Costa Pacifica - Germany, Netherlands, England, France, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, Italy. 10 September, Kiel ITINERARY AVAILABLE EXCURSIONS

Transcription

1 Costa Pacifica Germany, Netherlands, England, France, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, Italy 10 September, Kiel ITINERARY DATE PORT ARRIVAL DEPARTURE 09/10 Kiel /11...CRUISING /12 Amsterdam /13 Dover /14 Le Havre /15...CRUISING /16 La Coruna /17 Leixoes /18 Lisbon /19 Gibraltar /20...CRUISING /21 Barcelona /22 Savona AVAILABLE EXCURSIONS Amsterdam - 12/09/ H0 VIEWS OF AMSTERDAM AND INDEPENDENT VISIT TO THE VAN GOGH MUSEUM 02D7 HOLLAND SEEN THROUGH A VIRTUAL FLIGHT AND CANAL CRUISE 02D8 AMSTERDAM BETWEEN SKY AND SEA 2762 AMSTERDAM CITY TOUR AND CANAL CRUISE 2763 THE WINDMILLS OF ZAANSE SCHANS AND THE VILLAGE OF VOLENDAM Dover - 13/09/ CANTERBURY 2106 PANORAMIC TOUR OF LONDON AND CRUISE ON THE THAMES 2113 LONDON IN A DAY 2114 CANTERBURY AND LEEDS CASTLE 2120 MEDIEVAL RYE 2121 LONDON AND THE BRITISH MUSEUM 2122 FOOTLOOSE IN LONDON 2123 DISCOVER LONDON AND MADAME TUSSAUDS WAXWORKS MUSEUM Le Havre - 14/09/ THE HISTORY AND MYSTICISM OF ROUEN 1974 ÉTRETAT AND FÉCAMP, IMPRESSIONIST LANDSCAPES AND LIQUEUR DISTILLERIES 1975 ROMANTIC AND IMPRESSIONIST HONFLEUR 2055 TRANSFER TO HONFLEUR - EASY TOUR La Coruna - 16/09/ VX EXPLORING LA CORUÑA AND ITS FLAVOURS 00IO WALK AROUND LA CORUÑA, BETWEEN THE PAST AND THE PRESENT PAGE 1

2 00IQ A WALK IN THE COUNTRY ALONG THE ROAD TO SANTIAGO 00SO PANORAMIC TOUR ALONG THE COAST FROM LA CORUÑA TO THE RÍA DE BETANZOS (Estuary of Betanzos) 0659 A STEP BACK IN THE HISTORY OF CORUÑA AND BETANZOS 0660 LUGO: ITS MILLENARY WALLS AND THE HEART OF THE CITY 0663 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA AMONG ART, CULTURE AND SPIRITUALITY 0664 PANORAMIC TOUR OF LA CORUÑA Leixoes - 17/09/ A TOUR OF PORTO 0742 BRAGA AND GUIMARAES 0743 TOUR OF THE CITY OF PORTO AND CRUISE ON THE RIVER DOURO 0744 PANORAMIC PORTO 0048 WALKING TOUR OF PORTO Lisbon - 18/09/ A THE HEART OF ALFAMA BY SEGWAY 012G TIME OUT ON THE BEACH OF CARCAVELOS 0714 DISCOVER LISBON BY TRAM 0716 A JEEP TRIP TO THE EDGE OF EUROPE 0717 TOUR OF LISBON AND ITS AQUARIUM 0719 A WALK THROUGH THE HEART OF LISBON 071A DISCOVER LISBON BY TRAM 0721 VISIT LISBON 0722 SINTRA AND QUELUZ 0723 FATIMA 0725 THE ROYAL PALACE OF SINTRA,CASCAIS AND A SIGHTSEEING TOUR OF LISBON 0736 SIGHTSEEING TOUR OF LISBON AND A VISIT TO SINTRA'S PALACIO DA PENA 0737 ARRÁBIDA NATURE PARK WITH WINE TASTING SESSION Gibraltar - 19/09/ JF PANORAMIC GIBRALTAR & TAPAS 01JG TOP OF THE ROCK: GIBRALTAR ON YOUR OWN 1711 PANORAMIC TOUR OF GIBRALTAR 1712 GIBRALTAR AND THE ROCK 1713 IN SEARCH OF DOLPHINS Barcelona - 21/09/ FW EXPLORING BARCELONA AND ITS MANY FLAVOURS 006E TOUR OF BARCELONA 009B BARCINO, THE HIDDEN ROMAN CITY 02E9 GAUDI S BARCELONA BY SEGWAY (long itinerary) 02EA DISCOVERING OLYMPIC BARCELONA BY SEGWAY (short itinerary) 0759 PANORAMA OF BARCELONA AND THE CAMP NOU STADIUM 0765 EASY TOUR BARCELLONA 0518 AROUND BARCELONA BY ELECTRIC BIKE 0523 GAUDÍ'S MASTERPIECES 0526 MONTSERRAT MONASTERY 0527 SIGHTSEEING TOUR OF BARCELONA AND SHOPPING 0658 THE SAGRADA FAMILIA AND GAUDÍ'S MAGICAL SPLENDOUR PAGE 2

3 Savona - 22/09/ PRINCIPALITY OF MONACO FROM THE ANCIENT CITY TO THE ELITE MONTE CARLO 0381 GENOA AQUARIUM, ANCIENT PORT AND BOAT TRIP 009T FREE TIME IN GENOA 01QJ FINALBORGO AND NOLI: A JOURNEY BACK TO THE MIDDLE AGES 2068 ANCIENT GENOA: PORT, HISTORIC CENTRE AND A NEW ROADWAY AMONGST WONDERS AND FLAVOURS 2072 GOURMET TOUR: THE LANGHE, THE LAND OF BAROLO AND TRUFFLES 01Z8 ITALY'S HIDDEN TREASURES - SEBORGA PAGE 3

4 Amsterdam VIEWS OF AMSTERDAM AND INDEPENDENT VISIT TO THE VAN GOGH MUSEUM An unmissable sightseeing tour of the incredible city of Amsterdam, known as the "Venice of the North" thanks to its unique appearance. The wonderful canals, lined with typical tall narrow houses with distinctive gables, all different from one another, are enchanting. Then we will be free to roam the magnificent collection at the Van Gogh Museum. It is not permitted to take bags into the museum. 00H0 4 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Amsterdam HOLLAND SEEN THROUGH A VIRTUAL FLIGHT AND CANAL CRUISE An unprecedented experience of a virtual flight designed for guests who do not have much time available to admire all the marvels the Netherlands have to offer but who do not want to miss out on the major sights. We end the excursion with a pleasant cruise along Amsterdam s canals to take in the charm of this Venice of the North. Amsterdam-Noord district This is Holland** Virtual flight across the Netherlands Canal cruise We will leave our ship in the port of Amsterdam, the second largest in Holland after Rotterdam, and get on a ferry crossing the North Sea Canal, constructed during the second half of the 19th century and 21 km long. Our destination is the incredible This is Holland attraction, thanks to which we can admire a bird s eye view of the most PAGE 4

5 0 beautiful places in Holland. A futuristic experience awaits us: we enjoy the magic of a simulated flight over the enchanting Dutch scenery, which is realistically projected below our feet. We take seat on a series of mobile seats hooked to steel arms moving inside a dome that vary their height and inclination according to the projection. We see all the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and get the chance to admire the beautiful landscape as well as the great engineering works thanks to which the Dutch manage to keep the ocean at bay. Suspended in the air with hands and feet dangling freely, we go on a thrilling 8-minute flight to explore Kinderdijk's windmills, Amsterdam s canals, fields in bloom, Rotterdam s port, the Deltawerken, i.e. the lock and dam system that protects the country from the sea, as well as multiple other sights from a unique perspective. Our experience is made even more realistic by special effects such as wind, mist, the gurgling of the water and the scent of the tulips, making this adventure truly unique. After this short yet thrilling virtual adventure, we get on a private boat for a sightseeing tour along the numerous canals that make up the city and which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hour-long tour is perfect to admire the marvels that pass before our eyes from a privileged point of view: the characteristic tall narrow buildings flanking the canals with their unique façades, the famous houseboats moored along the banks and the many bridges of all shapes and sizes. 02D7 3 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Recommended to families Amsterdam AMSTERDAM BETWEEN SKY AND SEA Let us admire the beauties of the city of Amsterdam from two privileged points of view: a 100 m high observation platform and a boat gliding along the charming canals of the Venice of the North. Canal crossing by ferry PAGE 5

6 A dam Lookout Interactive exhibition and suspended swing (optional) Boat cruise along the canals 0 We leave the port behind as we enjoy a lovely stroll towards Amsterdam s central station. Just like the locals do everyday, we get on a ferry crossing the North Sea Canal, constructed during the second half of the 19th century and 21 km long. We thus reach the first stop on our excursion: the A dam Lookout, an observation platform from where you can enjoy a 360 view of the city. The tower was built on the river bank and dominates the landscape at 100 metres tall. The city of Amsterdam stretches out below our feet: we admire the historic city centre, the lively port and the famous canals declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as far as the typical bright green coastal plains. Those interested in learning more about the history and culture of the Dutch capital can visit the state-of-the-art interactive exhibition. The A dam Lookout has something in store for thrill-seekers too: an incredible series of suspended swings over the edge of the platform, of course safely fastened to our seats. This breathtaking experience is not included in the entry to the tower, but it is a chance the most courageous do not want to miss. Our feet are back firmly on the ground, but not for long: we get on a private boat for a sightseeing tour along the numerous canals that make up the city and which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hour-long tour is perfect to admire the marvels that pass before our eyes from a privileged point of view: the characteristic tall narrow buildings flanking the canals with their unique façades, the famous houseboats moored along the banks and the many bridges of all shapes and sizes. 02D8 3 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Recommended to families Amsterdam AMSTERDAM CITY TOUR AND CANAL CRUISE PAGE 6

7 Short itinerary featuring the major landmarks in the Dutch capital, with the added attraction of an unmissable cruise along its typical canals to admire the charm of this "Venice of the North" from the water. We will see the splendid buildings and magnificent monuments that enhance Amsterdam and we will find out more about its history Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Recommended to families Most wanted Amsterdam THE WINDMILLS OF ZAANSE SCHANS AND THE VILLAGE OF VOLENDAM An exciting itinerary which takes us back in time to the windmills of industrious, rural Holland and an ancient fishing village where it is not unusual to see local people dressed in traditional clothes. We will visit two of the most fascinating places in the Netherlands, with enchanting picture postcard scenery Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Meal Included Dover CANTERBURY PAGE 7

8 A historical and cultural excursion around Canterbury and its magnificent English Gothic cathedral, one of the great symbols of Christian England. The county of Kent Canterbury Canterbury Cathedral The tomb of Thomas Becket We set off by coach from the port of Dover and cut across the County of Kent, also known as the Garden of England for its lush landscape. Our destination is the city of Canterbury, one of the oldest centres of Christianity in England and historically one of the most important sites of pilgrimage in northern Europe, as recounted in Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. We begin with a walk around some of the city's typical, narrow streets before arriving at Canterbury Cathedral, a magnificent building that was extended and modified on several occasions over the years at the behest of one or other of the city's Archbishops. After a guided tour around the exterior of the building, we will be free to explore the interior and stop to admire the tomb of the most beloved saint in England, Archbishop Thomas Becket, who was assassinated in this very church in 1170, a victim of the fierce rivalry between Church and State at the time /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Cultural Meal not included Dover PANORAMIC TOUR OF LONDON AND CRUISE ON THE THAMES This tour offers an introduction to London and its main attractions. The capital of the United Kingdom welcomes us with its distinctive red double-decker buses, friendly bobbies, monumental churches, imposing statues and charming pubs. PAGE 8

9 Buckingham Palace Westminster Abbey Big Ben St. Paul's Cathedral Tower Bridge Thames Cruise Parliament Square We make our way to the centre of London by coach and remain on board for a panoramic tour of the city, which takes us past the capital's most important landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament and the famous Tower Bridge. We continue to admire this beautiful city as we embark on a delightful cruise on the River Thames, during which an expert guide will provide a summary of all of the sights we see along the banks of the river. Back on dry land, we head for Parliament Square where we have the opportunity to take photographs of the surrounding landmarks, which include Westminster Abbey where all the kings and queens of England were crowned and the Palace of Westminster also known as the Houses of Parliament, seat of the two chambers of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. We end our tour with a bite to eat and the chance to do a little shopping at Covent Garden or Westminster or Tower of London Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Good for shopping Recommended to families Disabled friendly Basket Lunch Dover LONDON IN A DAY This excursion concentrates the London experience into one day, ideal for those who are unfamiliar with the United Kingdom's vibrant capital. PAGE 9

10 Buckingham Palace Covent Garden the Houses of Parliament the Tower of London Tower Bridge We set off from the port of Dover by coach and head straight to the centre of London where we make our first stop in front of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British Monarchy, centre of royal affairs and setting for many official ceremonies. We pause outside the palace to immortalise the wonderful view in a photograph. We make our way towards Parliament Square, another ideal spot to take a few pictures. Here we are surrounded by some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including Westminster Abbey where all the kings and queens of England were crowned and the Palace of Westminster also known as the Houses of Parliament, seat of the two chambers of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. We take a break for a bite to eat and the chance to do a little shopping at Covent Garden with its famous crafts market and an inimitable atmosphere created by entertaining street performers. The last stop of our tour is a photo stop in front of the celebrated Tower of London, the historic prison where various illustrious figures from history have been detained, and even executed, and the famous Tower Bridge, which links the two banks of the River Thames and dominates many a photo of the city. After this last stop, we head back to Dover by coach Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Recommended to families Basket Lunch Disabled friendly Most wanted Dover CANTERBURY AND LEEDS CASTLE PAGE 10

11 A historical and cultural excursion around Canterbury and its magnificent English Gothic cathedral, one of the great symbols of Christian England. Canterbury Canterbury Cathedral The tomb of Thomas Becket Leeds Castle We set off by coach from the port of Dover and cut across the county of Kent, also known as the Garden of England for its lush, verdant landscape. Our destination is the city of Canterbury, one of the oldest centres of Christianity in England and historically one of the most important sites of pilgrimage in northern Europe, as recounted in Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. We begin with a walk around some of the city's typical, narrow streets before arriving at Canterbury Cathedral, a magnificent building that over the years has been extended and modified on various occasions at the behest of the various Archbishops of Canterbury. After a guided tour around the exterior of the building, we will be free to explore the interior and stop to admire the tomb of the most beloved saint in England, Archbishop Thomas Becket, who was assassinated in this very church in 1170, a victim of the fierce rivalry between Church and State at the time. After our visit to the cathedral, we have some free time for a bite to eat and stroll around the centre of Canterbury. Back on board the coach, we make our way to Leeds Castle to immerse ourselves in its romantic atmosphere of princely grandeur. We explore the castle and its beautiful grounds then make our way back to Dover. Places on this excursion are limited. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. The itinerary may be subject to change. There is no guide during our internal visit of Canterbury Cathedral and Leeds Castle, as the provision of such service is not allowed at these sites. Lunch is not included. We recommend you try one of the area's cafés during the allocated free time. The local currency is the Pound Sterling. Euros are not accepted /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR PAGE 11

12 Sightseeing Cultural Recommended to families Meal not included Dover MEDIEVAL RYE An excursion that takes us back in time as we wander through enchanting narrow streets and medieval towns brimming with centuries of history. The scenery of Kent Tenterden Rye's historic town centre We set off from the port by coach and make our way through the delightful scenery of the county of Kent, with its beautiful countryside and traditional farms that have earned it the nickname the Garden of England. We arrive at Tenterden, a small town that seems to have withstood the passage of time, maintaining an old-world charm with its long streets, small shops and traditional houses, many of which have kept their original 16th and 17th century façades. We board our coach once more and make our way to the small town of Rye. Once surrounded by the sea, today it is famous for fishing and for its traditional pottery. Rye is increasingly regarded as one of the most picturesque towns in England, attracting many visitors. Once we reach the town we will have some free time to explore the historic centre. Here we can visit the Rye Heritage Centre where we can learn about the town and its history /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Eco Natural Trail Recommended to families Disabled friendly Dover LONDON AND THE BRITISH MUSEUM PAGE 12

13 This fascinating excursion takes us to one of the world's greatest museums, the British Museum in London, where we can quench our thirst for knowledge and culture. Panoramic tour of London's key attractions Covent Garden The British Museum The coach journey from the port to the centre of London takes around 2 hours each way. A guide is not provided for the return journey to the port /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Meal not included Dover FOOTLOOSE IN LONDON A day spent exploring London at your leisure, discovering the British capital's most fascinating sights and landmarks. The London Eye A schedule-free day exploring the city We leave the port and make our way to the centre of London by coach, in the company of an expert guide. We stop close to the London Eye, the giant observation wheel that offers marvellous views of London in all directions from its glass capsules. Our guide will provide a number of essential tips for the rest of our time in London before we are left to enjoy a free day PAGE 13

14 exploring the busy, bustling streets and uniquely elegant historic buildings of the British capital. This excursion does not feature a guide The local currency is the Pound Sterling. Euros are not accepted. This tour includes a basket lunch prepared by our ship staff Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Good for shopping Basket Lunch Dover DISCOVER LONDON AND MADAME TUSSAUDS WAXWORKS MUSEUM A fun-filled excursion awaits us on the streets of London and inside Madame Tussauds, a museum of lifelike waxworks and many other jaw-dropping attractions. Panoramic tour Covent Garden Madam Tussauds The Spirit of London Ride Marvel Super Heroes 4D The coach journey between Dover and London lasts about 2 hours. A guide is not provided for the return journey to the port /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR PAGE 14

15 Sightseeing Fun Recommended to families Meal not included Le Havre THE HISTORY AND MYSTICISM OF ROUEN An excursion on the theme of art, history and mysticism: Rouen, the pearl of Normandy, is not called a "Museum City" for nothing. It amazes visitors with its architecture spanning the centuries from Medieval to Gothic in a mysterious and mystical atmosphere. It's also famous for Joan of Arc, the great French heroine who seems to come back to life at every corner. Rouen: the old town Rue Saint Romain and the church of Saint Maclou Rue du Gros Horloge and the courthouse Rouen Cathedral and its two towers, Tour Saint Romain and Tour de Beurre Place du Vieux Marché Our excursion will take us on a complete visit to the city of Rouen, situated on the northern banks of the Seine and considered to be the historic capital of Normandy as well as a source of inspiration for many writers and painters. The guide leads us on a walk along the narrow streets of the old town with over seven hundred houses, large and small, built in typical style from wood and timber, characteristic examples of medieval architectural techniques. We will then stroll along Rue Saint-Romain, one of the most beautiful streets in the city with the magnificent church of Saint Maclou, an exceptional example of flamboyant Gothic architecture. We will continue along the lively and highly populated Rue du Gros Horloge with its exceptional defensive clock tower and admire the adjacent courthouse/, housed in a magnificent Renaissance building. We then visit Rouen Cathedral (13th-16th century.), considered to be one of the greatest examples of French Gothic art. What is most attractive about the cathedral is its variety: the immense façade, bristling with fretworked pinnacles, rises up between two completely different towers, the Tour Saint Romain on the left and the Tour de Beurre on the right. Before enjoying our free time, perhaps indulging in some shopping, we will stop at the Place du Vieux Marché, the old market square where Joan of Arc was burnt alive as a heretic in The excursion is reserved for guests who do not disembark at Le Havre. This excursion is not recommended for guests with mobility problems. PAGE 15

16 /2 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Cultural Recommended to families Le Havre ÉTRETAT AND FÉCAMP, IMPRESSIONIST LANDSCAPES AND LIQUEUR DISTILLERIES A tour of rare beauty that takes in nature and art, from the majestic rocks of the Normandy coast painted by the great impressionist artists, to the traditional techniques of the distilleries and cellars where we sample the famous Bénédictine liqueur. Étretat: rocks, cliffs and town centre, medieval church and market square Fécamp: Benedictine palace, distillery and cellars, with tasting session The first stage of our tour is the small town of Étretat, located by the sea and famous for having inspired the works of two great impressionist painters: Claude Monet and Eugène Isabey. The town has always enjoyed an excellent reputation, thanks in part to its position which today makes Étretat a famous tourist resort. Before exploring the town we will admire the majesty of the high cliffs and the various forms of the rocks on which the waves break: an unforgettable spectacle at any time of year, immortalised in the famous paintings of Monet and Isabey and a source of inspiration for numerous writers, artists and directors. We will then visit the town centre with its elegant wooden houses, medieval church and enchanting market square brought to life by delightful little shops and wooden architecture. Leaving Étretat we travel along the coast towards Fécamp where we visit the 19th century Benedictine palace inspired by Gothic and Renaissance styles. Although it has the appearance of a palace, in reality it is home to a distillery producing the famous Bénédictine liqueur. The building also hosts an original collection from the famous Fécamp abbey: alongside sculptures, monastic charters and books from the monks' library we can see documents and utensils connected to the production of the liqueur. We will then visit the distillery and cellars overflowing with oak barrels, while in a dedicated room an exhibition of the 27 herbs and spices used to distil the Bénédictine liqueur awaits. Our tour will end with a tasting session on site and an opportunity to visit the gift shop. The excursion is reserved for guests who do not disembark at Le Havre. This excursion is not recommended for guests with mobility problems. PAGE 16

17 We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available /2 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Refreshments included Le Havre ROMANTIC AND IMPRESSIONIST HONFLEUR We will explore the delightful little town of Honfleur, a real gem that has remained unaltered for centuries, retaining all the charm of those sea ports whose atmosphere is perfectly immortalised in the paintings of the great Romantic and Impressionist artists. Honfleur: the old port, the lieutenant's residence, the old city gates and the church of Saint Catherine This excursion is an opportunity to savour the enchantingly peaceful Honfleur, a picturesque fishing town at the mouth of the Seine that dates back to the 13th century and is still perfectly preserved today. Already known as a base from which to set off on journeys of discovery, allowing France to expand its colonial territories, Honfleur is also considered the birthplace of impressionism and romantic art. To begin the tour our guide will lead us along the streets of this peaceful town with its typical wooden houses with slate roofs. During the guided tour, we admire the extraordinary 17th century port (Vieux Bassin) the lieutenant's residence (la lieutenance), the historic city gates and the enchanting 15th century church of Saint Catherine built entirely from wood. The imposing chestnut-wood clock tower rises to the side of the church and above the bell ringer's residence. With free time on our hands we can explore this pretty little town independently, stroll along the narrow streets of the port or through the historic centre and buy souvenirs at the numerous shops. The excursion is reserved for guests who do not disembark at Le Havre. This excursion is not recommended for guests with mobility problems. PAGE 17

18 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Cultural Good for shopping Recommended to families Le Havre TRANSFER TO HONFLEUR - EASY TOUR Let yourself be captivated by the small town of Honfleur, a real gem that has remained unaltered for centuries, retaining all the charm of those sea ports whose atmosphere is perfectly immortalised in the paintings of the great Romantic and Impressionist artists. Honfleur: the historic port and the old town After a coach journey of around 30 minutes we will reach Honfleur, a picturesque fishing town at the mouth of the Seine that dates back to the 13th century and is still perfectly preserved today. The centre of Honfleur revolves around the Vieux Bassin, the 17th century port, while to the east lies the heart of the old town, known as Enclos due to the fortifications that once surrounded it. With free time on our hands we can explore this pretty little town independently, stroll along the narrow streets of the port or through the historic centre and buy souvenirs at the numerous shops. We return to the port by coach at the end of the visit. This excursion does not include a guide Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR La Coruna EXPLORING LA CORUÑA AND ITS FLAVOURS A walking tour of La Coruña to discover its modernist architecture and evocative views of the sea and to also discover Galician PAGE 18

19 culture through local delicacies. La Coruña city centre Maria Pita square Calle Real Chocolate and churros tasting session Pescadería district Pontevedra square and market Tasting session of wine and local products We start our walking tour from Maria Pita square, the location of the Town Hall and one of the unmissable sights of the city. The square is named after the 16th-century heroine who led the successful defence against an attempt to invade the city by the British Counter Armada commanded by Sir Francis Drake. We walk along the pedestrian Calle Real, flanked by buildings with huge glass façades which have earned La Coruña the nickname "City of Crystal". We take advantage of the numerous cafés for a delicious break for chocolate and churros, a snack typical of Iberian cuisine. We continue our walk through the Pescadería district, located on an isthmus between the beach and the harbour and home to the most beautiful streets of the city flanked by historic buildings as far as the public gardens with their lush greenery. We then head towards Pontevedra square, where we can better understand the layout of the city, which was developed mainly on the more sheltered side and not on the beach side, swept by strong winds and waves. Our next stop is the municipal market, the only remaining traditional market famous for its fish. A great quantity of other products such as Galician specialities and meat can also be found there. Our walk ends with a tasting session of wine and local products not far from the market before heading back to the ship. 01VX 3 1/2 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Cultural La Coruna WALK AROUND LA CORUÑA, BETWEEN THE PAST AND THE PRESENT PAGE 19

20 Let us not be dazzled by the light reflected on the windows and keep our eyes wide open because the "Crystal City" has many treasures in store for us to admire. Galerias St. Anthony's Castle Tower of Hercules Town Hall and Plaza de Maria Pita After leaving the port, we head for the City's seafront to begin our scenic tour. The galerias, buildings with huge glass façades which have earned La Coruna the nickname "City of Crystal", file past before our eyes. Indeed, in the past when the sea was closer to the city, the windows reflected the sun's rays on the water surface creating new, endlessly changing light effects. We then admire St. Anthony's Castle; originally built as an island fortress, the castle is now an archaeological museum connected to the city by a strip of land. The Tower of Hercules, the next stop on our journey, is the only lighthouse in the world built by the Romans that is still in use today. We stop in this enchanting place to capture the tower in our souvenir photos. This symbol of the city even figures on the La Coruña coat of arms with the bones of Geryon, a giant who, according to the legend, was killed by Hercules and is buried below the lighthouse. Our journey on foot begins near the Town Hall, in Plaza de Maria Pita, one of the unmissable sights of the city. The square is named after the 16th century heroine who led the successful defence against an attempt to invade the city by the British Counter Armada commanded by Sir Francis Drake. Before we return to the port there will be a little free time to spend in the historic centre with its many shops, bars and restaurants. Space is limited, so please reserve early. 00IO 2 1/2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural PAGE 20

21 La Coruna A WALK IN THE COUNTRY ALONG THE ROAD TO SANTIAGO A journey on foot in close contact with Nature permeated by the intoxicating aroma of eucalyptus: ideal for preparing the spirit for an unforgettable visit to the Cathedral of Santiago. A stroll in the country on a section of the Road to Santiago Santiago, Cathedral Lunch with tapas at the Parador dos Reis Católicos Our journey on foot starts from Melide and winds through meadows, farms, eucalyptus forests and old stone bridges over streams that make up the picturesque scenery surrounding the faithful along this section of the Road to Santiago. We return to the coach and set off for Santiago, a final destination for pilgrims from all over Europe since the Middle Ages. Our guide provides a commentary on pilgrimages and reveals the secrets of the Cathedral, a major Catholic sanctuary and the burial place of the Apostle Saint James the Greater, patron saint of Spain and Christian martyr. Next on the excursion itinerary is a stop at the Parador dos Reis Católicos, where we enjoy a lunch with tasty tapas. After lunch, we still have some free time to explore this fascinating old city before returning to La Coruña. We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available. 00IQ 7 Hours approximately Hard EUR EUR Sightseeing Eco Natural Trail Sports Lovers Tasting La Coruna PANORAMIC TOUR ALONG THE COAST FROM LA CORUÑA TO THE RÍA DE BETANZOS (Estuary of Betanzos) The visit to the historic centre of La Coruña combined with a more unusual experience, a journey of discovery of the estuaries of the "Crystal City". PAGE 21

22 Galerias St. Anthony's Castle Tower of Hercules Pontedeume, mouth of the River Eume, Tower of Andrade Galician Forest and the estuaries Ría de Betanzos (Estuary of Betanzos) After leaving the port, we head for the City's seafront to begin our scenic tour. The galerias, buildings with huge glass façades which have earned La Coruna the nickname "City of Crystal", file past before our eyes. Indeed, in the past when the sea was closer to the city, the windows reflected the sun's rays on the water surface creating new, endlessly changing light effects. We then admire St. Anthony's Castle; originally built as an island fortress, the castle is now an archaeological museum connected to the city by a strip of land. The Tower of Hercules, the next stop on our journey, is the only lighthouse in the world built by the Romans that is still in use today. We stop in this enchanting place to capture the tower in our souvenir photos. This symbol of the city even figures on the La Coruña coat of arms with the bones of Geryon, a giant who, according to the legend, was killed by Hercules and is buried below the lighthouse. We board the coach again and head for Pontedeume, a small town in the Gulf of Artabro, in the Ría di Ares (Ares estuary), at the mouth of the river Eume. When we arrive in the town, we make a brief stop to admire the 14th century Tower of Andrade from the exterior. The tower, which is 18 metres high and 11.5 metres wide, is the last remnant of the Pazo de los Andrade, a palace incorporated in the old city walls that was gradually demolished to make room for new traffic circulation roads. We return to the coach and continue our tour along the coast. We can admire close-up the lush Galician forest and the estuaries. Along the way we are spellbound by beautiful views of the ocean, some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, and wonderful views of picturesque villages. We then stop to savour some delicious tapas in a traditional restaurant with views of the Rìa de Betanzos before returning to the ship. We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available. 00SO 4 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR PAGE 22

23 Sightseeing Eco Natural Trail Tasting La Coruna A STEP BACK IN THE HISTORY OF CORUÑA AND BETANZOS We set off to explore the historical and artistic heritage of Betanzos and La Coruña, with views of the beaches in the region providing a perfect backdrop. Betanzos views of the beaches of Riazor and Orzán and of St. Anthony's Castle Tower of Hercules After leaving the port we go by coach to Betanzos, which was declared a "Site of historical and artistic interest" in 1970 by the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science. We leave the coach and proceed to explore the streets of the centre on foot as far as the Church of St. Francis, a 14th century Gothic building. We have time for a little shopping before leaving. We return to the coach to continue our sightseeing tour, with beautiful views of the beaches of Riazor and Orzán and St. Anthony's Castle, winding along the coast up to La Coruna. When we arrive in the Galician capital, we stop at the Tower of Hercules, the only lighthouse in the world built by the Romans that is still in use today. We stop in this enchanting place to take souvenir photos of the tower which is a symbol of the city, and even figures on the La Coruña coat of arms together with the bones of Geryon, a giant who, according to legend, was killed by Hercules and is buried under the lighthouse. The excursion involves walking a distance of approximately 1.5 km (roughly a 2 hour walk) over rough terrain, it is therefore not recommended for guests who have mobility problems (especially those in wheelchairs) /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Good for shopping PAGE 23

24 La Coruna LUGO: ITS MILLENARY WALLS AND THE HEART OF THE CITY A city that is rich in history and art awaits us beyond its unique walls. Roman city walls Cathedral Church and cloister of St. Francis Church, convent and cloister of St. Dominic Clock Tower Palace of the Arts. After leaving the port we head to Lugo, the only European city surrounded by Roman walls that are still completely intact. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in With a perimeter of 2,117 meters and a height ranging from 8 to 10 meters, with 71 of the 85 original towers still standing and 10 entrance gates, the walls are the most obvious and well preserved testimony of the thriving past of the city that was once the hub of a gold rich region. The Roman bridge over the River Miño, is also of great historical interest; it is 104 metres long and 4 metres wide and was rebuilt and repaired many times over the centuries. Inside the walls stands St. Mary's Cathedral, a Romanesque church which houses the chapel dedicated to San Froilán, the patron saint of the city, and boasts the Perpetual Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament, also featured on the coat of arms of the city. From the Romanesque style of the Cathedral, we move on to the Gothic Church of Saint Francis. Built in the 15th century on a Latin cross plan with Gothic arches, the church stood alongside the ancient Convent of St. Francis, of which today only the cloister remains; built on a square plan with round arches supported by twin columns decorated with plant motifs. The cloister is now one the locations of the Provincial Museum of Lugo and it houses, among other things, a collection of Galician art. We continue our walk towards the Church of San Dominic, built on a Latin cross plan with a single nave dating back to the 14th century. The church was originally a Dominican convent from the 13th century and in the 18th century a Baroque cloister was attached. We can then observe the characteristic Clock Tower, originally built in the 16th century but subsequently restructured. Our tour ends at the Palace of the Arts. However, we are left with some time for a little shopping before taking the coach back to La Coruña. PAGE 24

25 /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Cultural La Coruna SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA AMONG ART, CULTURE AND SPIRITUALITY A cultural and spiritual excursion to discover the artistic and historic heritage of Santiago de Compostela Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Cultural Meal Included La Coruna PANORAMIC TOUR OF LA CORUÑA A scenic tour that touches on the main points of interest in the city, with enchanting views of the most famous and popular beaches of La Coruña. Riazor and Orzán beaches, Domus, Aquarium Finisterrae Tower of Hercules St. Anthony's Castle Mendez Nuñez Gardens Santa Cruz PAGE 25

26 . We leave the port by coach and head for the La Coruna driving along the coast; we see the beautiful beaches of Riazor and Orzán and the more famous and crowded beaches of La Coruna as we drive along. We then pass in front of Domus - House of Man, the first interactive museum devoted to the human being, located in a futuristic building designed by the Japanese architect Arata Isozaki. The bus continues to the Aquarium Finisterrae - House of the Fishes, a museum created on the shore of the Atlantic ocean and dedicated to the maritime tradition of Galicia and the ecosystems of its coast. We proceed to the nearby Tower of Hercules, the only lighthouse in the world built by the Romans that is still in use today. We stop in this enchanting place to capture the tower in our souvenir photos. This symbol of the city even figures on the La Coruña coat of arms with the bones of Geryon, a giant who, according to the legend, was killed by Hercules and is buried below the lighthouse. We then continue by coach along the coast to the charming St. Anthony's Castle; originally built as an island fortress, the castle is now an archaeological museum connected to the city by a strip of land. We then visit the beautiful Mendez Nuñez Gardens, some of the oldest gardens in the city, dating back to the 19th century which are enhanced by a number of monuments and emblematic modernist buildings such as La Terraza or the Quiosco Alfonso. Finally, we admire the breathtaking panoramic view of la Rìa (the estuary) and La Coruña from Santa Cruz, where we stop for a snack at the Hotel Porto Cobo before returning on board /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Tasting Leixoes A TOUR OF PORTO A tour exploring, the "Granite City", and its most ancient buildings such as the Church of St. Francis, plus a visit to the cellars of one of the city's Port producers. PAGE 26

27 Porto city centre St. Francis church Port winery tour This excursion will take us into the heart of Porto, which is not only Portugal's second city and second most important port, but also the country's university and industrial centre and an Episcopal seat. Porto is also known as the "Granite City" as the material was used for a lot of its majestic and elegant buildings, creating a contrast between the city and its lush green surroundings. Our first stop is the Church of St. Francis. Begun in 1344., it has been restructured many times over the centuries, as can be seen by its different styles the apse and rose window are Gothic while the richly-decorated door is a perfect example of the Baroque style. Our guide will show us how all the walls, columns and altars inside the church are decorated with exuberant gilded wooden sculptures dating back to 1753, the making of which required 210 kg of 22-carat gold. Before heading back to the ship, we will visit the cellars of one of the city's many producers of Port wine. A limited number of Italian-language guides are available Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Cultural Good for shopping Most wanted Refreshments included Leixoes BRAGA AND GUIMARAES An interesting excursion to two of Portugal's oldest, historically interesting and art-rich cities: Braga and Guimaraes. Braga's old town The Cathedral Guimaraes PAGE 27

28 Our excursion starts with a tour of the town of Braga, which lies 55 km from Porto. Braga was founded by the Romans in the 1st century B.C. Back then it was known as Bracara Augusta. In the 5th century, the Swabians made it the capital of the Kingdom of Galicia. It was also the first episcopal see in the entire Iberian peninsula, hence its nickname, the "Portuguese Rome". It was occupied by the Arabs in the 8th century and liberated in It later became the primary seat of the Kingdom of Castile and, until Portugal became independent from Spain in the late 1700s, the city was ruled by archbishops. The architectural and cultural development of the city is in fact closely intertwined with the history of the Church and the combination of two important artistic periods - the Renaissance in the 1500s and the Baroque in the 1700s. A perfect example of this is the first landmark we will visit in the old city, the Cathedral, or "la Sé", a primitive Romanesque building that has been developed, restored and redecorated over the centuries. We will then continue towards Guimaraes, a charming little city known for its textile industry and artisan handicrafts. Guimaraes was the first capital of Portugal and it was in the castle here, located at highest point in the city, that the first King of Portugal Afonso Henriques was born in Please note: Limited number of English-speaking guides available /2 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Cultural Leixoes TOUR OF THE CITY OF PORTO AND CRUISE ON THE RIVER DOURO A walking tour exploring, the "Granite City", and its most ancient buildings such as the Cathedral, or Sé do Porto, plus a visit to the cellars of one of the city's Port producers. This tour also offers an opportunity to admire the city while sailing along the river Douro on the typical local boats called Rabelos. Porto city centre Porto Cathedral Ribeira district Cruise on a Rabelo on the River Douro with a tour of the city centre Cellar tour at a local Port winery, with tasting PAGE 28

29 We leave the port of Leixoes by coach to reach the city centre of Porto, the former capital of Portugal and the economic and cultural heart of the north of the country. Porto is an ancient city from which the name "Portugal" originated. Thanks to its architectural treasures and enviable position near the mouth of the river Douro, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Porto Cathedral, or Sé do Porto, is located on hill overlooking the River Douro. Our tour of this fascinating city starts with this imposing Romanesque building. Dating to the 12th century, it has been decorated with works of art by some of the greatest Portuguese artists. It has a magnificent 14th-century cloister with walls covered in azulejos (typical hand-painted blue-andwhite ceramic tiles) illustrating the most beautiful passages from the Song of Songs. We will then move towards the Ribeira district, which is the most characteristic of the city. Here, we will embark on a Rabelo, one of the traditional boats built specifically to sail along the River Douro transporting barrels of wine from the vineyards to the cellars in the city. Along the Douro, we will pass under some of the numerous bridges that connect the two parts of the city and enjoy a privileged view of the city centre with its streets, houses and palaces tumbling down the hillside towards the river banks. After this short cruise, we have the opportunity to visit one of the numerous wineries in the city that produce Port, one of the most famous wines in the world, which we will taste before heading back to the ship. Places on this excursion are limited. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment /2 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Sightseeing Refreshments included Leixoes PANORAMIC PORTO A tour exploring Porto, the "Granite City", with its imposing historic buildings, including the Clérigos Tower, and modern structures, such as the railway station. Porto city centre PAGE 29

30 Cordoaria: Clérigos Tower Santa Catarina Street and Aliados Avenue São Bento railway station This excursion will take us into the heart of Porto, which is not only Portugals second city and second most important port, but also the country's university and industrial centre and an Episcopal seat. Porto is also known as the "Granite City" as the material was used for many of its majestic and elegant buildings, creating a contrast between the city, its lush green surroundings and the golden sparkle of the river Douro. Our coach takes us to Cordoaria for a photo stop outside the Clérigos Tower designed by architect Nicolau Nasoni at one time the tallest building in Portugal. We then cross Santa Catarina Street and Aliados Avenue to reach our next stop - the São Bento railway station, one of the city's most imposing buildings. Here, we will have some free time to admire the azulejos the hand-painted ceramic tiles that cover the station and for some shopping. We return to the ship at the end of the excursion /2 Hours approximately Easy EUR EUR Cultural Good for shopping Leixoes WALKING TOUR OF PORTO A walking tour exploring Porto, the "Granite City", and its maze of streets, during which we admire historic buildings, such as the Clérigos Tower, and modern structures, the railway station for example, with its amazing terrace. The tour ends with a panoramic view of the river Douro. Porto city centre Clérigos Tower Livraria Lello PAGE 30

31 Aliados Avenue and Bolhao market Santa Catarina Street São Bento Railway station Ribeira district with views of the River Douro This excursion will take us into the heart of Porto, which is not only Portugal's second city and second most important port, but also the country's university and industrial centre and an Episcopal seat. Porto is also known as the "Granite City" as the material was used for a lot of its majestic and elegant buildings, creating a contrast between the city and its lush green surroundings. Our coach will take us to Cordoaria, from where we make our way into the maze of streets in the city centre. During our walk, we will see the Clérigos Tower designed by architect Nicolau Nasoni one of the tallest buildings in Portugal. We then head to the Livraria Lello, which is considered one of the world's most beautiful bookshops thanks to its amazing Neo-Gothic façade. After crossing Aliados Avenue, we reach the Bolhao market, which is housed in an iron-framed structure that dates to the 19th century. The market has three main areas - meat and fish, flowers and fresh produce. Once we leave the market, we stroll along Santa Catarina Street, one of the city's main streets, where we can spend a little free time. We then visit the São Bento railway station. One of the most imposing buildings of the city, it is known for its azulejos (decorative hand-painted tiles), which were designed by Jorge Colaço to depict two important subjects - the history of transportation and the Battle of Aljubarrota. Back on our coach, we leave for the Ribeira, where we will have some more free time to admire the fantastic views of the river Douro, with its bridges and typical Rabelo boats. The excursion includes a walk of around 1 km on both flat and sloping streets. This excursion is not recommended for guests with mobility problems and pregnant women Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Cultural Good for shopping Lisbon THE HEART OF ALFAMA BY SEGWAY PAGE 31

32 An exciting way to discover one of the oldest districts of Lisbon: by Segway. Centre of Lisbon Alfama district Places on this excursion are limited. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. Minimum age: 14. This excursion does not include the services of a guide. A local guide will provide general information in English. 204A 1 1/2 Hours approximately Moderate EUR EUR Sightseeing Cultural Fun Lisbon TIME OUT ON THE BEACH OF CARCAVELOS We travel by coach through Lisbon, admiring some of the major monuments, as we head towards the Carcavelos beach with its boundless stretch of sand overlooking the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Sightseeing tour of Lisbon Praça do Comércio and the Belém district * Carcavelos beach We begin our excursion with a sightseeing tour of Lisbon, a fascinating city that over the centuries has charmed travellers and sailors. Keeping to the coast, we can admire some of the main places of interest in the Portuguese capital: the great Praça do Comércio, with its five Catholic churches and typical colonial houses, and the historic district of Belém dotted with monuments PAGE 32