The largest and capital city of Portugal, and one of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon is an idyllic cruise holiday destination, offering attractions to suit all interests. From ancient forts to artistic neighbourhoods and the breath-taking Jerónimos Monastery, this port of call has plenty to explore. Families will love to discover the many species at the Oceanarium, while couples will love an escape to the charming town of Sintra to explore the castle.
Things to do in Lisbon:
Alfma District
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.
Jeronimos Monastery
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.
Lisbon Oceanarium
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.
Torre de Belem
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
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.
Sintra
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.
St George's Castle
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.
Porto (Leixoes)
DAY 424 Jul 2025
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
Porto sees around 65,000 cruise passengers pass through each year and has flourished with tourist attractions to suit all ages. Whether you’re here to see the Harry Potter film location Livraria Lello, looking to admire the intricate Baroque architecture or just want to try delicious wines and delectable pastries, Porto will keep you busy for a full day of exploring.
Things to do in Porto (Leixoes):
Bolsa Palace
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.
Church of Sao Francisco
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.
Clerigos Tower
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.
Livraria Lello
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!
Luis I Bridge
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.
La Coruna
DAY 525 Jul 2025
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 4 PM
Whether you’re looking to top up your tan on the beach with shops and restaurants just a short walk away, or looking to explore fascinating museums and ancient castles, La Coruna offers attractions for everyone. This trendy and modern city features a busy hub in the centre with an abundance of dining and shopping, as well as unique moments such as the Tower of Hercules. From here, enjoy the sweeping views out to sea – and don’t forget your camera!
Things to do in La Coruna:
Aquarium Finisterrae
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.
Museo Domus
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.
Riazor Beach
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.
Tower of Hercules
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.
Bilbao (Getxo)
DAY 626 Jul 2025
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
One of the Basque country’s best destinations, Bilbao is a hub of fascinating architecture, contemporary design and artistic flair in almost every direction you look. Start your exploration in Plaza Nueva for the best sightseeing, shopping and cuisine, as well as museums and galleries. You’ll also find many lush parks in the city and rolling hills in the surrounding areas, making this a truly unique experience in comparison to most Spanish city breaks.
Things to do in Bilbao (Getxo):
Bilbao Cathedral
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.
Basilica de Begona
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.
Bilbao Fine Arts Museum
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.
Guggenheim Museum
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.
Plaza Nueva
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!
Le Havre (Paris)
DAY 929 Jul 2025
Time at Port: from 6 AM to 8 PM
This charming port town in Normandy is the gateway to France's chic capital, but is also a destination in its own right. Stick around the coast to explore the Musée des Beaux Arts and the D-Day beaches, or go on an optional shore excursion to Mont St Michel, the medieval town of Rouen, or into Paris.
Things to do in Le Havre (Paris):
St. Joseph’s Church
One of the most beautiful landmarks in Le Havre, St. Joseph’s Church was built 50 years ago and has a unique post-war design, with a 107m high ceiling, and a combination of concrete and stained glass. Situated in the centre of the city, this marvel of architecture is worth a visit when in Le Havre for a stop over.
Hanging Gardens
The 19th-century Hanging Gardens provide an outstanding view of the sea, the Seine estuary, and the rebuilt city. They are housed in an ancient fort. From the top of these gardens, the World Heritage Site of Le Havre comes into view.
Art Museum
If you love history, or the grandeur of French architecture, the Maison de l’Armateur is a must see. Situated within a stately 18th century mansion, it features beautiful and historic artwork, furnishings dating back to the era of Louis XVI and an impressive octagonal atrium.
London Tilbury
DAY 1030 Jul 2025
Time at Port: from 11 AM to 10 PM
Just a short train journey from the heart of bustling London, Tilbury offers the best sights of the city as well as attractions local to the cruise port. Explore Tilbury Fort which played a vital role in the battle against the Spanish Armada, and discover the 1127 Rochester Castle which plays host to numerous events and markets throughout the year. Finally, for a unique sightseeing tour, take a short ferry ride from Tilbury to Gravesend.
Things to do in London Tilbury:
Tilbury Fort
Tilbury Fort is an artillery fort on the north bank of the River Thames. It was formerly known as the Thermitage Bulwark and the West Tilbury Blockhouse. From the 16th century until the Second World War, it secured London's seaward approach. The first fort was constructed here by Henry VIII, and Queen Elizabeth I famously gathered her soldiers nearby to combat the Armada threat. With its network of moats and bastioned outworks, the current fort is perhaps the greatest example of its kind in England.
Coalhouse Fort
A short journey away from the port lies the Coalhouse Fort Park. Dating back to the 1860s, this fascinating coastal defence building holds an array of events throughout the year and is run solely by volunteers.
Guru Nanak Temple
Located just across the river in nearby Gravesend, the Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara is a Sikh temple which offers guided tours. Extraordinary in its architecture, it’s an impressive building featuring 5 domes, hand crafted marble and stonework. It took inspiration from the iconic Golden Temple at Amritsar.
Brussels (Zeebrugge)
DAY 1131 Jul 2025
Time at Port: from 11 AM to 8 PM
As Belgium's bustling capital city, Brussels packs a cultural and historical punch. Because of its compact size and good public transport, you'll get to see the main highlights in a short amount of time. Head to the 15th century Grand Place for breathtaking architecture and live music, while the Palais Royal offers a glimpse into the life of the Royals. For a relaxing afternoon, visit the charming Parc Du Cinquantenaire which is conveniently located nearby to the museums.
Things to do in Brussels (Zeebrugge):
Grand Place
Within the heart of Brussels lies the impressive Grand Palace (also known as the Grote Markt). Significant attractions within Grand Place include the Brussels City Museum, which is housed in the neo-Gothic King's House or Bread House building, that also borders two bigger structures: the city's Flamboyant Town Hall and the magnificent Baroque guildhalls of the old Guilds of Brussels.
Atomium
The Atomium, which was created as the showpiece structure and logo for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, has a distinctive shape and not only provides the most stunning view of Brussels, but is a fascinating building that's frequently shown on posters and advertisements about the city.
Parc-du-Cinquantenaire
Also known as the Jubelpark, the Parc du Cinquantenaire is a national landmark in the city that’s built in the shape of a pentagon. Within it, you’ll find a prominent archway, alongside the Autoworld; a popular army and art museum. You can even climb to the top of the arch and enjoy breathtaking views out over Brussels.
Amsterdam
DAY 1201 Aug 2025
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
One of the most popular cruise destinations in Europe, Amsterdam is perfect for a picturesque city getaway. Whether you're exploring the city on foot, by bike or by a canal boat, a tour is a great way to discover hidden gems as well as iconic landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. Depending on the time of year, you may also experience the vibrant Keukenhof Gardens which are home to more than 7 million tulips.
Things to do in Amsterdam:
Rijksmuseum
Situated in the centre of Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum, also known as the museum of Netherlands is home to an array of art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Showcasing over 800 years of history, this beautiful and historic building is an iconic landmark that’s popular with both tourists and locals.
Anne Frank House
Located next to Westerkerk, the Anne Frank House is a museum that honours the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. Situated on the Prinsengracht Canal, this fascinating but sorrowful landmark makes for a harrowing visit.
Vondelpark
This picturesque park spans an incredible 120 acres. Full of picturesque flora and fauna, it features a cafe, bandstand and more. A tranquil way to spend your day in Amsterdam, many people choose to ride bikes around it.
Copenhagen
DAY 1403 Aug 2025
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
Comprising unique architecture, scenic canals and a wide range of attractions within easy reach of the cruise port, Copenhagen is often hailed as the best city in the world in which to live. No matter your age or interests, and no matter the weather, there's something for everyone - take a bus tour to get your bearings, then explore royal palaces, museums and parks. Nyhavn is an iconic spot for photos, cafes and culture, and breathtaking 18th-century architecture.
Things to do in Copenhagen:
Little Mermaid Statue
The Little Mermaid sculpture, perhaps one of Copenhagen's most well-known tourist destinations, took inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's well-known fairy tale. The Little Mermaid, a gift from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen to the City of Copenhagen, was unveiled on August 23, 1913 and is located on Langelinie Pier.
Tivoli Gardens
Situated in the centre of Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens is a theme park with rides, a beautiful lake, shops, cafes and more. The third-oldest operational amusement park in the world, it dates back to 1843. A magical attraction that’s worth a visit when you’re in Copenhagen, it has something for all ages.
National Museum of Denmark
Denmark's main cultural history museum, the National Museum of Denmark in Copenhagen, contains a variety of exhibits, from Danish artefacts to international exhibits. Located near Strget in Copenhagen's downtown, it's the perfect day out for those wanting to learn more about Denmark's captivating past.
Flight departs
DAY 14
Hotel stay included
Hotel in Lisbon - 4 stars
Lisbon
21 Jul 2025
2 nights stay
We don't know the hotel in Lisbon yet as this cruise is too far in the future but it will be centrally located, a minimum of 4 stars, selected from our list of preferred hotels & based on a 'room only' board basis. Local government city taxes & local resort fees may be payable.
Customer reviews for Norwegian Sun
3.8
Based on 4 reviews
Cabin
3.8
Service
3.8
Excursions
3.8
Dining
3.8
Activities
3.8
Value for money
3.8
Entertainment
3.8
We were on a cruise to South America starting on the 9th. March, 17, visiting Chile, Falkland Islands and Argentina. Before the cruise, we stayed 3 nights in Santiago, in Santa Lucia District. Its in a Local residential area, full of hotels, bars and restaurants. Its very near the main shopping malls and the place where we stayed in, was quiet at night. We had booked TUR BUS on line before departure from UK and on the day of sailing we took a taxi from Santiago to Valparaiso for the bus to the port. The bus stops well away from the ship port and you have to take a taxi to the port. It costs us$12 in total and worth it.While waiting to check in at the port for ship embarkation, there was no announcement that the ship could not come to the port because the berth was taken up by a cargo ship. After waiting for over three hours, we finally boarded the ship. We have been sailing with NCL over a number of years and have visited almost all the ports of call in USA, Canada and Europe. We have been on this ship before but the facilities have been run down to cut cost. The quality of food did not vary from day to day, the entertainment on the ship was worst than before, there was no parties on the pool deck when on sea or Barbecues as before. Although the staff in general were quite helpful and courteous but watch out for the security check when disemarking at ports. Securitykept on telling the customers to put their DINEROS(loose change) in the small tray she was handing out. When customers put their money in the tray, she said its all right, don't worry about it and she had problems with customers who found it hard to understand why is she saying one thing and then saying don't worry about it. I wanted to go out to the port and handed in my card. She swiped the card and as I was about to go she said wait and after couple of minutes, said you can go. When I asked her for my card, she said that the tender is coming and I have to wait. You can see the problem she has caused and its the customer who is blamed for everything and not the staff. Otherwise the cruise was fantastic and the weather was excellent going round the Cape Horn and very sunny and virtually no wind in Port Stanley. The NCL Sun is more likely to be replaced by NEW ship BLISS but its time for NCL to look at the behavior of their staff towards their customers.We definitely would not sail on NCL Sun again because of poor management, lack of entertainment, which is the worst I have seen on any of the NCL line, the cruise director laughs at his own jokes and does not think outside the box. Its time for NCL to either train their staff to be customer friendly or fire them, get another cruise director and entertainment staff and variety of performers and not the same old performers on the ship coming two or three times doing the same things.
Verified customer
1 cruise
18 Apr 2017
BA flight to Tampa 4/10 Tampa Hotel 7/10 This was our first 'normal' cruise previously done Star Clipper x 2. The advice and suggestion from Saam was spot on, the ship was the right size for us, we saw the Epic in port and that really is too big! The experience was very enjoyable and I have no major complaints. The ship is 14 years old and showing a bit of 'wear and tear'. The main buffet area is OK but like a motor service area, however the food was good and lots of choice, the 'free style' dining definitely worked for us. The speciality restuarants were very good, we tried French, Brazilian and Tepanyaki. The two main restuarants Seven Seas and Four Seasons were generally good, service was great, food was average. Our cabin was great and service A1. The onboard facilities were good, we always got a sun bed and pleanty of room on the decks. The spa was pricey and not good value, sales pitch is quite heavy and it is easy to be 'confused' with the costs. The shows ,jersey Boys & We will Rock You' were amazing, as good as West End shows. The bar service was hit and miss, often slow and not as customer service focused as other services, maybe because they are not on the tip rota? The wifi was very expensive.
Verified customer
1 cruise
20 Jan 2015
Dear all This was our first cruise - we had no expectations and we were not really disappointed. Seasoned cruisers will tell you that the ship was not the best, in fact not good at all compared to other lines and ships. The price we paid, the value was very good. Please be aware that the ship deals in dollars, if the rate for sterling is low everything is v expensive! If you get a good deal - go on the trip - if you are looking for a cruise with all the trimmings - don't bother.
Verified customer
1 cruise
3 Jul 2010
The ship was very clean and the staff overall very good. Some would even help you with opening the heavy doors. Our cabin staff were excellent. Clean towels twice a day and nothing was too much trouble. There were two resident groups singing during our 3 week cruise through the Panama Canal, needless to say they repeated songs on a daily basis and never upped the beat. The food was great, only one comment and that was in the Pacific Heights Restaurant the menu stayed the same for 3 weeks. Not sure why.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.