See classical architecture, hob-nob in hip bars or scale an imposing volcano.
Tucked into the far southwestern corner of Europe, the nations of the Iberian Peninsula are home to diverse cultural riches and myriad opportunities for outdoor exploration. Start a cruise holiday to experience Spain's Islamic-inflected architectural heritage at the Alhambra in Granada and the Giralda in Seville. See the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of Portugal's Algarve, and take exhilarating hikes around the calderas of active volcanoes in the Canary Islands. As an added bonus, the food and drink in Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands is life-altering – from finger foods like Spanish tapas and Portuguese petiscos to crisp white wines like Vinho Verde and bold reds from Rioja.
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Top Destinations in Spain
Retrace centuries of history along Spain’s coast, where vibrant cities, ancient ports and island escapes meet sunny plazas, sweeping sea views and a culture shaped by art, exploration and life by the water.
Barcelona
Barcelona is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and Gaudí’s imagination. Tour the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia designed by Antoni Gaudí, then wander around Park Guell, a UNESCO World Heritage icon. Get lost in the Gothic Quarter's mediaeval lanes and ride up Montjuïc Hill for skyline views.
Cartagena
Cartagena blends Roman roots with seaside Spain in one walkable, sunlit port. Explore the Roman Theatre Museum, climb up to Castillo de la Concepción for harbour views, and wander around the Old Town’s modernist façades. For beach time, head to Cala Cortina, a local favourite close to the city.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife, Canary Islands, is your launchpad for epic volcanic scenery and breezy beach days. Ride up Mount Teide in Teide National Park for otherworldly views, then relax on the golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas. In Santa Cruz or La Laguna, find lively plazas, tapas and island style.
Portugal Cruise Ports
Soak up the beauty of Portugal's cruise ports, from vibrant coastal cities to wine‑country landscapes and dramatic Atlantic cliffs – each stop offering rich culture, local flavour and unforgettable views from the sea.
Lisbon
Lisbon brings seafaring history to life in Belém. Step inside Jerónimos Monastery and see Belém Tower – both part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site – then savour riverside views along the Tagus. Want a fairytale day trip? Head to Sintra to tour the colourful Pena National Palace.
Porto
Porto pours on old-world charm, from tiled streets to riverside wine lodges. Cruise the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of terraced vineyards, then toast the end of the day with crisp Vinho Verde and rich port tastings. Back in town, explore waterfront cafés and viewpoints along the Douro River.
Madeira
Madeira is Portugal’s lush, cliffside escape – made for scenic drives and fresh-air adventure. Stroll Funchal's waterfront, then hike along a levada trail through laurel forests, or take in viewpoints like Cabo Girão. Round it off with local Madeira wine and sweet treats as Atlantic sunsets light up the hills.
Encounter beauty both natural and manmade in
Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands
Sail to Spain to sink your teeth into tapas, Portugal to sip sweet port wine or the Canary Islands to feast on the majesty of natural bliss. No matter where in southwestern Europe you visit, a feast is guaranteed.
1
Carry a dictionary with you, or update the 'Translate' app on your phone. Even in the major cities and ports of Spain and Portugal, English isn't widely spoken.
2
Pack your schedule lightly: the siesta culture of Spain means that cities and towns shut down for an hour every afternoon, which can shave off some time on your to-do list.
3
Portugal has famously relaxed views on punctuality, so factor in a few extra minutes when trying to get around.
FOOD AND CULINARY EXPERIENCES
The culinary patchwork of Spain, Portugal and Canary Islands is as colourful as the various languages its people speak and the many cultural traditions they follow. From the tapas in Spain to meat and potatoes covered in Canarian mojo sauce, you're sure to find many ways to express your contentment during your holiday.
PAELLA POWER
Featuring tender seafood with savory saffron rice, paella's claim to fame is simplicity. In one bite of this dish, you can taste all of the flavours that have made Spain's signature dish famous around the world.
REACH RIGHT IN
Whether you try tapas in Spain or petiscos in Portugal, a few things stay true: these small plates of meat dishes, pastries and sandwiches meant to be eaten by hand aren't tiny, and a friend to help you eat is just as useful as a glass of fruity sangria wine punch to wash it down.
CHEW ON CHURROS
These long, fried pastries covered in cinnamon and sugar not only taste better in Spain, from where they originated long ago, but they're also available in their first incarnation: served with a rich cup of hot chocolate, a meal so satisfying it's not even considered dessert.
Related Ports
Discover Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands in-depth. Read about Málaga, the hub of Spain's Costa del Sol where Pablo Picasso was born, or learn about Portugal's colourful capital, Lisbon. Then get to know the Canary Islands, from the busy beaches of Tenerife to peaceful La Palma.
