Treasures of Spain

Casablanca, a cornerstone of Moroccan culture pre-French colonization, remains iconic. Marrakesh boasts classical Moorish architecture and the ancient Bahia Palace gardens. Amid Casablanca's Central Market and Marrakesh's Jemaa el-Fnaa, energy abounds. The monumental Hassan II Mosque, with its innovative Moorish design, stands tall above the Atlantic, offering breathtaking views.

The city of Ceuta is an autonomous Spanish territory located on the northern coast of Africa, bordering Morocco. Its history and culture have been shaped by various religious influences, including Christians, Sephardic Jews, Muslims, and Sindhis, making it a diverse and exciting destination for curious explorers. At the heart of the city lies the charming Plaza de África, surrounded by lush tropical plants and cobblestone paths. A short walk away is the Plaza de los Reyes, where you can catch a glimpse of Ceuta’s fantastical Casa de los Dragones. For a refreshing break in the summer, head over to the Mediterraneo Marine Park.

With so much to see in the Andalusia region of Spain, Almería is often overlooked. But it holds an enchantment all its own, with fairytale castles amid colorful modern buildings. At Cabo de Gata Natural Park you find a spectacular beach of unspoiled sands and blue water with a backdrop of dunes, cacti, and mountains. About 30 kilometers northwest of Almería you also find Desierto Tabernas, Europe’s only desert, and the setting of the famous Sergio Leone starring Clint Eastwood. Discover a local eatery in the quaint fishing town of Garrucha to sample the port’s famous red prawns, fresh-caught from the harbor.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
 

Dalt Vila, also known as Ibiza Town, is one of the Balearic’s most picturesque cities and a fabulous place to wander around. It’s home to an old port and historic city ramparts and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island of Ibiza has some of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the Mediterranean, including Ses Figueretes and Playa D’en Bossa. Wherever you choose to swim or sunbathe, you will find inviting clear blue waters and golden sands lined with beach bars. For a more relaxing excursion, head toward S’Espalmador, a small, uninhabited island between Ibiza and Formentera.

An exploration of Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia, will leave you in wide-eyed wonder. Its architecture, culture, and flavors amid the sun and blue skies provide pure energy and anticipation. Valencia holds the same charms of historical structures as more frequently visited cities in Spain but with fewer crowds. Over in the City of Arts and Sciences, an expanse of 350,000 square meters of the old Turia riverbed, many institutions – like the Oceanográfic Valencia, Europe’s largest aquarium – invite you to come and play.
 

The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona, lives up to its reputation as a center of grand architecture and inspiring art. Antoni Gaudi’s Park Guell displays architecture as art, making for a whimsical and colorful stroll through Barcelona. Stretching from La Rambla to Via Laietana you will find the Gothic Quarter, the city’s historic center with intricate medieval buildings and streets turned into modern bars, clubs, and restaurants. A short way up La Rambla you’ll come across La Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets, filled with fruits, pastries, and many tasty samples of local fare.
 

Bid farewell and disembark from your ship, preparing to head home