Spain, France & Portugal from Lisbon

An unforgettable stop on any European cruise, with its Gothic cathedrals, medieval castle, and quaint village neighbourhoods, Lisbon is Portugal’s feature attraction and has been the country’s capital since 1147. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets of this city at your own leisurely pace, stopping along the way at a remarkable museum or 1930’s era patio caf. Explore more of Lisbon on a European cruise!

The third largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria offers a continent of contrasts. There’s the elegant capital, Làs Palmas, where Columbus once called en route to the New World; lovely beaches and the Sahara-like sand dunes of Maspalomas; and, inland, a volcanic landscape of valleys, gorges and mountains rising to 6,000 feet.

Located at the eastern tip of the island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz is a natural cruise destination as over half of its perimeter is shoreline. The beaches are lovely at that, from the yellow sands of Las Teresitas to the black sands of the quieter, clothing-optional Las Gaviotas. There’s also plenty to do and see inland, especially if you’re here during the spectacular Carnival.

Santa Cruz de La Palma is the capital city of the island of La Palma, in Spain’s Canary Islands. It’s known for its centuries-old architecture, cobbled streets and busy port. A former convent hosts the Museum of the Island of La Palma, with an art collection and exhibits on natural history and ethnography. The Naval Museum is in a replica of Christopher Columbus’s 15th-century Santa Maria sailing ship.

The mountainous isle of Madeira has been a popular European destination for years. The idyllic island is perfect for exploring with its beautiful beaches, stunning lava formed landscapes and lush, green forests. But sampling the famed Madeira wines is also an absolute must. Explore more of Maderia on a European cruise!

Take a drive out to the Duoro Valley and admire it beautiful landscapes and vineyards. Take a stroll through the Historic Centre of Oporto an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste a little wine in Oporto famous for it port wines.

The Tower of Hercules, a 2,000-year-old, functioning Roman lighthouse will be the first to welcome you to this friendly port city. Spain’s second largest seaport has one of the longest promenades in Europe. Visit the ornate Maria Pita Square and join in the fun at the lively taverns in the Old Town area.

Hop on a tour bus to the City of Light to experience the magic of Paris. Stroll down the Champs-Elysées as you nibble on a croissant. Take photos of beautiful Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Montmartre and all the other iconic places of Paris lie 120 miles up the Seine from the port of Le Havre. Or explore the charms of Le Havre, spend the day at Monet’s Giverny or explore Rouen’s Old Market Place, where Joan of Arc was burned in 1431.

Protected from the frequent storms of the English Channel by the Isle of Wight, Southampton has survived a turbulent history to serve as a principal port of the United Kingdom today. Pay homage to one of the most famous ships to sail these shores at the Mayflower Memorial. Visit the stoic walls of Bargate and the Tudor House Museum.