Europe: Spain, Morocco, Portugal & Gibraltar

The mountainous isle of Madeira has been a popular European destination for years. The idyllic island is perfect for exploring with its beautiful beaches, stunning lava formed landscapes and lush, green forests. But sampling the famed Madeira wines is also an absolute must. Explore more of Maderia on a European cruise!

Located at the eastern tip of the island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz is a natural cruise destination as over half of its perimeter is shoreline. The beaches are lovely at that, from the yellow sands of Las Teresitas to the black sands of the quieter, clothing-optional Las Gaviotas. There's also plenty to do and see inland, especially if you're here during the spectacular Carnival.

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!

Situated among Spain’s Canary Islands, Puerto del Rosario is the capital of the island of Fuerteventura. Beach lovers will rejoice at the seemingly endless selection of soft white-sand beaches and warm turquoise waters that are the ideal setting for a wide range of water sports. Choose to journey inland among the otherworldly volcanic and desert landscapes that boast a variety of outdoor adventures. Or simply stroll along Puerto del Rosario’s historic sites and tour nearby picturesque villages. Whatever activities you choose, finding your slice of paradise is a breeze in Puerto del Rosario.

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.

Over the centuries, this northern Moroccan coastal city has attracted many famed artists and writers. Tangier was once home to The Rolling Stones, and the great beat writers such as William S. Burroughs, Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac resided here. At the mouth of the Mediterranean, this modern city boasts narrow streets lined with cafes, and the medina as its not-too-miss quarter.

Motril is a magnificent Spanish gem on the Mediterranean coast. The relaxing sands of Playa de Torrenueva are a great place to spend a sunny day. For some inland exploring, head to the Cueva Del Capitan for a fantastic nature hike. There’s also plenty of history waiting to be experienced in the city. Stop by the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza to see a 17th-century church surrounded by incredible panoramic views. Then head to the Pre-industrial Sugar Cane Museum to learn all about the region’s staple crop.

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.

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!