Lead Pricing
| Interior | Outside | Balcony | Suite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Request Price | Request Price | Request Price | Request Price |
Art inspires. Awakens your emotions and stimulates your thoughts.
In the quiet calm of morning, your private veranda becomes a place of true inspiration. Surrounded by the magnificence of the dawning day, at one with the vista of sea and sky, in awe of nature and the vast beauty of this world. The shoreline of the next port slides closer and closer into view, and with it an undeniable anticipation of things to come and the promise of limitless possibilities.
Silversea creates exceptional ocean journeys with unique opportunities to explore remote ports-of-call from an intimate haven of incomparable luxury, each voyage a unique masterpiece. Discover genuine European expertise reflected in every detail, from our tranquil all-suite accommodation and uncompromising service to distinctive fine dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy.
Our guests hail from across the globe, yet share an appreciation for the spectrum of choice offered in Silversea’s array of exotic destinations and exclusive explorations ashore. By blending these elements together with enrichment experiences, each new port becomes more than a destination, it becomes a state of mind, transcending the traditional concepts of cruising. It is this distinction that has earned Silversea the reputation of World’s Best.
ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE
COMPLIMENTARY BEVERAGES SERVED THROUGHOUT THE SHIP An extensive selection of fine wines, champagne, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks are yours to enjoy — all courtesy of Silversea.
IN-SUITE BEVERAGE CABINET STOCKED WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that awaits you, every suite features a beverage cabinet stocked with your preferred assortment of complimentary beverages.
COMPLIMENTARY IN-SUITE DINING AND 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE A formal dinner served course-by-course, a late-night snack, or a full breakfast delivered at your request — with no charge and no tipping.
COMPLIMENTARY SILVERSEA EXPERIENCE® A shoreside event exclusively for Silversea guests on select voyages. Recent outings have included dinner in the desert in Namibia and a concert at the ruins of Ephesus.
A FULL SPECTRUM OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENRICHMENT Production shows, classical concerts, and folkloric performances. Multi-tiered show lounge. Lectures by world affairs experts, renowned authors and destination specialists.
COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION INTO TOWN Roundtrip transportation from the pier to the heart of town in most ports of call.
Silversea … The art of travel. The art of good living.
A quiet sanctuary. The sitting area of the Vista Suite has plenty of room to relax. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.
The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed during the cruise.
Some Vista Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 312 ft² / 29 m²
Features
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Pratesi® bed linen
Down duvets
Pillow Menu
BVLGARI® bath amenities
Etro® bath robes
Slippers
Marbled bathroom with vanity, separate wet room with shower seat
Premium mattress
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest / per day
Two 42 “ / 106 cm Flat-screen HD TV
Interactive Media Library
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Large picture window
Sitting area
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
The Panorama Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located lower bow, the Panorama offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. The seating area of the Panorama Suite has plenty of room to relax, while large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.
One bedroom: 334 ft² / 31 m²
Features
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Pratesi® bed linen
Premium mattresses
Down duvets covers
Pillow Menu
Marbled bathroom with vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath*
BVLGARI® bath amenities
Etro® bath robes
Slippers
42 “ / 106 cm Flat screen HD TV
Interactive Media Library
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest / per day
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
The Classic Veranda Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located lower bow, the Classic Veranda Suite offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard — both inside and out. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home.
But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
One bedroom: 376 ft² / 35m² including veranda (64 ft² /6 m²)
Features
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Pratesi® bed linen
Premium mattress
Down duvets
Pillow Menu
Marbled bathroom with vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath
BVLGARI® bath amenities
Etro® bath robes
Slippers
Furnished teak veranda
Two 42 “ / 106 cm Flat-screen HD TV
Interactive Media Library
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest / per day
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Located on the upper deck, and offering spectacular sunset views, the Superior Veranda Suite has all the comforts and luxury that you can expect aboard. A comfortable living space, attention to detail and a generous expanse of amenities, this stunning suite makes for a cosy home while on the seas.
But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
One bedroom: 376 ft² / 35m² including veranda (64 ft² /6 m²)
Features
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Pratesi® bed linen
Premium mattresses
Down duvets
Pillow Menu
Marbled bathroom with vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath
BVLGARI® bath amenities
Etro® bath robes
Slippers
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass door
Two 42 “ / 106 cm Flat screen HD TV
Interactive Media Library
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest / per day
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers a comfortable living space, close to the heart of the ship. With its preferred mid-ship location and all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard, the Deluxe Veranda Suite is the savvy traveller’s paradise— both inside and out. Elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home.
But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
One bedroom: 376 ft² / 35m² including veranda (64 ft² /6 m²)
Features
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Pratesi® bed linen
Premium mattresses
Down duvets
Pillow Menu
Marbled bathroom with vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath*
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands
Etro® bath robes
Slippers
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass door
Two 42 “ / 106 cm Flat screen HD TV
Interactive Media Library
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest / per day
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Step onto your terrace and bask in the calm feeling of the ocean breeze. Dissolve into the comfort of your king size bed. Prepare for the evening in the beautiful marble bathroom. The upper deck location gives the most spectacular of sea views, the spacious living area allows for comfortable relaxing where cosy nights in become veritable experiences in themselves. The two-bedroom configuration of this suite makes this it the ideal option for families.
One bedroom: 746 ft² / 69m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1366 ft² / 127m² including veranda
Features
Dedicated butler
Twin debs or queen-sized bed
Pratesi® bed linen
Down duvets
Premium mattresses
Pillow menu
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Etro® bath robes
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands
Slippers
Vanity table with hair dryer
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Separate dining area
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass door
Illy® Espresso Machine
Free WiFi
Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Interactive Media Library
One 55″ / 140 cm flat-screen HD TVs in main suite, plus one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TVs in bedroom two (if adjoined with second suite)
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Personalized stationary and umbrella
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Stately describes the Royal Suite. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration.
One bedroom: 990 ft² / 92m² including veranda.
FEATURES:
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or queen-sized bed;
Handmade Savoir® mattresses
Pratesi® bed linen
Down duvets
Pillow menu
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath, plus a powder room
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Etro® bath robes with horse hair topper
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands
Slippers
Vanity table with hair dryer
Separate dining area
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Illy® espresso machine
Free WiFi
One 55″ / 140 cm flat-screen HD TV in main suite
Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Interactive Media Library
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”.
Available as a one-bedroom configuration.
One bedroom: 1,425–1,532 ft² / 132–142m² including veranda.
FEATURES:
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or king-sized bed;
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Handmade Savoir® mattress with horse hair topper
Pratesi® fine bed linens
Down duvet covers
Pillow Menu
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath, plus a powder room;
Plush Etro® bathrobes
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands
Slippers
Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors.
Separate dining area
Illy® Espresso Machine
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
One 55″ / 140 cm flat-screen HD TV in main suite
Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Free WiFi
Interactive Media Library
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Enjoy a complimentary dinner for two in La Dame
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
The name Owners Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration.
One bedroom: 1,292 ft² / 120m² including veranda.
FEATURES:
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or king-sized bed;
Walk-in wardrobes with personal safe
Handmade Savoir® mattress with horse hair topper
Pratesi® fine bed linens
Down duvet covers
Pillow Menu
Marbled bathroom with full-sized tub and separate shower, plus a powder room;
Plush Etro® bathrobes
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands
Slippers
Vanity table with hair dryer
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors;
Separate dining area
Illy® Espresso Machine
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Interactive Media Library
Free WiFi
One 55″ / 140 cm and one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TV in main suite
Living room with sitting area;
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Enjoy a complimentary dinner for two in La Dame
Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Stately describes the Royal Suite. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living. Available as two bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
Two bedroom: 1366 ft² / 127m² including veranda.
FEATURES:
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Handmade Savoir® mattresses
Pratesi® bed linen
Down duvets
Pillow menu
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Etro® bath robes with horse hair topper
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands
Slippers
Vanity table with hair dryer
Separate dining area
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Illy® espresso machine
Unlimited Premium Wifi
One 55″ / 140 cm and one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TVs in main suite, plus one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TVs in bedroom two (if adjoined with second suite)
Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Interactive Media Library
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as two-bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
Two bedroom: 1,772–1,879 ft² / 165–175m² including veranda.
FEATURES:
Dedicated butler
Twin beds or king-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Handmade Savoir® mattress with horse hair topper
Pratesi® fine bed linens
Down duvet covers
Pillow Menu
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bath, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Plush Etro® bathrobes
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands
Slippers
Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Separate dining area
Illy® Espresso Machine
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
One 55″ / 140 cm and one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TVs, plus one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TVs in bedroom two
Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Interactive Media Library
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Enjoy a complimentary dinner for two in La Dame
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
The name Owners Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms by adjoining with Panorama Suite.
Two bedroom: 1,668 ft² / 150m² including veranda.
FEATURES: Dedicated butler Twin beds or king-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed Walk-in wardrobes with personal safe Handmade Savoir® mattress with horse hair topper Pratesi® fine bed linens Down duvet covers Pillow Menu Marbled bathroom with full-sized tub and separate shower, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with shower Plush Etro® bathrobes BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European Brands Slippers Vanity table with hair dryer Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window Separate dining area Illy® Espresso Machine Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences Interactive Media Library Free WiFi One 55″ / 140 cm and one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TV in main suite, plus one 42″ / 106 cm flat-screen HD TVs in bedroom two Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery Enjoy a complimentary dinner for two in La Dame Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity Wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers Laundry service throughout the voyage Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage Special chocolate welcome Afternoon canapés upon request Dinner at officer’s table Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
The all-new Silver Spirit has never looked better, nor felt cosier. Fully refurbished for a superlative onboard adventure, she retains our world famous standards of service and home away from home feel.
With one of the highest space to guest ratios in the business and eight superlative luxury dining options, Silver Spirit offers its guests one of the most complete cruise experiences available. Spacious decks leave plenty of room for relaxation, yet the cosy niches make sure that there is something for everyone. Meet like-minded friends; enjoy first class dining and relax in what is possibly the best place between sea and sky.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 691 ft
- Tonnage: 36,000 tonnes
- Maiden Voyage: Dec 2009
- Refurbished: May 2018
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 608
- Crew Nationality: International
- Officer Nationality: European
- Dining Staff Nationality: International
- Ship Registration: Bahamas
Ship Facilities
- La Dame
- Dolce Vita
- Venetian Lounge
- Conference Room
- Restaurant 2
- Seishin
- Beauty Salon
- Fitness Centre
- Zagara Spa
- Internet Cafe
- The Library
- Restaurant 1
- La Terrazza
- Stars Supper Club
- The Connoisseur’s Corner
- Shopping Boutiques
- The Casino
- Swimming Pool
- Whirlpools
- The Grill
- Pool Bar & Grill
- Panorama Lounge
- Jogging Track
- Card Room
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Sep '21 | Southampton, England |
07:00 PM | |
| 16 Sep '21 | St Peter Port, Guernsey |
08:00 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 17 Sep '21 | St Malo, France |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 18 Sep '21 | Honfleur, France |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 19 Sep '21 | Honfleur, France |
07:30 PM | |
| 20 Sep '21 | Zeebrugge, Belgium |
09:30 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 21 Sep '21 | Amsterdam, The Netherlands |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 22 Sep '21 | Amsterdam, The Netherlands |
06:00 PM | |
| 23 Sep '21 | Hamburg, Germany |
06:00 PM | overnight |
| 24 Sep '21 | Hamburg, Germany |
07:00 PM | |
| 25 Sep '21 | At sea | ||
| 26 Sep '21 | Torquay, England |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 27 Sep '21 | Southampton, England |
07:00 AM |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
12 Night Cruise sailing from Southampton roundtrip aboard Silver Spirit.
We are excited to announce a maiden call in Torquay on this voyage. With not one, not two but three overnights, this 12-day voyage lets you discover your destinations in depth. Start off in the floral beauty of Guernsey, before hopping over the channel to St. Malo. Honfleur’s pretty port is your first overnight before you sail for Amsterdam – overnight number two – via Belgium. Your third overnight is Hamburg, Germany’s capital of cool.
Highlights of this cruise:
Southampton
Southampton is England’s leading passenger port. It is rich in historic embarkations, from Henry V’s fleet bound for France and the battle of Agincourt to the Mayflower, the ill-fated Titanic, and the maiden voyages of the great ocean liners of the 20th century such as the Queen Mary and the Queen Elizabeth 2. Parts of the town center can seem mundane, having been hastily rebuilt after World War II bombing, but bits of the city’s history emerge from between modern buildings. The Old Town retains its medieval feel, and some remnants of the old castellated town walls remain. Other attractions include a decent art gallery, extensive parks, and a couple of good museums. The Southampton Boat Show, a 10-day event in mid-September, draws huge crowds.
St Peter Port
Cobblestone streets, blooming floral displays, and tiny churches welcome you to this wonderfully pretty harbour. The town of St Peter Port is as pretty as they come, with glowing flower displays painting practically every street corner and window-ledge with colour. As the capital, and main port of Guernsey, St Peter Port puts all of the island’s gorgeous beaches, wonderful history and inspiring stories at your fingertips. Feel the gut punch of the midday gun firing at Castle Cornet, which stands guard over one of the world’s prettiest ports. This 800-year-old, Medieval castle offers staggering views of the harbour from its imposing, craggy island location, and you can look out across to the looming shorelines of the other Channel Islands from its weathered battlements. With four well-tended gardens, and five museums offering a rich overview of Guernsey’s history, you’ll want to leave a few hours aside to explore the many treasures that lie within the castle’s walls.
Honfleur
The crammed together, timber-framed houses of Honfleur’s delightful waterfront simply beg to be painted, and the waterfront beauty has been immortalised on the canvases of artists like Monet, and Honfleur’s celebrated son, Boudin. Located in scenic Normandy, where the Seine opens out into the Channel, this is one of France’s – and the world’s – most spectacular, historic harbours. Impossibly picturesque, the Vieux Bassin’s Norman harbour townhouses are an artist’s dream, reflecting out onto the still water, between bright wooden fishing boats. It may be gorgeous, but it’s also a historically important port, and Samuel de Champlain’s epic voyage – which resulted in the founding of Quebec – launched from these waters. Take a stroll back in time, as you wander cobbled streets where flowers spill down walls or sit to indulge in Calvados – brandy made from Normandy’s famous apples. A museum dedicated to Eugene Boudin, the town’s influential impressionist artist, displays visions of the harbour and region, as well as paintings of the town’s stunning wooden church. Wander to Eglise St Catherine itself, to see the twisting structure, which is France’s largest wooden chapel. Constructed from trees taken from nearby Touques Forest, it replaced the stone church that stood here previously, which was destroyed during the Hundred Years War. Out of Honfleur, The spectacular Pont de Normandie cable-stayed bridge loops up over the Seine’s estuary, bringing excursions to Le Havre even closer. The pensive, sombre beaches of the D-Day landings stretch out across Normandy’s coastline, while the Bayeux Tapestry unfurls within reach of Honfleur’s picturesque scenery.
Hamburg
A true city of water, effortlessly cool Hamburg is an outward-looking city, with a unique flow of its own. Nestled snugly between the Baltic and North seas, Germany’s second-biggest city is intersected by a frayed network of rivers and canals, spanned by hundreds of pretty bridges. The comparisons are obvious – but Hamburg’s reputation as the ‘Venice of the North’ is a little wide of the mark. This quirky, heritage-filled city has a distinct character and open outlook all of its own, and continues to relish its role as Germany’s gateway to the world. The water brought Hamburg its wealth, and vast redbrick warehouses stack up against the waterfront in the Speicherstadt district – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They linger from the era when the city was a Hanseatic League trading capital and the warehouses essentially formed a city unto themselves, with goods brought and exchanged from distant shores. Elsewhere, the Reeperbahn is a notorious and unabashed street of nocturnal mischief, with shifty neon-lit nightclubs, in amongst the city’s famous red-light district. Hamburg has a much more wholesome side too, however, and is a powerhouse of museums, theatre and culture. It’s littered with over 100 music venues and the city played a crucial role in The Beatles’ early story. The spectacular Elbphilharmonie concert hall, with its wavy, surrealistic interior, is a work of art in and of itself. The city has been named a European Green Capital, and the vast Lake Alster adds to the airy, pleasant atmosphere, providing a spacious oasis of tranquillity. Planten un Blomen is another burst of zesty colour, where fountains fan out, and lilypads float on rhododendron-lined lakes.