Spain and Portugal with Mediterranean Wonders and Istanbul

Say olá to Portugal. You'll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Get to know everyone at a welcome reception.

This morning, set off to see the highlights of Lisbon. Take a ride on the city’s iconic tramcars and visit the Old Town. Journey to the World Heritage-listed Jeronimos Monastery, symbolic of Portugal’s power and wealth during the Age of Discovery. The monastery was built in 1502 by King Manuel I to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India.

As soon as you get your first glimpse of Serra de Sintra, prepare to gasp. Mountains roll from each direction and every peak is as memorable as the last. Visit King Ferdinand II’s ingenious Park and National Palace of Pena before enjoying free time to explore Sintra. Take the chance to have lunch at your leisure, then soak up the sea breeze as you return to Lisbon via the coastal route. Make the most of your final night in Lisbon and head out to try one of the local restaurants for an authentic dinner.

Travel towards the sun-drenched Algarve coast today, renowned for its alluring cliffs, attractive bays and pristine islands. Arrive at your hotel, where you'll stay for the next two nights.

This morning, discover Ria Formosa National Park on a local boat trip. Extending about 60km along Portugal's southeastern coast from Faro to Tavira, this area features islands, sandbars, lagoons, canals and marshes that shift with currents and tides, supporting diverse wildlife. You’ll then have the remainder of the afternoon to enjoy the facilities at your resort. Relax by the pool or perhaps indulge in a spa treatment.

Cross the border into Spain today and travel to historic Seville. The Andalusian capital is known for flamenco dancing and its Moorish architecture.

Today, explore beautiful Seville. Visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville, Europe’s oldest active palace, which dates back to the 11th century when Muslim rulers built a fortress in a strategic part of Seville for security. Enclosed by walls, the site features various palaces and gardens, reflecting different historical periods. Afterwards, admire Seville Cathedral and La Giralda tower.

Travel to Ronda and embark on a guided exploration of this mountaintop town set above a deep gorge. Revel in the beauty of its vistas. Later, travel to Granada.

Embark on a guided tour to see the World Heritage-listed Alhambra, a location encapsulating Andalusian history. Be captivated by the Moorish architecture of this masterpiece that is part fortress, part palace. Admire the Court of the Lions, featuring the restored Lion Fountain, and wander through the beautiful Nasrid Palace complex with its opulent courtyards, reception halls and royal quarters. Tonight, a spectacular Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Flamenco Show and Tapas

In a local gypsy cave, feel the passion of a flamenco show as you graze on tasty tapas.

Today, visit an authentic Spanish olive estate and sample some of the finest olives that are used to produce Spain's world-famous olive oil. Afterwards, head to the city of Córdoba, a prominent Roman city.

This morning, set out on a guided tour of Córdoba. Visit the impressive Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba and the historic Jewish Quarter. Delight in the unique architecture of the city, influenced by a melting pot of cultures and religions. Later, enjoy time at leisure to explore more of this fascinating destination.

Travel to Toledo and take a guided stroll through the city’s the narrow streets, rich in history. As one of the former capitals of the Spanish Empire, ancient Toledo is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Afterwards, continue to Spain’s capital, Madrid.

Enjoy a guided discovery of Madrid’s icons. Head out to see the vast Royal Palace, the lush Buen Retiro Park and the Plaza Mayor. The evening is yours to explore this vibrant city at leisure. Perhaps dine at one of the city’s restaurants and indulge in authentic Spanish cuisine.

Located in the heart of Madrid, visit the renowned Museo del Prado, Spain's main national art museum. Enjoy a guided tour before travelling by rail to the coastal city of Barcelona.

Enjoy a Signature Experience this morning. Afterwards, take a panoramic tour of the city, including a drive along Passeig de Gràcia, where you will see the facades of many of Antoni Gaudí's emblematic buildings. You'll also see the exterior of the towering Sagrada Família. This evening, come together to share a farewell dinner.

Signature Experience – Before-Hours Visit to Casa Vicens

Begin your day with an exclusive before-hours visit to Casa Vicens, the first house designed by Gaudí. Situated in the Gràcia neighbourhood of Barcelona, Casa Vicens is Gaudí’s first major project and a brilliant example of his unique architectural style.

Today, enjoy an immersive paella masterclass and for lunch, savour the taste of this flavoursome meal, known as the national dish of Spain. Later, you will be transferred to the ultra-luxurious Seabourn Venture. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship.

Dock in Port-Vendres, a picturesque coastal town nestled on the Côte Vermeille in the south of France near Spain. Famous for its fishing port, Port-Vendres offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and natural beauty. Surrounding the fortified town, the foothills of the Albères mountains gently cascade down into the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you'll have a choice of tours.

Freedom of Choice – Perpignan Guided Tour

Explore Perpignan, a city steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage. From the fascinating fossils of Serrat d'en Vaquer to striking 20th-century architecture, Perpignan’s story spans over two millennia. Set out on a walking tour of the city centre, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist and the one-of-a-kind Campo Santo, a rare cemetery cloister.

Freedom of Choice – Caves Byrrh

Travel to the medieval town of Thuir, located at the base of the Pyrenees foothills, and visit the prestigious Caves Byrrh, a historic French aperitif winery. Byrrh is a unique vermouth aperitif crafted in Thuir since 1886, made from Roussillon and Malaga wines blended with cinchona, coffee, cocoa and spices. Learn about how Byrrh is produced and its fascinating evolution during the 20th century from a medicinal remedy to a world-renowned aperitif. See the world’s largest oak casks – with a capacity of over one million litres – and conclude your tour with a tasting before returning to your ship in Port-Vendres.

Freedom of Choice – Salses-le-Château Guided Tour

Enjoy a scenic drive to Salses-le-Château, a village named after its remarkably preserved fortress. Built for King Ferdinand of Aragon, Spain’s ruler during the Age of Discovery, Salses Castle stands on a vital Mediterranean passage once traversed by Hannibal’s army in 218 BC. On a guided tour, explore its storied past and strategic role on the historic France-Spain border.

Journey to the Spanish island of Menorca, known for its sweeping countryside, historic towns and superb beaches. In 1708, British and Dutch forces captured the island from Spain, and the British occupied the island on and off until it was returned to Spain in 1802. Dock in the capital, Mahón, known locally as Maó. The port of Mahón is the largest natural harbour in the Mediterranean and the second largest in the world. Decide how to explore today with a range of sightseeing options to choose from. 

Freedom of Choice – Island Tour  

Tour an old fishing village perched on a natural harbour, then visit Monte Toro, known as the spiritual centre of the island, before continuing to Binibeca. See the whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and narrow passages before heading back to the pier.  

Freedom of Choice – Gin Distillery  

Visit a local gin distillery to learn about the gin-making process. The production of gin began on Menorca in the 18th century to satiate the thirst of British sailors, while the island was under British occupation. Mahón gin is recognised as being one of the first gins made in the Mediterranean. 

Enrich Your Experience – Snorkelling in Fornells Bay  

Set out on a fully escorted snorkelling excursion in Fornells Bay (additional expense). Get fitted out with your equipment, then head out to a sheltered bay. Here, you’ll receive further instructions from a qualified snorkel instructor before exploring some of the most crystal-clear waters in the world. Return to Fornells and enjoy time at leisure to wander through this old fishing village. 

Dock in Ajaccio, located on the French island of Corsica. Embark on your chosen sightseeing activity.  

Freedom of Choice – Maison Bonaparte 

Take a guided walking tour through Ajaccio’s Old Town and learn about the history of the Bonaparte family in Corsica, which dates back to the late 15th century. Visit Maison Bonaparte, the home where Napoleon was born in 1769, and which remained in the family's possession until 1923 when it was donated to the State. Now a small museum, Maison Bonaparte features magnificent 18th-century furniture, artefacts, weapons and documents; all of which belonged to the Bonaparte family.  

Freedom of Choice – Etheric Oil and Honey

Travel to Ocana, a hillside commune in the countryside known for its cobbled streets and red-tile-roofed homes. Here, you’ll visit Maison des Senteurs, a distillery that has produced essential oils for over 20 years. Learn how the distillery creates different organic essential oils from native trees and plants used to create fragrances and natural healing products. Next, visit a local honey farm, where you’ll enjoy a tour and sample the delicious honey.

Freedom of Choice - Prunelli Gorges and Corsican Tasting

Depart Ajaccio for your scenic journey inland, marvelling at the impressive views of Ajaccio Gulf as you leave the port, passing mountain villages, Prunelli Valley and Tolla Lake. Pause at Mercujo Pass for panoramic views over Prunelli Valley and Tolla Lake, before continuing to Bastelicaccia, the 'garden of Ajaccio', for a tasting of Corsican specialities.

This morning, you will arrive in Cagliari, located on the Italian island of Sardinia. Here, a choice of sightseeing tours will be on offer.   

Freedom of Choice – Guided City Tour  

Enjoy a guided walking tour of the ancient city of Cagliari. See the striking Piazza Palazzo and the Cathedral of Saint Cecilia, built in the 13th century in the Pisan Romanesque style. 

Freedom of Choice – Local Winery Visit  

Savour a wine tasting at a family-owned winery founded in 1918, now in its third generation of winemaking, and learn about the fascinating story of the property. 

Dock in Malta’s capital, Valletta, a fortified city located on a hilly peninsula between two natural harbours. An island steeped in history, Malta has been occupied by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, French and British. This rich cultural tapestry is reflected in Valletta’s diverse architecture. Decide how to explore today with an included Freedom of Choice activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Mdina and Valletta Guided Tour  

Visit Mdina, Malta’s former capital and one of Europe’s most remarkable examples of an ancient walled city, known for its captivating blend of medieval and baroque buildings. After a guided tour, you’ll then explore Valletta, which was declared a World Heritage Site in 1980 due to its extraordinary architecture and history.   

Freedom of Choice – Vittoriosa Tour and Market Tasting  

Travel to Vittoriosa, where the Hospitallers resided and conducted their government when they first arrived in Malta in 1530. Proceed to Marsaxlokk, Malta’s largest fishing village, known for its quaint village square, cafes, and colourful, traditional boats. Wander the marketplace and sample some local produce.   

After breakfast, you will arrive back on the island of Sicily. Dock in Mazara del Vallo and venture to Selinunte Archaeological Park. Selinunte was an ancient Greek city established in the seventh century BC. Covering an impressive 270 hectares, the sprawling archaeological site is situated between rolling green hills and the glistening waters of the Mediterranean. Take a guided tour of the Acropolis, eastern temples and the ruins before returning to your ship to set sail in the afternoon. 

This morning, set out on a walking tour of Syracuse, a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily that was founded by the Corinthians in 734 BC. Your tour will start at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, where you will visit the Latomia del Paradiso, an ancient limestone quarry. Discover the Altar of Hiero II, Cave of Cordari, Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheatre. Afterwards, head to the small island of Ortigia, the historic centre of Syracuse, and explore the remains of the earliest Greek constructions. In the afternoon, set sail for Greece.

Disembark in the scenic Greek seaside port of Katakolon and set off on an excursion to Olympia, the incredible site of the ancient Olympic Games. See the temple of Zeus, which once housed one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, a statue of Zeus made of ivory and gold. See the gymnasium where the athletes trained, the nymphaeum, and the main stadium in which the games were held.  You'll then enjoy a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Magna Grecia Estate Visit and Tasting

Be welcomed by the owners of Magna Grecia, a fourth-generation, family-owned farmhouse estate. Enjoy a tasting of local wine, olive oil, and homemade delicacies before time at leisure to stroll through the olive trees and vineyards of the estate.

Arrive in Monemvasia, a striking medieval fortress town perched on a massive rock rising from the Myrtoan Sea. The name is derived from two Greek words, mone and emvasia, meaning 'single entrance', referring to the narrow causeway that connects the island to the Greek mainland. Commonly referred to as the ‘Gibraltar of Greece’, the town exudes a timeless charm, having resisted modernisation to preserve its unique character. Here, enjoy a choice of tours.

Freedom of Choice – Monemvasia Castle

Tour the narrow streets within the Monemvasia Castle grounds and see the church of Elkomenos Christos, which was built in the sixth or seventh century with the settlement of the first residents in the city.

Freedom of Choice – Monemvasia Culinary Walk

Learn about the history of Monemvasia as you sample local products from the Peloponnese, including honey liqueur, extra virgin olive oil, and local wine.

Freedom of Choice – Mystras Guided Tour

Nestled on the lower slopes of Mount Taygetos lies the silent, ruined city of Mystras. Stroll along its grass-covered pathways, weaving between centuries-old churches and the houses of noblemen, as you ascend towards the majestic citadel that crowns the summit. During Mystra's two centuries of existence as the Byzantine capital of the Peloponnese, many churches and monasteries were erected. See the church of Agia Sofia, the impressive Pantanassa Monastery and the Cathedral of Agios Dimitrios. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your ship.

Set out on a tour of Athens and immerse yourself in the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the World Heritage-listed Acropolis. Discover the crown jewel of this sprawling ancient citadel, the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Stroll through the historic neighbourhood of Plaka, known for its charming labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture. The afternoon is at your leisure. Later this evening, cruise to Syros.

This morning, you'll dock in Syros, one of the smallest islands of the Cyclades. Embark on a walking tour and visit the Holy Cathedral of the Dormition of the Virgin, the Vaporia district and Miaouli Square. Afterwards, reboard your ship and cruise to the dazzling Greek island of Mykonos. Set out on a guided tour and visit Ano Mera, the second largest village on the island, and enjoy free time to stroll through the main square. Then, travel to Kalafatis beach, where you will have time to relax and soak up the beautiful surrounds. Later, take a walking tour through the main town of Chora. Stroll through the tangle of tiny lanes, take in the whitewashed buildings with iconic blue shutters, and admire the blue-domed churches. See the old port and the famous windmills often featured on postcards.

This morning, dock in Kuşadası on Türkiye’s Anatolian coast and drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean. Step back in time as you immerse yourself in ancient Roman life and imagine the city’s former splendour. Broad streets are lined with impressive buildings, including the Library of Celsus, which was built in memory of Celsus Polemeanus, a Roman senator and reportedly a great book lover.  After your exploration, a Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Folklore Show and Traditional Lunch  

Visit a local handicraft museum. Here, enjoy an authentic home-cooked lunch and a folklore show.  

This morning, arrive in Çanakkale and immerse yourself in Anzac history with a captivating excursion to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Explore the numerous trenches and memorials that stand as a tribute to those who lost their lives in World War I. Pay your respects at Anzac Cove, the Australian Memorial at Lone Pine, and the New Zealand Memorial at Chunuk Bair. After lunch back on board, travel to the ancient city of Troy, the setting for the legendary Trojan War in Homer’s two epic poems, ‘The Iliad’ and ‘The Odyssey’. Visit the town’s enthralling museum, which houses an interesting collection of Trojan artefacts, as well as a fascinating range of ancient fossils from the Bronze Age through to modern times.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Seabourn Venture as you disembark your ship for the final time. Today will be spent discovering Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum and the underground Basilica Cistern. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Grand Bazaar, where construction first began in 1455 under Mehmed the Conqueror. Today, the bazaar is a labyrinth of covered streets lined with thousands of shops selling hand-woven carpets and kilims, gold and silver jewellery, hand-painted ceramics, and leather goods.

This morning, choose from a range of sightseeing tours. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at an authentic Turkish restaurant and indulge in traditional fare.

Freedom of Choice – Topkapı Palace and Spice Market

Explore the extravagant Topkapı Palace, which served as the residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. Afterwards, visit the vibrant Spice Market, one of the city’s largest bazaars.

Freedom of Choice – Bosphorus Cruise

See Istanbul’s enchanting highlights from the water on a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, a crucial sea strait which has played a major role in world trade for many centuries.

This morning after breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.