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
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Discoveries
(319 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.
Discoveries
(521 reviews)Experience Switzerland's most spectacular train journeys from a family-run hotel in the heart of the forested Albula Valley, including drinks with dinner each evening. Travel across the Swiss Alps and past enchanting glaciers to Italy on the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express, before viewing the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' and incredible alpine scenery from...
Discoveries
(281 reviews)The historic lakeside town of Desenzano, set on the southern shores of Lake Garda, is our charming base. With a peaceful harbour, a characterful old town and an efficient rail service, we are perfectly placed for exploring. This delightful holiday includes a cruise to enchanting Isola del Garda to visit the opulent Villa Borghese-Cavazza and a...
Discoveries
(552 reviews)From the charming seaside town of Roses, discover the glistening Catalan coast and ride into the Pyrenees, taking in the stunning scenery of France and Spain on this relaxing holiday. Experience the delightful Núria Valley Rack Railway on a journey through a peaceful valley and ride the Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat in France's...
Classic
(147 reviews)Discover the delights of Vietnam and Cambodia on this incredible grand tour, travelling overland from bustling Hanoi to the ancient temples of Siem Reap. Delight in the beauty of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise, and ride the Reunification Express train along Vietnam's coast to illuminating Hue, before arriving in Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the...
Discoveries
(319 reviews)Enjoy Switzerland's warm hospitality and astounding landscapes from traditional hotels in historic Chur and idyllic Täsch. Soak up dramatic scenes of soaring mountains and glaciers on journeys aboard two iconic trains. Cross the Alps on the amazing Bernina Express, admiring glacier views enroute, and bask in views of alpine valleys and...
Classic
(320 reviews)Experience magnificent mountain landscapes and sparkling alpine lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland. Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-renowned Bernina Express and Glacier Express from our bases in Chur and Brig, traditional alpine towns surrounded by mountains. Enjoy a private aperitif on the terrace of the lakeside 10th-century...
Landmark
(160 reviews)Experience the best of the Swiss Alps in ultimate luxury, where majestic mountains, picturesque landscapes and unspoiled nature align. On this magnificent all-inclusive holiday, you'll wake up in a delightful five-star hotel in the enchanting village of Grindelwald. Nestled in a green valley beneath the immense Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains...
Classic
(93 reviews)Uncover the delights of the Land of the Rising Sun with expert local guides, from its popular cuisine and zen tea ceremonies to dynamic cities and serene island shrines. Arriving in Tokyo, discover a well-organised metropolis of lantern-filled temples beside towering skyscrapers, before absorbing beautiful views of Mount Fuji and heading into the...
Discoveries
(512 reviews)Experience traditional Italy on a relaxing all-inclusive, fly-rail holiday to the unspoilt heel of southern Italy. Based in a spa hotel overlooking the beautiful coast of Monopoli, just 50 meters from a gorgeous white sandy beach, we explore the undiscovered region of Puglia, dotted with historic ports, white-washed villages and unique ancient...
Classic
(25 reviews)Uncover an incredible blend of breathtaking modernism and beautiful imperial history on a tour of China's ancient and modern wonders. Step into history during visits to the iconic Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall of China while in Beijing. Travelling by high-speed rail, explore ancient Xi'an and its astonishing Terracotta Army...
Classic
(337 reviews)Based in the exquisite fortress town of Sirmione, set on a picturesque peninsula overlooking Lake Garda, and staying in an elegant spa hotel, this captivating holiday includes some fabulous excursions. Join us as we glide through Venice's turquoise canals on an unforgettable gondola ride - passing Venetian palazzos, intriguing architecture and...
Classic
(499 reviews)On this nostalgic escape, we ride on celebrated railways, visit ancient castles, and discover the beautiful gardens of North Wales. Journey through stunning scenery on the Ffestiniog Railway, the world's oldest independent line, and ascend Snowdon's summit on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Step into the unique village of Portmeirion, whose design...