Day 1 - Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal: Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features, and more than twenty centuries of history. After disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marques de Pombal, who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and the impressive riverfront square, Praça do Comércio. Today, the city boasts distinct modern and ancient sections, blending excellent shopping experiences with culture and sightseeing opportunities in the Old Town, built on the city's terraced hillsides. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary and is not included in the excursion grades.

Day 2 - Leixões

Leixões, Portugal: Since the Romans built a fort and trading post here, Oporto has thrived as a commercial hub. The wealth from Portugal’s maritime discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries flourished, and the subsequent wine trade with Britain offset the decline of the spice trade. Today, Portugal’s second-largest city is cosmopolitan and renowned for producing sweet, fortified 'port' wine. Its historic centre holds UNESCO World Heritage status and was named European Capital of Culture in 2001. While a large sandbar prevents ships from docking in Oporto, the nearby man-made seaport Leixões, just nine miles from the city, has for over a century served as one of Portugal's major sea ports and is home to a historic football club.

Day 3 - Ferrol

Ferrol, Spain: El Ferrol has been linked to the sea for more than two millennia, historically renowned as a shipbuilding hub. From its origins as a small fishing village in the 1st century BC, it has survived conquests by Vandals, Suebis, Arabs, and Christians. In the 18th century, under the Bourbons, Ferrol rose to prominence due to the expansive natural harbour on the Ferrol Inlet. Today, it serves as a gateway to Galicia, a region of lush landscapes and historic significance, including the medieval city of Santiago de Compostela. Ferrol's city centre mirrors the layout of Lisbon and features six parallel streets and squares teeming with the city's finest shops, restaurants, and bars.

Day 4 - Santander

Santander, Spain: Explore Santander, a renowned port city nestled along a beautiful bay with the striking backdrop of the lush Cantabrian mountains. The city's beaches, architectural beauty, and dynamic food scene make it a wonderful stop. From the historic Magdalena Palace to the burgeoning cultural district, Santander offers a blend of attractions and natural beauty well worth discovering.

Day 5 - Bilbao

Bilbao, Spain: In Bilbao, time has become marked by BG or AG—Before Guggenheim or After Guggenheim. The introduction of Frank Gehry's stunning museum, along with other modern architectural marvels, has transformed the former industrial centre. Yet, Bilbao's old-world charm remains evident along the Nervión River's banks. The Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, features a delightful mishmash of shops, bars, and eateries. The silhouette of the city's more traditional offerings complements its vibrant cultural development, which now includes esteemed culinary experiences and sophisticated transport systems.

Day 6 - Lorient

Lorient, France: Rooted in a rich maritime heritage, Lorient stands today as a vibrant centre for festivities, including its celebrated Interceltic Festival which brings together cultures from across the Celtic nations. Once a major trading port known for spices and silk, this small city on the Breton coast is perfect for walking, with its lively marina, aviation museum, and a string of fresh seafood restaurants along the bay. Lorient's history and spirit offer a perfect blend for visitors.

Day 7 - Roscoff

Roscoff, France: Roscoff, a picturesque town on Brittany's northwestern coast, is famed for its vintage granite buildings and seafaring heritage. Wander through charming streets to discover its traditional restaurants celebrated for local seafood delicacies. The town’s mild climate and charming coastlines have earned it a reputation as a wellness destination, aided by its renowned thalassotherapy centres.

Day 8 - Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, France: Romantic and maritime in spirit, St-Malo is bound to the mainland only by fragile causeways and is famed for its accomplished sailors. Once home to corsairs and explorers, today, it stands as a vibrant fishing port and tourist attraction. Although much of the original St-Malo was destroyed in WWII, careful restoration has preserved its narrow streets and resilient granite houses, revitalising its role in both historical storytelling and as a seaside resort.

Day 9 - Honfleur

Honfleur, France: Picturesque Honfleur, with its cobbled lanes and half-timbered edifices, boasts enduring Renaissance architecture, especially around the Vieux Bassin harbour. Known for its maritime past and those pioneering expeditions to Canada, the town also inspired many Impressionists with its enchanting landscapes. Despite modern developments, Honfleur continues to allure visitors with its historic charm and vibrant artistic culture.

Day 10 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Portsmouth is a bustling city atypically located on Portsea Island. Its rich naval tradition is underpinned by historical ships like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. The cityscape is dominated by the striking Spinnaker Tower, and visitors can explore places like the birthplace of Charles Dickens and significant artefacts at the City Museum, celebrating illustrious figures like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. An enduring naval base, Portsmouth fuses heritage with naval prestige and contemporary attractions.