Great Continental Railway Journeys

Michael Portillo follows in the footsteps of British tourists coming to Spain in Edward VII's day, starting in Madrid and then heading south to Andalusia, the Costa del Sol and Gibraltar.

Michael explores Milan's long-standing history as a fashion centre, takes in romantic Lake Como, and experiences why Edwardian tourists were so besotted with Venice.

Michael travels the lesser-known northern railways of Germany, experiencing the rich musical, cultural and spiritual experiences on offer.

Michael follows royal footsteps in Denmark and Norway, then samples the delights of smorgasbord, sauna and sausage in Sweden.

Michael explores the stunning art nouveau architecture of Prague, samples the sulphurous waters in the spa town of Marienbad, and discovers a 20th-century pioneer in Munich.

Travelling from Bordeaux to Bilboa, Michael learns about Edwardian-era political dealings, royal assignations and industrial colonization by British entrepreneurs.