City & Short Breaks
N019 - Ventura - 24 July 2010 for 7 nights
Shore excursions by port
Please note: The excursion(s) listed are typical for this port. During the 12 weeks before departure,
confirmed excursions can be viewed and pre-reserved via the Cruise Personaliser.
Bayona La Real - BEST SELLER
Journey to the historic fishing village of Bayona. Stroll through the streets of the old quarter and enjoy delicious ‘tapas’.
Journey to the historic fishing village of Bayona. Stroll through the streets of the old quarter and enjoy delicious ‘tapas’.
The news of Columbus’ discovery of the New World was first heard here in 1493 on arrival of the ‘Pinta’. The village is now a popular summer resort whose 16th - century fortress has been converted into a tourist parador (hotel). A ‘must–see’ is the Old Quarter, where you can stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Bayona, passing the cloistered Convent of the Dominicas, the Misericordia Chapel and Casa Lorenzo Correa, now the town hall.
Relax and enjoy local Spanish tapas, tea, coffee or soft drinks at the Talaso Atlantico Spa Hotel as you admire the scenery.
From El Castro Mount capture the panoramic views of Vigo Bay at the site of the old Citadel Fortress.
Panoramic Galicia
Discover the elegant pine-covered island of La Toja. Sample some typical Spanish ‘tapas’ and perhaps shop for souvenirs.
Discover the elegant pine-covered island of La Toja. Sample some typical Spanish ‘tapas’ and perhaps shop for souvenirs.
One of the most stylish resorts in Galicia; La Toja Island is connected to mainland Spain by bridge. Famous for its thermal spa and tranquil lifestyle, this international resort is enjoyed by the many famous personalities who visit during the summer.
Enjoy a refreshment stop at the Hotel Balneario Isla de la Toja for a selection of mouth-watering ‘tapas’ and local wine.
Treat yourself to some of the renowned bath products, which are on display next door. A ten-minute stroll from the Hotel will lead you to the island’s souvenir stalls, where you will have free time to browse.
Crossing the Rande Strait and passing Pontevedra, you will drive past summer resorts and fishing villages to reach La Toja.
Border Country
A perfect chance to visit two countries in one day and an ideal opportunity for the shoppers amongst you!
A perfect chance to visit two countries in one day and an ideal opportunity for the shoppers amongst you!
Portugal lies a mere twenty miles away from Vigo, and your route passes through vineyards and pine plantations set amongst the picturesque hills of Galicia. You will cross over the Minho River, which forms the border between the two countries.
Enjoy panoramic views at El Castro Mount, of lovely Vigo Bay and the city, from the site of the old Citadel Fortress, which is surrounded by extensive green parkland.
Valenca Do Minho, Portugal, an attractive fortified town, whose 17th century ramparts were raised to keep the neighbouring Spaniards out, now invites former foes and others to visit its quaint streets. Gothic houses and a Romanesque church epitomise the character of this place, where local souvenirs include pottery, port, vinho verde, linen and crockery. After your guided walk, you will have free time to do some shopping.
Refreshments and snacks will be served at the exclusive Pousada de Sao Teotonio in Valenca, which offers magnificent views over the river, and the bridge allegedly built by Eiffel.
Wine Appreciation - SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Specially tailored to suit the wine buffs amongst you, don’t miss this chance to try Albarino wines - a true taste of Galicia.
Specially tailored to suit the wine buffs amongst you, don’t miss this chance to try Albarino wines - a true taste of Galicia.
Enjoy a tour of the Agro de Bazan Winery and then sample three different Albariño white wines: Granbazan Ambar, Granbazan Verde and Contrapunto. Granbazan Ambar has an attractive straw yellow colour and its aroma has tones of ripe fruit, fennel and flower petals. Granbazan Verde, a typical Albariño wine with a fruity after-taste, has an aroma with hints of apple and fennel. Contrapunto has fresh fruit aromas and pleasant floral notes. After your tasting, there will be a chance for you to purchase your own bottles to take home.
Your wine tasting spree continues at Parador de Cambados, a former 17th century stately home, with samples of more regional red and white wine. A selection of appetizing Spanish ‘tapas’ will be served accompanied by coffee, tea or soft drinks.
Samil Sands
Only a short hop from the port, this is truly the best beach near Vigo for a perfect few hours lazing in the sun.
Only a short hop from the port, this is truly the best beach near Vigo for a perfect few hours lazing in the sun.
Samil Sands, just a few miles south of Vigo, is considered the best beach within easy reach of the city. This area offers a vast stretch of golden sands where you can soak up the sun and take a dip in the sea, whilst the estuary gives protection from the breakers.
Stroll along the white promenade that stretches behind the beach or relax in one of the many cafeterias that welcome you with ice creams and cooling drinks.
Enchanting Pontevedra
With its historic buildings and pretty plazas, Pontevedra is one of Galicia’s charming cultural gems and well worth a visit.
With its historic buildings and pretty plazas, Pontevedra is one of Galicia’s charming cultural gems and well worth a visit.
Pontevedra boasts one of the largest and most elegant historic quarters in the whole of Galicia and is itself the second largest city in the region.
The city has a wonderful menagerie of cobbled streets, historic buildings, secluded squares and typical shopping streets. View the many different displays of architectural styles including gothic, plateresque and baroque.
Join your guide on a walk around the old town of Pontevedra including some free time to browse the traditional shops and boutiques. Hear about its historical personalities and the city’s seafaring past, its geographical setting and the crafts and trades of its settlers.
Starting at Alameda square, your guide will point out many of the important monuments of the city, including the Ruins of Santo Domingo, Pazo do Concello, St Mary’s Church, the traditional Plaza de la Ferreira and many more.
To round off your tour, sit back, relax and enjoy a refreshing tea or coffee on the covered terrace in the beautiful gardens of the exclusive Parador de Pontevedra.
Shopping and City Drive
Enjoy a drive around the city then indulge yourself in some retail therapy!
Enjoy a drive around the city then indulge yourself in some retail therapy!
A guided city drive will take you around Vigo. The urban area of Vigo is built over both a Celtic village (Castro) and a Roman settlement. In the 19th century modern Vigo was born and became one of the largest cities of Galicia. This tour will take you through the main areas of Vigo, where you will be able to appreciate the traces of its history as you view some of the most outstanding monuments and squares. A short photo stop will allow you to capture the panoramic views of Vigo Bay at El Castro Mount, the site of the old Citadel Fortress.
After your scenic drive, your coach will drop you at the entrance of the Gran Via de Vigo Shopping Centre, Vigo’s innovative and modern shopping mall. At the Mall you will find an array of shops including trendy boutiques, Spanish high street brands, fashion, shoes, jewellery, cosmetics, Carrefour Hypermarket and leather goods. Relax in one of the Mall’s many cafés. You’ll have approximately 1 ¾ hours to ‘shop till you drop’.
Pass Plaza de America and El Berbes, the fishing port of Vigo on your return to the ship.
Thermal Spa Experience - SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Unwind and experience this indoor therapeutic seawater spa, which will massage every part of the body.
Unwind and experience this indoor therapeutic seawater spa, which will massage every part of the body.
Admire the panoramic views along the coastal road, passing the old town of Bayona, on your way to the Talaso Atlantico Spa Hotel, where a bubbling pool of warm, therapeutic seawater awaits. A towel, bathrobe and a bathing cap will be provided before you give yourself over to a wonderful spa experience. You’ll have approximately 1 ¼ hours to enjoy the 14 different hydrotherapy systems the therapeutic seawater swimming pool has to offer.
Feeling rejuvenated and relaxed after your spa experience, there’s nowhere better to chill out than on the terrace (weather permitting). Overlooking the sea, savour tea, coffee, soft drinks and assorted buns and pastries.
Return via a short pleasant drive, along the motorway, as you head back to Vigo.
Santiago de Compostela - On Your Own (Full Day)
Whether you’ve been before or never visited, beautiful Santiago de Compostela is well worth exploring independently.
Whether you’ve been before or never visited, beautiful Santiago de Compostela is well worth exploring independently.
Board your coach, sit back and relax while a local guide enlightens you on the countryside that you’ll pass during your transfer to Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago de Compostela is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The old, world-famous centre of European pilgrimage, its Romanesque cathedral, with an impressive Baroque façade, is the centre of life in Santiago de Compostela. The city has many other interesting buildings, such as the Old University, the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Maria del Sar and the Gelmirez Palace to name but a few.
This is the perfect opportunity to adapt your day to suit your needs and make the very most of your time in this fascinating city. You will have approximately 4 hours to explore independently.
Trekking Galicia - NEW
Why not experience Galicia ‘off the beaten track’, and take home memories of the region’s flora, fauna and wonderful views.
Why not experience Galicia ‘off the beaten track’, and take home memories of the region’s flora, fauna and wonderful views.
At 508 metres, the summit of Mount Alba offers wonderful views of Vigo and the Bayona Bays. Savour the views as you take a brief refreshment stop here and admire the Monteferro peninsula against the attractive Cies islands.
Your walk along the nature trail provides superb panoramic views of Vigo and its bay far removed from the bustle of the city. Immerse yourself into Galicia’s nature, brimming with oaks, chestnut and pine trees. A brief stop at the Fragoselo petroglyphs will also let you view the peculiar geometric and human bronze age drawings.
At the end of the trail, a short drive will take you to the village of Chandebrito, where you can enjoy a guided walk. Chandebrito retains all the flavour of rural Galicia with characteristic local houses reflecting traditional architectural features.
Santiago de Compestela - On Your Own (Half Day)
Whether you’ve been before or never visited, beautiful Santiago de Compostela is well worth exploring independently.
Whether you’ve been before or never visited, beautiful Santiago de Compostela is well worth exploring independently.
Board your coach, sit back and relax while a local guide enlightens you on the countryside that you’ll pass during your transfer to Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago de Compostela is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The old, world-famous centre of European pilgrimage, its Romanesque cathedral, with an impressive Baroque façade, is the centre of life in Santiago de Compostela. The city has many other interesting buildings, such as the Old University, the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Maria del Sar and the Gelmirez Palace to name but a few.
This is the perfect chance to adapt your time to suit your needs and make the very most of your time in this fascinating city. You will have approximately 1 ½ hours to explore independently.
Marco Contemporary Art Museum - THEME TOUR
Let your guide enlighten you with the contemporary exhibits of the Marco Museum, created especially for the residents of Vigo.
Let your guide enlighten you with the contemporary exhibits of the Marco Museum, created especially for the residents of Vigo.
A leisurely walk, passing typical 20th century Galician buildings and pausing at the unusual ‘Merman’ sculpture en route, will bring you to a newly created art centre.
The Marco Museum is located in the city centre in a space formerly dedicated to a prison and courthouse. The centre was initiated to promote contemporary cultural ideas to the public and the majority of the Museum is structured around temporary exhibitions devoted to different fields of productivity such as plastic arts, architecture and design, with a strong emphasis on multi media. The Museum has also respected the original layout of the building, which followed the concept of ‘panopticon’, developed by the British philosopher Jeremy Bentham.
At the end of your tour you can pop into the cafeteria or browse the gift shop before walking back to the ship with your guide. Alternatively, you may wish to stay in town and enjoy the modern shopping area of El Principe Street before making your own way back to the port.
Santiago de Compestela
Follow in the pilgrims’ footsteps on this comprehensive MUST SEE tour to this beautiful medieval city with its grand Cathedral.
Follow in the pilgrims’ footsteps on this comprehensive MUST SEE tour to this beautiful medieval city with its grand Cathedral.
Magnificent Santiago Cathedral is a monument to Christ’s apostle, James, whose relics are believed to have been discovered here in the 9th century. Half a million pilgrims flock each year to this great shrine, which was once the third most important place of pilgrimage after Jerusalem and Rome.
Four majestic squares surround the Cathedral and your guide will explain the characteristics of all four. Admire the majestic square of Plaza del Obradoiro, still the focal point for pilgrims when arriving in the city. Enjoy some free time to wander independently and browse for souvenirs from the local vendors (this is subject to the local stalls being open and nearby at the time of the visit).
Santiago de Compostela is undoubtedly the showpiece of Galicia.
Santiago de Compostela
Follow in the pilgrims’ footsteps on this comprehensive MUST SEE tour to this beautiful medieval city with its grand Cathedral.
Follow in the pilgrims’ footsteps on this comprehensive MUST SEE tour to this beautiful medieval city with its grand Cathedral.
Magnificent Santiago Cathedral is a monument to Christ’s apostle, James, whose relics are believed to have been discovered here in the 9th century. Half a million pilgrims flock each year to this great shrine, which was once the third most important place of pilgrimage after Jerusalem and Rome.
Four majestic squares surround the Cathedral and your guide will explain the characteristics of all four. Admire the majestic square of Plaza del Obradoiro, still the focal point for pilgrims when arriving in the city. Time permitting, you will have a brief chance to browse for souvenirs from the local vendors (this is subject to the local stalls being open and nearby at the time of the visit).
Refreshments will be served at a local restaurant or hotel during the tour.
Santiago de Compostela is undoubtedly the showpiece of Galicia.
Leisurely Vigo Views
Relax on this leisurely visit to Vigo - enjoy views over the bay, admire Galician gardens and sample the Spanish tapas.
Relax on this leisurely visit to Vigo - enjoy views over the bay, admire Galician gardens and sample the Spanish tapas.
Winding your way through the city your coach will take you up to El Castro Mount, where you can enjoy panoramic views stretching out over the Galician countryside and down to the bay - peppered with numerous mussel farms.
Continuing through the city, admire the elegant facades as you pass by Plaza de Espana and Plaza de America, have your cameras at the ready as your guide will point out some of the most outstanding fountains, monuments and statues, including the bronze Fishermen and the Statue of the Wild Horses.
Upon arrival at 17th century Castrelos Park you will have free time to wander through the stunning French style gardens, located within the grounds is the palace built in 1620 and recently restored to become Quiñones de Leon Municipal Museum (exterior visit).
Before returning to Vigo a stop will be made at a 19th century Galician country manor, Pazo Los Escudos. The manor is now a 5 star exclusive hotel which houses a fabulous collection of family coats of arms of Galicia, dating between the 15th and 19th century. Sit back and enjoy a selection of typical Spanish tapas with wine, coffee, tea and soft drinks and marvel at the magnificent views.
Guide to Symbols
Pop up symbol guide
Please note: The excursion(s) listed are typical for this port. During the 12 weeks before departure,
confirmed excursions can be viewed and pre-reserved via the Cruise Personaliser.
Pricing benefits
Prices shown are per person based on two adults sharing and include Early Bird Savings of between £0 to £125.
The Online Price shown includes an extra 5% discount.
Pricebreaker benefits
This cruise holiday is eligible for Pricebreaker benefits of:
What's included in the price?
Inside Stateroom
From £801 pp
Show all prices| Grade | Price | Online Price |
|---|
| OA | £903 pp | £858 pp |
| OB | £874 pp | £830 pp |
| OC | £863 pp | £820 pp |
| OD | £854 pp | £811 pp |
| OE | £843 pp | £801 pp |
| OF | Sold out | Sold out |
| OG | Sold out | Sold out |
Outside Stateroom
From £934 pp
Show all prices| Grade | Price | Online Price |
|---|
| LB | £1,003 pp | £953 pp |
| LC | £983 pp | £934 pp |
Balcony Stateroom
From £982 pp
Show all prices| Grade | Price | Online Price |
|---|
| JA | £1,183 pp | £1,124 pp |
| JB | £1,154 pp | £1,096 pp |
| JC | £1,114 pp | £1,058 pp |
| JD | £1,094 pp | £1,039 pp |
| JE | £1,083 pp | £1,029 pp |
| JF | £1,043 pp | £991 pp |
| JG | £1,034 pp | £982 pp |
Suite
From £1,875 pp
Show all prices| Grade | Price | Online Price |
|---|
| AB | £2,774 pp | £2,635 pp |
| AC | £2,074 pp | £1,970 pp |
| AD | £1,974 pp | £1,875 pp |
Shared stateroom reductions
Single occupancy
Fare notes
Stateroom notes