Galicia, Porto & Douro Valley by rail

After a complimentary airport lounge stay, fly to La Coruña, and check in to your hotel. As the largest city in Galicia, La Coruña is a mix of ancient and modern. The Cidade Velha plays host to the best of the city's architecture and landmarks, meaning a visit to the Hercules lighthouse – the oldest in Europe and built in Roman times – is a must-see. Along with further Roman Churches and fine museums, take the time to sample the local gastronomy, particularly notable for its "Navajas" (razor clams).

Stay: Hotel Riazor, La Coruña (Superior)

After breakfast at your hotel, make your way to the station in time to catch the train to Santiago de Compostela, checking in to your hotel for a two-night stay at the Parador de Compostela, a 15th century pilgrim's hostel combining art, history, tradition and style under one spectacular roof.

Santiago de Compostela is famous as being the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Here, it is said, St James the Apostle was brought by a stone boat after his death in Palestine. No visit to the city is complete without a trip to the Cathedral, which itself is an architectural marvel, showcasing an eclectic mix of architectural styles. St James' tomb is located beneath the Cathedral, where a sculpture represents the man himself. Visit the Pilgrimage Museum and the Cathedral Museum.

Stsy: Parador de Compostela (Superior)

This morning you'll enjoy the short train ride to Vigo. Upon arrival, your hotel for the next two nights is just a short walk from Vigo Guixar station. Spend your time in Vigo soaking up the history and culture of this port-side city. The Guia hill is a great place for unparalleled views of the city and is an important landmark having served sailors for centuries as a reference when entering the port.

Stay: Grand Hotel Nagari, Vigo (Deluxe)

Wander the old town which slopes above the marina, indulge in fresh seafood, or take a day-trip to Baiona, a short bus ride from Vigo and home to a quaint fishing port and the impressive Castelo de Monterreal. The elevated position of the castle lends itself to great views of Baiona and the surrounding coastline.

Stay: Grand Hotel Negari, Vigo (Deluxe)

After breakfast take the train to Porto arriving into the beautiful Campanha station and check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Along the river Douro, colourful houses line the hills and bell towers, with churches and intricate architecture abound, making Porto a beautiful place to spend time. You'll get your bearings with an included walking tour, personalised to everything you wish to see. You'll be treated to the likes of Porto's grand Romanesque cathedral and its neoclassical Stock Exchange, and the giant views of the Eiffel-tower-inspiring iron bridge that will bring you to Gaia – a merchant’s district where cellars still host port tastings. To round things off, you'll join an hour-long boat trip on the Douro River taking in views of the city from the water and getting a close-up look at its six distinctive bridges.

After breakfast take the train into the Douro Valley wine-region and travel on one of the worlds most scenic rail routes – a wonderfully scenic way to reach to your historic accommodation in Pinhão. In the Heart of Douro Valley's Demarcated Wine Region, considered World Heritage by UNESCO, you will find the The Vintage House - a 5 star luxury hotel overlooking the Douro river, with balcony views to take in the unique landscape before you. This is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding Port wine estate on foot, and enjoy a traditional Rabelo boat cruise.

After breakfast at the Vintage House, your transfer will take you to Porto airport for your flight back to the UK.