🚆 Discover the Stops Along the Way

Starting from Manchester or your local station nearby, this suggested itinerary takes you through some of Europe’s most fascinating cities and landscapes before finishing in sunny Portugal.

The route is designed to show what’s possible — you can choose which stops to include, how long to stay and where you want to explore further.

🇬🇧 Manchester — Your Journey Starts Here

There’s no need to travel to London to begin your adventure. Start from Manchester, with your UK rail travel incorporated into the itinerary.

If you’re local, you could simply arrive at the station and let the European adventure begin.

🇬🇧 London — A Gateway to Europe

Travel south to London and, if you wish, make the capital part of your holiday.

Explore Westminster, the Tower of London, South Bank or Covent Garden, or add an extra night to enjoy London’s restaurants, museums and theatres before crossing the Channel.

🇫🇷 Paris — The City of Light

From London, continue to Paris and immerse yourself in one of Europe’s great cities.

See the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre and Notre-Dame, stroll beside the Seine or simply settle into a pavement café and enjoy watching Paris go by.

🇫🇷 Dijon & Burgundy — Food, Wine & French Charm

Next, head into Burgundy and the elegant city of Dijon.

Explore its historic centre, sample some of the region’s renowned cuisine and, for wine lovers, consider extending the journey into the surrounding vineyards and villages.

🇫🇷 Lyon — France’s Foodie Capital

Continue to Lyon, where history and gastronomy come together.

Explore atmospheric Vieux Lyon, discover the city’s hidden traboules and enjoy the famous local food scene.

🇪🇸 Barcelona — Architecture, Culture & Tapas

Then cross into Spain and experience the vibrant energy of Barcelona.

Discover Gaudí’s architecture, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, wander through the Gothic Quarter and enjoy tapas before continuing south.

🇵🇹 Lisbon — Your Portuguese Adventure Begins

Arrive in Lisbon, where colourful tiled buildings, historic trams, viewpoints and winding streets create a completely different European experience.

Explore Alfama, visit Lisbon’s historic landmarks and enjoy the city’s food, culture and famous nightlife.

🇵🇹 Algarve — Finish by the Atlantic

Finally, continue south to the Algarve for some well-earned relaxation.

Think dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, turquoise waters and charming coastal towns — the perfect way to finish a journey across Europe.

🌍 And remember — this is only an example

You don’t have to follow this route exactly.

You could skip London, add extra nights in France, change the Spanish stops, spend longer in Portugal or choose to fly home.

Your journey can start from Manchester, your local railway station or another UK departure point, with the route, accommodation and travel arranged around you.

You choose the adventure. I’ll help put the journey together. 🐸🚆🇵🇹