The return of Race Across the World on BBC has reignited interest in overland travel, as millions watch contestants journey more than 12,000km from Italy to Mongolia - without flights, smartphones or credit cards.

As the series uncovers the richness of countries including Greece, Turkey, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, rail tour specialist Ffestiniog Travel is seeing a growing demand for immersive, slower-paced journeys across these fascinating regions.

While the show highlights the thrill, and challenge, of independent travel, Ffestiniog Travel offers a more relaxed alternative: expertly planned escorted tours that take in the same inspiring destinations, without the stress of route planning. Travellers can experience the culture, landscapes and hidden gems with seamless rail and road journeys, expert guides and carefully curated itineraries.

Kyrgyzstan – Mountains, Lakes & Nomads
For those captivated by the series' more remote landscapes, Ffestiniog Travel's Small & Traditional tour – Kyrgyzstan - Mountains, Lakes & Nomads offers a true off-the-beaten-track adventure. Travellers will experience dramatic mountain scenery, alpine lakes and traditional nomadic culture - echoing the breathtaking Central Asian stages of the race. Departing 2 July 2026, this 12-day tour is priced from £3,025pp and includes flights, en-suite accommodation, all meals, expert local guides and services of a tour leader.

https://www.ffestiniogtravel.com/europe/kyrgyzstan-mountains-lakes-nomads

Italy – Discover Puglia
As the race begins in Italy, Ffestiniog Travel's Discover Puglia escorted tour offers a slower, deeper exploration of the country's sun-soaked south. From the whitewashed trulli of Alberobello to the historic streets of Lecce, Puglia delivers authentic Italian charm away from the crowds - perfect for travellers inspired by the BBC show's opening stages. Departing 5 October 2026, this 7-day holiday is priced from £2,650pp and includes return flights, rail travel, B&B hotel accommodation, selected meals, excursions, expert local guides and services of a tour leader.

https://www.ffestiniogtravel.com/europe/discover-puglia

Turkey – Beyond the Bazaars
Reflecting the series' journey through Turkey, Ffestiniog Travel's Treasures of Turkey tour explores both iconic and lesser-visited regions. Highlights include Istanbul, Cappadocia and the remote eastern city of Kars, along with the haunting ruins of Ani - destinations that capture the spirit of discovery seen in the programme. Departing 14 October 2026, this 14-day holiday is priced from £4,530pp and includes flights, rail travel, B&B hotel accommodation, eight evening meals, expertly guided excursions, entrance fees, a Bosphorus cruise and the services of a tour leader.

https://www.ffestiniogtravel.com/worldwide/treasures-of-turkey

As Race Across the World continues to inspire a new generation of explorers, Ffestiniog Travel provides the perfect way to follow in their footsteps - without the pressure. With over 50 years' experience in rail travel, the company combines iconic routes with hidden gems, ensuring every journey is as enriching as it is effortless.