Bilbao - Hamburg Indulgence along the coasts of Western Europe

Surrounded by the green mountains of northern Spain, Bilbao welcomes you to a creative metropolis that blends history with a passion for the future. The world-famous Guggenheim Museum, with its gleaming titanium facade, symbolises this transformation. Where shipyards once dominated, Frank O. Gehry’s architectural masterpiece now houses one of the world’s most important collections of contemporary art. The historic heart of Bilbao beats in the lanes of the old town, where authentic restaurants tempt visitors with pintxos, the Basque version of tapas.

The coastal city of La Rochelle can be compared with the complex aroma of a cognac – a combination of maturity, tradition and exclusivity symbolising indulgence and savoir-vivre. As you walk around, uncover the secrets of brandy production, which the city is famous for. A walk from the quays in the Vieux Port through narrow, cobbled streets and across lively squares to the old town, with its picturesque half-timbered houses, is like something out of a dream. There are monuments steeped in history to discover throughout the city: on your way, learn about the religious wars and the siege by Cardinal Richelieu in the 17th century.

Surrounded by the Medoc wine-growing region, Bordeaux has as much character as the region’s wines. Contrasting with the historic part of the city, with its charming houses and cobbled streets, is a modern, often daring architectural style: the eye-catching Cite du Vin with its bold curves and undulating glass panels stands out here. The Arkea Arena demonstrates how functionality and modernity go together. As you explore, keep an eye out for the Maison de Bordeaux, built on a hill overlooking the city by Rem Koolhaas and described as the “best house in the world”. As well as impressions of Bordeaux, don’t miss seeing the delightful countryside and vineyards. You will have plenty of time, since the ship will stay in Bordeaux for two full days.

The Atlantic breeze, lively harbour atmosphere and magnificent location on the bay characterise the flair of Brest. The largest city in western Brittany looks back on a long history to be seen at the Chateau de Brest, among other places: the imposing fortress, which towers over the mouth of the Penfield River offering wonderful views, now houses the Naval Museum, which is well worth a visit. You can enjoy the modern French way of life in the Siam district, where boutiques, cafes and chocolate shops invite you to shop, sample the wares and while away some time. Pompon de Brest – salted caramel covered in dark chocolate – is particularly tempting.

Towering fortress walls that stand out impressively against the sky and a breathtaking coastal landscape: St Malo is a true jewel on the Emerald Coast of Brittany. The city centre, with its narrow streets and mighty fortress towers, is one of the most famous postcard motifs in France. From the rampart walk of the well-preserved city wall, views stretch across the bay, which is uncovered at low tide and reveals the impressive power of the tides with a tidal range of up to 12 m (39 ft).

Charming Honfleur in the Calvados department in the Lower Normandy region is a port with around 6,500 inhabitants on the Seine estuary. The picturesque little town is enchanting with its narrow streets, timbered houses and the church of Sainte Catherine, which is built entirely of wood. As early as the eleventh century, Honfleur was an important trading post and was once occupied by the Vikings. In the 19th century, the Impressionists discovered the town: famous painters like Monet, Courbet and Cezanne found inspiration in the picturesque port. Today, Honfleur and the Musee Eugene Boudin are a must for culture lovers and visitors who want to enjoy the town’s special charm. The long lay time time allows you to relax and unwind at the end of the day.

End the day in the atmospheric setting of Antwerp because your ship has an overnight lay time here.

On the banks of the River Schelde, Antwerp is one of Belgium’s liveliest port and cultural cities. Since the Middle Ages, Europe’s second-largest port has brought prosperity to the city and connected it to the North Sea. Still today, the magnificent guild houses on the Grote Markt and the impressive railway station stand as testament to the riches of the past. In the 17th century, it was home to Peter Paul Rubens – and you can admire his impressive works of art in his former residence and studio as well as in the Gothic Church of Our Lady. The cathedral has the highest church tower in Flanders and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Superlatives are also to be found in the Diamond Quarter, famous for the Antwerp Cut.