Rome to Marrakech Itinerary

Arrive in the Italian capital and absorb its irresistible aura and energy. Explore the sacred halls inside St Peter’s Basilica, visit the Vatican museums or throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain to pave the way for your return to Rome.

See the landscape transform from Romanesque cities to rolling hills and olive groves on a train journey to Tuscany. Cycle alongside the scenic Serchio River, glimpse Michelangelo's David in Florence, marvel at the La Torre de Pisa, then head back to cosy apartments in Lucca at day’s end.

Weave through the charming hillside villages of the Cinque Terre, taking the stunning coastal path high above the sea. Cool off with a dip in the blue waters below and maybe make a batch of fresh pesto in a cooking class.

Stroll through ever-fashionable Milan and marvel at its magnificent Duomo. Travel by train to pristine Stresa, which boasts magnificent views of the Alps. Board a ferry and head out to explore the beautiful Borromean Islands - perhaps taking in the hanging gardens of the romantic palatial residence on the shores of serene Lake Maggiore.

Farewell Italy and travel into the resplendent alpine landscape of Switzerland. In free time, enjoy a boat tour on placid Lake Lucerne, learn the story behind the emotive Lion Monument or take a ride on the world's steepest cogwheel railway to the summit of Mt Pilatus.

Visit the spectacular Trummelbach Falls while taking in staggering mountain views. Head to the Schilthorn peak for an authentic James Bond experience or work up an appetite for traditional Swiss treats, like fondue, on an optional mountain biking adventure.

Travel by train through the Swiss capital of Bern and cross the border into Dijon, France. Embark on an odyssey of indulgence in a region renowned for boeuf bourguignon and mustard. Take a day trip to Beaune, where Burgundy's best wines are produced, and scour the countryside on two wheels.

Raise a glass in Reims, a city steeped in history and renowned for its bubbles and royal intrigues. Visit champagne caves for an insight into the drink's effervescent magic. While here, be sure to check out the elaborate Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Reims, a sacred place where French kings were once crowned.

Stroll along the Seine and be enchanted by Paris, a city that has inspired artists and lovers throughout the ages. Enjoy free time to explore and discover the myriad of tourist attractions in Paris. Peruse the art-filled corridors of the Louvre or visit Sacre Coeur in vibrant Montmartre. Indulge in more fine French cuisine before saying 'au revoir' to this romantic destination.

Venture into the Loire Valley, a region renowned for its wealth of art, history and medieval houses. Cycle to the breathtaking Chateau Villandry and take a walk through its manicured Renaissance gardens.

Travel by train into the Dordogne region and soak up its relaxed pace. Explore the striking limestone scenery of the Dordogne River, visiting sights like the towering Chateau de Beynac on a kayaking excursion. In the evening, why not indulge in a decadent degustation meal in a local restaurant.

Step back in time in the World Heritage-listed Old Town of Bordeaux. France's internationally acclaimed wine region is a food and wine lover's heaven, so treat taste buds to full-bodied local blends paired with mouth-watering French fare. If feeling energetic, be sure to clamber up the 243 steps of Saint-Michel Basilica's tower.

Head into the spectacular Pyrenees Mountains. Take in crisp mountain air and awe-inspiring views while enjoying a day of hiking.

Travel to Spain and make tracks for the sunny playground of San Sebastian. While here, soak up the sun at La Concha or head down to the Parte Vieja, which apparently boasts the most bars per square metre in all of Spain. If cultural pursuits are of interest, catch a local bus to Bilbao and lose track of time in the incredible Guggenheim Museum, famously shaped like a ship to flatter its portside location.

Continue onwards to the walled city of Segovia, a picturesque city framed by undulating green mountains. Visit Alcazar, a fairytale castle perched on a cliff and mosey through the World Heritage-listed Old Town.

Discover the captivating Spanish capital, a city bursting with exquisite architecture, superb museums and spectacular nightlife. See timeless masterpieces in the Museo del Prado or visit Reina Sofia to view the Picasso and Miro exhibitions. Perhaps cap off the European adventure with a night on the tiles in one of Madrid's famous nightclubs.

Head west to the university city of Salamanca. Soak up the student vibe on a walk past historic stone buildings to Plaza Mayor and admire the intricate detail of the Casa de Las Conchas, or ‘House of the Shells’.

Travel from Spain to Portugal to sample full-bodied wines, delicious spicy cuisine and enjoy the local tradition of Fado - soulful music about love.

Explore multicultural Lisbon, a charming city with a towering medieval citadel and many interesting museums. In free time, see quirky pieces in the Folk Art Museum, take a day trip into the mountains or sample the nightlife in Barrio Alto.

Venture further afield to the south coast of Portugal. Take the opportunity to bliss out on the beach, explore hidden coves and just soak up the mellow holiday vibe of the Algarve.

Visit Jerez and discover the secrets to a perfect aperitif on a bodega tour or enjoy a tipple of sherry - the drink named after this town. Later, why not head into the Moorish baths to see classic Arabic tiling.

Travel across the Strait of Gibraltar and explore Chefchaouen, a sleepy mountain town peppered with blue-washed buildings and ambient restaurants. While here, perhaps expend some energy on a hike into the Rif Mountains.

Arrive in the city of Fes and step back in time at a medieval medina thick with exotic smells, tastes and sounds. Fuel explorations of this imperial city with a glass of mint tea and some sweet Moroccan dates. After a guided sightseeing tour, maybe unwind at the Palais Jamai in the evening, while the melodic call to prayer floats over the city.

Find everything from genie lamps to leather slippers in Marrakech, an intoxicating city of souqs and mosques. Take a refreshing walk through the gardens at Majorelle Jardin, visit the lavishly decorated Saadian Tombs or end the adventure among the bustle of Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech's bustling main bazaar.