Secrets of the Iberian Peninsula

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 out from the cypresses and maritime pines. This city is also home to the birthplace of famed artist Pablo Picasso, and hosts a museum dedicated to the distinctive works of the renowned painter. 

Explore the city before boarding your ship this afternoon. 

In the province of Malaga, Marbella is a renowned seaside resort on the Costa del Sol. The remains of early Christian and Roman sites around this former mining town, located at the foot of the Sierra Blanca mountains, bear witness to a rich history. With its white houses on flowery little streets, the old town is perfect for a pleasant stroll. The Plaza de Los Naranjos, the former focal point of the city, is near the 10th-century Arabic castle and the Church of Santa María de la Encarnación. Nearby, discover the magnificent viewpoints offered by Ronda, a picturesque town perched 700 meters (2,296 feet) high. Its Puente Nuevo bridge majestically crosses the gorges of the Guadalevin River that cuts the town in two.

Standing on the banks of the Guadalquivir, Seville is a colorful city with a cosmopolitan charm. This Spanish city welcomes you with open arms while you explore its traditions and the rich heritage passed down from its Arabic history. Strolling around the Andalusian capital, discover magnificent architectural treasures like the Cathedral, the Giralda, and the Alcazar. You’ll also love the festive Sevillan atmosphere and the delicious tapas served in the city’s many bars.

Cadiz is located on the Costa de la Luz, in the southwest of Spain. From the beaches of Cortadura to the flamenco bars of Santa Maria, through the colorful streets of la Viña, discover the highlights of this ancient city, steeped in history and full of festive energy. In the medieval El Pópulo district, stroll along covered passages in the narrow gaps between houses, or wander the lush Mina square. The star of the show is the magnificent cathedral and its dome crowned with yellow porcelain, presiding above the sea.

The Andalusian city of Huelva is located on a peninsula at the confluence of the Odiel and Tinto rivers forming an estuary with the Atlantic. From Huelva, you’ll be able to discover the Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park’s different ecosystems   ̶  such as marshes, lagoons, pine forests, banks, shifting dunes, cliffs  ̶  are home to rich wildlife, including several protected species, such as the Iberian lynx. Near the park, the village of El Rocío has a Wild West feel to it. Every year, at Pentecost, its sandy streets welcome the Romería, Spain’s biggest pilgrimage.

Portugal’s capital, located on the banks of the Tagus River only a few kilometers from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbor impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments: Jeronimos monastery and Belem tower. The Alfama hillside is also worth visiting: known for its fado bars and Moorish streets, this district is the oldest in the city and one of the most typical. Nearby Chiado’s elegant streets are home to big fashion labels and are an invitation to a bit of luxury shopping.

Today you may choose to join an optional excursion: 

From the pier, board your coach and pass by the historic districts of Lisbon: Rossio, also known as Dom Pedro IV Square, a lively place at any time of the day; Marquis of Pombal Square, dominated by the statue of the chief minister of Portugal between 1750 and 1777; and Belém, known as the Discoveries quarter due to its 16th-century monuments. Admire Belém Tower's lacy Venetian balconies and turreted towers, and the Monument of the Discoveries, an impressive structure dedicated to Henry the Navigator, designed to commemorate the age of the Discoveries.
Walk to Jeronimos Church & Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 16th century. This monument, with a late gothic (Manueline style) architecture, is a tribute to the Portuguese Discoveries. It was designed by several architects to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India. The construction began on January 06, 1501, and was completed during the 17th century. The monastery was built on the site of the former chapel Santa Maria de Belém, where Vasco da Gama prayed before sailing towards the African coast to reach India. Afterward, enjoy some free time before reboarding your coach and returning to the pier.

OR

From the pier, board your four-wheel drive Jeep for a 45-minute drive to Sesimbra. On the way, take the 25th April Bridge. Built by the American Steel Company and inaugurated in 1966, it closely resembles the famed Golden Gate Bridge in California. After crossing the bridge, head to Sesimbra fishing village. Make a stop at Sesimbra medieval Castle, which stands on a cliff over a cove and offers stunning views.
Your tour will take you to Portinho da Arrábida beach (weather permitting), admiring the Arrábida Natural Park. Enjoy a driving tour discovering the unique landscape of this coastal park. One of the main attractions is the wealth of its indigenous vegetation, one of the reasons which led the Arrábida zone to be considered as a genuine international scientific relic. On the way, enjoy some photo stops to admire the white limestone cliffs and sea views.
At the end of your tour, head to Azeitão to visit a wine cellar and taste local wines made with Moscatel grapes.
Finally, return to your ship.

Your journey concludes after breakfast. Disembark in Lisbon to continue your independent travels or begin your journey home.