Day 1
This afternoon you begin embarkation to prepare for an evening departure from Dover.
Day 2
Early morning arrival in Ijmuiden (for Amsterdam), Netherlands and this is your opportunity to join one of the following excursions.
DEFT & HOLLAND IN MINIATURE - 5 hours - £30 to £40 per person
We then travel to the historic city of Delft, famous for its Delft Blue pottery. Old shadowy canals, monuments and museums make Delft one of the most characteristic old Dutch cities. We shall stop to walk around the Market Square with the Gothic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), built in 1430, where the Royal Family is buried. Opposite of the church we will see the Town Hall, which dates back to the 15th century. Only the tower, however, remained after a bad fire in 1618. The Town Hall was restored shortly after the fire, giving it a 17th century look – with beautiful leaded windows and half shutters. Weighing houses and other historical buildings give a good impression of this typical Dutch city, where the painter Vermeer once lived.
Afterwards we visit a Delft blue pottery workshop, to see how the famous Delft Blue pottery is made. Although it is not exactly clear when works began production of multicoloured (or polychrome) earthenware, factories appeared in Amsterdam, Haarlem and Middelburg during the second half of the 16th century and it was not until the end of the 16th century that the first pottery was made in Delft. From then on the number of factories increased, largely because tradesmen from the Dutch East India Company brought back Chinese porcelain from the East, and this type of porcelain – with its blue decorations on a white background – became very popular amongst the Dutch. Soon, Dutch potters started to imitate the technique.
After our tour of the pottery, we will return to our ship in Ijmuiden, with a drive of approximately one-hour.
AMSTERDAM ON YOUR OWN - TOUR E - 5 hours - £20 to £30 per person
From the terminal in Ijmuiden, a coach transfer of approximately40 minuteswill take us to the heart of the city. An English-speaking guide will be on hand to offer advice and answer questions, and will also distribute maps of the city.
We will then have approximatelythree and a half-hours of free time to discover the sights, browse the shops or just relax in a local café prior to the return journey to our ship.
AMSTERDAM CITY & CANALS - TOUR A - 4 hours - £40 to £50 per person
We will drive through Dam Square, with the Royal Palace and the Nieuwe Kerk, to the museum area. We pass the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, the Concert Building and the entertainment area Leidseplein on our way to the heart of the city for an approximate one-hour long canal cruise. This is the best way to see the variety of gables, historic buildings including the Westerchurch and Twin Houses, and bridges such as the ‘Skinny Bridge’. We also see the exterior of Anne Frank’s House. After our cruise we return to our ship.
WINDMILL VILLAGE & EDAM - TOUR B - 4 hours - £40 to £50 per person
Most of the houses are wooden and painted green – typical of the Zaan area. We shall visit one of the windmills whilst we are here. In the village several typical Dutch crafts can be seen, including a cheese farm and a wooden shoe factory (visits to these are not included as a group, however some free time is included – which may allow individual visits).
Leaving Zaanse Schans we continue through the countryside to Edam – world renowned for its cheese. Since the streets are too narrow for coaches we will continue on foot through the village. We shall see (from the outside) the tower with its carillon – once part of the church, destroyed in the 19th century. We will walk to the cheese weighing house and the Dam with its 18th century Town Hall, after which we rejoin our coach and return to Ijmuiden.
DayS 3 & 4
Full days cruising. Time to explore the ship and meet fellow passengers and crew members.
Day 5
Early morning arrival in Vigo, Spain
GALICIA & WINE - 5 hours - £50 to £60 per person
With the discovery of its mud baths and medical function, La Toja has been a luxurious spa and tourist resort since the 19th century. The centre of the island still retains a virgin dense pine grove, where a small church dedicated to San Sebastián, which is covered in seashells, is located. We will have a brief period of free time here in La Toja to explore independently or perhaps purchase some locally produced toiletries.
Next, we re-board our tour coach for a drive to the picturesque village of Cambados, the heart of Albariño wine country. Upon arrival here we shall visit the main square, which until 200 years ago was open to the sea. The square is framed by the noble stately home of Figueroa, with several shields and original balconies in the tower, and the neo-classical church of San Benito.
During our visit, we can see a wide variety of manors and stately homes in the streets and narrow squares, along with the Tourism Albariño National Parador, which was rebuilt on the remains of the old stately home of Bazan. We will stop at a regional wine cellar to sample one of the local wines, before returning to Vigo and our awaiting ship.
PONTEVEDRA & CAMBARRO - 4.5 hours - £40 to £50 per person
The many prehistoric cave engravings in the countryside surrounding the town of Pontevedra are evidence of its ancient origins – a primitive settlement situated at the foot of the river of the same name. It wasn’t until the 12th century that documentary proof of the town’s participation in the history of Galicia and Spain began to appear. The Franciscan and Dominican Monasteries, both part of Pontevedra’s artistic heritage, both reflect this position and the existence of a trading bourgeoisie. In the 16th century, Pontevedra led a troubled existence, mainly due to attacks from sea. In spite of this, the magnificent church of Santa María la Mayor was built, along with that of the Virgen Peregrina, which was constructed later in the 18th century. Both buildings are considered to be the town’s most emblematic buildings, and we will view them on our tour. We shall also see the Alameda, Santo Domingo Ruins, Herreria Square, San Francisco Church and La Leña Square.
Next we re-board our tour coach for the short drive to Combarro, located in the municipality of Poro. Declared a site of Artistic and Picturesque interest in 1972, Combarro is know for its hórreos (raised granaries). On the granite outcrop stand the small maritime houses with delicate hewn stonework. They have charming sunny stone balconies, very much in a Baroque style, but were inspired by the architecture of the Pazos. The interiors are humble, with dirt floors on the ground level and little separation between rooms. Facing the sea, there is space reserved for working overlooked by the hórreos. There are approximately 30, forming one of the largest collections in Galicia, and they are unique in their coastal location. We can enjoy some free time here to explore independently or browse the local shops.
SIGHTSEEING & BAYONA - 3.5 hours - £40 to £50 per person
As we depart from the quayside, we will enjoy a panoramic drive through Vigo, a city attacked by Sir Francis Drake in 1585 and 1589. The city’s architecture gives a modern impression, though a few old buildings still remain.
En route to Bayona – a picturesque village at the mouth of the Muino River – we will see some of the beautiful Galician coastline. Upon arrival, we shall visit the Monterreal Fortress, which is today used as the Parador (hotel) de Turismo Conde de Gondomar.
Next we can enjoy some free time to explore the area independently. Following our period of free time, we re-board our tour coach for the return journey to Vigo. Here we shall make a stop at Fortaleza del Castro, where we can enjoy a panoramic view over Vigo Ria, before making our way back to the quayside.
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA - 5 hours - £60 to £70 per person
During the Middle Ages, there were three main places of pilgrimage for Christianity – Rome, Jerusalem and Santiago de Compostela. A visit to the outside of the shrine of St James (Santiago), Patron Saint of Spain, entitles us to wear the cockleshell emblem in the company of perhaps half a million pilgrims a year.
Upon arrival in Santiago, we begin with a panoramic drive of the city, before proceeding on foot to the focal point, which is the Cathedral at Plaza del Obradoiro. To one side lies the Hostal de Los Reyes Catolicos, a former hospital, which is now a hotel. We will stop here for refreshments prior to viewing the Cathedral.
The Cathedral offers a unique range of architectural styles – Romanesque, Baroque and Ogival Gothic are combined with the most elegant Plateresque throughout its vast confines. It contains the silver urn containing the ashes of St James, the Apostle of Santiago, which is kept in a small crypt immediately under the ornate high altar, dominated by a carved image of the patron saint. Our guide will highlight points of interest from the outside of the Cathedral (an inside visit will not be possible due to religious services), before we enjoy some free time to explore the town of Santiago independently. Following our visit, we re-board our tour coach for the return journey to the quayside.
Day 6
Full days cruising.
Day 7
Early morning arrival in Motril, Spain
LAS ALPUJARRAS MOUNTAIN DRIVE - 6.5 hours - £90 to £100 per person
Before arriving at the village of Pampaneira, which lies approximately 1,500 metres above sea level, we will make a photo stop at Presa de Rules, a huge dam, and pass by the village of Orgiva. The unique village of Pampaneira has retained its traditional Berber architecture – terraced clusters of grey-white box-shaped houses with flat clay roofs – which are still commonly found in the Rif and Atlas mountains of Morocco.
Next we stop at a local hotel in Mecina, where lunch will be served. The hotel is amazingly integrated into the lovely rural landscape of the Alpujarra.
After lunch, we will drive to the village of Capileira, situated at the top of the valley. The name is an Arabic derivation of the Latin word for ‘head’ or ‘top’. Here we will see the rocky streets, overhanging passageways and sagging stone houses, which have not been remodelled or prettified for contemporary living.
We will then drive through the villages of Orgiva and Lanjarón en route to Motril and our awaiting ship.
GRANADA OF THE MOORS - 7 hours - £100 to £110 per person
Our journey to the beautiful city of Granada will take approximately two hours. We will pass by impressive mountain scenery and make a short comfort stop en route. Upon arrival in Granada, we proceed to the world-famous fortified Alhambra Palace.
All three areas of the Arabian Palace are magnificent examples of Arabian architecture. This is all surrounded by magnificent flora and innumerable fountains and terraces affording lovely views of the Alhambra and Albaicin.
Following our visit to Alhambra, we travel to a local restaurant, where we can enjoy lunch.
Days 8
Early morning arrival in Alicante, Spain
HUERTO DE CURA BOTANICAL GARDENS - 4 hours 45 mins - £35 to £45 per person
Our tour today to the Botanical Gardens of Huerto Del Cura invites us to experience more than 2,000 years of history.
Departing from the pier, we drive to Elche, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Palmeral and Misteri Festival. Elche is worthy of special interest on account of its spectacular surroundings, the wealth of monuments and its architecture, which is steeped in history. Upon arrival, we shall make an outside visit to the Church of Santa Maria and Municipal Park.
Elche is completely surrounded by palm trees. The Huerto Del Cura Garden, which is home to the Imperial Palm Tree, is the greatest treasure of this palm grove, the largest in Europe. Considered to be the cultural crucible of the city, this area of 13,000 square metres is home to 700 palm trees and over 500 other species of plants and flowers. We can enjoy some free time here to walk through the gardens at leisure, before re-boarding our tour coach for our return to the quayside.
GUADALEST - 4.5 hours - £30 to £40 per person
Guadalest is one of the most popular and stunning tourist attractions on the Costa Blanca, known for its beautiful views of the surrounding valleys. En route to Guadalest, we shall travel through the villages of La Nucia and Polop, passing by orchids of nispero fruit. We will make a short stop at a local bar where we can try ‘moscatel’ – a typical drink of the region – and tapa, before proceeding.
Guadalest was built as a castle town in the 16th century, and constructed into the surrounding rock. To reach the town itself, we will make our way through a tunnel built into the rock. Upon arrival at the top of the town, we can see spectacular views of the local reservoir with its marine blue waters.
We will then be given some free time to explore independently. We can visit the range of craft and gift shops that Guadalest has to offer, or may choose to visit the Case de Orduña, which belonged to a noble family whose roots date back to the 17th century. Here we can see the town’s highest point, its white tower. The tower is a symbol of Guadalest and is noted for its striking appearance.
SCENIC ALICANTE - 4 hours - £30 to £40 per person
The city was founded by the Romans, who named it ‘Lucentum’ (‘the city of light’), and today it is a typical vibrant, cosmopolitan city, with wide esplanades and numerous cafés and terraces to relax in and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
Departing our ship, we will enjoy a brief panoramic coach tour of the city, before commencing our walking tour. Our first visit is to the outside of the town hall, a beautiful Baroque palace dating from the 18th century. On the front steps is a disc, which indicates the sea level and is used as a gauge for all of Spain.
After walking through the old quarter, we arrive at the Concathedral of Saint Nicholas. Inside is a beautiful chapel, considered to be one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Spain.
Following our visit to the cathedral, we can enjoy some free time to explore the famous Esplanada de España, a beautiful walkway made of black, red and grey tiles that form waves. The esplanada itself is full of cafés and small craft stalls. We may choose to browse the nearby shops, or even try the local drink ‘horchata’ – a Valencian drink made from tiger nuts.
Our final visit is to the Castle of Santa Barbara, which was built by King Phillip II in the 16th century. The Castle, which is approximately 200 metres above sea level, rises above the city and offers wonderful views of the city. It contains collections of archaeological remains from the Bronze Age and Iberian and Roman periods.
We shall then make our way back to the quayside and our awaiting ship.
MURCIA CITY TOUR - 4 hours 45 mins - £35 to £45 per person
In Murcia we can find a suggesting fusion of cultures and artistic styles, shaped especially in its splendid cathedral.
Departing from the quayside, we drive to the city centre, where the Cathedral and Monastery of Santa Clara are located. Our first visit is to the Cathedral – the most important and emblematic building in Murcia. It demonstrates architectural styles from more than five centuries, including an impressive Baroque façade with a tower that is more than 90 metres (295 feet) high. The interior is just as rich as the outside.
Next we head to the Monastery of Santa Clara, a building of great artistic and historic interest due to historic remains and collection of Islamic art. Following our visit, we can enjoy free time in the city centre, prior to the return journey to Alicante and our awaiting ship.
ALICANTE & NOVELDA WINE - TOUR G - 4.5 hours - £TBA per person
The city of Alicante was founded by the Romans, who named it ‘Lucentum’ (‘the city of light’). Today it is a typical vibrant, cosmopolitan city, with wide esplanades and numerous cafés and terraces to relax in and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
Upon arrival in the city centre, we begin our walking tour of the old quarter. Here we can see the outside of the town hall, a beautiful Baroque palace dating from the 18th century. On the front steps is a disc, which indicates the sea level and is used as a gauge for all of Spain. Next we visit the Concathedral of Saint Nicholas. Inside is a beautiful chapel, which is considered to be one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Spain.
Re-boarding our tour coach, we travel to the city of Novelda, famed for its marble industry. Upon arrival, we shall visit its most important historic building, the Sanctuary of Maria Magdalena, which was built by a pupil of Gaudi. The design of the building is clearly inspired by Gaudi, and has been likened to the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
Following our visit, we continue to the Bodega Heretat de Cesilia, where we will have a guided tour of the wine cellar, and learn all about the winemaking process. Within the building we shall see examples of old machinery and its evolution up to the present day. At the end of our tour we can enjoy a tasting of a local wine, prior to the return journey to the quayside and our awaiting ship.
Day 9
Early morning arrival in Barcelona, Spain
WALKING TOUR OF BARCELONA - Length of time varies - £20 per set per person
Barcelona bustles with Mediterranean life. Its vibrant and colourful history is apparent in its Gothic Quarter, its varied architecture and in the city’s magnificent art collections and museums. Today we can explore what the city has to offer independently on foot with the help of a pre-loaded audio player and map.
We begin our tour at the Christopher Columbus monument, just a short walk from the port. After walking up La Rambla, we can see the Gothic Quarter, where the original Roman and medieval city was located, and the Cathedral of Santa Eulàlia, built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Hercules.
No tour of Barcelona would be complete without Gaudí. One of the most famous of the Modernist architects, Gaudí made his mark on the city by designing Casa Battlò and La Pedrera, and of course his masterpiece, the Temple of the Sagrada Familia. The building of this church became an obsession for Gaudí, and for the last 15 years of his life he accepted no other commissions in order to focus on this project. He actually lived in a hut on the construction site, spending his free time soliciting funds to continue the work. Started in 1882 and still unfinished, the temple is a unique sight, and we can view this on our tour.
Other possible stops on this audio tour include the Church of Santa Maria del Mar, the Picasso Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, Park Güell and El Poble Espagnol.
GAUDI - 4 hours - £31 to £40 per person
Gaudi's buildings form a most startling statement of Modernism, a Spanish and mainly Catalan offshoot of the Art Nouveau movement.
From the pier, we drive to Diagonal Avenue and enter the upper Eixample area, where the Sagrada Familia Temple is located. Designed by Gaudí in 1882, but never completed, this church stands witness to Gaudí’s creative (although controversial) genius. Construction began again in 1939 but faltered due to confusion over Gaudí’s plans. The final construction was meant to include 18 towers in total, based on 12 Apostles, four evangelists, the Virgin Mary and Christ.
Following our outside visit to the Sagrada Familia, we re-join our tour coach for a short drive to Park Güell. Designed by Gaudí in the early part of the 20th century, the park was originally intended as a hillside suburb of Barcelona, fashioned after the English model of a ‘Garden City’.
Our tour continues to Passeig de Gràcia, the widest avenue in the city, with plenty of Modernist houses designed by Gaudí and other important architects of the time. We will see the outside of one of the masterpieces of Gaudí architecture – the Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera House.
MONTSERRAT - 4.5 hours - £35 to £45 per person
Departing the quayside, we travel to Montserrat via the Matorell Highway. A splendid view of the Llobregat Valley will open up before us, with sights of Monistrol lingering in the background.
The rugged Montserrat mountain range is one of Spain’s most picturesque areas. Like jagged teeth, the mysterious peaks soar skywards. They have inspired many legends and motivated Wagner to write some of his most beautiful arias. Upon arrival, we can enjoy refreshments at a local restaurant, before continuing to the monastery.
Montserrat Monastery is located in the middle of the mountains, a unique work of art. It seems that around 20 to 25 million years ago, a small inland sea shaped the rock formations, which later became the mountainous relief known as Montserrat. The earth’s movements produced a progressive uplift, which caused the inland sea to disappear, leaving the rock formation exposed to a process of erosion. Situated approximately 725 metres (2,380 feet), Montserrat Monastery stands on a natural platform.
The construction of the Basilica began in the 16th century, when Father Garriga was Abbot of Montserrat. The large interior has a rather sober appearance, with the altar at the end of the nave, which is surrounded by the choir (we will not see the choir during our visit). On the vault are paintings by Llimona, depicting the adoration of Catalonia for ‘La Moreneta’ – the Black Madonna of Montserrat.
Following our visit here and after enjoying the spectacular views, we return to our awaiting ship.
PANORAMIC BARCELONA - 3 hours - £30 to £40 per person
This excursion is perfect for those of us who would like to visit the city of Barcelona, but are worried about the amount of walking involved in Tour A. We can relax on our coach as our guide introduces us to the city’s main attractions.
Departing from the quayside, we drive towards the Gothic area, passing by Via Laietana and Plaça de Catalunya (Catalunya Square). Our tour continues along Passeig de Gràcia, a wide boulevard that connects the Gothic Quarter to the village of Gràcia, and is lined with lovely modernist buildings. From here, we continue to the Sagrada Familia (we will view it from the outside only), where we can take photos. Gaudí’s magnificent nativity façade – complete with flamboyant spires, stained glass windows and sculpted figures – is an architectural masterpiece to behold. Despite the construction starting in 1882, the church is still unfinished today.
We continue our panoramic drive past Citadel Park, the Arch of Triumph, Espanya Square, Congress Palace and head to Montjuïc Mountain, where we will see the Spanish Village and the Olympic Stadium. A short stop will be made at the panoramic viewpoint of Mirador del Alcade, where we can enjoy a spectacular view of Barcelona, before we return to the quayside.
CITY TOUR OF BARCELONA - 4 hours - £30 to £40 per person
Barcelona is a large city, which has grown since the end of the Spanish War and the beginning of the modernisation of Spain, and is now a cosmopolitan city. The old Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter, where the original Roman and medieval city was located, remains comparatively undisturbed, and we will see both the old and new aspects of the city on this tour.
Following a drive through the commercial centre, we visit the 600-year-old Catalan Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulàlia, built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Hercules. The Cathedral is dedicated to one of the city’s patron saints, Eulàlia, who was tortured and killed by the Roman rulers of Barcelona when she was 13. Although the façade is modern, the tall, slender columns and ancient stained-glass windows will take us back to the Middle Ages.
Next it’s on to Gaudí’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Church, a must-see in Barcelona. Started in 1882 and still unfinished, this temple, with its peculiar Expressionist style, profuse decoration and striking originality, is truly a unique sight. The building of this church became an obsession of Gaudí, and for the last 15 years of his life he didn’t accept any other commissions. He actually lived in a hut on the construction site, spending his free time soliciting funds to continue the work. Unfortunately Gaudí was hit by a tram and died shortly after, before he ever saw his work completed. He is buried in the crypt of the Sagrada Familia.
Continuing with our tour, we stop at the Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol de Montjuïc), where we have a chance to admire many interesting arts and crafts, together with different styles of Spanish architecture. Here, time permitting; we may have the chance to do some shopping. En route back to the quayside, we shall drive up to the panoramic viewpoint of Mirador del Alcalde for a splendid view of Barcelona, before passing Montjuïc Gardens and seeing the Olympic Stadium.
Day 10
Early morning arrival in Ibiza, Spain
IBIZA BEACH TRANSFER - 4 hours - £25 to £35 per person
Following a short drive of approximately 30 minutes, we arrive at Ibiza’s Playa D’en Bossa Beach. The longest stretch of beach on the island, Playa D’en Bossa is lined with bars and cafés offering a variety of settings. The clear waters are shallow near the shoreline, and the sea floor is almost entirely sand, making it an ideal location for a relaxing break. The beach also offers excellent views of Ibiza’s old town.
We will have approximately three hours here to enjoy the atmosphere and explore the surroundings, before returning to the quayside and our awaiting ship.
NORTH ISLAND TOUR - 4 hours - £31 to £40 per person
This tour will take us across fertile farmland, over hills, alongside cliffs and finally down to an unexpectedly placid sea. Covering the northern territory of the island, it offers several photo opportunities.
Leaving the pier, we proceed to the north of the island, where we will visit the typical Spanish village of San Miguel. Here we shall have time to stroll through the picturesque village at leisure.
Re-boarding our tour coach, our journey takes us to San Juan Bautista, situated 23 kilometres (14 miles) from the island’s capital. The village is largely unaffected by tourism, and life is very much as it was before tourism began.
The road running east to Santa Eulalia and San Vicente is particularly beautiful, winding through the woodlands before once again reaching the coastline and the town of San Carlos, a typical ‘Ibicenco’ village.
Upon arrival at Santa Eulalia – a favourite haunt of painters since the time of Sorolla – we can enjoy some time at leisure to stroll along the promenade, which is lined with open-air cafés and restaurants.
Following our free time, we re-board our tour coach for the return journey to the quayside and our awaiting ship.
UNKNOWN IBIZA - 4.5 hours - £50 to £60 per person
Departing the quayside, we drive towards Es Cubells, from where we can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the neighbouring island of Formentera.
Continuing to Cala D’Hort, we shall have the opportunity to stretch our legs as well as our imaginations as we stroll from the roads to the cliffs to admire the majestic island of Es Vedra. Here our guide will explain the different features of plant life that can be found in the forest.
Next, we head to Cala Contra, where we can appreciate the changing hues of the blue Mediterranean Sea. Re-boarding the tour coach, we continue to Ca’n Costa, a 400-year-old country house. Our guided tour here will take in the special features of architecture in Ibiza, including thick walls, small windows, and wooden, usually juniper roofs, which fit together to provide a cool environment in summer and warmth in winter. At Ca’n Costa we will have an opportunity to sample typical products of the island including cheese, sausages, dried fruit and wine.
SOUTHERN IBIZA SIGHTSEEING - 4 hours - £35 to £45 per person
The area was originally a large lake, but has since been divided into 40 pools. Salt is one of the oldest industries on the island. During their occupation, the Romans realised the importance of this commodity and developed a commercial business in it, shipping much of it back to Rome. Today more than 100,000 tonnes of salt is produced here each year. Once the salt is extracted from the pans, it is loaded onto a train (the only one on the island) to be transported all over the world.
Next we proceed to San Jose. This small mountain village boasts an attractive 18th century church, located in picturesque surroundings. Following a visit to the church, we shall have some free time to explore the village, which is noted for its handicrafts.
Following our visit, we travel to San Antonio. Once a quiet fishing village, San Antonio is now a lively, bustling port. We shall have some time to browse at leisure, before re-boarding our tour coach for the return journey to the quayside.
Day 11
Full days cruising.
Day 12
Early morning arrival in Lisbon, Portugal
LISBON SEEN FROM THE RIVER - 3 hours - £55 to £65 per person
Our tour begins with a panoramic drive of Lisbon city centre. We shall make a brief stop at the top of King Edward VII Park, from where we can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and harbour. Continuing, we pass by Pombal Square, the famous Avenida da Liberdade (Avenue of Liberty), and of course Rossio – the meeting point and very heart of Lisbon. We shall also see the district of Baixa, an area entirely rebuilt following the disastrous earthquake of 1755. The final highlight of our panoramic coach journey will be the unique Comércio Square, located along the waterfront.
Upon disembarking our tour coach, we will have a short walk to the ferry station, where we board our boat to start the second and most exciting part of our tour – a one and a half hour trip along the estuary of the River Tagus. Here we shall discover the beauty and charm of Lisbon from the river. We first sail towards the medieval part of the city, where at the top of the hill stands the castle originally built by the Romans, and the 12th century cathedral in the centre of the Moorish district of Alfama. This area will make us feel as though we are taking a step back in time, and we will soon realise the importance of the harbour throughout the history of Lisbon.
As we continue along the river, our boat will pass under the spectacular suspension bridge, which was built in 1966, and will remind us of the Golden Gate in San Francisco (they were built by the same construction company). In the distance stands the monumental statue of Christ the King, built as a thanksgiving for Portugal’s neutrality during World War II.
We then sail along the banks of the Belem area, once a village around the 15th century new harbour. From here the caravels set sail for their great voyages of discoveries – no doubt the most glorious period of Portuguese history. Perhaps one of the most surprising monuments, and particularly beautiful when seen from the river, is the memorial to Prince Henry – the mastermind navigator behind Portugal’s voyages of exploration and subsequent wealth. Here we can also see the only two great buildings dating from the period of the discoveries and the rich reign of King Manuel I that survived the earthquake and show us the splendour of the city back then. These are the Royal Monastery of St Jerome, a masterpiece of ornate gothic style, and the unique Belem Tower, built as a fortress to defend the harbour of the rich 15th and 16th century capital of Portugal. Following our scenic river cruise, we shall return to our awaiting coach and drive back to the quayside.
LISBON CITY TOUR - 4 hours - £35 to £45 per person
A hilly city paved with cobblestones, Lisbon’s sights are best enjoyed from the comfort of a coach. This tour takes in many famous city sights. We can also enjoy the magnificent view of the city and harbour from Alto do Parque Belvedere. Rossio Square is the Piccadilly Circus of Lisbon, and here the mile-long Avenida da Liberdade leads to the statue of Pombal, who rebuilt the city following the devastating earthquake of 1755. We will drive by Lisbon’s oldest quarter ‘Alfama’, and continue on to the April 25th Suspension Bridge, which is one of the world’s longest suspension bridges, and connects the city of Lisbon to Almada. The bridge was built in 1966 and is often compared to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, due to their similarities (they were actually built by the same construction company). Here we can enjoy a superb view of the city of Lisbon from the comfort of our tour coach. After re-crossing the bridge back into Lisbon, we continue with a visit to the Church of the Jeronimos Monastery – a 16th century architectural masterpiece designed in the Gothic-Manueline style. Following our visit, we will walk to the western section of the former monastery, which houses the Maritime Museum – an obligatory visit for those who love the sea. The museum illustrates the history of navigation, from the Middle Ages to the present day, with miniature boats and larger reproductions, original maps and nautical instruments on show. Nearby, we will see the lavishly decorated Belem Tower, where Portuguese explorers were given a rousing send-off, and the Monument to the Discoveries, which was built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry, the mastermind navigator behind Portugal’s voyages of exploration and subsequent wealth. As we return to our ship via Avenida Brasilia, we will see once again, stretching across the River Tagus, the April 25th Suspension Bridge and the towering Christ the King statue on the far side.
PICTURESQUE SINTRA & CASCAIS - 4 hours - £TBA per person
Leaving Lisbon through Monsanto Park, we travel to Sintra, a popular old world village resort nestling in tree-clad hills north of Lisbon. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its 19th century Romantic architecture. Upon arrival, we will see the outside of the Royal Palace – the best preserved medieval palace in Portugal – with its two chimneys, resembling a giant oast house. The palace is Moorish in origin, and is one of the oldest buildings in Portugal.
Following a short stop in the square at Sintra, during which time we can explore at leisure or browse the shops, we continue our tour to Cascais. En route to the picturesque town, we shall make a photo-stop at the beautiful Praia do Guincho, a popular beach for surfing, to admire the scenery, which includes the most westerly point in Europe, Cape Roca.
Once in the centre of the lively resort of Cascais we can admire the attractive bay or sit in one of the fashionable outdoor cafés and watch the world go by. We then return to Lisbon along the River Tagus, passing by the village of Estoril en route.
LOVELY OBIDOS - A QUEEN'S GIFT - 4.5 hours - £40 to £50 per person
Following a scenic 75-minute drive through the beautiful Portuguese countryside, we arrive at the medieval town of Obidos for a unique experience to travel back in time. The origins of this quaint little town, rising majestically above the lovely Gaeiras vineyards, are obscured in history, but may date back as far as 308 BC. The town was conquered by force by the Portuguese in 1148. A century and a half later, King Diniz, passing through with his young bride, gave her the town as a present, because she had admired the ramparts twinkling like a ribbon around a bouquet of shining white houses. From then on, Obidos was given as a wedding gift to all of Portugal’s queens.
We begin our visit to Obidos with a short walking tour, exploring the most picturesque streets. We shall also visit the 17th century Parish Church of Santa Maria, which features magnificent decorations in the famous blue and white tiles inside. From Pillory Square, our guide will explain how to continue exploring the narrow lanes independently. We may like to follow their lead up to the castle (now converted into a ‘pousada’, or hotel), or explore the old lookout path on top of the wall encircling the city. Our free time in Obidos provides an excellent opportunity to explore further, or soak up the ambience in one of the charming outdoor cafés. Following our free time, we return to Lisbon, where we will have a brief drive through the main streets and avenues to cross the city before arriving at the pier.
LISBON PANORAMA - 2 hours - £30 to £40 per person
We depart the pier for a drive to the Belem area of Lisbon. Here we shall see the Presidential Palace, the Church of the Monastery of Jeronimos, one of the most prominent monasteries in Portugal, and the Tower of Belem, built to commemorate explorer Vasco de Gama’s expedition. We shall also view the Monument to the Discoveries, which was unveiled as part of the 500-year anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator. Next it’s onto the Restelo area, the most exclusive residential district of Lisbon, and the location of many foreign embassies. As we circle back to the centre through Monsanto Park and Duarte Pacheco Avenue, our scenic view will include the impressive 18th century stone aqueduct, which is 11 miles long, and until recently was used to bring fresh water into Lisbon.
Our drive continues to the lovely Edward VII Park, where we will stop at the Belvedere to admire a panoramic view of the city. From here we can see the Castle of St George, downtown Lisbon and the River Tagus.
Following our stop, we drive along the famous Avenida da Liberdade (Avenue of Liberty) to Rossio Square, to see the Santa Justa Elevator, designed by Eiffel, and Praça do Comercio (Black Horse Square), which is considered to be one of the most impressive squares in Lisbon. From here we return to the quayside and our awaiting ship.
OCEANARIUM, SHOPPING & SIGHTS - 4 hours - £45 to £55 per person
Our tour begins with a drive through the centre of Lisbon, a lively modern capital with many historic buildings, squares and picturesque quarters. Rossio is the main square in Lisbon, and the mile-long famous Avenida da Liberdade (Avenue of Liberty) leads to the statue of the Marquis of Pombal, who rebuilt the city following the disastrous earthquake of 1755.
Next we travel to the outside of the city, to the site of the EXPO 98 World Exhibition to visit the main attraction here, the spectacular Oceanarium. Designed by American architect Peter Chermayeff, it is the largest Oceanarium in Europe and features sea life found in the world’s greatest oceans. There are four environments recreating the coastal habitats of the Antarctic, Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans. The Oceanarium also houses an extensive collection of over 15,000 creatures representing more than 200 different species, including sharks, which hold a particular fascination for visitors. It is also one of the only aquariums in the world to house a sunfish, due to the unique requirements for its care. We will also see an immense decorative azulejo design, which consists of 54,000 hand-painted tiles portraying elements of marine fauna.
Following our visit to the Oceanarium, we can enjoy some free time to either remain at the Oceanarium, explore Parque das Nações, or the more adventurous of us may wish to walk to the Vasco da Gama shopping mall to browse for souvenirs or enjoy a relaxing drink on the terrace.
JEEP SAFARI IN THE SINTRA MOUNTAINS - 5 hours - £71 to £80 per person
Take a tour with a difference, around the inlands of Serra Sintra.
Following a short briefing at the quayside, we travel in our fully-equipped jeeps to Sintra, a popular old world village resort nestling in tree-clad hills, north of Lisbon. Upon arrival at Lagoa Azul, we then travel through dusty gravel roads before we enter the inlands of Serra Sintra, dotted with beautiful centenary trees.
Next we drive to Memória, where we shall see the endless landscape, an immense ocean and Palácio da Pena standing on top of a mountain peak in the distance. It was in this area that 20 Portuguese soldiers tragically lost their lives in a major fire, which devastated this part of the hills.
Our journey will take us along leafy lanes in the hills to Penedo, a typical country village, with its cottages and narrow, winding streets, and its 17th century church, which is considered to be a national monument.
Continuing, we head to Buraco do Fojo, an impressive deep hole that contains the seawater within its walls. In the nearby village of Almoçageme, we can enjoy a light Portuguese snack and mineral water.
Feeling refreshed, our tour continues to Sintra, passing through Monserrate and Colares. Upon arrival, we can enjoy some free time to wander through its picturesque streets independently, before re-joining our jeeps and returning to the quayside.
Days 13 & 14
Full days cruising and to take this last opportunity to enjoy the facilities on board the ship.
Day 15
Morning arrival into Dover.
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