From the Netherlands to Portugal: Western Europe Cruise

Itinerary

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Amsterdam is a gorgeous Dutch city where a boat cruise along the canals gets to the heart of things. Yet, the magic also unfolds while strolling through narrow streets and crossing the hundreds of bridges. It houses a treasure trove of fabulous art museums, including the Rijksmuseum, adorned with Dutch Masters, conveniently located near the Van Gogh Museum. To the south, picturesque stretches of countryside with windmills line the canals.

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Once a retreat for European nobility, Oostende's charm lies in its sandy beaches, boardwalk, racetrack, 19th-century Belle Époque architecture, beachfront cafés and a harbour with seafood stalls. The Atlantikwall, a network of WWI and WWII bunkers, is now an open-air museum. Other museums include the Ensor Museum with James Ensor's maritime artworks, the Mercator aboard a 1930s three-masted ship, and Mu.ZEE, displaying Belgian art from the 1830s.

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Honfleur in Normandy has attracted artists for centuries, including Impressionist Claude Monet, with many works on display at The Eugène Boudin Museum. Set on the Seine estuary in the department of Calvados (known for apple brandy), this picturesque harbour town has cobbled streets and colourful 16th- to 18th-century townhouses around the Vieux Bassin (old harbour). The 15th-century St. Catherine's Church is built entirely of wood by shipwrights.

The Landing Beaches of Normandy

Optional

08 h 00 m

Walk in the Footsteps of Heroes – Visit the historic D-Day landing sites, including Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, where the bravery and sacrifice of Allied soldiers are honored.
Immersive WWII History – Explore the Arromanches Landing Museum, where models and films bring to life the incredible engineering feats of the Mulberry harbors and Operation Overlord.
A Taste of Normandy – Enjoy a refined lunch at Château de la Chenevière, a charming countryside castle-turned-luxury hotel, offering a delightful culinary experience in an elegant setting.

Explore and Conquer in Honfleur Walking tour

Included

04 h 00 m

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Honfleur’s charming city center, a historic Normandy seaport rich in maritime heritage.
Experience an immersive journey at La Mora, where you’ll explore the Norman conquest of England through the Bayeux Tapestry and witness the reconstruction of William the Conqueror’s ship.
Stroll through Honfleur’s picturesque harbor, discovering landmarks like St. Catherine’s Church, the salt warehouses, and the Old Port before choosing to return with your guide or explore at your leisure.

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The medieval coastal city of Saint-Malo is a labyrinth of streets. Dating back to the 12th century, Saint-Malo was once a haven for pirates and a stopping point for merchant ships. Today, colourful shops sit alongside aromatic markets, cafes and restaurants serving oysters, crêpes and cider. Intra-Muros, the ancient walled town, forms the heart of Saint-Malo, where the striking Gothic and Romanesque Cathédrale de St Malo dominates the skyline.

Mystical Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO Site

Included

06 h 00 m

Visit of Mont Saint Michel Abbey – Explore the stunning medieval abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with expert insights into its history and breathtaking architecture.
Witness the dramatic approach to Mont Saint Michel, stroll through its charming medieval streets, and take in panoramic views of the bay.
Enjoy free time to browse unique boutiques, capture stunning photographs, or savor traditional Breton specialties at your own pace.

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The charming French port of Roscoff sits on a peninsula at Brittany's tip. Despite a history of privateers and smugglers, the little city is known for its richly decorated merchants' houses. Near the port, a local hotelier created an exotic garden growing more than 3,500 species of plants from the Southern Hemisphere. Roscoff is also the origin of Onion Johnnies, Breton farmers who crossed to England to sell Roscoff pink onions on their bikes.

Coastal Hike

Optional

03 h 00 m

Enjoy a scenic coastal hike – walk along Roscoff’s picturesque coastline, taking in stunning views of the Bay of Roscoff and Bloscon’s Peak.
Discover the town’s maritime heritage with visits to the Sainte-Barbe Chapel, the seamen’s cemetery, and Roscoff’s charming old streets.
Enjoy a traditional Breton snack at a local crêperie, indulging in delicious crêpes and cider.

Roscoff Walking Tour

Included

02 h 30 m

Admire the elegant granite homes of wealthy merchants and privateers, showcasing Roscoff’s Renaissance prosperity.
Walk through charming cobbled streets and learn about the town’s fascinating maritime history.
Enjoy free time to browse local shops, visit the harbor, or simply take in the picturesque coastal ambiance.

Kerjean Castle & Garden

Optional

03 h 00 m

Visit Château de Kerjean and discover this magnificent 16th-century Renaissance fortress, complete with fortified walls, elegant arcades, and a beautifully preserved chapel.
Explore grand rooms featuring an extensive collection of Breton furniture, as well as paintings and models that bring the château’s fascinating history to life.
Wander the tranquil park, admiring Renaissance fountains, a historic dovecote, and the château’s original pillory, offering a glimpse into the past.

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Lorient, a town with six ports, has a rich seafaring history as the birthplace of the French East India Company and France’s second-largest fishing port. During WWII, it was a key German submarine base with massive concrete shelters. Today, La Base is a cultural hub featuring repurposed bunkers, the Submarine Flore museum and a concert hall. The town showcases a mix of 1950s colourful apartment blocks, Art Deco houses and traditional townhouses.

Concarneau & Pont Aven

Included

05 h 00 m

Explore Concarneau’s Historic Walled City – Walk through the well-preserved medieval "ville close", a fortified island in the harbor, with its original stone ramparts and rich maritime history.
Discover the Artistic Legacy of Pont-Aven – Stroll along the riverbanks of this charming town, once home to the Pont-Aven School of painting, where Paul Gauguin and fellow artists found inspiration.
Savor Traditional Breton Flavors – Enjoy free time to explore Pont-Aven and maybe taste the famous Galettes de Pont-Aven, the region’s beloved buttery cookies.

Megaliths of Carnac

Optional

04 h 00 m

Explore the legendary Carnac alignments, where nearly 3,000 prehistoric standing stones, dating back 5,000 years, create one of the world’s most mysterious megalithic sites.
Visit the Kerzerho alignments in Erdeven, a remarkable site with ancient stones stretching nearly a mile, offering a glimpse into Brittany’s prehistoric past.
Enjoy a guided visit to a megalithic site, uncovering fascinating theories and historical insights about these enigmatic formations before returning to Lorient.

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Royan, a French Atlantic coastal gem, features five beaches nestled between dunes and pine forests at the broad mouth of the Gironde. La Grande Conche, a 2 km stretch of golden sands, lures sun-seekers. Royan endured significant damage during an allied bombing on January 5, 1945. The town's charm continues to shine through its blend of belle époque villas and vibrant postwar architecture, including the distinctive Notre-Dame de Royan church.

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Bilbao, the de facto capital of the Basque region, is an industrial city renowned for its culture, skyscrapers and the Frank Gehry–designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which sparked the city's revitalisation. The city’s many pintxo bars are a mainstay of the culinary scene, while the lively La Ribera Market dates back to the 14th century. Spain’s famous La Rioja wine region is a full-day trip from the port.

Icon of Modern Bilbao: The Guggenheim Museum

Included

03 h 30 m

Enjoy a rare, out-of-hours visit to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, exploring its world-renowned architecture and exhibitions in a serene, crowd-free setting.
Enjoy a private tour led by an expert guide, offering fascinating insights into the museum's groundbreaking construction, innovative design, and the stories behind its unique architectural features.
Explore 9,000 m² of exhibition space, marveling at world-class art collections set against the stunning backdrop of one of the most audacious and innovative buildings of the 20th century.

Scenic Bilbao and Old Quarter with pintxos

Optional

03 h 15 m

Witness the city's transformation as you pass by iconic sites like the Guggenheim Museum, Euskalduna Conference and Music Center, and Zubiarte shopping mall, showcasing Bilbao’s blend of innovative architecture and cultural heritage.
Walk along the charming narrow streets of Bilbao’s old quarter, where your guide will highlight architectural gems such as the Cathedral of Santiago, the Gothic Church of San Antón, and the vibrant Plaza Nueva.
Indulge in the Basque Country’s unique twist on tapas at a local restaurant. Enjoy these small, flavorful dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, offering a true taste of Bilbao’s rich culinary tradition.

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Santander, known for its beaches, unveils tales of a bygone era through medieval alleyways and ancient architecture. The Paseo de Pereda is a lush haven of gardens and sculptures. The city's history, dating back to Roman times, is marked by landmarks like the 13th-century Gothic cathedral, Catedral de la Asunción, and the Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal summer residence. Santander is also renowned for traditional Basque cuisine.

Walking and Tapas in Santander

Optional

02 h 00 m

Explore the magnificent Gothic-style Cathedral, featuring two superimposed churches from the 13th century, each with a unique history.
Stroll through the scenic Pereda Gardens, where bronze and stone sculptures bring to life the works of Cantabrian writer José María de Pereda.
Admire the grand façade of the original Bank of Santander headquarters, crowned with statues representing the arts, culture, commerce, and navigation.

Santander views and Santillana del Mar

Included

04 h 00 m

Discover one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval villages, famously described as "the prettiest village in Spain," featuring cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana with its intriguing cloister.
Admire Santillana del Mar’s historic landmarks, including the fortified House of Borja, the House of the Eagle, and the medieval Merinos Tower.
Enjoy a scenic drive through Santander, passing key attractions such as the Gothic cathedral, the grand Magdalena Palace, the beautiful Beach of El Sardinero, and the iconic Bank of Santander building.

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With a rich seafaring history and scenic beaches, Ferrol, in A Coruña, Galicia, on the Atlantic coast, champions the Ferrol Naval Museum and the 16th-century San Felipe Castle. Nearby, La Coruña, dubbed the Crystal City for its glass-fronted buildings, showcases the 1st-century Hercules Tower, a UNESCO landmark. Santiago de Compostela, a famed pilgrimage centre, houses the cathedral believed to hold the remains of St. James the Great.

Santiago de Compostela Pilgrimage hike

Included

06 h 00 m

Follow the legendary Camino de Santiago on its last 5-kilometer stretch, passing through scenic forests, gentle hills, and historic pathways before entering the heart of Santiago.
Arrive at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its breathtaking Baroque, Neoclassical, and Romanesque façades, as well as the Holy Door, opened only in Jubilee Years.
Enjoy a guided Cathedral tour, witness the famous Botafumeiro incense burner, and receive a traditional Camino shell, symbolizing your unforgettable journey.

Discover La Coruna

Optional

03 h 45 m

Discover La Coruna's charming old town, featuring iconic "galleries" with hundreds of reflective windows that earned the city its nickname. Stroll along the promenade, Europe’s longest, passing landmarks like the Castle of San Anton and its archaeological museum.
Marvel at the world’s oldest functioning Roman lighthouse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in myth and history, including the legend of Hercules defeating the giant Gerion.
Experience the vibrant Maria Pita Square, home to the historic town hall and stories of heroism, before enjoying free time to explore La Coruna's shops, bars, and markets.

Santiago de Compostela

Included

06 h 00 m

Visit the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the renowned Camino de Santiago and the believed resting place of Apostle James.
Explore Obradoiro Square, home to the cathedral’s stunning façades, the historic Parador of the Reyes Católicos, and other remarkable landmarks.
Enjoy a guided tour of the cathedral’s grand interior, followed by free time to explore Santiago’s rich history and architecture at your own pace.

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Famed for its port wine and bridges over the river Douro, Portugal’s second city, Oporto (Porto) is a city of two halves. On the left bank is Gaia's famed port houses such as Graham's and Taylor's. Ribeira, on the right bank, has rows of colourful old houses that line the riverfront, narrow streets that rise up the hill and Igreja de Carmo church whose facade is adorned with blue azulejos (tiles). A vintage tram trundles to the Foz district.

Oporto highlights by e-bike

Optional

04 h 00 m

Effortlessly explore Porto on an e-bike, riding through the city's historic streets and along the scenic beaches of Matosinhos.
See Porto’s top landmarks, including Clérigos Tower, Lello Bookstore, São Bento Train Station, and the Dom Luís I Bridge.
Enjoy free time in the charming Ribeira Quarter, plus a relaxing coffee break along the famous Aliados Avenue.

Oporto & Wine Tasting

Included

04 h 00 m

Explore Porto’s stunning architectural heritage, from the Romanesque and Gothic São Francisco Church to the opulent 19th-century Palácio da Bolsa.
Wander through the UNESCO-listed Ribeira Quarter, a charming riverside district filled with colorful buildings, lively cafés, and historic landmarks.
Visit a renowned wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you'll learn about the history and production of the world-famous Porto Wine.

Shuttle Bus to Oporto

Included

07 h 00 m

Discover Porto at your own pace with a convenient shuttle bus service
Stroll the colourful riverside and narrow streets of the Ribeira quarter with azulejo tiled decorations

Guimaraes: Birthplace of a Nation

Optional

04 h 00 m

Explore Guimarães Castle, the birthplace of Portugal’s first king, and uncover the city’s royal and military history.
Step inside the Dukes of Braganza Palace, a 15th-century national monument filled with medieval tapestries, antique furniture, and knight’s armor.
Stroll through the charming medieval streets of Guimarães, lined with historic buildings, iron balconies, and a 10th-century church in the town’s main square.

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Spread over seven hills with São Jorge Castle views, bustling Lisbon is one of the world's oldest cities. Elegant Baixa, hilltop Alfama with its yellow tram, and scenic Graça overviewing pastel buildings, are top areas. The Jerónimos Monastery in Belém is a World Heritage Gothic site. The classic Portuguese pastel de nata custard tarts are a local treat. Europe’s longest suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril, crosses the river Tagus.

This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

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YOUR SUITE TYPE

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Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m²(215ft²) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

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Oceanview M4

20 m²

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Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

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Balcony M5

25 m²

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Balcony D6

25 m²

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Junior Suite

32 m²

Junior Suites measure 32-36m² (344-388ft²) – including a 6m² (65ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, have a separate living room area, and luxurious en-suite bathroom.

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Suite

41 m²

Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and a walk-in shower.

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Premium Suite

41 m²

Premium Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including 8m² (86ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – and a walk-in wardrobe.