If you've been following along with the popular TV show Race Across the World, you likely found yourself longing to visit the incredible destinations the contestants encountered on their journeys. From Africa to Arctic Europe, the teams travel through some of the most beautiful and culturally rich places in the world.
At Sunvil, we were captivated watching the racers make their way through stunning locales - many of which we feature in our holiday offerings. If you were swept up in the adventure and intrigue of Race Across the World, carry on reading to see which destinations we can take you to.
Seville, Spain
One remarkable stop along the race that Sunvil provides access to is the city of Seville, Spain. Complete with picturesque orange tree-lined streets, delicious jamón ibérico, enchanting Moorish palaces, and a flamenco bailaora in a swirling red dress. Seville is the perfect embodiment of Spain's cultural and historical essence. It boasts an abundance of traditional churches, palaces, and hidden gems, making it the best location to experience the country's rich history. Without a doubt, Seville is a city that will cast its spell on you and should be on your bucket list of places to visit at least once in your lifetime.
Stay at Las Casa de la Juderia Hotel in Seville for 3 nights (Bed & Breakfast) from £837pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, private transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Viseu, central Portugal
As the racers journeyed on, their path took them through the charming city of Viseu in central Portugal. Though often overlooked, Viseu is an undiscovered destination with a beautifully preserved old quarter at its historic centre. With origins dating back to Celtic times, Viseu remains at the heart of Portugal's central wine country. The surrounding Serra da Estrela Nature Reserve beckons with its towering mountain ranges hiding medieval villages waiting to be explored. Viseu makes an excellent base for delving into Portugal's lesser-known yet exciting central regions. From its rich history to its natural wonders, this small city encapsulates the magic of undiscovered Portugal.
Stay at Pousada de Viseu for 7 nights in Viseu (Bed & Breakfast) from £964pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, car rental and 23kg luggage allowance.
Lisbon, Lisbon region, Portugal
The Portuguese capital of Lisbon is another highlight from the show, characterised by its pastel-coloured buildings, charming trams and hills overlooking the Tagus River. Its imperial palaces and medieval castles speak to Lisbon's role as an epicentre of culture and global exploration. Lose yourself in the timeless alleyways of the Alfama district and enjoy stellar seafood as you take in Lisbon's irresistible coastal charm. Don't miss experiencing a soulful Fado music performance, taking you through Lisbon's history with mournful guitar and powerful vocal laments. Let Lisbon's myriad museums, monuments, and music transport you to another time.
Stay at Heritage Lisboa Plaza Hotel for 3 nights in Lisbon (Bed & Breakfast) from £791pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, private transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Porto, northern Portugal
And don't miss the colourful city of Porto, known for its eclectic architecture, bustling markets and energetic nightlife. Its historic Ribeira district along the riverfront embodies Porto's vibrant culture and provides scenic views of the Douro River. Wander the lively streets and explore Porto's wealth of museums and churches showcasing its rich history. Visit the iconic Livraria Lello bookstore, with its opulent Gothic façade and stunning interior. Indulge in Porto's famed port wine and feast on fresh seafood from the city's many restaurants.
Stay at Vila Gale Porto Ribeira for 3 nights in Porto (Bed & Breakfast) from £778pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, private transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Pinhao, Douro, northern Portugal
For a taste of Portugal's renowned wine region, head to Pinhao in the heart of the Douro Valley. This picturesque town is surrounded by rolling vineyards and scenic wine estates perched on the hills. Savour renowned ports and bold reds against the backdrop of the valley's stunning natural beauty.
Stay at the Vintage House Hotel for 7 nights in Pinhao (Bed & Breakfast) from £1,827pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, car rental and 23kg luggage allowance.
The Italian Lakes
There's a new vitality flowing through cosmopolitan Milan, with old structures repurposed into trendy bars, restaurants, and cultural hubs. This revitalised metropolis is the perfect jumping-off point for Lake Como, easily accessed by train. The shores of Lake Como boast lush Mediterranean vegetation - cypress and pine trees on the hillsides, vines and olive groves soaking up the sunshine. With ancient villas and tranquil villages dotting its banks, Lake Como promises both natural beauty and old-world charm. From the energy of Milan to the tranquillity of Lake Como, this dynamic duo showcases the best of Italy.
Our 7 night Milan and Lake Como itinerary starts from £2,622pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes accommodation (Bed & Breakfast), return flights and 23kg luggage allowance.
Verona, Italy
Verona sits on the banks of the Adige River in northern Italy's Veneto region. Known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona enchants with its picturesque squares, Roman ruins, medieval architecture and Italian charm. Stroll across the Ponte Scaligero bridge for views of the river and explore the city’s winding lanes. Don’t miss Verona’s magnificent Roman arena, which still hosts events today. From its romantic allure to its historical treasures, Verona is city worth visiting.
Our 3 night city break to Verona (Bed & Breakfast) starts from £674pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Zagreb, Croatia
As the race continues, the teams pass through Zagreb, Croatia’s stylish capital city. At its heart is Zagreb’s Upper Town, home to the iconic St. Mark’s Church with its colourful tiled roof. Wander through outdoor markets on Tkalčićeva street, tour the neo-Gothic Zagreb Cathedral and explore its museums and galleries. With an old-world feel mixed with modern panache, Zagreb captivates with its blend of history, culture and natural beauty.
Our 3 night Advent Christmas Fair in Zagreb (Bed & Breakfast) starts from £813pp. The price is based on two sharing and includes return flights, transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Zadar, Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Situated on Croatia’s picturesque Dalmatian Coast, the port city of Zadar charms with its coastal setting and wealth of historic sights. Marvel at the sea organ, an experimental musical instrument that plays music by way of sea waves. Take in breathtaking sunsets over the Adriatic from Zadar’s waterfront promenade. Wander the quaint alleyways of its old town and learn about its long history at the Archaeological Museum. With a perfect mix of relaxation, culture and natural beauty, Zadar is the perfect choice.
Stay at Hotel Kolovare for 7 nights in Zadar (Bed & Breakfast) from £1,107pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, private transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Split, Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Further down the Dalmatian Coast sits the port city of Split, with its sea-washed limestone walls and wealth of Roman ruins. The UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace forms the living heart of Split, with bars, shops and houses inhabiting the ancient Roman structure. Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade lined with palm trees. Split provides the perfect base to explore Croatia and her islands.
Stay at the Hotel Park for 7 nights in Split (Bed & Breakfast) from £961pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Stockholm, Sweden
The final leg of the tour continues across the Nordics, with Stockholm used as a gateway destination. Stockholm is a city that has something for everyone. With 14 islands and a medieval city centre, it is one of the most romantic cities in Europe. Stockholm boasts an archipelago of over 30,000 islands, a medieval heart and an abundance of parkland, making it one of the most varied and interesting cities to visit.
Stockholm is also known for its museums - over 70 in total, with the National Museum being the most renowned, featuring Sweden's largest art collection. The Vasa Museum is another must-visit destination, detailing the story of the sunken 'Vasa' ship in 1628, which includes the excavated ship itself.
The Swedish capital is a gateway to a wider Nordic adventure. Train connections link Stockholm to Copenhagen, Gothenburg, Oslo, Kiruna (Swedish Lapland) and even the UK. You can also travel east to Helsinki by boat, island-hop in the Stockholm archipelago and take a short flight to the island of Gotland.
Stay for 3 nights on our Christmas Market Break (Bed & Breakfast) from £802pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, private transfers and 48 Stockholm Go City Pass.
Swedish Lapland
Sweden's northernmost region, Swedish Lapland, is the ideal destination for an unparalleled winter getaway. You can marvel at the pristine landscapes of frozen lakes and snow-covered forests, it's like a real-life winter wonderland. In the village of Jukkasjarvi, you can visit or stay at the sensational ICEHOTEL and elsewhere you'll find cosy lodges, such as Brandon Lodge, properties which combine art and design with fabulous hospitality - Treehotel and Arctic Bath, and woodland hideaways like Arctic Retreat and Loggers Lodge. There's something for everyone.
Our guests can choose from a host of winter activities including: a hovercraft tour across a frozen sea, snowmobiling, husky sledding, ice sculpting, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, moose tracking and more. As they look up at the clear night skies, free of light pollution, they will also have the chance to witness the incredible Aurora Borealis.
Stay for 3 nights 'In search of the Northern Lights and the ICEHOTEL' from £2,556pp. The price is based on two sharing and includes B&B/Half Board accommodation, return flights, transfers, activities as detailed and 23kg luggage allowance.
Rovaniemi, Finland
From Sweden the journey continues to Finland. Nestled on the Arctic Circle (at 66°33′45.9″ north of the Equator), Rovaniemi is known for the polar night and the midnight sun. This unique location makes it an excellent spot for those seeking both comfort and rugged wilderness. The city offers a wealth of amenities including shops, restaurants and bars, museums and cultural attractions, as well as Santa Claus Village and SantaPark, which are sure to leave you feeling festive.
But step outside the city limits and a whole other world awaits. Rovaniemi has an unspoiled landscape, where nature reigns supreme. In the summer, visitors can explore miles of marked hiking trails, flowing river valleys and tranquil lakes, while the winter transforms the area into the ultimate winter paradise.
Stay for 3 nights at the Arctic Snowhotel and Glass Igloos (B&B) from £1,047pp. The price is based on two sharing and includes return flights, transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Oslo, Norway
The checkpoint is starting to get closer in Oslo, which has been the capital of Norway since 1814. Not only is it one of the world's greenest cities, but it's also highly regarded as one of the most liveable. The city lies on the southern tip of the Oslofjord, with forests and hills to the north and an expansive park in the centre. With more than two-thirds of the city covered in greenery, Oslo is an excellent destination for nature lovers.
The historic centre of Oslo is a charming district consisting of a maze of neo-classical 19th-century buildings, grandiose palaces, and modern architecture. Here you can see past and present coexisting, making it a fascinating place to explore on foot. The area is filled with museums, shopping arcades, flea markets, and major sites that attract attention at every turn.
By purchasing an Oslo Pass (included with all bookings), you can visit the city's premier attractions for free. The pass covers entry to the Akershus Castle, Kon-Tiki Museum, National Museum, Nobel Peace Center, Ibsen Museum, National Gallery, Munch Museum, Vigeland Museum, and the Viking Ship Museum. This is an opportunity for your clients' to experience Oslo's rich history and vibrant culture.
Stay for 4 nights on our 'Oslo City Break' from £750pp. The price is based on two sharing and includes return flights, private transfers, 48 hour City Pass and 23kg luggage allowance.
Narvik, Norway
Narvik, situated in Northern Norway, has a stunning natural landscape. Its towering mountains provide a perfect setting for hiking and skiing, while the blue Ofotfjord offers breathtaking views. You will have the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in winter and enjoy long, bright summer nights with the midnight sun.
The Ofoten Line, considered one of the world's most scenic train journeys. This train journey can be enjoyed as a day excursion or on a longer tour; it connects Narvik to Abisko, Kiruna (the ICEHOTEL), Boden (Treehotel, Arctic Bath, Arctic Retreat), Lulea and Stockholm. Other combinations include Tromso (by bus) and the Lofoten islands (by bus).
In Narvik, visitors can learn about the WW2 Battle of Narvik at the Narvik War Museum. You can also visit the Polar Park, the northernmost zoo on the planet, and observe wolves, lynxes, bears, reindeer, moose, and arctic foxes.
Stay for 7 nights at the Scandic Narvik (B&B) from £1,168pp. The price is based on two sharing and includes return flights, private transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
Tromso - the final checkpoint!
The final checkpoint Tromso, is the largest city located in the Nordic countries, situated at nearly 70 degrees north above the Arctic Circle. The scenic landscape surrounding the city is diverse, with Lyngen Alps, vast forests, blue fjords, and an archipelago of numerous islands. Tromso, a lively university city, is a destination that offers year-round attractions for visitors.
In the winter months, the moderate Arctic climate of -4°C brings natural phenomena such as Polar Nights (November 21 to January 21) and Northern Lights (September to April). You can enjoy numerous outdoor activities such as dog-sledding, glacial walking, snowmobile safaris, and snowshoe excursions.
During the summer months (May 21 to July 21), you can witness the Midnight Sun and wander in the countryside with the mild temperatures. The city of Tromso, a blend of modern developments and traditional wooden buildings, offers several attractions for visitors. The Polar Museum, which showcases the story of polar expeditions, and the Arctic Cathedral, which is famous for the midnight concerts held in summer, are two of the most popular attractions. You can also take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Storsteinen to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding archipelago.
Enjoy our 5 nights Tromso and Abisko itinerary from £1,886pp. The price is based on two people sharing and includes return flights, transfers and 23kg luggage allowance.
If you could visit one destination from Race Across the World, which would you choose? At Sunvil, we provide curated itineraries so you can fully immerse yourself in one, two, or three of these remarkable destinations.