Great architectural gems, picturesque landscapes and enjoyable lifestyles: the HANSEATIC nature combines the best destinations in southern Europe to delight all your senses. Alongside your team of experts on board, learn about Iberian culture and coastlines in the Mediterranean springtime. “Bienvenidos!” and “Welcome!” to Gibraltar, a melting pot of cultures. The history of English conquest and the influence of Spain sit on either side, with impressions of Gibraltar* in the middle – from the footsteps of Lord Nelson to the illuminated limestone network of St Michael’s Cave and the Victorian and Georgian buildings.

Head for more sunny destinations steeped in history along the Costa del Sol. Marbella is more than just an elegant seaside resort and marina. A walking tour of Marbella and Puerto Banus* transforms the narrow streets of the old town into the lifeblood of past eras, with fascinating Renaissance style and Arabic elements*. Historic Ronda* is one of the famous “white villages” and a highlight of Andalusia, with parts of the town perched on the edge of a 160 m (525 ft) deep gorge spanned by a bridge. Spring is the best time to discover the traces of the Moorish rule and the birthplace of bullfighting.

Malaga is another place famed for its cultural riches – whether the Castillo de Gibralfaro high above the city, the sculptures by Salvador Dalí or the house where Picasso was born. For something else with a little surrealism, the Segway tour* is an unusual way to see the city. The two-wheeled electric vehicle is steered by the driver’s body movement. The scenic tour to Granada with visit to the Alhambra* takes you to one of the most outstanding masterpieces of Moorish Islamic architecture in Europe. The most beautiful palace of sultans in Spain enchants visitors with its vast gardens and prized mosaics. “Viva la vida” is the joyful motto on the scenic tour to Mijas with a wine tasting* in a rustic bodega. How many winding streets weave through the village? Are you faster on foot than the donkey taxis? It’s time to find out.

Valencia is an impressive display of how arts and sciences can inspire one another. Its futuristic architecture is like a symbiosis of the art of building and oversized sculptures, giving new access to technology here and lending unusual shapes to the opera house there. Historic buildings, churches and the busy central market with almost 1,000 stalls provide a fascinating contrast. A city tour/walk* combines the modern City of Arts & Sciences with the old town. The Albufera Natural Park and paella meal* excusion combines the beauty of nature with the region’s larder. Landscapes, lifestyles and tradition come together here. Quench your hunger for adventure on a trip in a typical wooden boat followed by a cookery demonstration by a chef.

Still have an appetite for more? In Barcelona you can look forward to a culinary walking tour*. Colourful stands of fruit piled high in La Boqueria indoor market, sweet and crispy churros at a traditional bakery, wine at the Pineda market and delicacies in a tapas bar – that is what Catalonia is all about as a taste experience. Alternatively, learn all about the Gothic architecture on a city tour/walk* in the Gothic quarter – or immerse yourself in the work of Antoni Gaudí. An exclusive visit to Palau Guell* reveals one of his lesser-known buildings with medieval charm and typical decorations.

The winding old town of Mahon, with its picturesque alleys, ornate churches and beautiful squares, is perched on a rocky plateau by the sea on the island of Menorca. The historically impressive buildings, which date back to different eras, are what truly set this town apart. Discover the rich Spanish, French and English heritage of Menorca on a walk* through the idyllic streets of the historic centre, followed by a tasting of the famous Mahon cheese. Or explore Minorca from the water with a kayak tour* through the island’s bays.