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Explore Palma de Mallorca

Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal - with Smithsonian Journeys

Lisbon - Barcelona - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Le Bougainville
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Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville from Lisbon to Barcelona, exploring the rich heritage of the Portuguese and Spanish coasts. Begin in Lisbon, home to the UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower. Sail to Andalusia, visiting Cadiz and Malaga with access to the stunning Alcazar of Seville and Alhambra of Granada. Discover Palma de Mallorca’s Bellver Castle or take a vintage train through its idyllic landscapes. In Valencia, admire the Gothic La Lonja de la Seda and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. Conclude in vibrant Barcelona, captivated by Antoni Gaudiis masterpieces, including the iconic Sagrada Familia.
Sagrada Familia Cathedral in BarcelonaLisbon, PortugalExplore ValenciaThe towering cathedral of Palma de MallorcaThe beautiful port city of Cadiz, SpainExplore Palma de Mallorca
Highlights
  • Explore Lisbon’s vibrant capital, featuring the Tagus River and monuments
  • Discover Cadiz’s rich history, flamenco culture, and colorful streets
  • Wander Malaga’s charming old town, visiting Picasso’s birthplace museum
  • Admire Palma’s Fundacio Miro, showcasing the artist’s works and studio
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Lisbon | Embark

Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, sits along the banks of the Tagus River, just a few kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean. This culturally diverse city boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites at the river's mouth: the imposing Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower. Wander through the historic Alfama district, with its winding Moorish streets, charming fado bars, and old-world charm. Nearby, the elegant streets of Chiado offer a haven for luxury shopping, featuring top fashion labels and a refined atmosphere.

Day 2: At sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, do some shopping in the boutique, or meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. It is an enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

Day 3: Cadiz

Andalusia's Cadiz is located on the Costa de la Luz, in the south-west of Spain. From the beaches of Cortadura to the flamenco bars of Santa Maria and through the colorful streets of la Vina, be amazed by this city, which is steeped in history and highly festive. In the medieval El Populo district, stroll along covered passages in the narrow gaps between houses. You can also move around the lush Mina square. The show's star is the magnificent cathedral and its dome crowned with yellow porcelain, presiding above the Ocean.

Optional Excursions:

Cadiz: Gateway to Southern Spain: Founded around 1100 BCE, Cadiz is one of Western Europe’s oldest cities and a gateway to southern Spain's history and culture. Begin with a scenic walk through San Juan de Dios Square and the historic Barrio del Populo, followed by an outside view of the Baroque-style Cadiz Cathedral. Explore winding streets and lively plazas like Plaza de las Flores and Plaza de la Mina, and conclude with a vibrant flamenco performance at La Cava, paired with a delicious tapas lunch. Return to the ship enriched by this quintessentially Spanish experience.

Andalusian Treasures: Seville & Cathedral: Seville’s rich history blends Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences, creating a vibrant cultural legacy. Visit the stunning Real Alcazar and the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Stroll through Murillo Gardens, enjoy a tapas lunch, and explore the charming Santa Cruz district with its cobbled streets and orange-lined alleys.

Day 4: Malaga

A historical and festive town, Malaga is located in Andalusia on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising from the cypresses and maritime pines. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, visit the courtly Plaza de la Merced. A few streets from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist in the Buenavista palace.

Included Excursion:

Old Malaga & The Picasso Museum: Discover Malaga’s rich art and history on a walking tour through the Old Town, including the Picasso Museum housed in the historic Palacio de Buenavista. Enjoy local tapas and wine before exploring independently or returning to the ship.

Optional Excursions:

Granada: The Moorish Legacy of Andalusia: Travel to Granada to explore the Alhambra, an iconic masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Visit the Cathedral’s Royal Chapel, enjoy a local lunch, and tour the Alhambra’s stunning palaces and gardens.

Medieval Cordoba: Journey to Cordoba, once the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate and a hub of medieval scholarship. Tour the iconic Mosque-Cathedral, explore the Alcazar, and stroll through the flower-adorned Jewish Quarter.

Day 5: At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, do some shopping in the boutique, or meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. It is an enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

Day 6: Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Palma de Mallorca will reveal its many treasures: idyllic coves, majestic limestone cliffs that plunge into the clear sapphire- and turquoise-colored waters of the Mediterranean, and vast plains planted with almond trees, olive trees, and vineyards. When your ship calls at the capital of the Balearic Islands, take a walk to discover its emblematic monuments, such as its famous cathedral, and stroll through its old streets. Like a painting, the island's historical heritage forms a backdrop to the Mediterranean's lively and warm cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Included Excursion:

Fundacio Miro Mallorca & Palma City: Explore the Fundacio Miro Mallorca, showcasing Joan Miro's works and studio, then enjoy a panoramic tour of Palma. Visit the circular Bellver Castle and La Seu Cathedral, and stroll through Palma’s charming old town.

Mallorca By Vintage Train: Drive to Valldemossa, a charming town known for its artistic heritage, and explore its cobbled streets. Then, enjoy a scenic ride on the vintage Tren de Soller through the Tramuntana mountains before visiting the picturesque town of Soller.

Marivent Gardens and Palma's Old Town: Visit Marivent Gardens, home to sculptures by Joan Miro and tranquil greenery, before taking a panoramic tour of Palma. Explore the city’s Bellver Castle, La Seu Cathedral, and charming old town, ending with a taste of the famous ensaimada pastry.

Day 7: Valencia

Valencia - the city of Art and Sciences. Two hearts beat in this Spanish city: one is modern, avant-garde, and almost futuristic; the other is more provincial, traditional, and nostalgic. Valencia has the temperament of a great Mediterranean city whose wide avenues form a border around the old town. The city has an abundance of architectural styles that coexist harmoniously. Still, it resolutely embraces the 21st Century with the futuristic structures of its Agora congress center and City of Arts and Sciences, emerging from a crystal blue pool.

Included Excursion:

Albufera Natural Park & Lagoon Cruise: Visit Albufera National Park, a 50,000-acre nature reserve and bird paradise, followed by a 45-minute boat cruise through its canals. Enjoy a snack of traditional tapas before returning to the pier.

Treasures of Valencia: Explore Valencia's Old Town, visiting the UNESCO-listed La Lonja de la Seda and the Valencia Silk Museum before discovering the vibrant Las Fallas festival at its museum. Enjoy free time exploring the city or returning to the ship.

Valencia, Old and New: Start with a walking tour of Valencia’s Old Town, visiting the Cathedral and La Lonja de la Seda, before enjoying a paella lunch. Then, explore the City of Arts and Sciences, including the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, a masterpiece by architect Santiago Calatrava.

Day 8: Barcelona | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Located on the seashore between the mountains of Montjuic and Tibidabo, Barcelona offers its many visitors a perfect blend of tradition and modernism. Truly an open-air museum, the “prodigious town” reveals an astonishing range of artistic treasures and museums, combining Roman ruins, medieval districts, and several avant-garde elements from the 20th Century. Over the years, it has been marked by some of the greatest artists, such as Picasso, Miro, and Gaudi, most of whose work has been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Take the time to stroll along the Ramblas and enjoy the gentle, typically Mediterranean lifestyle of the capital of Catalonia.

Ship/Hotel

Le Bougainville

Le Bougainville Ship
Le Bougainville
Le Bouganville Restaurant

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Special Offer 26475
Book by January 17, 2025, and enjoy a complimentary 2-night pre-departure program on select Smithsonian Journeys Voyages. This promotion is subject to availability and applies to new bookings only. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.

Promo Code: 25SJPROG
Applies to Apr 19, 2025 departure

Per person starting at
$6,930 2-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Cabin
Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² Private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 4m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Deluxe Suite
Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 6m² private balcony
Cabin
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m² 8m² private balcony King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m² Capacity: up to 4 passengers per cabin 8m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds
Cabin
Owner's Suite
Area: 45 m² Capacity: up to 2 passengers per cabin 30m² private balcony; King-size bed or twin beds

Notes

Please note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and are subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
  • 24h Room Service (special selection)
  • English-Speaking Lecturer 
  • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
  • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
  • A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
  • One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
  • Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Lisbon to the ship on the day of embarkation
  • Transfer from the ship to the airport in Barcelona at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Visa Fees
  • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
  • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
  • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
  • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle

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