Grand Continental Encounters with Helsinki and Athens Stays, 17 August 2027 (71 nights)

A stylish mix of sleek design, seaside beauty, and rich Nordic culture awaits in Finland’s capital.

Wander the cobbled streets of Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, where history, charm, and modern creativity blend beautifully.

A city of bridges, historic Gamla Stan, and a vibrant culture that blends old and new.

A mix of medieval charm and art nouveau elegance makes Latvia’s capital a hidden gem.

As Lithuania's only port, Klaipeda boasts a fascinating history, as well as exciting events such as summer sea festivals and tall ship regatas. To get to know the heart of this scenic port, stop by the Lithuanian Sea Museum (not finished) or take a wander through its quaint Old Town for boutique shopping, cosy bars and authentic cuisine. Finally, don't forget to visit the iconic and creepy Black Ghost sculpture emerging from the water!

The town of Ronne, Bornholm, is just a 30 minute walk or short shuttle ride from the cruise port, making it a great stop for a laidback walking tour. The quaint cobbled streets and charming gardens provide a perfect backdrop for discovering the history of this small town, and with ancient buildings to explore such as St. Michael's Church and the Ronne Theatre, you'll be taken back in time. For outdoor excursions, the beaches and biking routes are particularly popular for their stunning views.

A modern city with a historic heart, Malmö’s scenic waterfront and laid-back charm await.

Since Warnemunde is just a 2 hour train journey from Berlin, many cruisers choose to head to the city, overlooking many hidden gems. This charming port town is a popular summer getaway for locals and it's easy to see why - with a seaside promenade, quirky storefronts, classic beer gardens and unique architecture, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll in the sun, followed by a splash in the sea or sunbathing on the beach.

Explore Denmark’s second-largest city, where modern art, historic landmarks, and beautiful parks combine to create a vibrant atmosphere.

From colourful Nyhavn to the charm of Tivoli Gardens, Denmark’s capital is a fairytale come to life.

On the south side of the mouth of the river Seine from Le Havre, Honfleur is a historic Normandy town boasting picturesque 18th-century houses, Mediaeval architecture and an idyllic harbour.

The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.

With excellent transport links to the vibrant city of Edinburgh, Rosyth is an idyllic village nestled on the east coast Scotland. Whether you're looking to escape on a day trip to the city or are looking to soak up the quiet life of the quaint countryside, Rosyth is a great starting point for a range of adventures. Discover creatures of the sea at Deep-sea World, explore Edinburgh Castle for stunning views from Castle Rock, and shop along Royal Mile for souvenirs.

A port town in the Scottish Highlands, Invergordon sits in the historic Ross and Cromarty region. Once a Royal Navy Dockyard, the town's maritime history can be discovered at the Naval Museum and Heritage Centre. The Mural Trail gives visitors a chance to see the town's more artistic side, while Invergordon is also the perfect place to start a tour into the beautiful surrounding countryside.

The main town in the Lewis and Harris island just off of Scotland, Stornoway has a small population of just under 7,000 people; however, despite this, it’s still the largest town in the Outer Hebrides. A beautiful town that’s full of charm and quaint attractions, such as the Lews Castle, Stornoway Harbour and Stornoway Waterwheel, it makes for a wonderful day of exploring.

Once a quiet fishing village in the 17th century, Greenock has flourished over the years into a gateway to some of the highlights of Scotland. Though there's a number of transport links to destinations further afield, within Greenock itself, you'll find the famous landmark of the town Greenock West Church, golf, and numerous places of natural beauty such as Lyle Hill, which provides stunning views of the River Clyde.

With its turbulent Troubles in the past, Belfast has flourished into a thriving hub of arts, cuisine, architecture and history, with the cruise port being a short drive from the city. The most notable attraction is the Titanic Belfast Museum, which pays tribute to the tragic voyage through immersive exhibitions and galleries. Also popular with all visitors to Belfast is the fully restored and fascinating HMS Caroline, where you can learn about the Battle of Jutland.

Enjoy lively pubs, historic castles, and the warmth of Irish hospitality in this vibrant capital.

The largest town on Anglesey, not only is Holyhead a busy ferry port, but it is also a great place to explore. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, head out and enjoy the countryside and coastline, with the South Stack Lighthouse being particularly popular. In the town itself, visit the Maritime Museum or head to the harbour for a bite to eat as you look out across the sea.

As you sail into Cobh, be sure to get out on deck to admire the stunning views of the rugged coastline. As the gateway into the quaint town of Cork, this cruise port has one of the world's largest natural harbours and an abundance of picturesque scenery which you can explore on guided tours. As well as this, you can discover the fascinating maritime history of the town through museums, monuments and galleries.

A charming coastal town in Cornwall, England, Falmouth is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for an intimate seaside experience with stunning stretches of countryside, beautiful beaches, and small-town maritime history. This town boasts a deep natural harbour, vibrant public gardens, and – notably – a well-preserved 16th-century fortress built by Henry VIII. a destination that prides itself in being a source of inspiration for artists and shipwrights alike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here – even if that’s just stopping off at a seafront pub for a drink with a view.

A charming port town in Normandy at the point where the Seine meets the English Channel, Le Havre is your gateway to major French cities like Paris, Rouen, and beyond. However, it’s also a fantastic destination to visit in its own right, with a fascinating selection of museums to explore, nearby beaches to spend time admiring the coastal scenery, and a culinary landscape that will not disappoint. Whether visiting on an ocean cruise destined for sunny shores further afield, or spending some time appreciating the welcoming atmosphere here on a river cruise sailing the Seine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to visiting Le Havre.

A centre for fishing and trade since the 12th century. Wander round the old harbour, take in Renaissance architecture, and sample local oysters!

A picturesque town known for its wine production, it is located on the Gironde estuary. A popular place to visit for those on the Medoc Wine Route, it is abundant with chateaus, quaint cafes and shops.

Admire iconic architecture, explore vibrant streets, and indulge in Basque cuisine in this cultural hub of northern Spain.

Nestled on the coastline of the Bay of Biscay, Gijon is home to an extensive maritime history. Numerous heritage buildings throughout the city have roots in the Roman age, which will make even a leisurely stroll a fascinating journey through time. Discover the Old Town which offers most attractions in close proximity, including the Roman Baths, Plaza Mayor and a museum. You can also visit the fishing village Cimadevilla for delectable seafood.

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!

Wander through Porto’s colourful streets, sip on world-famous port wine, and take in the city’s historic architecture and riverside beauty.

Ride historic trams, savour pastéis de nata, and explore the colourful streets of this vibrant, sun-drenched capital.

A stunning seaside town in Spain’s sunny Costa Tropical, Motril is a sensational Mediterranean destination with something for every type of holidaymaker to enjoy when they disembark. With welcoming waters and sandy beaches at Playa de Torrenueva, Playa de Granada, and Playa de las Azucenas (just to name a few), you’ll have no trouble finding somewhere to soak up the sunshine if you’re looking for a beach day. Motril is also home to some sensational restaurants and boutique shopping experiences, with an interesting pre-industrial museum to boot. However, this port of call is also an excellent gateway to Granada – one of Spain’s most storied cities and an urban centre overflowing with incredible culture, cuisine, and historic landmarks. That, and a gorgeous dramatic backdrop afforded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Under an hour away from Motril, Granada boasts numerous breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites steeped in history, a variety of colourful shops to explore, and some of Spain’s best restaurants – the perfect place to indulge in some authentic Spanish cuisine. However you decide to spend your time in this stunning slice of southern Spain, you’re in for a real treat.

Alicante offers everything you need for the perfect city break, whatever your interests may be. For the party animals there’s legendary nightlife with countless bars and discos and people to dance with. For the beach-goer, Playa del Postiguet is within close proximity to the city promenade and has perfect facilities for a full day on the beach. For the best views, be sure to head up to Santa Bárbara Castle with your camera and take some snaps that you’ll always remember.

Also known as Mao, Mahon is the capital of the Balearic Island of Menorca. A picturesque city, it’s a wonderful place to stroll around and discover all that it has to offer; from the bustling main square to the historic Mola Fortress, Far de Favaritx lighthouse and the Museo de Menorca. A popular stop off for cruise ships, the natural harbour of the city is a beautiful place to sail into.

From Gaudí’s masterpieces to lively tapas bars, Barcelona’s unique blend of art, culture, and history will captivate you.

Established as a port town by Loius XIV, Sète is famous for its nautical background and celebrated poet and singer George Brassens. The town’s most famous son now has a popular museum in his honour, while the lake, canals and waterfront are perfect for a day of exploring. The local seafood is fantastic as well, letting you enjoy such delicacies as stuffed mussels before climbing the iconic Mont Saint-Clair to take in the stunning panorama.

Toulon started as a small fishing town in antiquity to become France’s first naval port, and the largest city in the scenic Var region. It's famous for its natural beauty. Here you can enjoy the local ‘chichis’ (similar to Spanish churros) on the beach during a pleasant stroll to the sound of the waves and chirping crickets, and explore the old town’s medieval buildings and 900-year-old cathedral. For the best views, take the cable car up Mont Furon.

Feel the thrill of Monaco’s grand casinos, stunning harbour, and dazzling Mediterranean views.

La Spezia is the second largest municipality in Liguria after Genoa and is located a few tens of kilometres from the border with Tuscany. It overlooks the eponymous gulf, which is also known as the Gulf of Poets. In the city you can visit the Technical Naval Museum, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, the Church of Nostra Signora della Neve, and the medieval Castle of San Giorgio. It is also an excellent starting point for discovering the island of Palmaria and the Cinque Terre.

Livorno is the third most populous city in Tuscany, after Florence and Prato, as well as one of the most important Italian tourist and commercial ports. It did not hold the same importance as nearby Pisa at the time of the Maritime Republics, however. Today it is a highly modern city while rich in historical evidence of the past. You can visit the historic district of New Venice, the Old Fortress, the Mascagni Terrace, and the aquarium.

Piombino is the second Tuscan port after Livorno, perfect for quickly reaching the Island of Elba. It is thought that the first human settlements date back to the Etruscan civilisation (between the 8th and the 2nd century BC), as evidenced by the tombs discovered at the nearby Populonia and Baratti. In fact, you can visit the Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia in the company of a guide, to discover the necropolises and acropolis.

The first historical testimonies of man in Olbia date back to the fourth millennium BC about. The city is located on the north-eastern side of Sardinia, on the gulf of the same name, and its port is the closest to the Peninsula. Olbia is an excellent starting point to reach the Costa Smeralda, Porto Rotondo and Golfo Aranci, as well as places of historical interest such as the Basilica of San Simplicio, the Castle of Pedres and the Tomb of the Giants of Su Mont’e S’Abe.

Today's Civitavecchia was born as an Etruscan village along the Tyrrhenian coast, but it is believed that the territory has been inhabited since the Neolithic era. The first documents mentioning the city date back to the year 107 AD; the same as the construction of the port which ended three years later. During a stop in Civitavecchia you can visit the Taurine Baths, the Michelangelo Fort, and the Cathedral.

Wander along the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, explore historic streets, and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine by the sea.

Messina is a coastal city located in the north-east of Sicily and overlooks the homonymous strait, which separates the region from the rest of the Peninsula. Founded by the Greeks in the 8th century BC, a few years before Rome, it is said that the strait was the home of Scylla and Charybdis, two sea monsters described by Homer in the Odyssey. In Messina you can admire the Duomo, the Astronomical Clock and the rich Regional Museum which houses works by famous artists.

Golden-hued streets, baroque architecture, and a fascinating history await in Malta’s stunning capital.

The island of Kefalonia has flourished after falling victim to a devastating earthquake in 1953, where almost every structure was demolished. Now, Argostoli is a thriving port city with shopping, restaurants, an active harbour and warm, friendly locals. You’ll find no shortage of traditional seafood, a quaint church, and a Blue Flag-awarded sandy beach. If you’re looking for a laid-back cruise holiday with plenty of sun, Argostoli is the place for you.

One of the charming towns on the Albanian Riviera, Saranda was once a small fishing village and has since flourished as a lively city. Here you’ll find fantastic restaurants offering traditional cuisine, a picturesque coast with beautiful beaches and historic monuments such as Lëkurësi Castle and St George’s Monastery. Whether you’re looking to splash in the turquoise-blue sea, top up your tan or discover the history of this port town, there’s something for everyone in Saranda.

Wander medieval streets, admire dramatic fjords, and soak up Montenegro’s timeless beauty.

Walk the iconic city walls, soak up the Adriatic views, and step into a storybook of medieval charm.

From the Sea Organ’s haunting melodies to Roman ruins, Zadar blends history, art, and Adriatic beauty.

As the third largest city in Croatia and en-route to Dalmatia, Rijeka is a hidden gem of historical heritage, Austrian architecture and trendy galleries, cafés and restaurants. You can spend time exploring the city on foot to admire the classic buildings and venturing into museums before relaxing with a coffee. Kids and adults alike will love the Peek and Poke Computer Museum which will keep you entertained for hours through interactive, nostalgic exhibits.

Marvel at Diocletian’s Palace, stroll along the Riva, and experience Croatia’s coastal charm.

As Crete’s largest city and popular for its association with many popular Greek myths and characters such as Minos, Daedalus, Ariadne, Theseus and the infamous labyrinth, it’s no wonder Heraklion boasts numerous museums teeming with artefacts found across the island. One of the most notable sites is the Palace of Knossos, Europe’s oldest city and home to grizzly tales of the minotaur, while the modern landscape is thriving with vibrant nightlife, shopping and dining.

Wander through medieval streets, explore ancient ruins, and relax by the crystal-clear waters of this historic Greek gem.

Wander through charming streets, enjoy vibrant nightlife, and relax by crystal-clear waters in this iconic Greek island paradise.

Explore ancient ruins, stroll along the vibrant harbour, and soak up the rich culture of Greece’s bustling port city.