Western Europe from Dover - Family Availability!, 18 August 2024 (9 nights)

Perhaps the most iconic landmark in the port city of Dover, Dover Castle was built in the 11th century and is Grade I listed. A key defensive castle, it’s operated by English Heritage and offers several events throughout the year, including pirate shows and canon displays.

For incredible views out towards France, head to the White Cliffs of Dover. Reaching 350 feet, this prominent attraction is popular with tourists and locals alike due to the fantastic walking trails. Within easy reach of the castle and port, its striking appearance makes it a must see when stopping off or cruising from Dover.

Alternatively, you can head inland to Connaught Park; a spacious park that has lots of trails, a playground, tennis courts and breathtaking views out towards Dover and the channel. On sunny days, cruise ships can be seen docked at the port.

Though this aquarium may be small, it features numerous rooms dedicated to the marine life in the Atlantic Ocean. Most notable is the Nautilus, a room submerged in the sea for optimal viewing of sharks, rays, octopus and many species of fish.

Dedicated to the science of human beings, Domus boasts more than 150 interactive features to educate and entertain visitors. Discover numerous exhibitions covering genetics, evolution and modern medicine, as well as the Open Laboratory space.

One of the most popular beaches in the city, Riazor beach stretches along the promenade with restaurants, bars and cafés in close proximity. You’ll find both golden sand and rockier areas, as well as calm water and waves perfect for surfing.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, the Tower of Hercules once served as a lighthouse and landmark for La Coruna harbour. Visitors can explore the basement and venture up 234 steps to the balcony to admire the vast views.

One of the oldest and most vibrant districts of Lisbon, Alfama is the place to be for artisan eateries, quirky boutiques and Fado bars. It’s best explored on foot or by the tram to experience as many of the attractions and highlights as possible.

One of the most visited sites in Lisbon, the Jerónimos Monastery was completed in the seventeenth century. In 1983 UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage Site and it’s certainly a must visit to admire the beautiful architecture both inside and out.

Here visitors will discover over 450 different species of marine life, including sharks, rays, penguins and otters. Cruisers of all ages will love following the route around the central aquarium to learn about the major ecosystems of the ocean.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Torre de Belém was built to protect Lisbon from attackers from the sea. Despite its role, the fort was decorated with lavish carvings and details, which are best viewed from the banks of the Rio Tejo.

Tram 28 is the classic Lisbon mode of transportation – rattling around the narrow streets in a bright yellow tram that dates back to the 1930’s. Hop on and take one of the best tours of Lisbon, passing highlights and attractions along the way.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape, Sintra is a romantic destination to escape to for the day. Featuring enchanting palaces and rolling hills, this town is easily accessible from Lisbon via a regular train service.

Established in 200 BC, Castelo de Sao Jorge is one of the biggest highlights of Lisbon. Get to know the city’s unique and fascinating history, explore the imposing walls, wander the shady gardens and admire the vast views from the Observation Terrace.

With three floors of both permanent and temporary exhibitions, the Archaeological Museum of Seville is teeming with rich history. The main collections include artefacts from the Late Bronze Era as well as statues from the times of Hadrian.

Recognised as a UNSECO World Heritage Site, this beautiful bell tower of Seville Cathedral is open for visitors to make their way to the top for stunning views over the city. Admire the exquisite architecture on your way up, as well as the 24 bells.

Parque Maria Luisa is the perfect place to relax in the sun by the river where you’ll find exotic trees, historic buildings, pretty fountains and plenty of space for kids to play. Couples will love a carriage or boat ride, and families can rent bikes.

Built in 1928, Plaza de España is home to Seville’s most impressive Renaissance-style structure. The intricate architecture of both the building and the surrounding décor is a photographer’s dream, and certainly worth taking a romantic horse-and-carriage ride around.

One of the oldest palaces still in use in the world, the Real Alcázar boasts architecture and history from a wide range of cultures that have passed through the city over time. Marvel at the intricate artistic tiling work inside, as well as the lush gardens and fountains.

With gorgeous views overlooking the city, Castillo de Gibralfaro was built in the 8th century as a lighthouse and military barracks. Its imposing walkways provide a scenic walk, while the museum nearby offers great insight into the history of the castle.

This iconic landmark was first built in the historic city centre in 1530, with work finishing in the 17th century. With a Gothic Renaissance style, it boasts a tower standing at 84 metres tall, providing breath-taking photo opportunities.

One of Malaga’s stunning historical monuments, La Alcazaba – meaning citadel – was built between 1057 and 1063. It has since been restored and features Roman walls and a dungeon, as well as stunning views of the harbour and old town.

As Malaga’s oldest historical monument, El teatro Romano was discovered in 1951 and has since uncovered much of Andalusia’s rich history. Visitors can marvel at the fascinating features of the theatre, such as the orchestra area, while more is still being uncovered.

This 2,000 year-old theatre is well worth a visit. Discovered in 1988 beneath the ruins of a cathedral, this is a fascinating site to explore, with a museum hosting many of the excavation findings such as ceramics, statues and plaques.

Originally completed in 1907 and restored in 1995, the Palacio Consistoria is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. With impressively intricate architecture both inside and out, a guided tour at this monument will provide an enriching insight into the history of Cartaegna.

This 2,000 year-old theatre is well worth a visit. Discovered in 1988 beneath the ruins of a cathedral, this is a fascinating site to explore, with a museum hosting many of the excavation findings such as ceramics, statues and plaques.

Built between 1933 and 1936, Castillitos Battery is nestled on a ridge 250 metres above sea level, providing sweeping views across the sea. Make the short journey here to discover the guns that dealt incredibly lethal damage, and the medieval-style buildings.

Documenting one of the darkest periods in Spain’s history, the Spanish Civil War Museum tells the stories of those who endured bombing raids in Cartagena. Presented in a bomb shelter, this museum is well worth a visit to learn more about the destruction of the city.

Found in the heart of Rome, Vatican City is the smallest independent state in Europe at just 0.44km² with a population of 1,000 people. It acts as headquarters to the Roman Catholic Church and is home to The Apostolic Palace - the Pope’s residence –the Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.

Within Vatican City is one of the biggest churches in the world; St. Peter’s Basilica. Accommodating up to 20,000 people, this is where the Pope delivers services. Its 136 metre high dome was designed by Michelangelo, and was completed in 1614.

The colosseum was opened in 80 A.D. with 100 days of exciting games. It was mostly used for gladiatorial combat and fights with animals until around the 6th century when it began to fall into disrepair. It was then used to store building materials until the 18th century, when the papacy decided it should be preserved. As it stands now, however, more than two-thirds of the structure has been destroyed.

Known the world-over for its elaborate, 15th century artwork courtesy of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Luca, and Perugino, the Sistine Chapel is where new Popes are elected and ordained. It is located within Vatican City, inside The Apostolic Palace.

This Michelangelo sculpture is located inside St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. It depicts the body of Jesus after he has been crucified, being held by the Virgin Mary. The statue was originally commissioned by Jean de Billheres – a French cardinal – as a memorial for his tomb.

This is one of the most iconic buildings in Rome. There are myths surrounding the building of the original Pantheon, but the structure we see today was built in 120 A.D. by Emperor Hadrian. It was created as a Pagan temple to “honour all Gods” – which is the translation of “Pantheon”. In the year 609 it was converted to a Christian church, although it is still widely known as the Pantheon.

This popular public square is located where the (now fallen) Stadium of Domitian once stood, in 86 A.D. Since then it has been developed into a social gathering spot, adorned by three magnificent fountains that were commissioned in the 16 and 17th centuries. These are Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro, and Fontana del Nettuno.