Europe: France, Spain & Belgium

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 largest city of the Basque Country, Bilbao is magnificent mix of historic and spectacular modern architecture. Head to Casco Viejo to meander medieval streets and sample some of the best pinxtos (tapas) around. And don’t miss the massive, ultramodern Guggenheim Museum Bilbao across the river, featuring the works of leading artists of the 20th century. Clad in glimmering titanium, this enormous structure is a work of art itself.

Located on the Gironde River, Le Verdon is the gateway to Bordeaux, only 2 hours away. Savour the city’s visual feast of classic French ornate buildings, broad avenues, picturesque squares and the Cathedral of St. André with stunning stained glass windows. Stroll through old Bordeaux, or head out of the city to one of the area’s famous vineyards. The gourmet in you will delight in the foie gras, truffles, chocolate and superb wines. Vive la France!

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.

History, culture and architecture intertwine in Amsterdam among its narrow lanes and numerous canals. Featuring more bridges than Venice, enjoying a canal tour is a great way to take in the many sights of Amsterdam (and get some great photo ops). Art lovers won’t want to miss the Van Gough Museum and the Rijksmuseum while history buffs will want to make time for the Anne Frank House and the Amsterdam Museum.

Nestled along the beautiful Elbe River lies exquisite Hamburg, the second largest city in Germany. You can barely tell that this illuminated metropolis traces its history to the year 831. And while there are plenty of modern buildings to see, like the highly anticipated Elbphilharmonie along the water, it’s Hamburg’s older culture that can be most exciting. Try a visit to the Fish Auction Hall and Market, an open-air market that’s been hawking local wares since 1703. Your visit promises authentic local culture, because it’s not just a market. It’s a neighbourhood scene, a great place to absorb local colours. And that means you might be lucky enough to catch the occasional rock band playing there in the morning, alongside locals selecting their evening meals from the catches of the day. Model enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the spectacular Miniatur Wunderland, a massive model exhibit that leaves visitors speechless with its detail and realism. Of course, there’s historic architecture all around and a lovely botanical garden at Park Planten un Blomen. With something for everyone, there’s no question you’ll have a guten tag in Hamburg!

Nestled along the beautiful Elbe River lies exquisite Hamburg, the second largest city in Germany. You can barely tell that this illuminated metropolis traces its history to the year 831. And while there are plenty of modern buildings to see, like the highly anticipated Elbphilharmonie along the water, it’s Hamburg’s older culture that can be most exciting. Try a visit to the Fish Auction Hall and Market, an open-air market that’s been hawking local wares since 1703. Your visit promises authentic local culture, because it’s not just a market. It’s a neighbourhood scene, a great place to absorb local colours. And that means you might be lucky enough to catch the occasional rock band playing there in the morning, alongside locals selecting their evening meals from the catches of the day. Model enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the spectacular Miniatur Wunderland, a massive model exhibit that leaves visitors speechless with its detail and realism. Of course, there’s historic architecture all around and a lovely botanical garden at Park Planten un Blomen. With something for everyone, there’s no question you’ll have a guten tag in Hamburg!