Europe: France, Spain & Belgium from Copenhagen

The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, is filled with canals, cobbled squares and copper spires. But don’t let the historic appearance fool you. This is also Scandinavia’s most cosmopolitan city. Certainly you can relive medieval times in The Latin Quarter, but you can also enjoy some of Europe’s finest shopping, museums, cafes and nightlife prior to your cruise around the Baltics. Explore more of Copenhagen on a European cruise!

Affectionately known as the “Venice of the North,” Amsterdam is actually situated below sea level and built entirely on stakes driven into the ground. The Anne Frank House, The Hague and a Delft Blue Pottery Factory are but a few of the sights that await your arrival. Explore more of Amsterdam on a European cruise!

The ultimate European city, Brussels has tons of museums, fountains, gardens and great shopping. Stroll the Old Town area to see St. Hubert Arcades and its shops, as well as Butchers’ Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes and the Grand Place with its Baroque guild houses.

Take a bird’s eye view tour of one of the world’s most historically rich cities. The London Eye offers a mile-high view of the city. When you’re done, visit the Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and more before visiting the British Museum or strolling down Lower Regent Street. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, visit one of Britain’s classic Food Halls.

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.

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!

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.

The Tower of Hercules, a 2,000-year-old, functioning Roman lighthouse will be the first to welcome you to this friendly port city. Spain’s second largest seaport has one of the longest promenades in Europe. Visit the ornate Maria Pita Square and join in the fun at the lively taverns in the Old Town area.

Take a drive out to the Duoro Valley and admire it beautiful landscapes and vineyards. Take a stroll through the Historic Centre of Oporto an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste a little wine in Oporto famous for it port wines.

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!