Coach class

Sarah Marshall finds ditching the car can be just the ticket

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Dozens of classic travel tales have revolved around cruising the open road - but you don't necessarily need a driving licence to enjoy a holiday on wheels.

Connecting iconic European destinations without the need for pricey and stressful flights, coach holidays are enjoying a resurgence as a convenient way to explore.

Seats are spacious and comfortable, there's ample luggage space, and pick up points are dotted across the UK.

Here are a few of the top coach tours to plan for the months ahead...

Dordogne, France

Indulgence is at the heart of a new tour covering the most popular region of the Dordogne. Travel on the Truffadou Train, once used to transport Martel market's famous truffles, and enjoy a wine tasting and picnic lunch on the family-run Domaine du Siorac vineyard in Bergerac.

Based at the Auberge de la Petite Reine in the heart of the Perigord Noir region, there are multiple chances to sample local food and drink during nightly four-course dinners - with a free bar from 6pm-10pm included in the price of the holiday.

Sightseeing excursions include trips to pretty towns and villages such as Rocamadour, Martel and Bergerac. Stop at the medieval Chateau de Beynac, an impressively preserved castle on a limestone cliff.