BARCELONA, SPAIN
Thursday, October 1
Barcelona is a vibrant city on the northeastern coast of Spain known for its stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Barcelona’s seaside beauty, sprawling beaches, eclectic architecture, world-class tapas, and Tempranillo are all reasons to fall in love with the city of Gaudí. Indeed, the treasures here are many and diverse, captivating travelers and experts alike. In fact, nine important sites in the city, seven designed by the famed architect himself, have earned the acclaim of UNESCO.
PALMA DE MALLORCA, SPAIN
Friday, October 2
Palma de Mallorca, rich in monuments of many ages, was founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago. A magnificent rose-colored Gothic cathedral dominates the palm-fringed waterfront of its urban center. Mallorca, known as the “Island of Tranquility,” is the largest and most developed of the Balearic group. Steep mountains, serene valleys, and wide plains form its varied landscape. Visit the island’s quaint villages and the monastery where George Sand and Frederic Chopin spent a winter.
ALICANTE, SPAIN
Saturday, October 3
Alicante, nestled on Spain’s southeastern Costa Blanca, captivates with its blend of beautiful beaches, rich history, and Mediterranean charm. Visitors can relax on Playa del Postiguet, stroll the palm-lined Explanada de España, and explore landmarks like Santa Barbara Castle, which reflects the city’s storied past.
CARTAGENA (MURCIA), SPAIN
Sunday, October 4
Located on the southern coast of Spain, Cartagena invites visitors to discover its rich history, stunning Roman ruins, and picturesque Mediterranean vistas. From its ancient natural harbor where Phoenicians would trade to its Roman Empire heyday when it was known as the New Carthage, Cartagena’s enviable position on the Mediterranean has long made it one of the most important ports in Spain. Discover ancient Roman ruins and Modernista buildings, the magnificent Concepcion Castle, and a stunning City Hall.
MELILLA, SPAIN
Monday, October 5
European and Moroccan traditions intertwine in everything from the beguiling blend of medieval and modernist architecture to the food in Melilla, Spain’s North African outpost. This cultural crossroads has religious buildings for each of the Christian, Muslim, Jewish, and Hindu faiths. Explore Old Melilla, with its beautifully preserved fortress on a rock jutting out into the Mediterranean, and stroll past ornate buildings designed by Enrique Nieto, a student of Antoni Gaudí.
GIBRALTAR, GIBRALTAR
Tuesday, October 6
A British Overseas Territory on the southern tip of Spain, with stunning natural landscapes, historic fortifications, and a lively blend of British and Mediterranean cultures. Climb your way to the top of this legendary limestone mass. With more than 140 caves and soaring to almost 1,400 feet, there’s no question why the Rock of Gibraltar has been a staple in ancient legends.
CASABLANCA, MOROCCO
Wednesday, October 7
With visions of Bergman and Bogart filling the imagination, it’s easy to explore the French colonial design and narrow alleyways of the old Medina, where bargain-filled souks are reminders of mysterious days past. Yet this gleaming city has a firm grasp on the 21st century and now encompasses broad palm-lined boulevards, attractive public parks, and soaring high-rises.
TANGIER, MOROCCO
Thursday, October 8
Veiled in myth, Morocco’s enigmatic port, Tangier, reveals history at every turn. The legend goes that the Greek god Hercules rested from his labors here – for certain, it was a Phoenician colony that could date from as early as the 10th century BCE. Pick out travelers’ treasures to take home in the labyrinthine alleyways of the city’s Medina, within the walls of a 15th-century Portuguese fortress.
CADIZ, SPAIN
Friday, October 9
Uncover the magic of Cadiz, one of Europe’s oldest cities where the sea and heritage come together in perfect harmony. Tracing its roots back to the Phoenicians, this thriving cosmopolitan city seamlessly blends old-world charm with contemporary sophistication. Take a leisurely stroll through its cobbled streets and marvel at the stunning Moorish castles, magnificent ancient ruins, and quaint pastel homes. Indulge in the flavors of its renowned Andalusian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and local wines, and take in the impressive sea views of this captivating city.
SEMINARS-AT-SEA
Saturday, October 10
While onboard, along with enjoying the many amenities and countless shipboard activities aboard the ship, you’ll participate in insightful and enlightening seminars and panel discussions with your distinguished faculty.
LISBON, PORTUGAL
Sunday, October 11
Discover the world’s last colonial empire, turned bustling cosmopolitan city. Lisbon has dozens of Moorish castles, pastel buildings, and white sand beaches to explore. This Atlantic-coast city perfectly encapsulates Mediterranean charm with its wine, food, and architecture.