European Spring: Lisbon to Amsterdam Cruise

Lisbon sits on the river Tagus, gifting it access to the coast that made Portugal one of world’s most successful trading nations. Explorers including Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Bartholomeu Dias sailed on behalf of their monarch, discovering new lands and establishing new trade routes. The city prospered, with much of the proceeds from their colonies spent on opulent architecture. On the morning of All Saints Day 1755, Lisbon’s faithful were huddled in church when a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck, followed by a series of tsunamis that devastated the city. Candles lit for the religious ceremonies began a firestorm. By the end of the day, more than 75% of the population had perished. Current day Lisbon reflects this tragedy, with few buildings pre-dating the 18th century, but money spent to rebuild the city was spent doggedly, creating a city of wide boulevards, sensible facades and parklands, all backed by opulent baroque interiors and paved by unique black and white-tiled pavements. With a relatively small population, Lisbon is an easy city to navigate. Its hillside suburbs are accessed by trams and funiculars while its waterfront remains a busy harbor, ready to continue the trading prowess that made the city famous.

Today’s experiences are tailored for both garden enthusiasts and newcomers to Lisbon. Garden lovers can explore the vibrant, narrative gardens of Sintra or the elegant, formal gardens of the Palace of Queluz. Meanwhile, first-time visitors can discover the city’s top attractions. In the evening, gather for a welcome event to celebrate the beginning of your springtime journey.

You can choose from a selection of morning or full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning choose a Locally guided tour of Lisbon, with Mercado da Ribeira to experience historical sites or choose to visit The Palace of Queluz and School of Equestrian to experience exquisite gardens, followed by a visit to School of Equestrian. You can also choose the full day experience Its Spring at Sintra where you can explore the enchanting gardens of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra.

This morning, drive north to Portugal’s ‘second city,’ arriving around midday. After an orientation tour, there is time to enjoy the Ribeira district on the Douro River, before visiting a traditional port cave.

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, entices visitors with its storied past, vibrant culture and architectural splendor. It was in Porto that the Portuguese Age of Discovery began when the indomitable Prince Henry the Navigator set sail to the western coast of Africa in the early 15th century. Porto has never looked back. The city lends its name to the fortified wine produced in nearby valleys, framing the Douro River with its picturesque streets, iconic iron bridges and renowned wine cellars. In the UNESCO World Heritage old town of Ribeira, a colorful blend of Romanesque, Gothic and baroque architecture adds to the lively atmosphere, while Porto’s historical Rabelo boats, once vital for transporting port wine barrels, grace the riverbanks. This blend of tradition and modernity makes Porto an unforgettable destination, captivating visitors with its timeless charm and dynamic spirit.

A visit to a port cellar is a quintessential experience in Porto. Here, the renowned port wine, crafted in the Douro Valley, is aged and stored in traditional ‘caves.’ As you meander through the narrow streets, you’ll sense that you’re truly in the heart of port wine country. Your guide will introduce you to various types of port wine and offer tastings, allowing you to appreciate the distinct characteristics of each. The cool, dimly lit cellars create an atmospheric setting as you delve into the history and craftsmanship behind this iconic Portuguese wine. Having sampled some of Portugal’s favorite tipple, take a short drive to the port of Leixões, to board the ship. This evening, enjoy a ‘welcome aboard dinner, where you’ll meet the guide team and crew.

Entering Spain, your first port of call is Vigo. As one of its nation’s leading fishing ports, Vigo’s bustling harbor is a testament to centuries of seafaring tradition. The city’s history is also intertwined with the Camino de Santiago, with pilgrims traditionally arriving by sea before embarking on their journey to Santiago de Compostela. Visitors can enjoy the scenic waterfront, savoring fresh seafood at local restaurants, or explore the historical shipyards, which echo with tales of old. With its lively festivals, lengthy beaches and welcoming atmosphere, Vigo provides a glimpse into Galicia’s coastal heritage.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose Santiago de Compostela to visit Santiago de Compostela, a famous city for pilgrims. Explore the historic center and see the amazing cathedral. Or choose Soutomaior Castle and Winery Visit, home to a 15th-century fortress built by Pedro Madruga. Explore the castle, its surrounding gardens and a local winery. Or choose The Wines of the Rías Baixas and discover Galicia’s rich winemaking tradition in Rías Baixas, renowned for Albariño wines. Tour a local winery, learn about the role of women vintners, and enjoy a tasting of these elegant, citrusy wines.

Spain’s ‘secret garden’ is the verdant region of Galicia. This less-visited section of the country is a true gem, beloved by Spanish travelers. Locals still speak Galician, and the blonde, blue-eyed inhabitants proudly hold on to their Celtic heritage. Bring your umbrella, as it may rain, but it’s well worth it. This region is a lush, green enclave amid Spain’s typical dry and arid landscape.

The coastal city of A Coruña is steeped in maritime heritage, celebrated through its iconic Tower of Hercules, the only working Roman lighthouse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As one of Spain’s major port cities, A Coruña has been a hub of maritime trade and exploration since ancient times, with various naval battles played out off its shores. Its strategic location on the Atlantic coast has made it a pivotal point for voyages across the seas, including journeys to the Americas during the Age of Exploration, when A Coruña served as a departure point for explorers such as Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, who founded St Augustine, thought to be the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Today, A Coruña seamlessly blends its rich maritime heritage with its role as a dynamic modern city. The picturesque waterfront beckons both locals and visitors to stroll its streets, savior local wines at welcoming bars, indulge in fresh Atlantic seafood and immerse themselves in the many cultural festivals on its annual calendar. Your visit coincides with the start of the pilgrimage season, as many pilgrims prefer the cooler spring weather to the summer heat. This timing provides you with a deeper insight into this captivating tradition.

You can choose from a selection of morning or full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning choose a tour of Coruña, with a Beer Chaser where you will drive along the coast, visit the Tower of Hercules and enjoy a guided tour of the Estrella Galicia brewery, including a beer tasting and the opportunity to roll your own brew. Or choose Ferrol–A Maritime Champion and explore the historic Barrio da Magdalena and enjoy panoramic views from the Mirador de los Jardines de Herrera. Visit the shipbuilding museum to delve into Ferrol’s naval past. Or choose The Roman Enclave of Lugo and walk along the UNESCO-listed Roman walls, visit the historic center, and admire the city’s vibrant street art, including the renowned Julius Caesar mural. For a full-day experience choose Santiago de Compostela–Walk a Section of the Pilgrimage Trail and walk a portion of the Camino de Santiago near Calzada. Then, explore the historic center of Santiago de Compostela, including the magnificent Cathedral.

Once a Roman port known as Gigia, Gijón’s maritime legacy dates back centuries, with remnants of ancient docks and Roman baths still visible today. Its strategic coastal location has shaped its identity as a bustling port city, a heritage celebrated through its maritime museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the city’s seafaring past. Gijón also served as a crucial point of departure for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, a medieval pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain, drawing travelers from across Europe. Local explorers and adventurers, inspired by Gijón’s seafaring traditions, have embarked on voyages that shaped global exploration.

Notably, the city was a significant hub for Asturian emigrants who left for the Americas in the 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to its international ties. Gijón’s waterfront promenades, bustling marina and vibrant cider houses come alive in the spring, offering a true taste of local life. It’s Apple Bloom season in the Asturias, when towns and villages celebrate the apple farms that are scattered throughout the region. Spend your day soaking in the seaside atmosphere of Gijón, or opt for one of  the ‘Your Choice’ experiences, each designed to add a spring to your step.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose Asturias’ Capital–Oviedo, the historic capital of Asturias, to explore the city’s Gothic cathedral and charming Old Town on a guided walking tour, followed by free time for independent exploration. Or choose Apple Blossom Cider Farms for a visit a traditional cider house in the Cimadevilla district and enjoy a tasting at a local cider farm, known for its sustainable practices. Or choose Gijón’s Coastal Cousins to explore the charming coastal villages of Cudillero and Luarca in Asturias. Discover Cudillero’s colorful houses and winding streets, then visit Luarca and admire the Ermita de La Regalina with its stunning coastal views.

Your time in port today is limited to a lunch stop, but what a special lunch it is. Welcome to the vibrant city of San Sebastián, renowned for its delectable treats. That’s right–it’s tapas time! Tapas, or pintxos as they are known in San Sebastián, offer more than just a meal; they provide a culinary journey that captures the essence of Basque culture. The secret to eating pintxos like a local is to master the txikiteo, a Basque-style food crawl. Split into groups and join a local guide to embark on a txikiteo adventure through the city’s colonnaded plaza and streets, where each bar offers its own specialties. Savor the rich flavors of jamón ibérico, the creamy delight of croquetas and the tangy bite of boquerones. Pair these with a glass of local txakoli wine or a refreshing cider to enhance the experience. Enjoy every bite and make the most of this delightful lunch stop in one of Spain’s most gastronomically celebrated cities.

Although eating txikiteo style is a Basque tradition, please understand it may not be for everyone. Please feel free to stay on board for lunch or explore San Sebastián independently. (Note: The port of Pasajes is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from San Sebastián.)

Today, dock at the port of Le Verdon, the northern gateway to the Médoc region. Due to tidal restrictions on the Gironde estuary, you will moor near its mouth, ensuring dependable access for Bordeaux and the renowned vineyards of Le Médoc. For those joining the morning or half-day ‘Your Choice’ experiences, a shuttle service to the nearby seaside town of Le Verdon-sur-Mer will be provided, allowing you to enjoy some time along this picturesque coast. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gironde estuary, Le Médoc is home to some of the most famous wine estates in the world, including Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux and Château Latour. The châteaux in Médoc have been producing wines of exceptional quality for centuries, significantly contributing to Bordeaux’s wealth and reputation. Médoc’s unique terroir, with its gravelly soil and ideal climate, allows for the cultivation of grapes that produce wines known for their elegance, complexity and ageing potential. While some wineries require visitors to be licensed wine merchants, many warmly open their cellar doors for tastings to wine enthusiasts from around the world.

‘Your Choice’ experiences offer you the opportunity to explore Bordeaux, or immerse yourself in Médoc’s winemaking tradition, promising an unforgettable visit to this esteemed wine country.

You can choose from a selection of morning, half-day or full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose the morning experience, the Wines of Médoc–A Winery Tour and Tasting where you will Visit Château Maucaillou in the Médoc region. Explore this historic vineyard, learn about its winemaking process and enjoy a tasting of their renowned wines. Choose a half-day experience of Wine Tasting and Picnic Lunch at Château Loudenne, and visit the historic Château Loudenne, known as Le Château Rose. Explore the vineyard, enjoy a wine tasting and savor a picnic lunch with regional delicacies in the picturesque grounds. Or choose a half-day experience: Wine Tasting and Picnic Lunch at Château Lamothe-Bergeron which includes vineyard exploration, interactive cellars and a tasting of three vintages. Enjoy a picnic lunch under ancient trees. Or choose a Day in Bordeaux for a full-day experience. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bordeaux. Visit the historic Chartrons district, admire iconic landmarks like Place de la Bourse and the St. Andrew Cathedral, and experience the Cité du Vin with panoramic city views. Enjoy a boxed lunch.

Spend the morning on ‘Your Choice’ of local experiences when you visit the seaside city of La Rochelle, before sailing in the early afternoon north to Brittany.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose La Rochelle and stroll through the Old Quarter with its medieval arcades and Renaissance houses. Visit the historic towers and explore a secret WWII bunker. Enjoy free time to wander this picturesque town. Or choose Cognac and Chocolate and experience the Accord Gourmand tour at a local winery. Explore the history of cognac production, enjoy a tasting of cognac paired with carefully selected chocolates, and learn about the unique craftsmanship of this renowned spirit. Or choose When is a Knot Not a Knot? and visit the Corderie Royale in Rochefort, a former rope factory dubbed ‘the Versailles of the Sea.’ Explore its history, learn traditional ropemaking techniques and discover the legacy of this impressive architectural marvel.

Dock at Concarneau, a gateway to the villages and towns of Brittany, where traditional festivals celebrate customs that have continued for centuries. This fortified town on the Brittany coast beckons with a rich maritime history, shaped by piracy and invasion. Concarneau’s prime coastal location made it a frequent target for English, Dutch and Spanish pirates throughout the 17th century. During these turbulent times, the town’s residents faced constant threats to their crucial trade routes. The 14th-century ramparts and towers were not only architectural feats, but also vital defenses against these seafaring raiders. Today, as you wander through its historical streets, you can still feel the echoes of its dramatic past and the enduring spirit of its people.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose Concarneau’s Walled Town and Pont-Aven to explore the charming walled town of Concarneau and the artistic village of Pont-Aven. Discover Concarneau’s historic quarter and enjoy a tasting of traditional Galettes de Pont-Aven. Or choose Creative Quimper, to visit the Saint-Corentin Cathedral, admire the historic city walls, and tour the Henriot Faiencier factory, renowned for its hand-painted ceramics. Enjoy free time to explore Quimper and its vibrant market. Or choose Market Day in Hennebont to experience the vibrant Thursday market in Hennebont. Explore the stalls, discover local produce and immerse yourself in the town’s daily life. Learn about Hennebont’s history and its remarkable post-war revival.

Sail the most western point of Brittany overnight to reach the coastal town of Roscoff. It is Labor Day in Roscoff, when the town celebrates ‘workers’ day with French flair. Framed by vibrant flowers and rugged granite, the city’s old town is deeply connected to its maritime heritage. Anchored on the sea, Roscoff reflects the rich history of its artists, merchants and corsairs. The bustling old port is a focal point year-round, accommodating commercial fishing boats, recreational vessels and traditional ‘goémoniers,’ for the uniquely local business of seaweed collection. Wander through its picturesque streets for a taste of Breton charm, enjoy the sea views from a waterfront café, or explore the coastal paths and sandy beaches to immerse yourself in Brittany’s coastal lifestyle.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose the Roots of Roscoff to explore Roscoff with a local guide. Visit the Maison des Johnnies et de l’Oignon, a museum dedicated to the town’s onion-trading history. Then, wander through the Roscoff Botanical Garden with its diverse plant life and stunning views. Or choose Medieval Lannion to explore the charming town of Lannion, with its medieval and Renaissance architecture. Stroll through the historic streets, admire the half-timbered houses and climb the Brélévenez steps for panoramic views.

As you head towards Normandy, the ship’s small size allows you to dock at the charming city of Saint-Malo. Though this tidal port can be challenging to access, it’s well worth the effort. Saint-Malo offers a range of captivating experiences for you to enjoy. Perched on the border of the former kingdoms of Normandy and Brittany, the walled city of St Malo, with its medieval architecture, cobblestoned streets, and shops stacked with delicious Bretonnique treats, is a true ‘pirate town’. This era of privateering earned St Malo the nickname ‘City of Corsairs’ and contributed significantly to its prosperity and dubious reputation. Today, St Malo celebrates this heritage through its museums, festivals and preserved historic sites, offering visitors a glimpse into its adventurous past as a renowned ‘pirate city’.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose The Pirate Town of Saint-Malo for a walking tour exploring Saint-Malo’s history of privateering, visiting key sites and learning about legendary figures like Jacques Cartier and Duguay-Trouin, culminating at the Asfeld Hotel, once owned by a famous privateer. Or choose Château de la Bourbansais to explore the Château de la Bourbansais, a 16th-century estate with stunning gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. Discover furnished rooms, learn about its history and experience a glimpse into the past. Or choose Mont Saint-Michel to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mont Saint-Michel, a dramatic island crowned by a medieval abbey. Discover the abbey’s architecture, wander the charming village and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding bay.

Arrive at the mouth of the River Seine with tidal restrictions permitting you access to Honfleur mid-morning. Originally a bustling trade port, Honfleur boasts charming streets and an iconic harbor. During the Hundred Years’ War, it briefly fell under English occupation and thrived as a crucial trade hub, particularly with North America and later French Canada, when local explorer Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec. Honfleur’s ship owners amassed fortunes, which remain evident today in the multi-storied, terraced homes tightly packed around the harbor as symbols of status and wealth.

In the 19th century, Honfleur’s appeal transcended commerce, when artist Claude Monet followed his mentor, Eugène Boudin, to his hometown. He and his fellow Impressionists were captivated by the town’s ethereal light immortalizing it on canvas. Today, the Vieux Bassin hosts yachts against a backdrop of centuries-old buildings, where quaint shops, vibrant galleries and seafood restaurants beckon visitors to savor regional flavors in this picturesque coastal setting. Choose to explore Honfleur’s picturesque streets, visit the spring blossoms of a renowned Calvados producer, or venture further to see Monet’s Garden in bloom or the historic city of Rouen.

You can choose from a selection of afternoon or half-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the afternoon choose Normandy’s Obsession with Calvados to experience the charm of Normandy’s apple country on a spring visit to a calvados winery. Explore the orchards, learn about the production process, and enjoy a tasting of this renowned apple brandy. For a half-day option, choose St Joan of Arc’s Rouen to explore the historic city of Rouen, famed for its Gothic cathedral and its connection to Joan of Arc. Wander through the charming old town, admire the architecture and enjoy a boxed lunch for a relaxed exploration. Or choose Monet’s Garden to explore the vibrant Clos Normand, the enchanting water garden with its famous Japanese bridge, and the lily pond that inspired his masterpieces. Enjoy a boxed lunch and immerse yourself in the beauty of this artistic haven.

This afternoon, arrive in Oostende, a well-established Belgian port city. Renowned for its chocolates, world-class beers and intricate lace, Belgium lies at the heart of Europe. This afternoon, choose between two contrasting aspects of this captivating country: Bruges, with its picturesque canals and historical Hanseatic wealth, or Ypres, a city profoundly shaped by WWI, where many left never to return.

You can choose from a selection of afternoon shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose Beautiful Bruges to explore the canals of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join a guided walking tour, discover medieval architecture and immerse yourself in the city’s history as a major trading hub. Enjoy free time to indulge in Belgian chocolates, fries, or a local beer. Or choose Ypres–In Flanders Fields to experience the poignant history of WWI at Ypres. Visit the Menin Gate, a moving memorial for fallen soldiers, and explore the In Flanders Fields Museum, which tells the story of the battles in Flanders Fields.

After breakfast, disembark at the capital of The Netherlands; Den Haag. Today’s journey allows you to experience the beauty of a European spring as you stop en route to Amsterdam at one of Holland’s most spectacular springtime sights. Nothing says welcome to Holland like tulips, so get ready to say ‘Welkom in Nederland’ as you visit Keukenhof Gardens during the annual Tulip Festival. Touted as the ultimate European spring experience, over seven million flower bulbs are meticulously planted each autumn to bloom in spring, creating a spectacular display of color. With 800 varieties of tulips, the gardens offer a visual feast that captures Dutch horticultural excellence. As you explore the landscaped gardens, you’ll encounter intricate floral displays, themed gardens and tranquil ponds, each more stunning than the last. The Tulip Festival celebrates not just tulips, but also daffodils, hyacinths and other springtime flowers, all arranged in creative patterns and designs. (Note: The dates for Keukenhof in 2026 are yet to be confirmed. If your visit falls outside of these dates or if tickets are unavailable, then a suitable alternative will be provided.)

Tolerant. Intelligent. Inclusive. There are many terms to describe Amsterdam, the city built around canals that began as a humble trading center and grew into a global powerhouse. Founded in the late 12th century, Amsterdam quickly established itself as a pivotal hub for commerce, sending explorers and traders to the far corners of the New World. This spirit of adventure and openness to different cultures has shaped the city’s character, making it a melting pot of diversity and innovation. Today, Amsterdam offers travelers a unique mix of picturesque canals, world-class museums, and a progressive, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are strolling through its historical neighborhoods, exploring its world-class art scene, or simply enjoying a Heineken by a canal, Amsterdam promises to put a smile on your face.

‘Your Choice’ experiences today, offer a chance to view the many faces of Amsterdam, with time this afternoon to explore the city at your own pace. Perhaps visit one of Amsterdam’s renowned galleries, delve into Holland’s brewing process at the Heineken Experience, or explore the poignant history of Amsterdam during WWII through the diaries of Anne Frank at the Anne Frank House. This evening, gather to celebrate the European spring at a farewell event, Dutch style.

You can choose from a selection of morning or half-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning visit the Canals of Amsterdam and enjoy a scenic canal cruise through the heart of Amsterdam. Discover the city’s history as you glide past merchant houses, admire the vibrant spring blooms and experience the unique charm of this iconic waterway. Or choose Vincent to visit the Van Gogh Museum, the world’s largest collection of van Gogh’s works, including the iconic ‘Sunflowers,’ and gain a deeper understanding of the artist’s life and artistic evolution. For a half-day experience choose Zaanse Schans–a Pocket of Amsterdam’s Past, to step back in time at Zaanse Schans. Explore the iconic windmills, discover traditional crafts like cheesemaking and pottery, and experience a glimpse into 17th-century Dutch life.

After breakfast, check-out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.