Michael Portillo has long been captivating audiences thanks to his hugely popular travel programmes. The enigmatic broadcaster is now synonymous with railways, having spent years documenting his explorations of the world by train. Like us, he has a penchant for making the journey a part of the adventure - his BBC documentary series 'Great Railway Journeys' celebrates seeing the world from the rails, as Michael introduces us to the cultural heart of a destination with his unique passion and warmth. Long before he was showcasing dream journeys around the world, he was a British MP and minister, and alongside broadcasting, can also add writer and columnist to his long list of talents.
It's no secret we're huge fans of Michael Portillo. That's why we're proud to be sponsoring Michael Portillo on Times Radio. Every Friday evening from 7pm, join Michael for an insight into the week; from world politics to cultural highlights, he's exploring the stories beyond the headlines while showcasing the best of The Times' journalism.
Join Michael Portillo at 7pm for his Times Radio broadcast click here
If you want to make the journey part of the adventure, take a look below for some of our most exciting holidays. Glide through the Swiss Alps on the world-renowned Glacier Express, explore the terracotta hill towns and Renaissance cities of Tuscany, or admire the striking natural beauty and wildlife of Canada's Rocky Mountains on a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country train adventure.
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Classic
(421 reviews)Classic
(190 reviews)Classic
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Discoveries
(379 reviews)We are delighted to have been nominated for the 'Best Escorted Tour Operator' award at the Times & Sunday Times Travel Awards 2020.
If you think we're a worthy winner, please click the button below to cast your vote.
As an added bonus, your vote will see you entered into the Times Travel Awards 2020 prize draw - win one of eight superb holidays!
Take your time flicking through our amazing range of destinations, order one of our free holiday brochures.
Classic
(421 reviews)Experience epic mountain landscapes and shimmering alpine lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland. Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-acclaimed Bernina Express and Glacier Express from our popular bases in Chur and Brig, traditional towns surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a private aperitif on the terrace of the 10th-century ...
Discoveries
(379 reviews)Enjoy Switzerland's warm hospitality and astounding landscapes from traditional hotels in historic Chur and idyllic Täsch, soaking up dramatic scenes of soaring mountains and glaciers aboard two iconic trains. Cross the Alps on the Bernina Express, admiring glacier views enroute to Poschiavo. The show continues as you bask in the alpine ...
Classic
(487 reviews)Follow in the footsteps of maharajas on our bestselling Indian tour, uncovering the gems of India's Golden Triangle and the former colonial retreat of Shimla. Embrace the many wonders of this mystical country on this unrivalled overland journey. Enjoy the bustle of Delhi's bazaars on a rickshaw ride, visit Shimla to uncover the former...
Landmark
Sri Lanka is a majestic land off the beaten tourist path with a culturally rich and colourful past awaiting discovery. Get acquainted with its Buddhist symbolism, vast jungles and ancient destinations on this grand journey of discovery. From five-star hotel bases, search for Sri Lankan wildlife in Wilpattu and Yala National Parks and...
Classic
(402 reviews)Staying in a spa hotel in the fortress town of Sirmione, set on a picturesque peninsula overlooking Lake Garda, this captivating holiday includes many unforgettable experiences. Join us to uncover the elegance and treasures of northern Italy. Glide along Venice's turquoise canals on a gondola ride - passing Venetian palazzos, intriguing...
Discoveries
(179 reviews)Experience the beauty of Norway from its natural wonders to charming cities on this tour across stunning landscapes. Journey through an impressive wilderness of plateaus and waterfalls on two of the world's most famous train journeys: the spectacular Bergen Railway and the cherished Flåm Railway. Marvel at towering cliff faces on a...
Classic
(246 reviews)Explore the beautiful towns and landscapes of the Austrian Alps based in an all-inclusive hotel in the charming town of St Johann, with drinks included with dinner each evening. Marvel at views of Austria's tallest mountain on a journey across the Hochtor Pass on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, viewing glaciers and gold-mining towns,...
Discoveries
(700 reviews)Arriving by plane, enjoy our scenic base in a hotel overlooking the coast of Monopoli. From here, experience the incredible sights and traditions of Puglia, a place untouched by the hands of time. Rich with UNESCO World Heritage sites, discover the spectacular trulli homes of Alberobello and the sassi cave dwellings in the cliffside town...
Discoveries
(337 reviews)A family-run hotel in the lakeside town of Desenzano is our charming base. With a panoramic terrace providing beautiful views of the lake, the hotel is perfectly positioned near to the characterful Old Town and train station. This holiday includes a cruise to enchanting Isola del Garda to explore the renowned Venetian Villa Borghese-Cavazza...
Classic
(190 reviews)Staggering mountain peaks and serene alpine lakes provide the extraordinary setting for this holiday as we travel in First Class all the way, including on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express. Staying in the Engadine Valley and the popular mountain resort of Zermatt provides idyllic bases from which to explore the Swiss Alps by rail...
Classic
(756 reviews)The Isle of Man is a unique blend of unspoiled coastal landscapes, sandy beaches and stunning scenery. The rich Celtic heritage is evident all over the island, and we experience it by riding vintage railways and exploring historic towns. Each day is an adventure of picturesque landscapes and captivating history as we journey down Douglas...
Classic
(364 reviews)From our base in Carrbridge, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard the legendary Jacobite steam train and the charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs, and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Step back...