European Atlantic Coast – Cultural Highlights

Built on seven hills along the shores of the scenic River Tejo, Lisbon is a legendary city with centuries of history. Take some time to explore the city and visit world famous sites like Tower of Belém before embarkation.

UNESCO´s World Heritage list says this about lovely Porto: `An outstanding urban landscape with a 2,000-year history. Its continuous growth...can be seen in the many monuments, from the cathedral with its Romanesque choir, to the neoclassical Stock Exchange and the typically Portuguese Church of Santa Clara.

We will pass the 55m/180ft high Hercules Tower, the oldest Roman lighthouse in use today, on our way into the harbour. Stroll through reminders of the historic city´s golden age in the 14th century, when it became wealthy as the main port for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.

Gijon is steeped in history and the surrounding area is known for fine cheeses and cider. The Old Quarter boasts the baroque Revillagigedo Palace, beautiful churches and interesting museums to explore. Enjoy a hike to Santa Catalina for spectacular views, or a leisurely stroll in the ancient fishing village of Cimavilla.

The heart of Basque country is sophisticated and humming with action, while maintaining a relaxed pace of life. The Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s atmospheric old quarter, is full of charming streets dating as far back as 1400’s and features a fine market and plenty of unique shops, while other parts of the city are cutting-edge contemporary, symbolised by the Guggenheim museum.

Today, we sail in the Bay of Biscay; a wide inlet of the North Atlantic Ocean bordered by France and Spain. During the day, you can enjoy interesting lectures given by our expert Expedition Team.

This city incorporates the modern and the ancient effortlessly. Bordeaux’s Old City is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and spans nearly 5,000 acres, with 350 listed monuments and churches. Nearby, magnificent chateaux sit grandly amongst vineyards.

Belle Île is one of France’s most beautiful islands with stunning cliffs, quaint seaside hamlets, pastel houses, lush countryside and rocky coastlines. The town´s beauty has inspired writers like Dumas and painters like Monét. Join our Expedition Team for hikes and outings, or discover the markets, shops and sights independently.

Saint Malo from the sea is quite a sight, fringed by impenetrable bastions and shallow beaches. Since Roman times, it has been a prized fortification for empires. Tour the Château Saint Malo town museum, and visit the Privateers House built in 1725, where you can learn about local pirate heritage.

Enjoy time out on deck with a view of the English Channel, or join our experts, who will invite you to take part in lectures and talks about our next destinations.

There´s a wide choice of sights in Ostend: browse the fish market or take a tour in the footsteps of the singer Marvin Gaye. Perhaps you would enjoy a moment of tranquility in the beautiful Japanese Garden or at the Ostend Art Museum. History buffs can wander through the fortifications in the infamous German Atlantikwall.

We’ll be docked just a short drive outside Amsterdam which has grown from a village in the 13th century to one of the most charming and vital cities in the world today, Amsterdam blends fascinating history with modern energy. Tour the famed Canal District and enjoy world class art at the Rijksmuseum, the Rembrandt House or the van Gogh Museum.

Our expedition cruise comes to an end in as we arrive in Hamburg. The second-largest city in Germany is one of the greenest urban areas in Europe – boasting large parks, botanical gardens and nature reserves. Extend your stay by booking our post program with an overnight in the Westin hotel, located in the famous Elbphiharmonie.