Rio de Janeiro Stay & Grand Voyage to Southampton, 31 March 2026 (19 nights)

Spanning nearly 2 1⁄2 miles, Copacabana Beach is an iconic beach that features golden sands, dark blue waters and is surrounded by a vibrant promenade, resorts and restaurants. The moment you arrive at this popular beach you’ll be in awe of the incredible mountains that tower over it.

Constructed in 1931, this extraordinary statue depicts Jesus Christ in an Art Deco style. Created by Paul Landowski, a renowned French sculptor, it’s an incredibly popular attraction to visit whilst in the city. Overlooking the city, it can be seen from several areas of Rio de Janeiro and makes for a great photo opportunity.

One of the highest peaks in the city, located at the start of Guanabara Bay, the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain can be visited by cable car. Sitting at a height of 396 metres, the views you’ll get from Sugarloaf Mountain will take your breath away.

At a passing glance, the unassuming Elevador Lacerda is a simple public lift used to transport locals and tourists from the lower city to the upper city; however, the views of Salvador this urban elevator affords you are simply extraordinary. Built between 1869 and 1873 as a hydraulic elevator, which now runs on electricity, it only takes 30 seconds to ride – but you’ll remember the views from the top of this 72-metre tower forever.

Located in the heart of Salvador, the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador is one of the finest examples of Mannerism Renaissance architecture in the Portuguese empire and a church near-identical to the famous Jesuit Church of Coimbra in Portugal itself. Opening onto a broad plaza, and overlooking the Bay of All Saints to its rear, this is a must-visit landmark for anyone interested in religious and historical sites. Consecrated in 1654, it’s one of the oldest structures in the city and boasts an elegant interior with a shallow main chapel.

A scenic stretch of sand on Salvador’s western coast, Porto da Barra Beach boasts calm waters and golden sands, making it a great destination for swimming and watersports alongside lounging around in the sunshine. It’s also surrounded by restaurants and bars, so you’ll never be too far away from some delicious local cuisine and refreshments. If you’re looking to spend a day at the beach while in Salvador, this is the place to be.

Found in the city centre, Funchal Cathedral is an impressive Gothic-style monument, popular with locals and visitors alike. Take a look inside to learn about the fascinating history of the architecture, including the altarpiece ordered in 1510 to 1515.

For unrivalled panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the vast landscape, Monte Cable Car will take you to one of the best vantage points in Funchal. The fifteen-minute journey is a relaxing ascent towards Monte, with a souvenir photo at the end of the journey.

Occupying 70,000 square meters, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to a plethora of exotic flora and fauna from all corners of the world. You will get lost in the tranquil beauty of this garden, enjoying the space with black swans, colourful koi and vibrant peacocks.

Thanks to Madeira’s fertile soil, many tropical plants thrive here and Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro’s gardens are an excellent showcase of this. The most notable collection are the camellias, first planted by the Count of Carvalhal.

Built in 1665 to protect the city from British attacks, Castro Fortress is now a flourishing tourist attraction with lush gardens to explore and breath-taking views after an active walk to the top. The castle itself is free to explore, making it especially well worth a stop.

Just a short ferry ride from Vigo are the trio of islands boasting some of the best, pristine beaches. Nature lovers will adore the untouched setting where you can hike the popular Monte Faro route, swim in the crystal clear sea, sunbathe and relax in paradise.

Close to Castro Fortress is Parque del Monte Castro. While many years ago the area was once filled with soldiers on parade, you’ll now find picturesque gardens and terraces, as well as a children’s playground.

Vigo’s most popular beach for families and kids, Samil is not just a place to sunbathe and swim! With pools, basketball courts, a skating rink, eateries and parks, there is always a buzz around this beach. Close to the centre, it is easily accessible and spacious.

The building was initially designed as a jail and courthouse, though is now home to numerous exhibition halls, showcasing a variety of mediums from sculpture, architecture, film, design, fashion and more. Visitors are also able to book a stay at the museum itself!

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.