14-Day Iberian Adventure
Starting from
$2,399*
Copenhagen, Denmark to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
Ship: ms Nieuw Statendam
Departure Date :
Itinerary
Day Copenhagen, DenmarkDeparts 05:00 PM
"Copenhagen is one of the easiest European capitals to fall in love with. The sights of old buildings, cobbled streets and the tower- and turret-dotted skyline lend fairy-tale charmthis was, after all, the home of author Hans Christian Andersen. But make no mistake: This is a thoroughly modern city with international clout. Restaurants around the world draw inspiration from the New Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma and other Copenhagen restaurants, while Danish design from this century and the last is universally admired and coveted. Urban planners flock here to try to work out just how the city remains so livable and yet so functional, and despite its wealth of old buildings, Copenhagens not locked in the past; there are also thrilling examples of modern architecture. Copenhagen is a city thats easy to find things to do and explore on foot or by excellent public transport, where everyone speaks perfect English, the food is fresh and innovative, and theres plenty of locally brewed beerwhich, of course, is best enjoyed sitting by the water on a sunny day. "
"Copenhagen is one of the easiest European capitals to fall in love with. The sights of old buildings, cobbled streets and the tower- and turret-dotted skyline lend fairy-tale charmthis was, after all, the home of author Hans Christian Andersen. But make no mistake: This is a thoroughly modern city with international clout. Restaurants around the world draw inspiration from the New Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma and other Copenhagen restaurants, while Danish design from this century and the last is universally admired and coveted. Urban planners flock here to try to work out just how the city remains so livable and yet so functional, and despite its wealth of old buildings, Copenhagens not locked in the past; there are also thrilling examples of modern architecture. Copenhagen is a city thats easy to find things to do and explore on foot or by excellent public transport, where everyone speaks perfect English, the food is fresh and innovative, and theres plenty of locally brewed beerwhich, of course, is best enjoyed sitting by the water on a sunny day. "
Day At Sea
Day Amsterdam, The NetherlandsArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
A stop in Amsterdam offers the chance to explore the sights of one of Europeâs most colorful, dynamic and historic citiesâone with a well-earned reputation as a laid-back and inviting place for people of all stripes. Visitors are naturally drawn to the historic city center where youâll find some of the worldâs top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. And at Dam Square, the Amsterdamâs largest public square, you can tour the Royal Palace before continuing to the tourist attractions on the Canal Belt. The iconic network of waterways that surrounds the downtown area offers a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing by bike or canal boat. Be sure to visit the floating Bloemenmarkt to peruse famed Dutch tulips, and take time to wander and window-shop among the narrow lanes of de Jordaan. And you wonât have to look far in Amsterdam to find delicious Dutch treats along the way. Just duck into a cozy brown café to sample a plate of bitterballen with mustard and a beer, and grab a gooey sweet stroopwafel from a street vendor as you stroll.
A stop in Amsterdam offers the chance to explore the sights of one of Europeâs most colorful, dynamic and historic citiesâone with a well-earned reputation as a laid-back and inviting place for people of all stripes. Visitors are naturally drawn to the historic city center where youâll find some of the worldâs top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. And at Dam Square, the Amsterdamâs largest public square, you can tour the Royal Palace before continuing to the tourist attractions on the Canal Belt. The iconic network of waterways that surrounds the downtown area offers a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing by bike or canal boat. Be sure to visit the floating Bloemenmarkt to peruse famed Dutch tulips, and take time to wander and window-shop among the narrow lanes of de Jordaan. And you wonât have to look far in Amsterdam to find delicious Dutch treats along the way. Just duck into a cozy brown café to sample a plate of bitterballen with mustard and a beer, and grab a gooey sweet stroopwafel from a street vendor as you stroll.
Day At Sea
Day Brest, FranceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
Brest is Brittanys second largest administrative centre, and has a great deal to offer. Although it was heavily bombed in 1944, this is by no means the towns most interesting feature: it has rebuilt itself around a vision of the future, with incredible constructions like the Pont de l'Iroise bridge, which crosses the river Elorn. An amazing feat of architecture, this magnificent cable-stayed bridge was opened in 1994. Admire it from Albert Louppe bridge, which is for pedestrians and cyclists only. Its a great place to take a walk and enjoy the view of the famous Brest harbour, the Rade de Brest, a sheltered area of the sea big enough for great ships to lie at anchor.
Brest is Brittanys second largest administrative centre, and has a great deal to offer. Although it was heavily bombed in 1944, this is by no means the towns most interesting feature: it has rebuilt itself around a vision of the future, with incredible constructions like the Pont de l'Iroise bridge, which crosses the river Elorn. An amazing feat of architecture, this magnificent cable-stayed bridge was opened in 1994. Admire it from Albert Louppe bridge, which is for pedestrians and cyclists only. Its a great place to take a walk and enjoy the view of the famous Brest harbour, the Rade de Brest, a sheltered area of the sea big enough for great ships to lie at anchor.
Day At Sea
Day Vigo, SpainArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
"Galicia feels a little different than the rest of Spain. It has its own language, Gallego, and its own milder and damper climate. During the 20th-century reign of General Francisco Franco (a Galician himself), the region was isolated for its contrary attitude (and for the smuggling operations along the coastline). During that time, national funds for roads, development and industrialization were withheld, effectively keeping Galicia poor and rustic. As a result, even many years later, the areas economy is still based on fishing and agriculture (tourism is up-and-coming) and a visit here can feel like a step back to a less-globalized era. Vigo, with its large bay, has always been the workhorse of Galicia. The fishing fleet is still sizable, but is now joined in the water by more commercial shipping. The old neighborhoods down by the port are surrounded by increasingly modern districts and suburbs up the hill. Summer brings tourists from across Europe to enjoy Vigos beaches and to the spectacular Cíes Islands (Illas Cíes) offshore. This annual influx has modernized Vigocuisine, always considered a strong point, has become inventive; historic monuments on the avenues are now joined by a surprising amount of contemporary public art; international chains have appeared alongside the traditional shops by the port. The city proudly welcomes visitors to its slightly different corner of Spain, the beautiful Costa Verde. "
"Galicia feels a little different than the rest of Spain. It has its own language, Gallego, and its own milder and damper climate. During the 20th-century reign of General Francisco Franco (a Galician himself), the region was isolated for its contrary attitude (and for the smuggling operations along the coastline). During that time, national funds for roads, development and industrialization were withheld, effectively keeping Galicia poor and rustic. As a result, even many years later, the areas economy is still based on fishing and agriculture (tourism is up-and-coming) and a visit here can feel like a step back to a less-globalized era. Vigo, with its large bay, has always been the workhorse of Galicia. The fishing fleet is still sizable, but is now joined in the water by more commercial shipping. The old neighborhoods down by the port are surrounded by increasingly modern districts and suburbs up the hill. Summer brings tourists from across Europe to enjoy Vigos beaches and to the spectacular Cíes Islands (Illas Cíes) offshore. This annual influx has modernized Vigocuisine, always considered a strong point, has become inventive; historic monuments on the avenues are now joined by a surprising amount of contemporary public art; international chains have appeared alongside the traditional shops by the port. The city proudly welcomes visitors to its slightly different corner of Spain, the beautiful Costa Verde. "
Day Scenic cruising Tagus River / Lisbon, PortugalCruising / Arrives 08:00 AM
"Lisbon presents a lively symphony of sound and colorsoft light, red-tiled rooftops, building facades of patterned tiles, creaking yellow streetcars, narrow streets that open into grand sunny praças (squares) at the edge of the formidable Tagus River. Its easy to see why the Portuguese capital of Lisbon is one of Europes favorite cities. Lisbon is understandably proud of its beaches, public art, singular modern architecture and 300 days of sunshine a year. The city manages to juggle the relaxed vibe of Southern Europe while recognizing the gravity of its history and heritage. What makes Lisbon unique is that it managed to preserve layers of all the empires that conquered this land: the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and all the Portuguese Christian kings. Most recently, Lisbon has been stormed by a young generation of artists, cultural entrepreneurs and restaurateurs who are taking back the city and converting it into an oceanside playground."
Lisbon, Portugal
"Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a wealth of sights, tastes and sounds. An ensemble of neighborhoods both old and new, its a city full of history, culture and tradition. After the devastating earthquake that struck in 1755, reconstruction began and the rebuilt Baixa area quickly became one of the city's busiest districts. From there, you can glance up at São Jorge Castle on one hill while in another direction you'll find Chiado, one of the trendiest and most elegant neighborhoods. The spirit of Lisbon can be encapsulated by the soulful musical genre, fado, which can best be enjoyed in the Alfama, the city's oldest neighborhood. Enter one of the area's old-school taverns and listen to passionate renditions of Fado Vadio, sung by amateurs, often after a round of aguardiente, an anise-flavored liquor."
"Lisbon presents a lively symphony of sound and colorsoft light, red-tiled rooftops, building facades of patterned tiles, creaking yellow streetcars, narrow streets that open into grand sunny praças (squares) at the edge of the formidable Tagus River. Its easy to see why the Portuguese capital of Lisbon is one of Europes favorite cities. Lisbon is understandably proud of its beaches, public art, singular modern architecture and 300 days of sunshine a year. The city manages to juggle the relaxed vibe of Southern Europe while recognizing the gravity of its history and heritage. What makes Lisbon unique is that it managed to preserve layers of all the empires that conquered this land: the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and all the Portuguese Christian kings. Most recently, Lisbon has been stormed by a young generation of artists, cultural entrepreneurs and restaurateurs who are taking back the city and converting it into an oceanside playground."
Lisbon, Portugal
"Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a wealth of sights, tastes and sounds. An ensemble of neighborhoods both old and new, its a city full of history, culture and tradition. After the devastating earthquake that struck in 1755, reconstruction began and the rebuilt Baixa area quickly became one of the city's busiest districts. From there, you can glance up at São Jorge Castle on one hill while in another direction you'll find Chiado, one of the trendiest and most elegant neighborhoods. The spirit of Lisbon can be encapsulated by the soulful musical genre, fado, which can best be enjoyed in the Alfama, the city's oldest neighborhood. Enter one of the area's old-school taverns and listen to passionate renditions of Fado Vadio, sung by amateurs, often after a round of aguardiente, an anise-flavored liquor."
Day Lisbon, PortugalDeparts 02:00 PM
"Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a wealth of sights, tastes and sounds. An ensemble of neighborhoods both old and new, its a city full of history, culture and tradition. After the devastating earthquake that struck in 1755, reconstruction began and the rebuilt Baixa area quickly became one of the city's busiest districts. From there, you can glance up at São Jorge Castle on one hill while in another direction you'll find Chiado, one of the trendiest and most elegant neighborhoods. The spirit of Lisbon can be encapsulated by the soulful musical genre, fado, which can best be enjoyed in the Alfama, the city's oldest neighborhood. Enter one of the area's old-school taverns and listen to passionate renditions of Fado Vadio, sung by amateurs, often after a round of aguardiente, an anise-flavored liquor."
"Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a wealth of sights, tastes and sounds. An ensemble of neighborhoods both old and new, its a city full of history, culture and tradition. After the devastating earthquake that struck in 1755, reconstruction began and the rebuilt Baixa area quickly became one of the city's busiest districts. From there, you can glance up at São Jorge Castle on one hill while in another direction you'll find Chiado, one of the trendiest and most elegant neighborhoods. The spirit of Lisbon can be encapsulated by the soulful musical genre, fado, which can best be enjoyed in the Alfama, the city's oldest neighborhood. Enter one of the area's old-school taverns and listen to passionate renditions of Fado Vadio, sung by amateurs, often after a round of aguardiente, an anise-flavored liquor."
Day Cadiz (Seville), SpainArrives 08:00 AM Departs 11:00 PM
"Hanging off the southwestern edge of Spain, Cádiz is one of Andalucías regional capitals and a place bursting with personality. Europes oldest continually inhabited city, with a history stretching back 3,000 years, has fallen on hard times in recent years, but a combination of pride, good humor and stoicism keeps it on an even keel. The famous Carnival, one of Spains most important in the genre, is a thrilling fiesta into which Cádiz pours all its energy and ingenuity. The citys fond nickname, la tacita de plata (""little silver cup""), alludes to its curious geographyit juts out on a long peninsula into a sheltered bay. Old town Cádiz is a warren of cobbled streets where the houses, painted white or dusty ochre, have the weather-beaten look of a place subjected to centuries of wind and salt. This ancient city has one good example of everything that matters: a great food market, a theater (the Teatro Falla, a grand Art Nouveau Moorish gem), a gorgeous cathedral, impressive fortifications and a beachthe picturesque and famous La Caleta. "
"Hanging off the southwestern edge of Spain, Cádiz is one of Andalucías regional capitals and a place bursting with personality. Europes oldest continually inhabited city, with a history stretching back 3,000 years, has fallen on hard times in recent years, but a combination of pride, good humor and stoicism keeps it on an even keel. The famous Carnival, one of Spains most important in the genre, is a thrilling fiesta into which Cádiz pours all its energy and ingenuity. The citys fond nickname, la tacita de plata (""little silver cup""), alludes to its curious geographyit juts out on a long peninsula into a sheltered bay. Old town Cádiz is a warren of cobbled streets where the houses, painted white or dusty ochre, have the weather-beaten look of a place subjected to centuries of wind and salt. This ancient city has one good example of everything that matters: a great food market, a theater (the Teatro Falla, a grand Art Nouveau Moorish gem), a gorgeous cathedral, impressive fortifications and a beachthe picturesque and famous La Caleta. "
Day Gibraltar, British TerritoryArrives 08:00 AM Departs 11:00 PM
"Strategically located at the southern tip of Europe, facing Africa, Gibraltar offers a fascinating mix of cultures. With a history that includes Moorish, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and English influences (among others), this tiny, 6.7-square-kilometer British Overseas Territory is most famous for the giant Jurassic limestone rock soaring above the territorys main commercial and residential areas. The Rock contains an abundance of history (military and otherwise), not to mention significant flora and fauna, and a labyrinth of caves and tunnels. Venture into Gibraltars densely populated streets for Spanish, British, Middle Eastern and Italian cuisine, as well as tax-free shopping on everything from luxury brands to handmade arts and crafts and artisanal edibles. Browsing and snacking around town is the perfect chance to hear Yanito, the singsong Spanish-English hybrid spoken here. There are also historic and holy places in Europa Point, and the Museum of Gibraltar provides an opportunity to learn about the regions history and prehistory, as well as the migration habits of its birds and marine life. "
"Strategically located at the southern tip of Europe, facing Africa, Gibraltar offers a fascinating mix of cultures. With a history that includes Moorish, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and English influences (among others), this tiny, 6.7-square-kilometer British Overseas Territory is most famous for the giant Jurassic limestone rock soaring above the territorys main commercial and residential areas. The Rock contains an abundance of history (military and otherwise), not to mention significant flora and fauna, and a labyrinth of caves and tunnels. Venture into Gibraltars densely populated streets for Spanish, British, Middle Eastern and Italian cuisine, as well as tax-free shopping on everything from luxury brands to handmade arts and crafts and artisanal edibles. Browsing and snacking around town is the perfect chance to hear Yanito, the singsong Spanish-English hybrid spoken here. There are also historic and holy places in Europa Point, and the Museum of Gibraltar provides an opportunity to learn about the regions history and prehistory, as well as the migration habits of its birds and marine life. "
Day Malaga, SpainArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
While Málaga was long considered just a stopover on the way to southern Spains Costa del Sol beach resorts, in recent years a buzz has developed around the Andalucian city. There is a brand-new $100 million port promenade filled with restaurants and a bold new branch of Pariss Centre Pompidou built in the form of a colorful glass cube. A handful of other major new museums include one devoted to one of the citys most famous sons, Pablo Picassoits also the hometown of another famous Spanish export, actor Antonio Banderas. Where once many buildings were dilapidated, an entire swath of the historic center is now pedestrianized and filled with shoppers, diners and street musicians. Tapas bars with outdoor tables line the old towns Calle Strachan, while all over Málaga a boom in fine dining is taking place. The city makes a fine base for day trips to many of Andalucías most famous sites. Unlike many southern Spanish cities, Málaga doesnt really shut down over the hot summer months; its waterfront location helps keep temperatures from soaring to uncomfortable heights. The 10-day summer Feria is becoming more popular each year, drawing visitors with its calendar of bullfights as well as dancing and drinkingactivities the citys residents enjoy before and after the Feria too.
While Málaga was long considered just a stopover on the way to southern Spains Costa del Sol beach resorts, in recent years a buzz has developed around the Andalucian city. There is a brand-new $100 million port promenade filled with restaurants and a bold new branch of Pariss Centre Pompidou built in the form of a colorful glass cube. A handful of other major new museums include one devoted to one of the citys most famous sons, Pablo Picassoits also the hometown of another famous Spanish export, actor Antonio Banderas. Where once many buildings were dilapidated, an entire swath of the historic center is now pedestrianized and filled with shoppers, diners and street musicians. Tapas bars with outdoor tables line the old towns Calle Strachan, while all over Málaga a boom in fine dining is taking place. The city makes a fine base for day trips to many of Andalucías most famous sites. Unlike many southern Spanish cities, Málaga doesnt really shut down over the hot summer months; its waterfront location helps keep temperatures from soaring to uncomfortable heights. The 10-day summer Feria is becoming more popular each year, drawing visitors with its calendar of bullfights as well as dancing and drinkingactivities the citys residents enjoy before and after the Feria too.
Day Cartagena, SpainArrives 08:00 AM Departs 04:00 PM
"There are more than two millennia of history to embrace in this port city in Spain's southeastern Murcia region. While Cartagena is famously home to the second-largest Roman amphitheater on the Iberian Peninsula, the city is much more than just spectacular ancient ruins. In addition to Cartagenas architecturealong with that amphitheater, there are striking Art Nouveau buildings, neoclassical churches and ultramodern edifices throughout the cityyoull find many opportunities to shop for local and regional artisan wares. In the city, investigate the restored medieval fortress looking out on the bay from the citys highest point. Or take a short trip by car or bus to the historic Agrupa Vicenta Mines, the remarkable palm forest at Elche and the holy city of Caravaca. "
"There are more than two millennia of history to embrace in this port city in Spain's southeastern Murcia region. While Cartagena is famously home to the second-largest Roman amphitheater on the Iberian Peninsula, the city is much more than just spectacular ancient ruins. In addition to Cartagenas architecturealong with that amphitheater, there are striking Art Nouveau buildings, neoclassical churches and ultramodern edifices throughout the cityyoull find many opportunities to shop for local and regional artisan wares. In the city, investigate the restored medieval fortress looking out on the bay from the citys highest point. Or take a short trip by car or bus to the historic Agrupa Vicenta Mines, the remarkable palm forest at Elche and the holy city of Caravaca. "
Day At Sea
Day Civitavecchia (Rome), ItalyArrives 07:00 AM
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.