration and a truly unmissable sight. Why not make the short journey to the Palace of Versailles, the fabulous home of King Louis XIV and a UNESCO World Heritage Site?          

Day 3  Paris to Madrid        
Today board your train to Madrid via Barcelona and enjoy the stunning views of both French and Spanish countryside. In the evening, dine at traditional Spanish tapas bar.          

Days 4-5  Madrid  
Spend your morning strolling the Gran Via known as Golden Mile, the capital’s lively main street where you can admire architecture and browse in boutique shops. Later, explore the ancient plazas where old dynasties once ruled and dine at a traditional tapas tavern to sample authentic Spanish cuisine from patatas bravas to gazpacho. Head to the impressive Royal Palace and explore its rooms, works of art and treasures. Visit the Prado Museum to see its incredible collection of art, then pass by the Santiago Bernabeu football stadium and check out the trophy room. Enjoy one of the largest parks in Europe, El Retiro Park or perhaps watch a Flamenco show in one of the local bars.          

Day 6  Madrid to Cuenca      
Today, board your train to Cuenca and explore the medieval fortified city which is most famous for the Hanging Houses, now a home to a country-style restaurant and Museum of Spanish Abstract Art. Visit the gothic Cathedral de Cuenca and its abstract stained-glass windows, later head to San Pablo Bridge, located just above the Huécar River for great views of the Casas Colgadas de Cuenca.  

Day 7  Cuenca to Valencia      
After morning of exploring Cuenca, take a train to Valencia. On arrival begin to explore this coastal city and perhaps try the world famous traditional Spanish delicacy and originally from Valencia – seafood paella!      

Days 8-9  Valencia  
Valencia is a vibrant city with a mix of old and contemporary architecture and wonderful Mediterranean climate. Famous for its Fallas Festival which takes place every year in March and City of Arts and Sciences museum, Valencia has something for everyone. Stroll the sea front promenade Valencia Marina, watch the sunset at the Malvarossa beach or perhaps take a day trip to the Albufera National Park.

Day 10  Valencia to Barcelona      
Board your train to Barcelona, upon arrival head straight to the city’s expansive beach, stretching nearly three miles be sure to find a spot to sunbathe and settle into the Spanish way of life.          

Day 11  Barcelona        
Visit the Gothic Quarter, a medieval maze of squares, shops and secret alleyways before heading to the Picasso Museum, home to creative masterpieces. Later, admire the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Família, Barcelona’s outstanding medieval cathedral which is still under construction. Stroll the Parc Güell and marvel at the stunning views across the city from this beautiful Gaudí garden. Make sure to tick off Las Ramblas to discover this bustling boulevard at Barcelona’s heart.

Day 12  Barcelona to London      
Today you rail adventure across France and Spain comes to an end with a train back to London via Paris.