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Amsterdam, Netherlands - Your cruise begins in a city that is itself a masterclass in history, art, and ingenuity: Amsterdam. Before you step aboard, we strongly encourage you to arrive a day or two early to decompress and immerse yourself in the captivating spirit of the Dutch capital. Think of it not as a logistical buffer, but as the essential first chapter of your well-deserved vacation—a chance to transition from the everyday to a state of discovery and relaxation. **Arriving and Settling In** Your journey begins at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), a model of efficiency. Forget long, complicated transfers; a direct train from the airport’s subterranean station will whisk you to Amsterdam Centraal Station in about 15-20 minutes. From there, the city’s heart and the cruise terminal are just a short taxi or tram ride away. This seamless arrival process makes a pre-cruise stay exceptionally easy to manage. **A Suggested Two-Day Amsterdam Prelude** **Day 1: Arrival, Canals, and *Gezelligheid*** After arriving and checking into your hotel—consider the charming, boutique-filled Jordaan district or the stately Canal Ring for an authentic experience—your first objective is to get acquainted with the city’s unique layout. There is no better way to do this than from the water. Embark on a canal cruise, a quintessential Amsterdam activity that is both relaxing and enlightening. As you glide beneath historic bridges and past elegant, 17th-century gabled merchant houses, you’ll gain an immediate appreciation for the city’s Golden Age architecture and engineering prowess. It’s the perfect, low-exertion way to shake off jet lag and orient yourself. For the evening, dive into the Dutch concept of *gezelligheid*—a word that loosely translates to a sense of coziness, conviviality, and contentment. The Jordaan district is its epicenter. Wander its narrow streets, once home to artisans and now lined with art galleries, independent shops, and an incredible density of excellent restaurants and traditional “brown cafés” (pubs). Choose a canal-side restaurant for dinner and enjoy the unpretentious, high-quality cuisine that defines modern Dutch dining. **Day 2: A Masterpiece of Art and History** Dedicate your full pre-cruise day to the cultural treasures housed in the Museumplein (Museum Square). We highly recommend booking all museum tickets well in advance online to secure your entry time and avoid long queues. * **Morning: The Dutch Masters.** Begin at the magnificent Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands. While its collection is vast, focus on the Gallery of Honour, where you’ll come face-to-face with masterpieces by Vermeer, Frans Hals, and the breathtaking centerpiece, Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch.” The scale and detail of these works are truly something to behold in person. * **Late Morning: Van Gogh’s Vision.** A short walk away is the Van Gogh Museum, which holds the world’s largest collection of the artist’s work. The museum brilliantly chronicles his life and artistic evolution, from his somber early pieces to the vibrant, expressive paintings of his final years. It’s a deeply moving and intellectually stimulating experience. * **Afternoon: A Poignant Reflection.** Prepare for a profound and somber experience at the Anne Frank House. This is not merely a museum; it is the actual secret annex where the Frank family hid for two years. Walking through these preserved rooms offers a tangible connection to history that is both powerful and unforgettable. **Booking is absolutely essential and must be done months in advance**, as tickets sell out very quickly. For a lighter afternoon, consider exploring De Negen Straatjes (“The Nine Streets”). This charming micro-neighborhood is a web of picturesque streets crossing the main canals, filled with vintage stores, designer boutiques, and delightful cafés perfect for a coffee and a fresh stroopwafel. **Embarkation Day** On the morning of your departure, enjoy a leisurely Dutch breakfast. If time permits, take a short stroll to the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, for a final burst of color. The transfer to the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) is simple and stress-free, leaving you relaxed and culturally enriched, ready to begin the next phase of your journey. By arriving early, you don’t just see Amsterdam—you experience it, setting the perfect tone for the stimulating and restorative voyage ahead.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Paris (Le Havre), France - Paris, a melange of the artistic and sublime with a worldwide reputation for excellence in cuisine, fashion, architecture and the fine arts. After the two and a half hour drive from the port, you'll begin your exploration of one of the world's great cities. Walk beneath monumental landmarks: Pass through the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and see the soaring gothic architecture of Notre Dame. Find a small bistro and enjoy an amazing lunch. Peruse incredible art at the Louvre or other top rate museums and galleries. At evening, walk the lamplit avenues as restaurants' wooden tables and rattan chairs spill onto the sidewalks and terraces. Pull up a seat, order a glass of vin rouge and a plate of pate on toast, and savor the City of Lights.

La Coruna, Spain - La Coruna has tons to offer the curious traveler. You can explore the delightful region of Spain known as Galacia, see a Roman lighthouse built in the second century which is still in use today, and glimpse La Coruna'a ancient past in the celtic stone monoliths. Appreciaters of nature can look out over the verdant countryside, small coves, and magnificent coastlines.

Porto Leixoes, Portugal - Visit this city once and you are sure to want to come back for more. Located in northern Portugal, the city spreads across the base of a forested valley with crimson peaks on its sides. While it is famous for its Port wine, Porto is also home to many attractions including the Réserve Naturelle de Scandola, the marine reservation protected by UNESCO with amazing Calanques.

Lisbon, Portugal - Make your own discoveries in the city that launched the Age of Discovery. Cross the River Tagus on its soaring suspension bridge. Wander the maze of streets in the Alfama, the old Moorish quarter, dominated by the medieval Castle of St. George where peacocks strut and shriek. Stroll the Baixa, shop for elegant shoes.

Cadiz (Seville), Spain - Experience Spain’s vibrant culture on a Seville cruise, departing from the historic port of Cadiz. Drenched in Andalucian sunlight and scented with orange blossoms, the city sprawls along the Guadalquivir River. It boasts a rich Moorish legacy with three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, featuring gracefully adorned towers and palaces showcasing intricate Mudejar design.

Gibraltar - As long as the Barbary Apes remain, the British will rule Gibraltar‐this is the tradition that has held for 350 years. These pesky primates are a favorite with visitors despite their incessant chatter and light-fingered ways. Ride to the top of the Rock for great views over the Strait of Gibraltar‐on a clear day you'll see Africa.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain - The Spanish island of Mallorca offers towering mountains and dramatic cliffs rising over clear, blue water — but its jewel is Palma de Mallorca, the island's capital and largest city, where you'll find quaint historic streets, Gothic castles and gastronomic delights. Cruise to Palma de Mallorca and check out one-of-a-kind Palma Cathedral: The 14th-century Gothic spires of exterior contrast the modernist interior designed by in the early 1900s by Gaudi. See the circular courtyard and Arab-inspired arches of Castell de Bellver, and take in the fresh scent of the miles of pine forest that surround it. Or rent bikes and pedal east to Palma Beach, where you can soak in the sun on the white sands and clear waves.

Barcelona, Spain - Your Mediterranean voyage may be drawing to a close, but why let the adventure end so soon? Barcelona, a city that pulses with artistic energy and centuries of history, invites you to linger for two or three more days, creating the perfect encore to your cruise. This Catalan capital is a treasure trove of experiences, best savored at a relaxed pace.

Imagine dedicating an afternoon to the Picasso Museum, housed in stunning medieval palaces in the El Born district, where you can trace the formative years of the legendary artist. Nearby, the European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM) offers a fantastic collection of contemporary figurative art. As evening approaches, El Born is also one of the best spots for tapas or pintxos (keep your toothpicks to settle your bill), and perhaps enjoy a captivating flamenco performance at a venue like Palau Dalmases to round off your day.

With another day or two, you could explore further. Perhaps ascend Montjuïc Hill for panoramic city and sea views, visiting the Fundació Joan Miró or the impressive Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC). Or, if a taste of the seaside calls, the lively Barceloneta district offers sandy beaches and delightful seafood restaurants. For a truly memorable excursion, consider a day trip to either the mystical mountain monastery of Montserrat, or to an easy journey from the city. Barcelona's unique "flavor," a delightful mix of Spanish and French influences owing to its Catalan heritage and proximity to the French border, is sure to charm you. You'll hear both Spanish and the distinct cadences of Catalan spoken, adding to the city's unique appeal. You won’t regret extending your stay here.

Getting from your cruise ship at Moll Adossat to the city center is straightforward via taxi or the convenient Portbus (T3), which will take you near the Columbus Monument at the foot of Las Ramblas. Once you've settled into your hotel (consider Eixample for its elegant architecture and transport links, or the Gothic Quarter for continued historic charm ), Barcelona's excellent Metro system will help you navigate the city's extensive sights (an Hola Barcelona Travel Card or your contactless payment make it easy). For your onward journey, El Prat Airport (BCN) is readily accessible by taxi or by the Aerobus from Plaça de Catalunya. Let Barcelona’s vibrant energy provide a magnificent final flourish to your European adventure!

Barcelona, Spain - Your Mediterranean voyage may be drawing to a close, but why let the adventure end so soon? Barcelona, a city that pulses with artistic energy and centuries of history, invites you to linger for two or three more days, creating the perfect encore to your cruise. This Catalan capital is a treasure trove of experiences, best savored at a relaxed pace.

Imagine dedicating an afternoon to the Picasso Museum, housed in stunning medieval palaces in the El Born district, where you can trace the formative years of the legendary artist. Nearby, the European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM) offers a fantastic collection of contemporary figurative art. As evening approaches, El Born is also one of the best spots for tapas or pintxos (keep your toothpicks to settle your bill), and perhaps enjoy a captivating flamenco performance at a venue like Palau Dalmases to round off your day.

With another day or two, you could explore further. Perhaps ascend Montjuïc Hill for panoramic city and sea views, visiting the Fundació Joan Miró or the impressive Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC). Or, if a taste of the seaside calls, the lively Barceloneta district offers sandy beaches and delightful seafood restaurants. For a truly memorable excursion, consider a day trip to either the mystical mountain monastery of Montserrat, or to an easy journey from the city. Barcelona's unique "flavor," a delightful mix of Spanish and French influences owing to its Catalan heritage and proximity to the French border, is sure to charm you. You'll hear both Spanish and the distinct cadences of Catalan spoken, adding to the city's unique appeal. You won’t regret extending your stay here.

Getting from your cruise ship at Moll Adossat to the city center is straightforward via taxi or the convenient Portbus (T3), which will take you near the Columbus Monument at the foot of Las Ramblas. Once you've settled into your hotel (consider Eixample for its elegant architecture and transport links, or the Gothic Quarter for continued historic charm ), Barcelona's excellent Metro system will help you navigate the city's extensive sights (an Hola Barcelona Travel Card or your contactless payment make it easy). For your onward journey, El Prat Airport (BCN) is readily accessible by taxi or by the Aerobus from Plaça de Catalunya. Let Barcelona’s vibrant energy provide a magnificent final flourish to your European adventure!