Springing Into Summer

Venice (Trieste), Italy

Up until the end of World War I, Trieste was the only port of the vast Austro-Hungarian Empire and therefore a major industrial and financial center. In the early years of the 20th century, Trieste and its surroundings also became famous by their association with some of the most important names of Italian literature, such as Italo Svevo, and English and German letters. James Joyce drew inspiration from the city's multiethnic population, and Rainer Maria Rilke was inspired by the seacoast west of the city. Although it has lost its importance as a port and a center of finance, it has never fully lost its roll as an intellectual center. The streets hold a mix of monumental, neoclassical, and art-nouveau architecture built by the Austrians during Trieste's days of glory, granting an air of melancholy stateliness to a city that lives as much in the past as the present.

Koper, Slovenia

Today a port town surrounded by industrial suburbs, Koper nevertheless warrants a visit. The Republic of Venice made Koper the regional capital during the 15th and 16th centuries, and the magnificent architecture of the Old Town bears witness to the spirit of those times.The most important buildings are clustered around Titov trg, the central town square. Here stands the Cathedral, which can be visited daily from 7 to noon and 3 to 7, with its fine Venetian Gothic facade and bell tower dating back to 1664. Across the square the splendid Praetor's Palace, formerly the seat of the Venetian Grand Council, combines Gothic and Renaissance styles. From the west side of Titov trg, the narrow, cobbled Kidriceva ulica brings you down to the seafront.

Zadar, Croatia

Dalmatia's capital for more than 1,000 years, Zadar is all too often passed over by travelers on their way to Split or Dubrovnik. What they miss out on is a city of more than 73,000 that is remarkably lovely and lively despite—and, in some measure, because of—its tumultuous history. The Old Town, separated from the rest of the city on a peninsula, is bustling and beautiful. The marble pedestrian streets are replete with Roman ruins, medieval churches, palaces, museums, archives, and libraries. During the Byzantine era, Zadar became the capital of Dalmatia, and this period saw the construction of its most famous church, the 9th-century St. Donat's Basilica. It remained the region's foremost city through the ensuing centuries. But you'd be hard-pressed to find outward signs of this today in what is a city to behold. There are helpful interpretive signs in English all around the Old Town, so you certainly won't feel lost when trying to make sense of the wide variety of architectural sites you might otherwise pass by with only a cursory look.

Kotor, Montenegro

Backed by imposing mountains and azure Adriatic waters, Kotor is a tiny fortified town in Montenegro where nature meets adventure! The picturesque port is home to a historic UNESCO-listed Old Town, featuring a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets, delightful museums and Romanesque churches, including the world-famous Kotor Cathedral. Another notable attraction here is the Kotor Fortress, offering breath-taking views of the ancient city and the Bay of Kotor.

Corfu, Greece

Corfu is a stunning Ionian Island off Greece’s northwest coast,  where according to myth, Poseidon had his honeymoon – and it's easy to see why! This little slice of paradise is filled with romance and beauty, as well as brimming with olive trees and fruit groves. Corfu town today is a vivid tapestry of cultures—a sophisticated weave, where charm, history, and natural beauty blend. Located about midway along the island's east coast, this spectacularly lively capital is the cultural heart of Corfu and has a remarkable historic centre that UNESCO designated as a World Heritage Site.  The best way to get around Corfu town is on foot. The town is small enough, so you can easily walk to every sight.

Argostoli, Greece

Ground literally to ashes in World War II and wracked by a massive earthquake a decade later, the capital of Kefalonia once more shows pride in its native spirit and natural beauty. The vast harbor on Argostoli’s east side makes an especially attractive port for cruise ships full of visitors who never seem to tire of strolling the cobbled seaside promenade, sipping ouzos in cafés, and stocking up on the succulent Mediterranean fruits in the outdoor markets.

Catania, Italy

Catania is an ancient port city on Sicily's east coast. It sits at the foot of Mt. Etna, an active volcano with trails leading up to the summit. The city's wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, features the whimsical Fontana dell'Elefante statue and richly decorated Catania Cathedral. In the southwest corner of the square, La Pescheria weekday fish market is a rowdy spectacle surrounded by seafood restaurants.

Amalfi Coast (Salerno), Italy

Begin your journey to the breath-taking Amalfi Coast, where you’ll dock in Salerno. Salerno is a picturesque Italian city located on the Gulf of Salerno. Famous for being home to the first medical university, the city is a great destination for anyone looking for gorgeous sea views filled with sunshine and Italian food. Here, you can take a scenic drive along the cliffside roads, stopping to admire the coastal towns of Ravello and Sorrento, or why not take an excursion to the nearby Pompei ruins?

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Civitavecchia is the cruise port for Rome – the Eternal City and heart of Italy! The vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practise the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza. The city’s famous sights include the Coliseum, Trevi Fountain, Vatican City and Spanish Steps…

Provence (Marseille), France

Marseille is one of Europe's most vibrant destinations and France’s oldest city.  Serving as the gateway to Provence, this picturesque port city is a place of tranquil squares, stepped alleys, 19th century avenues and street markets. Saunter along La Canebiere toward the Vieux Port – where ships have docked for more than 26 centuries, try traditional French Bouilla-baisse and be sure to admire Notre-Dame de la Garde! Endless seas of lavender fields cap the beautiful region of Provence. One of the best spots to admire these sweet purple blooms is Valensole, a small village argued to be the region’s lavender capital!

Barcelona, Spain

The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the mediaeval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, pulsating nightlife and tantalising cuisine come together to create the perfect city escape in Barcelona. The vibrant capital of Spain’s Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Família and his other unique creations, are part of a visit to Spain's second-largest city. Modern art museums and chic shops call for attention too. Barcelona's vibe stays lively well into the night, when you can linger over regional wine and cuisine at buzzing tapas bars.

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Palma de Mallorca, the heart of the Balearic Islands, is where you’ll find a delightful mix of culture, shopping, and stunning architecture. This resort city is the capital of the Spanish island of Mallorca, known for its endless sunshine and sun-drenched beaches. The beautiful old town offers a refreshing break from the sun and water sports, where you’ll find plenty of Gothic churches, picturesque squares, century-old interior patios and delightful museums. It’s home to a lot of must-visit attractions, including the La Seu Cathedral, La Lonja, Royal Palace of Almudaina and Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum. Once you’ve soaked in enough history and sunshine, take a relaxing stroll around Palma’s enormous harbour and perhaps hop on a vintage train to the quaint nearby town of Soller.

Valencia, Spain

Where the Turia River meets the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia is the capital of its namesake province and Spanish autonomous community. The city has a thriving nightlife and restaurant scene, delightful museums and stunning contemporary architecture, juxtaposed with a thoroughly charming historic quarter. If you're in Valencia, an excursion to Albufera Nature Park is also a worthwhile day trip. Regarded as the true birthplace of paella, it’s an unmissable experience to sample the city’s globally celebrated rice dish! Annually, the city comes alive with Las Fallas – a traditional festivity that showcases the burning of massive sculptural monuments made out of wood in the city’s streets and squares and involves a celebration to commemorate the arrival of spring.

Cartagena, Spain

A Mediterranean city and naval station located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain, Cartagena’s sheltered bay has attracted sailors for centuries. The Carthaginians founded the city in 223BC and named it Cartago Nova; it later became a prosperous Roman colony, and a Byzantine trading centre. The city has been the main Spanish Mediterranean naval base since the reign of King Philip II, and is still surrounded by walls built during this period. Cartagena’s importance grew with the arrival of the Spanish Bourbons in the 18th century, when the Navidad Fortress was constructed to protect the harbour. In recent years, traces of the city’s fascinating past have been brought to light: a well-preserved Roman Theatre was discovered in 1988, and this has now been restored and opened to the public. During your free time, you may like to take a mini-cruise around Cartagena's historic harbour: these operate several times a day, take approximately 40 minutes and do not need to be booked in advance. Full details will be available at the port.

Alicante, Spain

Alicante, the provincial capital of the Valencian Community, serves as a gateway to the huge influx of tourists that flock to the Costa Blanca resorts every year. This summer paradise is popular among holidaymakers and leisure-seekers looking to relax and unwind in the warm, Mediterranean climate and seemingly endless golden beaches. However, there is much more to this city than sand and sun. With a picturesque waterfront, a hugely impressive castle, buzzing nightlife and a rich, complex history, Alicante is a fascinating destination all year round. Some of the most notable attractions are the ancient Santa Barbara Castle, Plaza de Gabriel Miró and Alicante’s archaeological museum.

Motril, Spain

Motril is located in the Spanish region of Andalucia on the Costa Tropical. It is the biggest town on the Costa with a thriving commercial, fishing and leisure port. An hour and a half's drive east of Malaga and within easy reach of the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountain range, Motril makes an ideal base for exploring the many delights of the Andalucian coastline and its hinterland. Halfway between the resorts of Malaga to the west and Almeria to the east, nestling in the foothills of the Sierra Lujar mountains, Motril is at the heart of one of the most fertile and productive agricultural areas of Spain. The Costa Tropical takes its name from its sub-tropical climate which enables the cultivation of exotic fruits and crops such as sugar cane, oranges, lemons, apples, avocadoes, mangoes and bananas. One of the sights of Motril is the 17th-century church of Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza, dedicated to the town's patron saint.

Tangier, Morocco

Tangier is a bustling city in northern Morocco, known for its colourful markets and historic sites, providing a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. Whilst here, spend some time admiring the whitewashed façades of the inner city and check out the wonder-filled Hercules Caves before you leave. Overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar, the city lies on a bay between two promontories. With its old Kasbah, panoramic views, elegant buildings, squares and places of interest, there is much to discover in both the new and old parts of the city.

Seville (Cádiz), Spain

Believed to be the oldest town on the Iberian Peninsula, the Andalusian port of Cádiz enjoys a stunning location at the edge of a six-mile promontory. The town itself, with 3,000 years of history, is characterised by pretty white houses with balconies often adorned with colourful flowers. As you wander around, be sure to take a stroll through the sizeable Plaza de Espãna, with its large monument dedicated to the first Spanish constitution, which was signed here in 1812. Cádiz is the gateway to Seville – where flamenco rhythms, grand cathedrals, and delicious tapas make this one of Spain’s most vibrant cities. Stroll around Seville Old Town, home to some important sights, including the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the oldest operating royal palace in Europe, and the Giralda, the striking bell tower of Seville Cathedral, which is one of the world’s largest cathedrals.

Casablanca, Morocco

Casablanca is a city where tradition and modernity collide, offering a unique glimpse into Moroccan culture. The city is a vibrant fusion of European, African and Arabian influences and its French colonial architecture and art deco buildings seamlessly blend in with the busy, colourful markets. It’s home to the Hassan II Mosque, which prides itself on being one of the largest functioning mosques in Africa. This majestic mosque is idyllically positioned right on the Atlantic Ocean — overlooking the dramatic ocean views from the towering minaret. The Habous Quarter is a picturesque neighbourhood in Casablanca that showcases a rich blend of contemporary Morocco and its ancient past. It has a charming souk market, where you can purchase exquisite handicrafts and local delicacies.

Portimão, Portugal

Portimão is a major fishing port transformed into an attractive cruise port as well. The city itself is spacious and has several good shopping streets, as well as a picturesque riverside area perfect for leisurely walks. The port city is known for its charming old quarter, featuring narrow cobbled streets and ancient churches. Housed in a restored 19th-century cannery, Museu de Portimão offers a glimpse into the local history and culture. Thanks to its idyllic coastal location, the port city is a hub for various water activities from simply relaxing on the beach to more action-packed adventures like scuba diving and surfing!

Porto, Portugal

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon – Portugal’s rugged coastal capital – spans seven hills and is adored for its eclectic art scene, innovative dining options, and charming trams.Nicknamed as the “City of Seven Hills,” this mediaeval city is mostly built on the rolling hills with dramatic views of the Tagus River. The rugged coastal capital is famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and soulful sounds of Fado music. It enjoys warm summers and mild winters, making it one of the sunniest capitals in mainland Europe. You’ll be welcomed by the iconic Belém Tower – a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, which served as the main gateway to Lisbon, so it’s the first and last thing sailors would see once they dock in and leave the capital. Treat yourself to a freshly baked pastel de nata at a local café to complete your trip!

Porto, Portugal

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Spain

Dating from Roman times, the Galician city of Vigo has a fine natural harbour and is renowned as the biggest fishing port in the world. This port destination serves as the gateway to the Pilgrimage site of Santiago De Compostela! Pilgrims once travelled month-long journeys by foot from all over Europe to arrive at the Tomb of Saint James and today, it is still one of the most revered shrines in Christendom. Casco Vello, the city’s charming Old Town, is a delight, with its labyrinth of winding narrow streets and shaded squares. Another point of interest is Monte O Castro, a scenic mountain peak and observation point in the heart of Vigo, overlooking panoramic views of the city!

La Coruña (Santiago de Compostela), Spain

La Coruña, the largest city in Spain's Galicia region, is among the country's busiest ports. The remote Galicia area is tucked into the northwest corner of the Iberian Peninsula, surprising visitors with its green and misty countryside that is so much unlike other parts of Spain. Many of the buildings in the old section feature the characteristic glazed façades that have earned La Coruña the name "City of Crystal." Plaza Maria Pita, the beautiful main square, featuring historic buildings and a monument of its namesake local heroine. ust a short trip from La Coruña will take you to the mystical city of Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can visit the awe-inspiring Cathedral – a revered destination for pilgrims worldwide!

Gijón, Spain

Gijón is a vast coastal city in Spain, loved for its rich maritime heritage, golden beaches and a  historic fishermen’s quarter. The modern-day city is part fishing port, part summer resort, and part university town, packed with cafés, restaurants, and sidrerías. Beckoning history buffs, Cimavilla is the city’s charming old town – home to the Roman Baths Museum, featuring the ruins of Pompeii-style baths and steam rooms, as well as Eduardo Chillida's state-of-the-art sculpture perched atop Santa Catalina Hill! 

Bilbao, Spain

The dynamic city of Bilbao is the commercial heart of Spain's Basque country – perched on the hills above the rust-coloured waters of the Nervion River. Revitalised by the opening of Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum in 1997, today Bilbao attracts visitors from all over the world to its sprawling ‘Seven Streets’, architectural wonders and Michelin-starred restaurants! The facade of this avant-garde museum is an art in itself, designed with a symphony of shapes built using blocks of limestone and undulating sheets of titanium. And inside, guests can marvel at the impressive collection of artworks from Andy Warhol, Richard Serra and more!

Pauillac, France

The small town of Pauillac is famed for its wines and architecture, thanks to its lush vineyards and châteaux! One of the most notable attractions here is the Eglise Saint Martin de Pauillac, a Greek-style church in the heart of the town.

Pauillac, France

The small town of Pauillac is famed for its wines and architecture, thanks to its lush vineyards and châteaux! One of the most notable attractions here is the Eglise Saint Martin de Pauillac, a Greek-style church in the heart of the town.

Saint Peter Port, Guernsey

Cobblestone streets, blooming floral displays, and tiny churches welcome you to this wonderfully pretty harbour. The town of St Peter Port is as pretty as they come, with glowing flower displays painting practically every street corner and window-ledge with colour. As the capital, and main port of Guernsey, St Peter Port puts all of the island’s gorgeous beaches, wonderful history and inspiring stories at your fingertips. Feel the gut punch of the midday gun firing at Castle Cornet, which stands guard over one of the world's prettiest ports. This 800-year-old, Medieval castle offers staggering views of the harbour from its imposing, craggy island location, and you can look out across to the looming shorelines of the other Channel Islands from its weathered battlements. With four well-tended gardens, and five museums offering a rich overview of Guernsey's history, you’ll want to leave a few hours aside to explore the many treasures that lie within the castle’s walls.

Paris (Le Havre), France

Le Havre is located in Upper Normandy on the north bank of the mouth of the River Seine, which is considered the most frequented waterway in the world. Its port is ranked the second largest in France, serving as the gateway to the highly sought-after Paris. Beyond the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre-Dame cathedral, you must also experience life as a Parisian by strolling down the Champs-Elysees – croissant in hand!

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam is a city that's a long way removed from most people's stereotypical notion of the Netherlands. There are few, if any, canals to be found here nor are there any quaint windmills. There is, however, a thriving modern city which is one of the busiest ports in the entire world.

IJmuiden, Netherlands

North Holland’s ‘Gate to the North Sea’, IJmuiden has four harbours: the Vissershaven, Haringhaven, IJmondhaven and the Seaport Marina - the latter used by pleasure craft. It is the largest Dutch fishing port, but is a relatively young town: it grew up in the 1870s when the North Sea Canal was opened. During World War II, the German Navy demolished much of the town and built huge fortified concrete bunkers for their torpedo boats and submarines. After 1945, the town was rebuilt by the architect Willem Marinus Dudok. He designed IJmuiden’s most impressive building, the Stadhuis van Velsen, which houses local government offices. For cruise passengers IJmuiden is the gateway to Amsterdam, the Dutch capital and one of Europe’s truly great cities, where elegant canals are lined by old brick gabled houses, and superb art galleries and museums are home to some of the world’s best-known paintings. Please note that complimentary shuttle buses operate from the port to the centre of IJmuiden, not to Amsterdam.

Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city with a history dating back to Charlemagne. A major port, this vibrant city is home to art and culture, extensive shopping facilities, Baroque buildings and waterfront vistas. With its well-known fish market, art galleries and Museums together with several beautiful parks including a botanical garden, this is a city with something for everyone. British visitors who remember the Swinging Sixties may like to visit the streets around Grosse Freiheit, where an unknown pop group called The Beatles gave their first public performances in various local clubs before achieving worldwide fame.

Bremerhaven, Germany

Set on Germany’s North Sea coast, Bremerhaven is a picturesque port city steeped with rich maritime heritage, stunning coastal scenery, and plenty of museums. Bremerhaven is home to the German Shipping Museum, founded in 1971, which houses many interesting exhibits including a well-preserved 14th-century Hanseatic trading vessel, found at the bottom of the River Weser during dredging operations. History buffs can also visit the award-winning historical museum, providing an insight into the culture and history of the north German city. Other museums you can explore are the WWII submarine Wilhelm Bauer, which has now been transformed into a museum, and the German Emigration Centre, which tells the stories of Germans who migrated to the New World and of foreigners who have made their homes in Germany.

Zeebrugge, Belgium

The port city of Zeebrugge in Belgium is not far from the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage city of Bruges – one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, with quaint streets and tranquil canals! Dubbed the ‘Bruges on the sea’ for its distinct seafront personality, Zeebrugge is main cruise port for several Belgium cruises, complete with cafes, a marina and a beach. Today, the fast-expanding port of Zeebrugge is one of the busiest in Europe and its marina is Belgium’s most important fishing port. Zeebrugge is ideally located for discovering the historic city of Bruges, and delightful seaside resorts with long sandy beaches can be visited by using the trams that run the whole length of the Belgian coast.

Southampton, England

Lying near the head of Southampton Water, a peninsula between the estuaries of the Rivers Test and Itchen, Southampton is Britain’s largest cruise port. It has been one of England’s major ports since the Middle Ages, when it exported wool and hides from the hinterland and imported wine from Bordeaux. The city suffered heavy damage during World War Two and as a result the centre has been extensively rebuilt, but there are still some interesting medieval buildings including the Bargate, one of the finest city gatehouses in England.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is the fairytale-like capital city of Scotland, featuring a mediaeval Old Town and a neoclassical New Town. One of the world's stateliest cities and proudest capitals, it's built on seven hills like Rome, making it a striking backdrop for the ancient pageant of history. In a skyline of sheer drama, Edinburgh Castle watches over the capital city, frowning down on Princes Street’s glamour and glitz. But despite its rich past, the city’s famous festivals, excellent museums and galleries, and buzzing streets are reminders that Edinburgh has its feet firmly in the modern-day era. 

Aberdeen, Scotland

With close to 220,000 inhabitants, Aberdeen is Scotland's third most populous city. Locally quarried grey granite was used during the mid-18th to mid-20th centuries for many of Aberdeen's buildings, and hence the nicknames it has earned as the Granite City, or the Grey City. Aberdeen granite was also used to build the terraces of the Houses of Parliament and Waterloo Bridge in London. Since the discovery of North Sea oil in the 1970s, Aberdeen has also been called the Oil Capital of Europe or the Energy Capital of Europe. It is no wonder that because of the oil fields in the North Sea, Aberdeen's seaport is very important. The Heliport with its flights to the oil fields is one of the busiest commercial heliports in the world.

Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

Founded by Dutch fishermen in the 17th century, Lerwick today is a busy town and administrative center. Handsome stone buildings—known as lodberries—line the harbor; they provided loading bays for goods, some of them illegal. The town's twisting flagstone lanes and harbor once heaved with activity, and Lerwick is still an active port today. This is also where most visitors to Shetland dock, spilling out of cruise ships, allowing passengers to walk around the town.

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland

Tour description Stornoway, Scotland The Isle of Lewis and Harris is the northernmost and largest of the Outer Hebrides-the Western Isles in common parlance. The island's only major town, Stornoway, is on a nearly landlocked harbor on the east coast of Lewis. It's the port capital for the Outer Hebrides and the island's cultural center, such that it is. Stornoway has an increasing number of good restaurants. Lewis has some fine historic attractions, including the Calanais Standing Stones-a truly magical place. The Uists are known for their rare, plentiful wildlife. Stornoway. Besides being the island's main entry point for ferries, Stornoway is also Lewis's main arts center. You'll find some good restaurants in town if you want to have lunch off the ship. The town can be explored by bicycle if you are so inclined. Local rental shops can give you advice on where to ride, including a route to Tolsta that takes in five stunning beaches before reaching the edge of moorland. An Lanntair Arts Centre. The fabulous An Lanntair Arts Centre has exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art, as well as a cinema, a gift shop, and a restaurant serving international and Scottish fare. There are frequent traditional musical and theatrical events in the impressive auditorium. Kenneth St.. Black House. In the small community of Arnol, the Black House is a well-preserved example of an increasingly rare type of traditional Hebridean home. Once common throughout the islands-even into the 1950s-these dwellings were built without mortar and thatched on a timber framework without eaves. Other characteristic features include an open central peat hearth and the absence of a chimney-hence the soot and the designation black. On display inside are many of the house's original furnishings. To reach Arnol from Port of Ness, head south on the A857 and pick up the A858 at Barvas. Off A858, 21 mi southwest of Port of Ness. Admission charged. Calanais Standing Stones. These impressive stones are actually part of a cluster of several different archaeological sites in this area. Probably positioned in several stages between 3000 BC and 1500 BC, the grouping consists of an avenue of 19 monoliths extending northward from a circle of 13 stones, with other rows leading south, east, and west. Ruins of a cairn sit within the circle on the east side. Researchers believe they may have been used for astronomical observations, but you can create your own explanations. The visitor center has an exhibit on the stones, a gift shop, and a tearoom. On an unmarked road off A858. Admission charged. Dun Carloway. One of the best-preserved Iron Age brochs (circular stone towers) in Scotland, Dun Carloway dominates the scattered community of Carloway. The mysterious tower was probably built around 2,000 years ago as protection against seaborne raiders. The Dun Broch Centre explains more about the broch and its setting. Off A857. Gearrannan. Up a side road north from Carloway, Gearrannan is an old black-house village that has been brought back to life with a museum screening excellent short films on peat cutting and weaving. For a unique experience, groups can rent the restored houses. Leverburgh. At Leverburgh you can take the ferry to North Uist. Nearby Northton has several attractions; St. Clement's Church at Rodel is particularly worth a visit. MacGillivray Centre. Located in a round building overlooking the bay, the MacGillivray Centre gives insight into the life and work of William MacGillivray (1796-1852), a noted naturalist with strong links to Harris. MacGillivray authored the five-volume History of British Birds. This is a great location for a picnic (there are tables for just such a purpose). A walk to a ruined church starts at the parking lot. A859, Northton. Seallam! Visitor Centre and Co Leis Thu? Genealogical Research Centre. The center is where you can trace your Western Isles ancestry. Photographs and interpretive signs describe the history of Harris and its people. The owners organize guided walks and cultural evenings weekly between May and September. Off A859, Northton. Admission charged. St. Clement's Church. At the southernmost point of Harris is the community of Rodel, where you can find St. Clement's Church, a cruciform church standing on a hillock. This is the most impressive pre-Reformation church in the Outer Hebrides; it was built around 1500 and contains the magnificently sculptured tomb (1528) of the church's builder, Alasdair Crotach, MacLeod chief of Dunvegan Castle. Rodel is 3 mi south of Leverburgh and 21 mi south of Tarbert. A859, Rodel. Port of Ness. The stark, windswept community of Port of Ness, 30 mi north of Stornoway, cradles a small harbor squeezed in among the rocks. Butt of Lewis Lighthouse. At the northernmost point of Lewis stands the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, designed by David and Thomas Stevenson (of the prominent engineering family whose best-known member was not an engineer at all, but the novelist Robert Louis Stevenson). The structure was first lighted in 1862. The adjacent cliffs provide a good vantage point for viewing seabirds, whales, and porpoises. The lighthouse is northwest of Port of Ness along the B8014. Shopping Harris tweed is available at many outlets on the islands, including some of the weavers' homes; keep an eye out for signs directing you to weavers' workshops. Harris Tweed Artisans Cooperative. The Harris Tweed Artisans Cooperative sells stylish and quirky hand-crafted tweed clothing, hats, accessories, all made by artists belonging to the cooperative. 40 Point St., Stornoway. Borgh Pottery. At Borgh Pottery, open from Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 6, you can buy attractive hand-thrown studio pottery made on the premises, including lamps, vases, mugs, and dishes. Fivepenny House, A857, Borve.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Before English and Scottish settlers arrived in the 1600s, Belfast was a tiny village called Béal Feirste ("sandbank ford") belonging to Ulster's ancient O'Neill clan. With the advent of the Plantation period (when settlers arrived in the 1600s), Sir Arthur Chichester, from Devon in southwestern England, received the city from the English Crown, and his son was made Earl of Donegall. Huguenots fleeing persecution from France settled near here, bringing their valuable linen-work skills. In the 18th century, Belfast underwent a phenomenal expansion—its population doubled every 10 years, despite an ever-present sectarian divide. Although the Anglican gentry despised the Presbyterian artisans—who, in turn, distrusted the native Catholics—Belfast's growth continued at a dizzying speed. The city was a great Victorian success story, an industrial boomtown whose prosperity was built on trade, especially linen and shipbuilding. Famously (or infamously), the Titanic was built here, giving Belfast, for a time, the nickname "Titanic Town." Having laid the foundation stone of the city's university in 1845, Queen Victoria returned to Belfast in 1849 (she is recalled in the names of buildings, streets, bars, monuments, and other places around the city), and in the same year, the university opened under the name Queen's College. Nearly 40 years later, in 1888, Victoria granted Belfast its city charter. Today its population is nearly 300,000, tourist numbers have increased, and this dramatically transformed city is enjoying an unparalleled renaissance.This is all a welcome change from the period when news about Belfast meant reports about "the Troubles." Since the 1994 ceasefire, Northern Ireland's capital city has benefited from major hotel investment, gentrified quaysides (or strands), a sophisticated new performing arts center, and major initiatives to boost tourism. Although the 1996 bombing of offices at Canary Wharf in London disrupted the 1994 peace agreement, the ceasefire was officially reestablished on July 20, 1997, and this embattled city began its quest for a newfound identity.Since 2008, the city has restored all its major public buildings such as museums, churches, theaters, City Hall, Ulster Hall—and even the glorious Crown Bar—spending millions of pounds on its built heritage. A gaol that at the height of the Troubles held some of the most notorious murderers involved in paramilitary violence is now a major visitor attraction.Belfast's city center is made up of three roughly contiguous areas that are easy to navigate on foot. From the south end to the north, it's about an hour's leisurely walk.

Cobh, Ireland

Cork City's nearby harbor district has seen plenty of history. Cork Harbour's draws include Fota Island—with an arboretum, a wildlife park, and the Fota House ancestral estate—and the fishing port of Cobh.

Falmouth, England

The bustle of this resort town's fishing harbor, yachting center, and commercial port only adds to its charm. In the 18th century Falmouth was the main mail-boat port for North America, and in Flushing, a village across the inlet, you can see the slate-covered houses built by prosperous mail-boat captains. A ferry service now links the two towns. On Custom House Quay, off Arwenack Street, is the King's Pipe, an oven in which seized contraband was burned.

Southampton, England

Lying near the head of Southampton Water, a peninsula between the estuaries of the Rivers Test and Itchen, Southampton is Britain’s largest cruise port. It has been one of England’s major ports since the Middle Ages, when it exported wool and hides from the hinterland and imported wine from Bordeaux. The city suffered heavy damage during World War Two and as a result the centre has been extensively rebuilt, but there are still some interesting medieval buildings including the Bargate, one of the finest city gatehouses in England.

Skagen, Denmark

Seeking some nature break? Skagen is the perfect place to be! Idyllically positioned where two oceans meet, this Danish port town offers breath-taking landscapes and coastal scenery wherever your eyes land! A place of inspiration, the city has birthed lots of artists that have been galvanized by the city’s extraordinary light and mesmerizing landscapes. Skagen Museum is a must-visit attraction here, showcasing a collection of masterpieces from the members of the Skagen Painters colony. Meanwhile, Skagen Bunker-museum is an open-air museum that provides an insight into the town’s wartime history.

Copenhagen, Denmark

In Denmark's capital, Copenhagen, you’re bound to know why bliss fills the air in Denmark. Where better to start when you’re getting off a cruise ship than in the harbour? By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden's capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm's 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.

Helsinki, Finland

A city of the sea, Helsinki was built along a series of oddly shaped peninsulas and islands jutting into the Baltic coast along the Gulf of Finland. Streets and avenues curve around bays, bridges reach to nearby islands, and ferries ply among offshore islands. Most sights, hotels, and restaurants cluster on one peninsula, forming a compact central hub. The capital has some of the purest neoclassical architecture in the world. Add to this foundation the influence of Stockholm and St. Petersburg with the local inspiration of 20th-century Finnish design, and the result is a European capital city that is as architecturally eye-catching as it is distinct from other Scandinavian capitals. The city's 400 or so parks make it particularly inviting in summer. Today, Helsinki is still a meeting point of eastern and western Europe, which is reflected in its cosmopolitan image, the influx of Russians and Estonians, and generally multilingual population. Outdoor summer bars ("terrassit" as the locals call them) and cafés in the city center are perfect for people watching on a summer afternoon! 

Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia's history is sprinkled liberally with long stretches of foreign domination, beginning in 1219 with the Danes, followed without interruption by the Germans, Swedes, and Russians. Estonia finally regained independence in 1991. Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, was named the European City of Culture in 2011, cementing its growing reputation as a cultural hot spot. This atmospheric capital is complete with one of the World's best-preserved Old Towns, packed with old houses,delightful museums and long-standing cafe culture!

Riga, Latvia

Rīga has an upscale, big-city feel unmatched in the region. The capital (almost as large as Tallinn and Vilnius combined) is the business center of the area while original, high-quality restaurants and hotels have earned Rīga some bragging rights among its Western European counterparts. The city also doesn't lack for beauty—Rīga's Old Town (now a UNESCO World Heritage site) is one of Europe’s most striking examples of the art nouveau architectural style. Long avenues of complex and sometimes whimsical Jugendstil facades hint at Rīga's grand past. Many were designed by Mikhail Eisenstein, the father of Soviet director Sergei. This style dominates the city center. In many ways, the wonder of Rīga resides less in its individual attractions and more in the fabric of the town itself. In the medieval Old Town, an ornate gable or architrave catches the eye at every turn. The somber and the flamboyant are both represented in this quarter's 1,000 years of architectural history. Don't hesitate to just follow where your desire leads—the Old Town is compact and bounded by canals, so it's difficult to get totally lost. When the Old Town eventually became too crowded, the city burst out into the newer inner suburbs. The rich could afford to leave and build themselves fine fashionable mansions in the style of the day; consequently, city planners created a whole new Rīga. Across the narrow canal, you'll find the Esplanāde, a vast expanse of parkland with formal gardens and period mansions where the well-heeled stroll and play. Surrounding this is the art nouveau district. Encompassing avenues of splendid family homes (now spruced up in the postcommunist era), the collection has been praised by UNESCO as Europe's finest in the art nouveau style. The best examples are at Alberta 2, 2a, 4, 6, 8, and 13; Elizabetes 10b; and Strēlnieku 4a. If the weather permits, eschew public transport and stroll between the two districts, taking in the varied skylines and multifaceted facades, and perhaps stopping at a café or two as you go. The city has churches in five Christian denominations and more than 50 museums, many of which cater to eclectic or specialist tastes.

Visby, Sweden

Gotland is Sweden's main holiday island, a place of ancient history, a relaxed summer-party vibe, wide sandy beaches, and wild cliff formations called raukar (the remnants of reefs formed more than 400 million years ago). Measuring 125 km (78 miles) long and 52 km (32 miles) at its widest point, Gotland is where Swedish sheep farming has its home. In its charming glades, 35 varieties of wild orchids thrive, attracting botanists from all over the world.

Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany

Warnemünde, officially a suburb of Rostock, is a quaint seaside resort town with the best hotels and restaurants in the area, as well as miles of beautiful white-sand beach. Basking in endless blues and white-sand shores, it's been a popular summer getaway for families in eastern Germany for years. . One of the most notable attractions in the port town is the striking 19th-century lighthouse made up of white glazed bricks that serves as a picture-perfect backdrop on the scenic promenade.

Aarhus, Denmark

Århus is Denmark's second-largest city, and, with its funky arts and college community, one of the country's most pleasant. Cutting through the center of town is a canal called the Århus Å (Århus Creek). It used to run underground, but was uncovered a few years ago. Since then, an amalgam of bars, cafés, and restaurants has sprouted along its banks. At all hours of the day and night this waterfront strip is abuzz with crowds that hang out on the outdoor terraces and steps that lead down to the creek. Wandering around Den Dale Bay – an old town open-air museum lined with over 70 age-old half-timbered houses – is a truly magical experience!

Southampton, England

Lying near the head of Southampton Water, a peninsula between the estuaries of the Rivers Test and Itchen, Southampton is Britain’s largest cruise port. It has been one of England’s major ports since the Middle Ages, when it exported wool and hides from the hinterland and imported wine from Bordeaux. The city suffered heavy damage during World War Two and as a result the centre has been extensively rebuilt, but there are still some interesting medieval buildings including the Bargate, one of the finest city gatehouses in England.