Barcelona to Rome: Mediterranean Magic

Touchdown in Barcelona.

Your Iberian adventure starts here: you've landed in one of Europe's most vibrant cities, and the next few days promise sangria, stories and the kind of adventures you'll want to tell everyone back home about. After settling into your accomodation, it's time to meet the fellow travellers you'll be sharing meals, moments and drool-worthy Mediterranean fare with.

A taste of Catalonia: your first group dinner is sorted – expect tapas, laughter and full tables. From patatas bravas to pa amb tomàquet, there's something to please every palate.

Set your own pace: still shaking off the jet lag? No pressure – an early night is always an option. But if you're up for it, a sunset stroll or rooftop drink has your name on it. Stay: MEININGER Hotel Barcelona Fira Gran Via (or similar) (D)

Bienvenue à Provence.

Welcome to the good life: you've arrived in Provence: a place that's perfect for swapping rosé-fuelled stories, trying to pronounce ‘bouillabaisse' without laughing and wandering sun-soaked markets hunting for the best cheese. Your first night is all about gathering together for a relaxed dinner, where the conversation will flow as easily as the local wine. Stay: Avignon Grand Hôtel (or similar) (B/D)

Choose your own Provencal adventure.

Soak up the slow life: no schedules, no alarms, no rush. This is your chance to explore Provence on your terms. Maybe that means a slow morning with a buttery croissant and café crème or heading out early to browse a nearby village market. Pick up ripe peaches, fragrant lavender or a wedge of local cheese that demands a taste test. You could find a sunny terrace, order a chilled glass of rosé and lean into the art of doing very little.

Later, your way: stroll through narrow streets as the light turns golden. Climb to a hilltop church, drop into a family-run bistro or sip pastis (an anise-flavoured aperitif) in a town square as the locals play pétanque. However you spend it, Provence knows how to seduce you into staying a little longer. Stay: Avignon Grand Hôtel (or similar) (B)

Provencial hills to Riviera thrills.

From lavender fields to sea breeze: today you're swapping rolling hills for sparkling coastlines as you board the train to the French Riviera. Sit back, relax and watch as Provence gives way to palm trees and pastel-hued seaside towns.

Bienvenue à la Côte d'Azur: once you arrive, check into your new digs and drop your bags. You've officially landed in one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in the world. It's all sunshine, salty air and serious style from here on out.

Afternoon your way: wander the cobbled lanes of the old town, browse local boutiques or settle into a striped lounger by the sea. Whether you're craving history or a dip in the Med, this afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Stay: Hostel Ozz (or similar) (B)

Mediterranean moods and Monaco moves.

Coastal calm: ease into your day with sea views, fresh pastries and the gentle calm of the Riviera. From market-hopping in Nice's old town on the hunt for tasty French fare, to sneaking a swim in the Med, the morning is yours to enjoy however you like.

Monaco bound: you'll explore this pint-sized principality's highlights on foot, from the Royal Palace to the world-famous casino. Think glitz, grandeur and a splash of serious coastal drama.

Later, your way: stroll Monaco's quiet gardens, grab an aperitif overlooking the harbour or tuck into a seafood dinner as the lights come on over the bay. Stay: Hostel Ozz (or similar) (B)

Cross-border charm and coastal calm.

French flair to Italian fare: settle in for a scenic ride as we swap Riviera glitz for Italian coastline. Roll past olive groves, vineyards and pretty towns as we make our way toward La Spezia, the gateway to the Cinque Terre. It's the kind of journey made for daydreaming and window gazing.

La dolce arrival: once we hit La Spezia, check in and stretch your legs with a gentle stroll through the marina or stop for a scoop (or two) of something sweet. This laid-back harbour town sets the tone for the days ahead – slow-paced and effortlessly Italian.

Later, your way: grab a glass of something cold to enjoy in the golden light, linger over a bowl of pesto trofie at a trattoria tucked down a quiet lane or take a sunset wander along the waterfront. Whatever you choose, you've officially arrived in Italy's slow-living sweet spot. Stay: Hotel Corallo (or similar) (B)

Cinque Terre, your way.

Lace up or laze on: today's all about exploring the postcard-perfect Cinque Terre – five cliffside villages strung along the sparkling Ligurian coast. Your express train and hiking pass gives you the freedom to roam, whether that means tackling the scenic trails with your Trip Leader or hopping between towns at your own pace. Think colourful harbours, salty swims, trofie with fresh clams and sweeping sea views – this is la dolce vita, no filter needed.

Sunset scenes and seaside bites: as the day winds down, the villages glow with golden light and laid-back charm. Find a cliffside spot for aperitivo and watch the sun sink into the sea with a spritz in hand. Craving local flavour? Dig into fresh seafood straight off the boat or try a plate of testaroli – a Ligurian pasta specialty – at a trattoria with a view. For something extra special, catch the last light from a quiet beach or stroll the marina under fairy-lit skies. Stay: Hotel Corallo (or similar) (B)

Florence flavours and Renaissance gems.

Train views to Tuscan hues: roll out of La Spezia and into Florence, where terracotta rooftops, Duomo domes and cobbled streets await. It's straight into the good stuff with a walking tour led by a local guide who knows every fresco, sculpture and story.

Panino perfection: halfway through the sights, we'll be treating you to lunch like a local. Think crusty bread still warm from the oven, silky prosciutto, creamy pecorino and just the right hit of truffle spread. Grab your panino, find a sunny spot and savour the kind of sandwich that turns a quick bite into a core memory. Stay: A&O Hostel Firenze Campo Di Marte (or similar) (B/L)

Florence sights, bites and city lights.

Morning wander: take your time exploring this Renaissance treasure chest. Hop on the bus up to Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping city views that make your camera work overtime. Stroll through Piazza della Signoria to admire its iconic sculptures, then wander inside the Duomo to marvel at its soaring dome and intricate details.

Taste the city: fuel up with a gelato or a slice of pizza from a bustling local spot – the perfect bite-sized break between sightseeing.

Later, your way: fancy an evening adventure? Join an optional tipsy tour, sip your way through Florence's historic streets and see if you can remember the scandalous tales after your third glass – bonus points if you do. Stay: A&O Hostel Firenze Campo Di Marte (or similar) (B)

Arriverderci Florence!

Say buongiorno to the Eternal City: board a high-speed train in Florence and settle in for a swift and scenic ride south to the Eternal City. Watch rolling hills and ancient towns fly past as you anticipate the history and charm that await.

Taste of Rome: once you've touched down, follow your Trip Leader on a welcome walk through Rome's iconic streets – suppli (deep fried rice balls) in one hand, pizza alla Romana in the other. Try not to get distracted by the endless photo ops, and see if you can resist eating the whole gelato before you reach the next fountain. Still hungry? (Of course you are, it's Rome.) Good news: there's an optional Rome Food Tour through Trastevere, where you can eat and drink your way through more tastings, sip local wines and discover hidden gems with a culinary expert leading the way. Stay: Hotel Milani (or similar) (B/L)

Your Roman holiday.

Rome at your own pace: today is yours to soak up the Eternal City as you please. Feel like diving into history? The Colosseum and Vatican are must-sees – just be prepared for lively crowds and plenty of selfie sticks. Prefer a slower vibe? Wander cobblestone streets, brave the bustling crowds at the Trevi Fountain for a lucky coin toss or find a quiet piazza to sip espresso and watch the world go by.

Savour the flavours: when hunger strikes, grab a slice of authentic Roman pizza or sample some creamy gelato at a nearby gelateria. Fancy something sweet? Try a fresh cannoli or some tiramisu to keep your energy up for exploring.

Pasta made perfect: later, gather for an included pasta-making class where you'll learn to craft classic Roman dishes with a local chef. Roll up your sleeves, get hands-on and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labour over dinner. It's the perfect way to cap off your Roman adventure – with good food and even better company. Stay: Hotel Milani (or similar) (B/D)

Last taste of la dolce vita.

Your final Roman morning: enjoy a leisurely breakfast soaking in the last Roman moments, whether it's a flaky cornetto or a creamy cappuccino. Take in the city's morning light one last time before your tour comes to a close and you set off on your next adventure. (B)