Cruise MS Fridtjof Nansen: Germany, France, Spain, Portugal departing from Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal's sunny capital, seduces you with its historic districts and panoramic views. Stroll through the narrow streets of Alfama, listen to traditional fado and visit São Jorge Castle. The Belém district, with the Belém Tower and the Hieronymites Monastery, bears witness to the great maritime discoveries. The iconic yellow streetcars climb the hills, offering a picturesque experience. Taste pasteis de nata in a local pastry shop. Lisbon, with its combination of history, culture and gastronomy, is an essential European destination.

The port :

The port of Porto is located on the Douro River in northern Portugal. This port, located in the heart of the city, offers immediate access to Porto's many monuments and emblematic bridges.

What to visit in Porto

Porto, famous for its wine, architecture and history, is full of treasures. Explore the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful alleyways and views of the Douro River. Visit the Lello bookshop, one of the finest in the world, and Porto Cathedral. Discover Porto's wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across from the city, for unforgettable wine tastings. For a panoramic view of the city, climb the Clercs Tower or cross the Dom Luís I Bridge.

What to visit on the Douro?

A cruise on the Douro takes visitors through spectacular landscapes of terraced vineyards. Discover the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its cultural landscapes and historic vineyards. Small towns along the river, such as Peso da Régua and Pinhão, offer an authentic insight into Portuguese culture and rural life. For a more in-depth experience, visit the quintas (wineries) for wine tastings and to learn more about Port wine production. The natural landscapes along the river, with their picturesque views and serenity, are perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Ferrol, Spain, is a historic town with a rich naval heritage. Visit the arsenal and the Naval Museum to discover the city's maritime history. Stroll through the La Magdalena district, with its lined streets and 18th-century architecture. Ferrol is also a great base for exploring the Rías Altas and surrounding beaches. Your stay in Ferrol will combine historical discovery with natural beauty.

The port:

The port of Gijón, nestled on Spain's northern coast in the Asturias region, is a charming stopover for cruisers. Located just 3 kilometers from the lively city center, the port is easily accessible by bus or cab.

What to visit in Gijón

Gijón is a dynamic city with a rich history. The old town, Cimavilla, is a labyrinth of narrow streets winding up to the Plaza Mayor and San Pedro church. The Asturias Railway Museum, highlighting the region's industrial heritage, and the Atlantic Botanical Garden, offer an oasis of tranquillity. The seafront promenade, with its spectacular views over the bay, is perfect for a relaxing stroll.

What to visit in the surrounding area

Around Gijón, the natural and cultural treasures of Asturias await you. The city of Oviedo, around 30 kilometers away, offers a rich architectural heritage with its magnificent cathedral. Nature lovers will be enchanted by the Picos de Europa Natural Park, a paradise for hiking and exploring breathtaking mountain landscapes. The Dinosaur Coast, with its fossilized dinosaur footprints, is also a fascinating excursion for families and prehistory enthusiasts.

The port :

The port of San Sebastián, the jewel of the Spanish Basque Country on the Bay of Biscay (Atlantic Ocean), is less than 2 kilometers from the lively city center. This short distance gives cruisers quick and easy access to the city center by cab, bus or even on foot, offering an immersive experience in the unique culture and atmosphere of the Basque Country. The walk from the port is a pleasant one, allowing you to gradually discover the charm of San Sebastián.

What to visit in San Sebastián

San Sebastián, known for its elegance and rich cultural heritage, offers many attractions. The famous La Concha beach, with its shell-shaped bay, is perfect for relaxing and enjoying spectacular views. The historic district, Parte Vieja, is a labyrinth of alleyways where you can enjoy pintxos, the local tapas, in a convivial atmosphere. Visit the Teatro Victoria Eugenia and the Palacio de Congresos Kursaal to appreciate the city's remarkable architecture. Don't miss Monte Igueldo, offering panoramic views of San Sebastián and its bay.

What to see and do in the surrounding area

The area around San Sebastián is full of treasures. The small town of Zarautz, famous for its long beach and surfing, is a popular nearby destination. For history buffs, the town of Hondarribia, with its charming old quarter and ramparts, is a real gem. Nature and hiking enthusiasts will be enchanted by the Aiako Harria Nature Park, offering spectacular scenery and diverse wildlife. Finally, a short drive takes you to Bilbao, where the famous Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture, awaits art and culture enthusiasts.

The port:

Bordeaux's port, Port de la Lune, is located about 10 km from the city center. Accessible by public transport or a pleasant river cruise along the Garonne, this historic port immerses you in the unique atmosphere of south-western France.

What to visit in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, renowned for its world-famous wines, also boasts a rich architectural heritage. Don't miss the majestic Place de la Bourse with its water mirror, Saint-André Cathedral and the Grand Théâtre. For wine lovers, the Cité du Vin is a must-see to discover the secrets of Bordeaux wines.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The Bordeaux area is full of famous vineyards. Take advantage of an excursion to the Médoc or Saint-Émilion to visit wine châteaux and taste exceptional wines. For a nature getaway, the Dune du Pilat, the highest in Europe, offers a spectacular panorama of the Atlantic Ocean.

The island of Yeu, a treasure of the Atlantic, seduces with its authentic charm. Take a bike ride to discover its varied landscapes, hidden coves and historic heritage, including the old castle. Don't miss the chance to sample local seafood. The island is also ideal for hiking and seabird watching.

Douarnenez, in Brittany, France, is famous for its picturesque port and its close ties with the sea. Discover the unique Port-Musée and immerse yourself in the region's maritime history. Gourmets will love the fresh seafood, including Douarnenez's famous sardines. The beaches and coastal paths offer moments of relaxation and magnificent views.

St. Malo, in Brittany, France, is a spectacular fortified town, famous for its ramparts and rich maritime past. Explore the old town, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. Visit the Château de St. Malo and the History Museum. The town is also a good base for visiting Mont Saint-Michel. Beaches and water sports abound, offering the perfect balance between culture and leisure. Breton cuisine, with its seafood and crêpes, is a treat for the taste buds.

Helgoland, a German island in the North Sea, is famous for its colorful cliffs and rich fauna. It's a haven for seabirds and a breeding ground for seals. Explore the island on foot to discover its natural beauty. Take advantage of the absence of cars for a peaceful experience. The local cuisine offers seafood specialties, including crab and lobster.

The port:

The port of Hamburg in Germany is one of Europe's largest. Located around 3 kilometers from the city center, it's easily accessible by public transport or cab. This dynamic port is an exciting starting point for exploring Hamburg's rich cultural and historical heritage.

What to visit in Hamburg

Hamburg, nicknamed the "Gateway to the World" with its unique blend of modern and historic architecture, offers many attractions. The Speicherstadt district, a collection of historic buildings on stilts, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the magnificent Elbphilharmonie, a modern architectural masterpiece. The Reeperbahn, famous for its lively nightlife, and the historic fish market are a must for an authentic local experience. For a green break in the city, visit Planten un Blomen, a city park with themed gardens and a large greenhouse.

What to visit in the surrounding area

On the outskirts of Hamburg, Lübeck, a Hanseatic city some 60 kilometers away, is famous for its medieval city center and traditional marzipan. Nature lovers will appreciate an excursion to the Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO biosphere reserve offering unique coastal landscapes. For a family day out, the Heide Park Resort, one of Germany's largest amusement parks, offers fun and thrills just an hour's drive from Hamburg.