European Explorer from Southampton, 26 July 2024 (10 nights)

Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.

Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.

If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.

As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.

Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.

Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, Bilbao Cathedral has a Gothic style exterior and interior, though with Renaissance and neo-Classical influences. Despite still being a working church, visitors can take a tour with information provided by an audio guide.

Towering from the top of a hill, the 16th-century Basilica de Begoña can be reached on foot or by an elevator from Calle Esperanza. Its imposing Gothic steeple makes a fantastic photo opportunity while, inside the basilica, you’ll find an intricate gold altarpiece.

Displaying works from the 12th century through to the present day, the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao is a must visit particularly for traditional art enthusiasts. Visitors will find paintings, sculptures, drawings, engravings and more, organised by topic alphabetically.

One of the largest museums in Spain, the Guggenheim Museum is dedicated to showcasing modern and contemporary art. The building itself is a unique architectural landmark while inside you’ll find countless ever-changing exhibitions.

If you’re in need of some authentic Spanish cuisine after a long day of sightseeing and shopping, Plaza Nueva is the place to be. The square has a reputation as the city’s social gathering spot, hosting markets, bars, cafés and more. This is the place to try a renowned local pinxo!

The neoclassical Pálacio da Bolsa is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings to explore in Porto. Once a stock exchange, it is now used for major events such as receiving high-profile visitors, as well as hosting tours of the intricately decorated rooms inside.

A true goldmine for lovers of Baroque architecture, the Church of São Francisco is easily recognisable in the centre of the city. It’s no wonder the 13th-century monument was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its intricate goldleaf carvings and Gothic interior.

Standing at 249 feet tall, Clérigos Tower is the tallest campanile in Portugal. After climbing 200 steps, you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking views across the city and river, as well as a chance to admire the 49 bells on the journey up.

A must visit for fans of the Harry Potter series, Livraria Lello is an enchanting bookshop boasting neo-Gothic architecture. A visit here will provide you with countless photo opportunities (the most popular being the crimson staircase), as well as a fantastic new holiday read!

Constructed by a student of Gustav Eiffel in 1886, the Dom Luís I Bridge is an impressive feat of ironwork engineering. Spanning 564 feet, the double-decker bridge carries both vehicles, the metro and pedestrians who can admire the stunning view.

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.

The Medina, Tangier's main draw, is a maze of residential and commercial passageways. The Portuguese defensive walls from the 15th century surround it, yet most of the structures are very modern. Within the Medina, you'll see beautiful and colourful houses, many of which look like something out of a fairytale. Arguably the most picturesque and iconic area within Tangiers, you could spend hours wandering through the different passageways.

Within easy reach of Tangier lies the mystical and historic Caves of Hercules. Overlooking the sea, the caves are steeped in myth and legend; with many tales depicting the caves as a stop off for iconic Roman mythical heroes. The caves are associated with Hercules, as there is a tale about the hero visiting the caves whilst en-route to the Garden of Hesperides.

If you want to feel immersed into the culture and history of Tangier, head to the Kasbah Museum. This centrally located attraction is home to a vast collection of artefacts, antiques and statues which detail the history behind the city.

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.

Found in the heart of Palma, La Seu is a stunning Catalan Gothic style cathedral, with renowned architect Antoni Gaudí contributing to its intricate design. Featuring 61 stained-glass windows, the building flooding with coloured light inside is simply a must.

Built in the 14th century, Bellver Castle is surrounded by lush pine woods and houses an insightful museum of Palma’s municipal history. Visitors will love taking a walk around the moat before admiring the view out over the city and bay from the rooftop.

The quaint, winding cobbled streets of Casco Antiguo are the perfect place to lose yourself in the culture of Palma. Discover gothic bookshops, antique boutiques and must-see tourist sites such as La Seu and Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum.

Showcasing a wide range of art throughout history, Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art is a must visit to discover the cultural heritage of Mallorca. With works by Picasso, Magritte and more, you’re bound to find your new favourite piece.

Visiting Las Ramblas is an absolute must when in Barcelona. Visitors can experience the weird and the wonderful, from the Museu de l’Erotica to the Miró Mural, in between trying a range of authentic tapas bars and cafes before a much needed siesta.

Although the Sagrada Familia is not technically complete, it’s still an impressive sight to behold. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, this spectacular Basilica hosts many masses, events and a place to simply marvel at in wonder.

Home of the cultural heritage of Barcelona, the Barcelona City History Museum manages several sites of interest including archaeological sites and historic houses. Visitors will discover the Roman colony, prehistoric Spain, Barcelona’s Jewish community and more.

Comprising of vibrant gardens and beautiful architecture, Park Güell was designed by Antoni Gaudí and officially opened in 1926. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding showcase of Gaudí’s genius design, Park Güell makes a wonderful place to go for a walk.

Another one of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, Casa Batllo is a truly eye-catching building to explore. Visitors are able to explore this fantastic showcase of the designer’s work, and even enjoy live music and other events on the roof terrace.

This modernist building was the last residence to be designed by Antoni Gaudí and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the building with an audio guide, and even enjoy rooftop shows on a romantic evening.

One of Barcelona’s oldest beaches, Sant Sebastià Beach features everything you need for a fantastic day in the sun. With indoor and outdoor pools, changing rooms and amenities for lounging, visitors can go for a dip, enjoy an ice cream and find dinner all in one area.

With capacity for over 99,000 people, Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Spain and cathedral to the Catalans’ second religion- the beautiful game! Visitors can catch an exciting game of football here or take a guided or un-guided tour of the grounds.