Spain and Portugal Autumn Warmth
September 2027

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Matosinhos is a delightful town to explore, where a stroll along the promenade offers a laidback atmosphere and a lovely beach located just outside the town. Venture further afield to Porto, and you’ll be offered opportunities to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and colourful houses of Ribeira, or perhaps take a boat trip along the Douro River to witness scenic landscapes of terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates known as quintas. Meanwhile, the city is well known for its production of Port wine, which can be sampled at one of the many wine cellars, or for enjoying Porto’s signature dish, Francesinha, a mouth-watering hearty sandwich of meat covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick sauce in an authentic Portuguese restaurant.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Nestled between Europe and Africa, iconic Gibraltar makes for a fascinating visit with its traditionally British red pillar boxes, fish and chip shops, and even Marks & Spencer, but with a delightful blend of Spanish and Mediterranean influences. After wandering through the town and indulging in duty-free shopping at Main Street, you are perfectly placed to explore the Rock and enjoy unrivalled views across to Africa, Spain, and over the Straits of Gibraltar, as well as meet the famously mischievous Barbary macaques, Europe’s only wild monkey population. There will be opportunities to sample local dishes like calentita (chickpea flour bread) and rosto (a delicious meat and tomato pasta). You may also wish to discover the network of tunnels within the Rock, which played a strategic role in World War II.

In the pleasant October sunshine, a visit to Cartagena beckons, with its variety of historical sites awaiting exploration. The undoubted highlight is the Roman amphitheatre, rediscovered in 1988 and located within the city and close to the harbour, holding thousands of years of history to delve into. After a stroll through the city to admire its Art Nouveau buildings, you could be enjoying a refreshing glass of Licor 43 or an Asiatico at a local bar or café, sitting in the autumn sun, before ascending to the top of Concepcion Castle via its panoramic lift for outstanding views across the harbour.

Alicante, often seen as just a gateway to Spain’s beach resorts, is a vibrant destination in its own right. With a beautiful harbour, golden beaches, and scenic promenades, it’s perfect for relaxing in the Mediterranean sun. You can explore the Old Quarter’s historic sites, enjoy local cafés or visit Santa Bárbara Castle for breathtaking views, while for those seeking out the culture of the city, discover the Archaeological Museum or admire works by Picasso and Dalí at the Asegurada Museum of Modern Art.