Cloisters & Chateaux from Lisbon to Southampton with Stay, 22 June 2027 (13 nights)

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.

A stunning example of neoclassical architecture and interior design, Palácio da Bolsa is among the most beautiful buildings in Oporto. Formerly a stock exchange, the palatial building was constructed throughout the mid-19th century as the seat of the Commercial Association. Now, though, it hosts important visitors to the city while also offering tours so tourists can take the time to marvel at the intricate interior design on display here, including a breathtaking Moorish Revival room, frescoes by Ramalho, and much more.

Boasting both incredible Gothic architecture on the outside and breathtaking Baroque architecture within, the Church of São Francisco sits in the heart of Oporto’s historic city centre. Easily one of the city’s most stunning landmarks, this 13th-century Roman Catholic church has remained relatively unaltered over the centuries, offering visitors further insight into what Oporto looked like hundreds of years ago.

One of Oporto’s most iconic landmarks, Torre dos Clérigos is an 18th-century Roman Catholic church featuring a 75-metre-tall belltower – the tallest campanile in Portugal. Boasting breathtaking Baroque architecture and interiors, climbing the belltower’s 240 steps will reward you with stunning panoramic views of Oporto and the Douro River. It’s certainly a bit of a climb, but these are unrivalled views you won’t want to miss.

A must-visit for Wizarding World fans, Livaria Lello is a historic Neo-Gothic bookshop boasting enchanting interiors. Opened in 1881, it’s one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal and is frequently ranked among the best in the world. If you’re looking for photo opportunities, you’ll certainly find them here.

Constructed by a student of Gustav Eiffel in 1886, the Dom Luís I Bridge is an iconic double-deck metal arch bridge spanning the Douro and connecting Oporto with Villa Nova de Gaia. At the time, it was the largest of its kind in the world, spanning roughly 172 metres, and today it is a fantastic place to enjoy a unique view of one of the world’s most stunning cities.

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.

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!

One of Bordeaux, France's most identifiable landmarks is the Place de la Bourse. It is made up of a number of beautifully designed buildings created by architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel that was constructed along the Garonne River from 1730 to 1775. Contributing to the city's trade, beloved reputation and the overall growth of Bordeaux, it's been a prominent attraction for centuries.

Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux is a stunning Catholic cathedral situated in the heart of Bordeaux. First mentioned in official documents dating from 814, this serves as the residence of the Archbishop of Bordeaux and has hosted two royal weddings throughout history: the marriage between Eleanor of Aquitaine and Louis VII in 1137 and the marriage of Anne of Austria and Louis XIII in 1615.

A fascinating modern museum and exhibition space that explores the soul of wine through immersive and sensory experiences, Cité du Vin invites you to embark on a sensational journey through the cultures and civilisations of wine. Housed in a unique building designed to evoke the sensation of swirling wine in a glass, you’ll encounter a wide variety of themed areas and interactive experiences, and come away having learned so much about wine in a wonderfully entertaining way.

A family-owned aquarium situated in the centre of the city, the La Rochelle Aquarium is home to more than 12,000 animals. A popular attraction to visit, you’ll learn all about the 600 species that live in the aquarium, from what it takes to care for them to their origins.

If you love to learn about automotion, this museum is the place for you. Opened in 1993, this museum is home to more than 300 contemporary and historic models, historical scenes and more. Replicating Parisian street scenes, sailing vessels and other landscapes, this extraordinary attraction is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the centre.

Known as the gateway to the old part of the city, this Gothic-style clock tower dates back to the 12th century. A fascinating landmark that’s often photographed, Gross Horloge is a must see when stopping off in La Rochelle.

Built in the 15th century, this large wooden church is a popular tourist attraction in Honfleur. Unique in its appearance, it makes for a great photo opportunity.

Spanning 10 hectares, this scenic park is home to a variety of plant life, statues and more.

Picturesque and bustling, the Port of Honfleur is surrounded by colourful buildings, restaurants and more making it a good place to explore whilst stopping off in the city.

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.