Portugal's capital Lisbon comes alive with a rich history seen in every nook and cranny of the city. From the resting place of famous explorer Vasco da Gama at Jeronimos Monastery to the impressive turrets of Sao Jorge Castle dating all the way back to second century BCE, Lisbon offers a deep dive into the past to satiate the most curious travelers. While Western Europe's oldest city boasts an array of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, that does not mean it has remained stuck in the past. On the contrary, the colorful culture and vibrant life that runs throughout the city's restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars make it buzz with infectious energy. Taking a tuk tuk through its hard-to-reach passages allows you to experience Lisbon as the locals do. ... Read More
Along the Douro River in the north of Portugal lies Porto, the country's second-largest city. It may be renowned for its port wine - the Ferreira Cellars being one such famed cellar and one of the oldest port wine cellars in Portugal - but the city contains so much more for the explorer spirit to discover. Starting in the port of Leixoes, your journey takes you to the Dom Luis I Bridge, a direct link to Ribeira, Porto's oldest district. One of Porto's most significant sites, the Livraria Lello, is filled with historical, architectural, and literary importance, containing a world of books that any bibliophile traveler will find exciting. ... Read More
A province of Galicia, La Coruna (also known as A Coruna) holds a great deal of history that attracts the intellectual traveler. Home of the Spanish Armada and second-biggest port town in the country, it's a city that invites explorer spirits to rediscover all its lost secrets and hidden gems. About an hour away lies Santiago de Compostela, home to a beautiful cathedral to which many make a pilgrimage spanning 500 miles across the top of Spain. If you seek the beauty of nature within the splendor of historic architecture, La Coruna offers the Garden of San Carlos and the Gardens of Mendez Nunez with verdant patches of bushes and palm trees sprinkled throughout paved paths amid cultural landmarks. ... Read More
Friday - May 10, 2024
Day 4
Santander, Spain
Arrive: 12:00 pm
Depart: 1:00 pm
Within the historic region of Cantabria lies its capital, Santander, a port that's believed to have been in existence since ancient times, dating as far back as the 11th century. For a glittering first impression, stroll along the famous Paseo de Pereda. Monarchs and fishermen alike both resided in this seaside town once upon a time. That history comes alive at the Magdalena Palace, built between 1908 and 1912 for the Spanish Royal Family. Heading into Puertochico, you come across Santander's Old Town area, the original fishing pier. Although the Great Fire of 1941 destroyed most of it, there's still much to see and experience. ... Read More
Bilbao, Spain
Arrive: 6:00 pm
Depart: 7:30 pm
On the northern edge of the Iberian Peninsula lies Bilbao, a city with historical ties to Basque country. Its best-known museum, The Guggenheim, stands as a shining example of some of the most innovative 20th-century design from renowned architect Frank Gehry. Strolling through the central neighborhood, Indautxu, you'll come across the picturesque Dona Casilda Iturrizar Park. This English-style garden, with its enchanting pond, verdant trees, and decorative fountains adds a touch of refinement and romance. From the Arenal Gardens, the gateway to Casco Viejo (the Old Quarter), to Miguel de Unamuno Square, where a statue of the famed writer stands sentinel, Bilbao's everyday life holds an extraordinary magic. ... Read More
Saturday - May 11, 2024
Day 5
Port Medoc, Le Verdon, France, France
Arrive: 9:00 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
Port Medoc is where red wine is king. Bordered to the east by the Gironde estuary and to the west by the vast pine forest that separates it from the Atlantic Ocean, the soil of Port Medoc is where France's most coveted grapes are grown. There is also quite a bit of French history to be appreciated here as you witness three of the 12 Fortifications of Vauban. ... Read More
Sunday - May 12, 2024
Day 6
Le Palais, France
Arrive: 8:00 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
About a 5.5-hour trip from Paris, Belle-Ile has long been the secret summer getaway for Parisians and it's easy to see why. Its jagged coastline rises out of the Bay of Biscay and has everything experienced travelers could want on an island, from beautiful beaches to a placid pastoral interior. The first landmark you may spot on your entrance to Le Palais, the capital of Belle-Ile, is the imposing 17th-century Citadel Vauban. Sun-worshippers and beachcombers can find a spot on the sand at Plage des Grands Sables, while surfers may prefer to catch waves at Plage du Donnant on the west side of the island. ... Read More
Monday - May 13, 2024
Day 7
At Sea
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.
Tuesday - May 14, 2024
Day 8
Honfleur, France
Arrive: 7:00 am
Depart: 8:00 pm
Located along the southern bank of the Seine River, the charming port city of Honfleur is characterized by its picturesque houses with slate-covered facades, a captivating aesthetic that has been many the subject and inspiration for painters through history. Known as the fashion capital of the world and the City of Light, Paris has gained many monikers throughout its long history. Iconic tourist attractions like the Louvre, Versailles, and the Eiffel Tower make it easy to see how the city has enjoyed such lasting power in the minds of wanderers and locals alike, but its smaller neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais are where everyday life truly shines. While France is world-renowned for its cuisine, Normandy stands out as a foodie destination. Local Camembert, Livarot, and Neufchatel cheeses are delicious enough to entice travelers to stay, but a trip to Normandy is not complete without sampling the tripes a la mode de Caen, a French stew combining tripe with ox feet, vegetables, herbs and spices, cider, and apple brandy. ... Read More
London is a fascinating city with storied landmarks, iconic attractions, and countless hidden gems. Photographers often want to head toward central London near the Westminster Bridge. With Big Ben and Westminster Palace on one side and the London Eye on the other side of the river, it's the best spot for the ultimate picture of the English capital. Among the lesser-known highlights of London is the British Library, where you may see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark-scientific items too. If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens. ... Read More
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