Springtime Tulips & Floriade Expo

Spain's cosmopolitan second city, Barcelona, is awash with heritage and its mood is infused with a vibrant Catalan spirit. There's something around every corner of the city: jewels of Catalan and contemporary architecture, relaxing parks and beaches, mouth-watering markets and treasures from its Roman and Medieval past.

Barcelona's 2000-year-old city walls, temple columns and subterranean stone corridors provide a glimpse back to the time of the Romans, while the shady plazas and lanes of the Gothic quarter, and Barcelona’s Old Town district, the Ciutat Vella, reveal the origins of its medieval culture.

The city is famous for an incredible array of UNESCO-listed buildings from world-renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. His sculptural masterpieces of Modernisme are dotted across the city. La Sagrada Familia - Barcelona’s Gaudi-designed Roman Catholic Church – is the most famous landmark. With its astonishing details and stunning facades, this unique work of art is one of Europe’s most visited sites.

Barcelona has inspired many artists, including Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso, whose works feature in numerous museums and galleries. Away from the city centre, sun-drenched, Iberian beaches are the perfect place to walk, bike ride, take a refreshing dip, or merely relax and enjoy the gorgeous Mediterranean coastline.

Next Port | Valencia, Spain

Packed with plenty to see, do and explore, there is a never a dull day in this charming Spanish city. Wander through the beautiful city centre admiring the array of beautiful historic monuments; visit the myriad of museums and art galleries such as the Institute of Modern Art and Museum of Fine Arts or simply head to one of the city’s beaches to enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine and sample local cuisine in the many restaurants that line the promenades. 

The Old Town district - like similar districts in other major European cities - is where you will find some of the oldest, most beautiful and most interesting sites in the city, including the UNESCO-Listed Lonja de la Seda, 13^th century Santo Domingo Convent and Torres de Serranos - a 14^th century gothic gateway that’s considered the oldest in Europe. 

Next Port | Motril, Spain

At the heart of the Costa Tropical, situated in the foothills of the imposing Sierra Lujar Mountains, Motril is a true Andalusian gem. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, fronted by glorious coastal scenes and inviting beaches, and benefitting from a mild, sub-tropical climate all year round, it is the perfect location for some soothing rest, relaxation and sunshine.

But it’s not all sun, sea and sand in Motril, there is plenty for those looking for a taste of authentic local culture too. While the city is not quite as well known, or as well trodden as others on the Andalusian coast, such as Malaga and Almeria, Motril boasts artistic, historical and architectural treasures that are well worth taking the time to discover. Highlights include the 16th century cultural hub of Casa de la Palmas, 17th century Town Hall – a fine example of mudéjar architecture, and the baroque-style Sanctuary of Ntra Sra de la Cabeza.

Meanwhile, as one might expect from an Andalusian city, Motril offers an array of tempting traditional cuisine and locally produced drinks, from authentic tapas – served in restaurants around the city – to ‘ron de Motril’ rum.

Next Port | Cádiz, Spain

Cádiz, one of Europe's most ancient cities, hugs Andalusia’s sunlit Atlantic coast and is characterised by palm trees, lookout towers and weathered old buildings. Now into its fourth millennium, Cádiz's fascinating Old Town district features huge stone walls from the 1500s and is home to a wealth of historic highlights, including the beautifully crafted 18th century Cádiz Cathedral. 

Boasting over 100 watchtowers, including the iconic Torre Tavira, traditionally used for spotting ships; traditional tapas bars serving delicious traditional cuisine and local seafood; and fascinating maritime history; Cádiz offers a plethora of authentic sights and experiences. The winding streets assume the feel of a carnival, packed-out with friendly locals and humming to the sounds of upbeat alegrías (flamenco songs). 

Cádiz is also the gateway to the stunning city of Seville, with its maze of courtyards, atmosphere old quarters and ornate churches and cathedrals.

Next Port | La Coruña, Spain

The city of La Coruña is the capital of the province and a busy seaport situated in the Galicia region of northwest Spain. Most famous for its Roman lighthouse, the diverse architectural styles of La Coruña make the city an absolute delight for sightseeing.

La Coruña boasts an impressive seafront promenade, beautiful beaches and a host of attractions such as the Domus Museum, the Casa del Hombre and Torre De Hercules – said to be the only Roman lighthouse in existence – which offers sweeping coastal views from the top of its 60 metre high tower. The Paseo Marítimo, a lovely 13km walkway and bike path, runs from the port, around the peninsula, and along the ocean beaches.

The compact Ciudad Vieja – La Coruña’s old quarter – is a must-visit area. Often referred to as “the city” by the locals, the medieval centre contains remains of the centuries-old Roman wall that once protected it. The arcaded Plaza de María Pita, surrounded by narrow pedestrianized lanes, is a popular spot, and features the Estatua de María Pita, a statue of a 16th century woman who warned the town of an invasion by Sir Francis Drake. The medieval Church of Santiago, the Museum of Sacred Art and the Military Museum are all fine places of interest.   

Beyond the historic city is a proud, modern metropolis, which boasts a superb food scene and a buzzing nightlife. The world’s best picnic food, empanadas, and the locally produced beer, Estrella, both demand trying.  

Next Port | Liverpool, England