Europe Cruise: Iberia. Northern Europe & Baltic

Welcome to Barcelona! Renowned for its unique architecture and vibrant culture. If you have time before your cruise departs today, take a stroll down Las Ramblas, a lively street filled with street performers, shops, and cafes, leading to the historic Gothic Quarter. Or for a taste of local life, explore the bustling La Boqueria market, offering a variety of fresh produce and local delicacies.

Spain's third largest city, Valencia offers a little bit of everything, from historic sites and bustling city squares to placid beaches. Old world charm meets modern architectural wonders in this eclectic city that is steeped in art and culture. Ships will dock at the Port of Valencia.

Top Things to Do in Valencia:

• shop at the Mercado Central
• view the city from the Torres de Serranos
• visit the UNESCO listed Silk Market
• explore the Requena Caves
• visit the L'Oceanogràfic aquarium
• enjoy some Paella

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of Spain's Balearic Islands, blends history and vibrant culture. The iconic La Seu Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture and sea views, is a must-visit. Nearby, explore the Almudaina Palace, a royal residence with rich history and beautiful gardens.

Stroll through the charming old town with its narrow streets, lively squares, and bustling markets. Don’t miss the bustling Mercat de l'Olivar for a taste of local produce and delicacies. For a relaxing break, head to the picturesque Paseo Marítimo, where you can enjoy scenic waterfront views and numerous cafes. Palma offers a delightful mix of historical sights, culinary delights, and seaside relaxation.

The ancient Mediterranean port of Cartagena has more then 2,500 years of history, each corner, street and square offers monumental examples of its splendorous past. Its manicured promenades lined with palm trees lead you to ancient ruins surviving marvellously between modern-day buildings. Ships will dock at the Alfonso XII Pier.

Top Things to Do in Cartagena:

• visit the Roman Theatre and museum
• explore the 18th-century Concepcion Castle
• travel to nearby Murcia
• watch an Andalusian horse performance

Málaga is the lively capital of the Costa del Sol, famed for its beaches and mild climate. It is a city of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, churches and sunny plazas. Málaga also serves as a popular starting point for excursions to splendid Granada and the famed Alhambra. Ships will dock at the Málaga cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Málaga:

• take in the views from The Alcazaba fortress
• see Picasso's paintings at Museo Picasso
• visit the Alhambra in Granada
• relax on a Costa del Sol beach
• visit the scenic village of Mijas

Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is known for its strategic significance and natural beauty. Start your visit with a trip to the Rock of Gibraltar, where you can take a cable car to the top for stunning views of the Mediterranean and Atlantic. While there, explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, home to the famous Barbary macaques and the impressive St. Michael's Cave.

In the afternoon, visit the Great Siege Tunnels, a fascinating network of passages dug during the 18th century. Stroll through Casemates Square, the lively hub of Gibraltar, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t forget to see the iconic Europa Point Lighthouse, marking the gateway between the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Seville, the vibrant capital of Spain's Andalusia region, is renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Start your visit at the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and climb the Giralda tower for panoramic city views. Just a short walk away is the Alcázar of Seville, a breathtaking royal palace with lush gardens and intricate Moorish design.

In the afternoon, explore the charming Barrio Santa Cruz, a maze of narrow streets filled with tapas bars, shops, and picturesque squares. Don’t miss the iconic Plaza de España, with its beautiful tiled alcoves and boating canal. Take a leisurely stroll along the Guadalquivir River, enjoying the lively atmosphere and scenic views.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, is a city of hills, history, and stunning views. Start your day at the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a glimpse into Portugal’s maritime past. Nearby, visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, where you can admire its intricate designs.

In the afternoon, explore the historic Alfama district, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music echoing from cozy taverns. Ride the famous Tram 28 to see landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral and the São Jorge Castle. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint.

At the mouth of the Rio Douro lies Porto (or Oporto), a city famed for its production of Port, which is still stored and matured in the vast cellars that stretch along the banks of the river. The cities skyline is composed of sky-high bell towers, opulent baroque churches, and majestic beaux art buildings. Ships will dock at the Port of Leixoes.

Top Things to Do in Porto:

• visit Guimarães, the first capital of Portugal
• cruise the Douro River
• explore the historical city centre, Ribeira
• visit a wine cellar and taste some port wine

Cruise ships dock at Ferrol Port, which is 92 kilometers (57 miles) from Santiago de Compostela, with a travel time of about 1.5 hours. Ferrol offers its own attractions, such as the 18th-century Arsenal and the Modernist Ruta de la Magdalena, before heading to Santiago de Compostela.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Located on the Brittany Coast and built on a rock at the mouth of the River Rance, Saint-Malo's roots go back to before Roman times. Surrounded by tall granite walls, this fortified city was superbly rebuilt to its original style after 80% of it was destroyed in WWII. Small ships can dock at the this port, while large ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Saint-Malo:

• walk the beach to Fort National
• visit the UNESCO listed Mont Saint-Michel
• tour the medieval village of Dinan
• stroll along the cities ramparts

The quintessential French seaside town of Honfleur is an artists dream with its half-timbered houses along cobblestone lanes and bright wooden fishing boats lining its waterfront. Located in scenic Normandy, where the Seine opens out into the Channel, it is one of France's most spectacular, historic harbours. Ships will dock at the Port of Honfleur.

Top Things to Do in Honfleur:

• go to Omaha Beach, the D-Day landing site
• see the 15th-century St. Catherine's Church
  
• meander the Old Harbour of Honfleur
• spend the day in Paris

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

Known as the 'Gateway to England', the southeastern town of Dover is the main transit port between the two sides of the English Channel. This quaint and uniquely British town is famous for its impressive white cliffs, which have inspired many a poet and playwright. Ships will dock at the Dover Cruise Terminal.

Transport to London from Dover is efficient with trains running regularly from Dover Priory station to London St Pancras International, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can walk from the station to the Cruise Terminals in about 25 minutes. This makes it convenient for cruise passengers to access the capital for day trips. Additionally, coach services connect Dover with various London locations, offering a budget-friendly option.

A visit to Bruges offers a step back in time with its medieval architecture, winding canals, and charming cobblestone streets. The Belfry of Bruges provides stunning panoramic views of the city, and don’t miss the chance to sample world-famous Belgian chocolates from local chocolatiers or take a leisurely boat tour through the picturesque canals.

As the heart of the European Union, Brussels boasts a blend of historic sites and modern attractions. Art lovers will appreciate the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the surrealist artist René Magritte. Be sure to try a classic Belgian waffle or indulge in mussels and fries at one of the city’s renowned brasseries, enjoying a quintessential Brussels culinary experience.

Zeebrugge serves as the gateway to both Bruges and Brussels. Bruges is approximately 17 km (10.6 miles) away, a 20-minute drive, offering medieval architecture and charming canals. Brussels, the Belgian capital, is about 100 km (62 miles) from the port, taking around 1.5 hours by car or train.

Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is famed for its picturesque canals and historic charm. Start your visit with a leisurely canal cruise, offering a unique perspective of the city's stunning 17th-century architecture. The Anne Frank House, located on Prinsengracht, provides a poignant glimpse into history, making it a must-see landmark.

Wander through the Museum Quarter, home to the renowned Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum. For a local experience, explore the lively Jordaan district, filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Don't forget to stop by the Albert Cuyp Market, where you can sample Dutch treats like stroopwafels and fresh herring, immersing yourself in Amsterdam's vibrant culinary scene.

The quirky and heritage-filled Hamburg is a true city of water, nestled snugly between the Baltic and North seas and intersected by a frayed network of rivers and canals, spanned by hundreds of pretty bridges. Explore the Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district and a UNESCO site, known for its neo-gothic architecture.

The nearby Elbphilharmonie concert hall is impressive with its striking design and views over the Elbe River. For a taste of local life, visit the lively Fish Market or stroll along the waterfront at Landungsbrücken, where ferries offer scenic river cruises along the canals.

Connecting the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, the Kiel Canal is one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. Slicing a man-made path through the German countryside, this 61-mile-long marvel of engineering allows vessels to avoid 250 nautical miles of sea sailing on average, ensuring a faster and safer passage through Europe.

The leisurely transit takes roughly 8 hours and you will cruise past waterfowl in the marshes, as well as cows, sheep and bike riders along the banks. You’ll witness the small freight ships and pleasure craft that share the waters of the world’s busiest man-made waterway.

Founded as a fortress town in 1650 by Frederick III, Fredericia is home to one of the most well preserved ramparts in Northern Europe. Nestled in the southeastern part of Denmark's Jutland peninsula, it charms with a historic core showcasing military remnants and monuments, stately old houses and quaint shops. Ships will dock at the Port of Fredericia.

Top Things to Do in Fredericia:

• tour the Egeskov castle and grounds
• spend the day at Legoland in Billund
• visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum
• walk the historic city walls
  

Copenhagen captivates with its blend of royal history and modern Scandinavian cool. Visit the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels, or stroll through the picturesque Nyhavn harbor with its colorful townhouses and lively cafés.

The iconic Little Mermaid statue sits serenely by the waterfront, while Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, offers charming rides and lush gardens in the heart of the city. Your ship will dock at the Port of Copenhagen, which is a 30 minute drive to Copenhagen Airport and a 15 minute drive into the city centre.

Karlskrona is an enchanting city with its storybook cottages, immense town square, and hundreds of small islands awaiting discovery amid the sparkling sea. It is known as Sweden's only baroque city and is host to Sweden's sole remaining naval base. Small ships will dock at the Port of Karlskrona, while large ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Karlskrona:

• visit the Naval Museum
• cruise through the Karlskrona’s archipelago
• tour Karlskrona’s Old Naval Shipyard
• view the city from atop Brewer Hill
  

Lying on the Baltic coast of Poland, the port city of Gdansk is known for its beautiful Hanseatic architecture and colourful Old Town. The city was left in ruins after World War II and has been masterfully restored. Most ships will dock in the neighbouring town of Gydnia, while some small ships will dock at the Oliwskie Pier in Gdansk.

Top Things to Do in Gdansk:

• visit the Malbork Castle and museum
• stroll along Long Street
• shop for Amber on Mariacka Street
• tour Stutthof Camp
• visit the Oliwa Cathedral

Formerly known as Memel, Klaipeda is a modern and historic city, with its roots dating back to the days of German knights. The city is known for its innovative design and architecture, however its German heritage can still be seen in the half-timbered buildings of its Old Town area. Ships will dock at the Port of Klaipeda.

Top Things to Do in Klaipeda:

• stroll through the Old Town area
• visit the Amber Museum
• explore Zemaitija National Park
• visit Plateliai Soviet Nuclear Weapon Site
• take a ferry to the Curonian Spit
  

Centred around a charming UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town, Latvia’s capital is a quirky and artistic place. It is an architecture buff's dream come true with its collection of Art Nouveau buildings and Gothic structures. Ships will dock at the cruise quay on Daugava River.

Top Things to Do in Riga:

• admire the architecture on Elizabetes street
• take in the views from St Peter's Church
• visit Turaida’s famed castle
• explore the Latvian Ethnographic Museum
• trek along the Kemeri Bog Boardwalk
• visit the resort town of Jurmala

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Tallinn's fairy-tale castles, cobbled streets and warm hospitality remain one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Ancient convents, steepled churches and handsome guild houses are all preserved as they were in Tallinn’s Old Town area, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ships will dock at the Old City Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Tallinn:

• admire the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• take in the city views from Toompea Hill
• visit the Open Air Museum
• stroll the gardens of Kadriorg Park
  

Finland's capital is a laid-back but vibrant seaside city, surrounded on three sides by sea and tiny islands. Helsinki is a city of graceful neoclassical buildings, striking modern architecture and spacious boulevards dotted with squares and parks. Ships will dock in either South Harbour or West Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Helsinki:

• take the ferry to the fortress of Suomenlinna
• visit the Kiasma Modern Art Museum
• see the rock church, Temppeliaukio
• shop at Market Square
• stroll through Sibelius Park

The Finnish city of Turku harbours a wonderful mix of old and new with a distinctly Scandinavian charm. The Aura River meanders through the age-old network of bustling streets and squares and the city is situated at the doorstep of more than 40,000 islands. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Turku:

• tour the iconic Turku Castle
• explore Ruissalo Island
• visit the Luostarinmäki neighbourhood
• stroll through Naantali’s Old Town district
• visit the Forum Marinum, maritime museum

Mariehamn, the capital of the Åland Islands, lies between Sweden and Finland, offering a unique blend of Finnish, Swedish, and Åland heritage. This charming town is distinguished by its maritime history, evident in attractions like the Åland Maritime Museum and the impressive Pommern, a fully rigged ship museum anchored in the harbor.

Strolling through Mariehamn’s quiet streets, visitors can admire the quaint wooden houses and lush gardens that characterize the town. The Sjökvarteret, with its old shipyard, workshops, and maritime establishments, provides a glimpse into the town's seafaring past.

Mariehamn encapsulates the serene beauty and rich cultural tapestry of the Åland Islands and it's extensive network of biking paths offers a leisurely way to explore independently.

Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.

For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.

Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.

For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.