Europe: Spain, Morocco & Gibraltar

Santa Cruz de la Palma is located on the island of La Palma — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Known as “La Isla Bonita” (The Beautiful Island), it only takes visitors a short time to discover why the island bears this nickname. From the picturesque streets and historic sites of Santa Cruz de la Palma to dramatic landscapes boasting expansive black-sand beaches, volcanic craters, lush forests and rugged peaks, you can feel a world away while touring its many attractions. Being designated the world’s first Starlight Reserve by UNESCO, La Palma offers some of the planet’s best stargazing—to feel possibly several worlds away on this small slice of paradise.

The capital of the second smallest island in the Canaries, San Sebastian’s atmosphere feels much slower and relaxed than other nearby island capitals. Stroll along the pastel-building lined streets and lose yourself to the island’s storied past and natural beauty. From tracing the footsteps of Christopher Columbus and visiting museums to reclining on scenic beaches and sampling local cuisine, Feel Free to soak up the best of San Sebastián.

Founded in 1478, today Las Palmas is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with plenty of Spanish ambience, culture and history to go around. Take a scenic drive through the Angostura Valley for an unforgettable experience. Explore more of Las Palmas on a European cruise!

Part bustling port town and part relaxing beach getaway, Agadir is a must-go. After an earthquake hit in 1960, the city had to almost completely rebuild itself. Now, it’s a beach vacation destination for the whole country. Take a walk on the promenade, pick up a slice from one of the city’s many delicious pizzerias, relax on the beach, and get a taste of the Moroccan street scene—all in one port.

The urban landscape of this famed city clearly demonstrates the contrasts between the old and the new. Start with a visit to the central market, a massive kaleidoscope of colors. Then kick off your shoes as you visit the modernist landmark of the Hassan II Mosque, the 3rd largest mosque in the world.

Go to Gibraltar to discover just how impressive rock can be. From the top of the Rock (over 400 meters up), you can admire the view across the Mediterranean and up the peninsula into Spain. Explore St. Michael’s Cave, a fascinating cavern once lived in by Neolithic peoples and visited by early Romans. Browse through shops filled with embroidered linens from Madeira or go see to the famed Barbary Apes. Then head to a local pub to grab some traditional fish and chips. If you really want to do as the locals do, order a beer (or two) with your meal.

The strategic position to the Mediterranean Sea has always made Malaga an attractive zone for foreign invasions. From Malaga, a trip to Granada showcases an intriguing blend of Arab and European cultures. Be sure to visit The Alhambra, one of the finest examples of Moorish art in Spain.

Indulge in the culture of Andalusia's capital of Seville and visit its stunning Cathedral, one of the largest in the world. Stop and taste the tapas and smell the orange blossoms during a stroll down the winding Medieval lanes. But be sure you leave time to visit the breathtaking Plaza de Espana.

Located on the sun-kissed coastline of Algarve, Portimão is a colorful city with a bustling waterfront and a charming city center decorated with parks and plazas. History buff? The Museum of Portimão traces human settlement in the area as far back as the Roman and Islamic periods. And if you want to be one with nature, we recommend taking a scenic boat ride up the coast and along the Rio Arade, where you will enjoy the beautiful views and hidden caves to discover.

An unforgettable stop on any European cruise, with its Gothic cathedrals, medieval castle, and quaint village neighborhoods, Lisbon is Portugal's feature attraction and has been the country's capital since 1147. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets of this city at your own leisurely pace, stopping along the way at a remarkable museum or 1930's era patio caf. Explore more of Lisbon on a European cruise!