Capitals of Culture Expedition

It’s easy to see why Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain. As the capital of the country’s Catalonia region, this cityscape’s cultural mosaic pieces together a 2,000-year-old hodge-podge of sun-drenched beaches, cutting edge architecture and a world-renowned dining and drinking scene. Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí left his modernist handprint all over the city, while medieval treasures linger in historic Gothic Quarter squares. Get lost in the whimsical gardens of Park Güell or savour a chef-led Catalan cooking class. Browse art collections dedicated to Picasso and Miro – or ride a cable car to the top of Montjuïc Hill, relishing citywide views along the way.

Spain’s third largest city, Valencia offers a little bit of everything, from historic sites and bustling city squares to placid beaches. Soak up the sun at Malvarrosa Beach along the urban seafront, or head to El Saler for a more remote beach experience surrounded by white-sand dunes and pine trees. Cruise to Valencia and get your culture fix at Gothic Valencia Cathedral, and see the 15th-century renaissance paintings housed in its interior. Head to Plaza de la Reina in the city’s old town and do some people-watching over a fresh glass of horchata, a classic Valencia beverage made from almond milk with cinnamon and spices, or take a picnic lunch of fresh pears and local cheese to the quiet Turia Gardens.

Cartagena greets you with its ancient Mediterranean port on Spain’s southeastern coast. Originally governed by the Carthaginians and subsequently by the Romans, Arabs and Castilians, this pedestrian-friendly city is a history buff’s dream port. Visit the 2,000-year-old Roman Theatre and the attached museum, where you’ll find an ancient altar to Jupiter and a statue of Apollo. Then, check out the late 19th-century modernist architecture of Cartagena’s historic center. Cruises to Cartagena, Spain allow you to stroll down blue-marble-tiled pedestrian-only Calle Mayor. Or take the 30-minute drive to the Batteria de Castillitos, a medieval-style fortress situated among the picturesque mountain landscape.

Moroccan mystique envelops this cosmopolitan city, which is considered to be the economic capital of Morocco. Traits of ancient times co-exist with a modern metropolis, and the mix of European, Art-Deco and Art-Nouveau architecture brings colour and vibrancy to the city. Influenced by Arabia and Africa, it is culturally diverse, to say the least, and the exotic sights and smells omitted from the Souk markets are fascinating. Casablanca is awash with white buildings, striking a contrast to the blue Atlantic waters surrounding it, and boasts a thriving city centre and busy boulevards, making it a popular port of call.

Situated at the foot of the Atlas Mountains along the Atlantic coast, Agadir is one of Morocco’s most modern cities. The city was rebuilt after a major earthquake in the 1960s, but it still maintains a sense of its rich history. Agadir is also Morocco’s premier destination for sun and sand — and with 300 sunny days a year, it only stands to reason. During your Morocco cruise, head to the popular beachfront promenade. When you’ve had enough of the sun, step into the colorful marketplace at Souk El Had, where Moroccan culture comes to life. Take in the scents of spices and fresh citrus, search for one-of-a-kind lamps and rugs, and walk the paths so many have before you.

Built in 1992, La Medina d’Agadir is a recreation of the original medina that was wrecked in the 1960s earthquake. It was created using traditional Berber techniques — making it part museum and part artwork that you simply can’t miss.

Souss Massa National Park is over 80,000 acres of wetlands and Sahara-like sand dunes. The focal point is Oued Massa River, where you’ll spot numerous exotic birds. It is also one of the few places in the world that you can see the northern bald ibis.

Lisbon is a quintessential European city, full of natural beauty, historic architecture and culinary pleasures — not to mention one of the best climates anywhere on the planet. To get to know Portugal’s capital, walk between the captivating miradouros — terrace viewpoints that are scattered on the hilltops, offering stunning vistas from the sea to the castles and beyond. Watch as the light peeks through the clouds and shines down on The City of Seven Hills during your cruise to Lisbon. If you’re a history buff, head to Belem or nearby Sintra to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Jeronimos Monastery and Quinta da Regalaira.

Portugal’s vibrant city of Porto is a melting pot of culture waiting to be explored. Venture into the many wine cellars that dot the city or take a walk across the Dom Louis Bridge and absorb the sweeping views of Porto around you. Spend hours wandering around the colourful streets lined with tiled houses and buildings. And if relaxing is more your speed, head to one of the restaurants on the Cais de Ribeira, like A Bolina, for some Portuguese tapas paired with a glass of vinho verde. Cruise to Porto to sit back and soak up the ambience of the buzzing city.

The sun will shine upon you as you enter the harbor of Vigo, the largest city in Spain’s autonomous Galicia region. Start your adventure by ascending the Castro Fortress — you can take in views of the city and the lushly forested mountains around it from these granite-walled 17th-century fortifications. Then, learn up about the region at one of Vigo’s excellent museums: Museo do Mar Galicia features exhibits on the local oceanography and ecosystems, while the Vigo Museum of Contemporary Art hosts a changing lineup of participatory workshops and installations by innovative artists working today. Later, stretch your legs on the GR-53, a 25-mile path along the coastline and low mountain peaks around the city, or relax by the blue waters of Cies Beach.

The real capital of Ireland – that’s what the locals call Cork, a university city in the country’s southwest. In the city centre, situated on an island in the River Lee, you’ll find one of Ireland’s best foodie scenes, with lanes and streets filled with local watering holes and high-level restaurants. Cruise to Ireland to check out the prison-turned-museum Cork City Gaol, visit Blarney Castle and kiss its eponymous stone and sample local culinary specialities in the English Market. Cork is just a 25-minute drive from Cobh, Ireland’s only dedicated cruise terminal and the final port of call for the Titanic before it set sail for the United States.

Situated on a peninsula that juts into the English Channel, the French city of Cherbourg serves up bountiful ocean views and a deep history. Cherbourg-Normandy cruises give you access to the docks where the Titanic made one of its final stops before its fateful voyage. Ascend Roule Mountain, also called the Montee de Resistants — the summit offers a priceless panorama and a museum that pays homage to the liberation of the city and Europe during World War II. Later, walk to the waterfront for oysters or fresh-caught Demoiselles de Cherbourg, the local mini lobsters, and a glass of crisp white wine.

Paris is an iconic city – a melange of everything artistic and sublime, with a worldwide reputation for excellence in cuisine, fashion, architecture and the fine arts. After you take the drive in from the port (just over two hours), hit the streets to see the city’s monumental landmarks: Pass through the Arc de Triomphe, and stand in the presence of the Eiffel Tower. The beauty here is only matched by the history and culture. Cruise to Paris to feel the cool morning air outside Gothic Notre Dame cathedral, and see works from prehistoric to post-modern at the Louvre. At evening, walk the lamplit avenues as restaurants’ wooden tables and rattan chairs spill onto the pavements and terraces. Pull up a seat, order a glass of vin rouge and a plate of pate on toast, and dive in.

Paris is an iconic city – a melange of everything artistic and sublime, with a worldwide reputation for excellence in cuisine, fashion, architecture and the fine arts. After you take the drive in from the port (just over two hours), hit the streets to see the city’s monumental landmarks: Pass through the Arc de Triomphe, and stand in the presence of the Eiffel Tower. The beauty here is only matched by the history and culture. Cruise to Paris to feel the cool morning air outside Gothic Notre Dame cathedral, and see works from prehistoric to post-modern at the Louvre. At evening, walk the lamplit avenues as restaurants’ wooden tables and rattan chairs spill onto the pavements and terraces. Pull up a seat, order a glass of vin rouge and a plate of pate on toast, and dive in.

Discover Southampton’s maritime history at the SeaCity Museum or see impressive works in the city’s art gallery. Jane Austen used to walk Southampton’s city walls and you can too, stopping at the Tudor House Museum along the way. Go all nostalgic over vintage cars at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu or see King Arthur’s fabled Round Table at nearby Winchester, the ancient capital of England.

Belgian chocolate, amazing seafood, and over 100 types of beer! If that’s not enough, savour a Gothic gem that’s untouched over the ages. Take a horse-and-carriage ride through cobbled streets lined by stepped gabled buildings, markets and canals.

In Skagen, Denmark’s northernmost town, you’ll find a wind-swept region with pure white-sand beaches. Called the Land of Light, the area’s natural beauty and unique light has long attracted artists. Skagen’s lively town centre is full of shops, museums and cafes serving up famous Danish open-faced sandwiches topped with horseradish cream, pickled herring and fresh shrimp. Duck into to the Skagen Museum, where you’ll find paintings, graphics and ceramics by regional artists. Cruise to Skagen, Denmark and stop by the famous Sand-Covered Church, Denmark’s largest migrating dune, which is continually re-shaped due to the strong and often competing winds coming off the seas. Then, explore the town by bike: With a flat landscape, Skagen is perfect for discovering on two wheels.

Soak up some sun in Warnemunde, home to some of Germany’s best beaches. The fine, sugar-white sand goes on for 15 kilometers along the pristine blue waters of Baltic Sea. Head to popular West Beach and relax in one of the many striped Strandkorben — canopied wicker chairs. Or check out quieter East Beach, lined by high sand dunes. Cruise to Berlin, Germany to watch the waves crash against 19th-century Warnemunde Lighthouse. Then, make your way to the Alte Strom, where you can stroll along the quaint promenade and buy fresh fish straight off the fishing cutters. Take in the salty air of this sleepy fishing village, and savor the relaxed pace of life. Sample fresh-caught seafood, try a local brew and do some people-watching in one of the outdoor beer gardens.

Tallinn’s fairy-tale castles, cobbled streets and warm hospitality remain one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Head to the city’s Old Town, where you can see medieval Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square) and wander hidden passageways between 17th- and 18th-century earthwork forts. Tour the ornate Orthodox Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, full of detailed mosaics and traditional icons. Take a foray to the unspoiled Baltic coastline just outside Tallinn — check out popular Pirita or quiet Kakumae. Later, stop into one of Tallinn’s iconic cellar restaurants to fuel up on hearty Estonian fare like mulgipuder, a porridge of barley and potatoes flavored with smoky bacon.

Since its founding by Peter the Great in 1703, St. Petersburg has been one of the most impressive cities in Russia, Europe and the world. Marvel at the Baroque and neoclassical architecture on display within its UNESCO World Heritage historical centre. Enjoy the relaxing charm of the Baltic Sea as you stroll along it. Cruise to St Petersburg and hop on a boat and see the colourful variety of the city’s sights and architecture on a canal tour. Or spend the day meandering the action-packed 3.5-mile stretch of Nevsky Prospect, where you’ll find the can’t-miss Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan and plenty of cafes where you can fuel up on cured sausage and thick rye bread.

Since its founding by Peter the Great in 1703, St. Petersburg has been one of the most impressive cities in Russia, Europe and the world. Marvel at the Baroque and neoclassical architecture on display within its UNESCO World Heritage historical centre. Enjoy the relaxing charm of the Baltic Sea as you stroll along it. Cruise to St Petersburg and hop on a boat and see the colourful variety of the city’s sights and architecture on a canal tour. Or spend the day meandering the action-packed 3.5-mile stretch of Nevsky Prospect, where you’ll find the can’t-miss Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan and plenty of cafes where you can fuel up on cured sausage and thick rye bread.

Finland’s capital is a laid-back but vibrant seaside city, surrounded on three sides by sea and tiny islands. Stroll to the heart of Helsinki to its bustling kauppatori, or market square. Admire the graceful 19th-century buildings and Havis Amanda, the lovely mermaid statue commonly regarded as the symbol of Finland. Continue to Temppeliaukio, an astonishing rock-carved church. Finish the day at a local restaurant with a dish of fresh-caught white fish with new potatoes. Join a Helsinki cruise and head to the hip Kallio neighborhood to explore Helsinki’s nightlife — you’ll discover a host of spots ranging from cocktail lounges to rock music venues all within walking distance from each other.

As you explore Stockholm – the stylish Swedish capital, built across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges – you’ll notice water and green space are never far away. Stroll through Gamla Stan, the colourful medieval Old Town, with its imposing royal palace and looming cathedrals. Browse the little shops and art galleries that line the narrow streets, or take a break in one of the many trendy cafes. Visit the large City Hall, the site of the Nobel Prize banquet, with its austere brick exterior accented by playful Venetian turrets and decorated balconies. Don’t miss the grand Vasa Ship Museum – you’ll see an almost-intact 17th-century warship – and Skansen, the world’s first open-air museum, both located on the island of Djurgarden.

A small town on the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea, Visby was a popular trading spot during the Viking Age. Today, it’s Sweden’s sunniest vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the 3.5 km Ringmuren (Ring Wall), built in the 13th Century, and see its 50 towers and surrounding moats. Snap shots of the idyllic red rose-covered cottages, the ruined Gothic churches and the 13th-century Saint Maria Cathedral. If would like to know more about the island’s history, don’t miss the excellent Gotland Museum. Cruise to Visby and head 20 kilometers south to the Tofta Viking Village, a Viking-era settlement reconstructed around authentic ancient monuments.

When your cruise docks at Klaipeda, on Lithuania’s Curoanian coast, you might feel as if you’ve stepped into another world. One of Europe’s best-kept beach secrets, Klapeida is as much about pristine scenery as it is the intricate Fachwerk architecture of its charming Old Town. Here you’ll find the Curonian Spit sandbar and the sparkling Curoanian Lagoon just behind it. The smell of fresh sea air will invigorate you as you ascend the 13th-century remains of Klaipeda Castle with Baltic cruises. Later, dig into a plate of fish dumplings at a charming portside restaurant.

Rønne is the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea.

Copenhagen has come a long way from its early Viking days. Its historic centre of Frederiksstaden has its share of castles and royal-era palaces – but it’s the modern, sleek Scandinavian design and playful, hygge spirit that sets Denmark’s capital apart today. Each neighbourhood offers its own unique, exciting adventures. Explore the city’s seafaring past with a canal cruise under a network of bridges, or take a stroll along Nyhavn’s colourful quay. Peek in Kødbyen’s trendy art galleries and savour world-renowned Nordic cuisine in Christiania’s quirky cafes. Adventure comes in many forms in Copenhagen, from Baltic beaches to famous fairytales.

Founded during the Viking Age, Aarhus is a compact and vibrant city perfect for history buffs and lovers of the arts and culture. Head to the bustling Latin Quarter, lined with cafes, boutique shops and cutting-edge restaurants on your next Denmark cruise. Take a short walk to Aarhus Cathedral to see the tallest church in Denmark. Can’t get enough art and history? You’re in luck: Aarhus was recently named European Capital of Culture. Its myriad museums include the Moesgaard History Museum, Aros Aarhus Art Museum and Den Gamle By, nestled in an open-air botanical garden.

The oldest section of Aarhus is the Latin Quarter, dating back to the 14th century. Walk through its narrow cobblestoned streets filled with chic shops, galleries and some of the city’s best eateries. In the heart of the Latin Quarter, you’ll find the cosy square Puservig Torv – its many cafes are the perfect place for a midday break

Lined with traditional timber houses, Den Gamle By – ‘the Old Town’ – is Denmark’s national open-air museum of urban history and culture. Experience how people lived and worked at the end of the 19th century. Interested in more recent history? Check out the street that brings Denmark in 1974 back to life..

Oslo combines the modern and the historical into a heady stew of Scandinavian cool. With a history that dates back to the Middle Ages, Oslo retains remnants of its past, with medieval ruins alongside charming wooden houses in the Old Town. At the same time, locals embrace their town’s reputation as one of the world’s most modern cities. The Opera House’s striking design invites you to walk on the roof before you explore the sleek interior during your Oslo cruise. Don’t miss the Munch Museum, a treasure trove of works by the artist behind ‘The Scream’. Examine ancient ships up close at the Viking Museum. See Olso’s quirky side at Frogner Sculpure Park, where you’ll find whimsical art in a soothing green setting.

Kristiansand, named after its founding king, is the lively capital of Southern Norway. Stroll through the old town of Posebyen, known for its neat grid design with wooden white and pastel-colored houses. Explore the area around the quayside and fish market, and relax in an outdoor cafe. In summer, the Bystranda Beach is filled with cheerful Norwegians catching a spot of sunshine. Take a boat trip to visit the quaint fishing villages nearby. Cruise to Kristiansand and bring your little ones to the large Dyrepark, which includes a zoo, a fantasy village, and a water park.

Fresh air and icy beauty are the hallmarks of Olden, known as the Gateway to the Glaciers. Come here to explore the Jostedal Glacier – not only can you take in views of this natural wonder, you can also head to Jostedalsbreen National Park and hike the blue ice yourself. Thanks to Olden’s location at the northern end of Oldedalen Valley, you’ll find an unexpectedly dramatic landscape dotted with valleys, waterfalls and mountains. Explore the town by foot, boat or bike, and head into a gallery to discover why Olden is an emerging centre for contemporary design. Cruise to Norway to check out the Old Olden Church for a unique look into local religious traditions.

Alesund is a small but lively city with a unique, modern feel. A rebuilding effort following a major fire in 1904 gave the city its distinctive Art Nouveau – or ‘Jugendstil’ – architectural style, defined its ornate details, asymmetrical facades and curving forms meant to resemble plants, animals and flowers. From the city park, walk up the 418 steps to the city’s peak, Aksla – you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous panoramic view on the city, the islands and the rugged Sunnmorsalpane mountain range. Alesund is the home base for Norway’s largest cod fishing fleet, so you won’t have to go far to try some of the delicious and fresh seafood dishes during your Norway cruise.

Set against the backdrop of seven mountains, Bergen’s natural beauty and historical charm will stop you in your tracks. Stroll through the Bryggen neighbourhood, with its medieval cobblestone alleyways and red, yellow and white painted houses. Take the cable car or a one-hour hike to the top of Mt Floyen, and soak in dramatic views of the city and the surrounding fjords with Norway cruises. Encounter trolls – don’t worry, they’re only statues – in the Troll Forest. Later, learn why Bergen is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy with a meal at one of the city’s forward-thinking restaurants, where chefs prepare cold-water seafood and local produce with modernist techniques.

Amsterdam delivers a sensory overload – from its welcoming gezellig Dutch spirit to the clinking of bicycle chains and tulips of every colour. This is where 17th-century Golden Age estates meet gritty Red Light District alleys, all woven together by an elaborate system of canals. Stand amidst the bustle of Dam Square and pick fresh blooms at Bloemenmarkt. See where celebrated painter Rembrandt once worked and admire his masterpieces at Rijksmuseum. Nibble on Gouda amid the greenery of Vondelpark – or relax in one of the city’s quirky coffee shops. Here it’s easy to let go and give in to romantic adventures.

Reykjavik is the beating heart of Iceland. The city was founded in 1786, but it’s also the site of Iceland’s first permanent settlement, dating back to 874 AD. Check out the Settlement Exhibition, a combination archaeological ruin and museum based around a 10th-century longhouse, where interactive technology and archaeology reveal historical Iceland. The church Hallgrimskirkja dominates the skyline – admire its distinctive Expressionist-style architecture designed to mirror the nearby mountains and glaciers during your Iceland cruise. Need relaxation of the highest order? Take the sub-hour drive to the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by volcanic vistas.

Reykjavik is the beating heart of Iceland. The city was founded in 1786, but it’s also the site of Iceland’s first permanent settlement, dating back to 874 AD. Check out the Settlement Exhibition, a combination archaeological ruin and museum based around a 10th-century longhouse, where interactive technology and archaeology reveal historical Iceland. The church Hallgrimskirkja dominates the skyline – admire its distinctive Expressionist-style architecture designed to mirror the nearby mountains and glaciers during your Iceland cruise. Need relaxation of the highest order? Take the sub-hour drive to the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by volcanic vistas.

With 3,229 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is a large town for Greenlandic standards. Stroll around the historical buildings in this colourful colonial town, formerly known as Julianeha. Cruise to Greenland to admire the open-air sculpture gallery Stone and Man, and check out the spouting whale fountain. Then, visit the quaint Qaqortoq Museum, housed in the town’s oldest building. Kayak among the fjords around the city, or hike along the nearby mountain-rimmed Lake Tasersuaq. Later, soak your stress away in the delightful hot springs, bubbling at a perfect 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit on the island of Uunartoq.

Most travellers come to Greenland for the glaciers, ice fields and fjords, but to enjoy this large island’s culture, be sure to stop in Nuuk. Like most other cities in Greenland, the capital is located along the ice-free, fjord-lined southwest coast, offering beautiful views of both the rolling landscape and the gorgeous icy waters beyond. Cruise to Greenland to stroll around the old harbour, with its wooden homes and fantastic views of the Nuuk fjord. Admire the street art, sculptures and avant-garde architecture like the Katuaq Cultural Centre with its wooden ‘screen’ meant to symbolise the Northern Lights. Sample some traditional dishes, such as nipisa suaat – Greenland’s intense, umami-rich signature caviar or browse for a warmer outfit at local boutiques like the family-owned Qiviut.

Protected by a narrow, rocky entrance,St. John’s harbour may seem like a quaint island village but it is actually a modern city with plenty of cultural attractions. This vibrant port city is a nice contrast to some of the more rural outlying areas, and offers plenty of facilities for travellers and locals alike.

The Big Apple, the City That Never Sleeps, the City of Dreams, the Global Shopping Capital – New York City has as many opportunities for urban adventure as it has names. Make your way to Broadway to catch an iconic show. Marvel at the Statue of Liberty, holding out her famous torch to welcome you. Grab a hot dog from Billy’s Hot Dog Cart and have a picnic in Central Park. Then, climb sky-high to top of the Empire State Building, or indulge your senses in one of the four other Burroughs of New York City: Head to hip Williamsburg, Brooklyn, for boutique shopping and innovative eats, or sample authentic Chinese street food in Flushing, Queens.

The Big Apple, the City That Never Sleeps, the City of Dreams, the Global Shopping Capital – New York City has as many opportunities for urban adventure as it has names. Make your way to Broadway to catch an iconic show. Marvel at the Statue of Liberty, holding out her famous torch to welcome you. Grab a hot dog from Billy’s Hot Dog Cart and have a picnic in Central Park. Then, climb sky-high to top of the Empire State Building, or indulge your senses in one of the four other Burroughs of New York City: Head to hip Williamsburg, Brooklyn, for boutique shopping and innovative eats, or sample authentic Chinese street food in Flushing, Queens.

HMD Bermuda was the principal base of the Royal Navy in the Western Atlantic between American independence and the Cold War. Bermuda had occupied a useful position astride the homeward leg taken by many European vessels from the New World since before its settlement by England in 1609.

Welcome to Perfect Day at CocoCay Bay, Royal Caribbean’s private Island. Tackle the tallest waterslide in North America, Devil’s Peak, take a selfie 137 metres up in the air in a helium balloon.
Enjoy the swim up pool side bar, soak in the largest freshwater pool, Oasis Lagoon, in the Bahamas. Relax in your own private cabana, whatever you want to do, this Island is the perfect place to relax or be adventurous

Miami moves to a rhythm all its own – from the sun-drenched beaches to a diverse blend of cultures. Indulge in the glitzy chic of Miami Beach and explore Little Havana’s deep-rooted Cuban heritage. Unwind on Key Biscayne’s serene shorelines, pedal along Ocean Drive or paddle a kayak through Oleta River State Park’s winding mangrove channels. Head to Coconut Grove to take in the bohemian vibe. Tour the Vizcaya estate’s Renaissance-inspired gardens. Miami cruises give guests the opportunity to check out the Perez Art Museum’s contemporary collections. Whether it’s deep-sea fishing, Art Deco architecture, world-class cuisine or endless nightlife, adventure shines bright in The Magic City.