Lead Pricing
| Interior | Outside | Balcony | Suite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Request Price | Request Price | Request Price | Request Price |
Luxury, as they say, is in the details. It is so often the little details that make all the difference. And on a Crystal cruise, the differences are many.
From the moment you step on board, you will experience Crystal Cruises’ dedication to making your cruise with us a perfect one. Our Six-Star Commitment means each instant must be memorable, every detail sublime. From the grand designs of our ships to the right vintage wine, a turned-down bed, or even a simple smile, singular attention is paid to every detail of your cruise. For all of us at Crystal Cruises, Six-Star quality means more than awards and accolades; it means the constant pursuit of a single goal: to create the best, then make it better. We are not just aiming to provide a fabulous vacation, we are aiming to create an experience that will enrich your life and provide memories to cherish forever. Think of the farthest corners of the world connected by a smooth and shining sea. Imagine that a floating luxury resort, filled with everything you ever could desire, is waiting to carry you on the journey of your dreams. At Crystal Cruises, they take pride in navigating that magical highway of the sea, transporting you to the best the world has to offer.
Your days and nights on a Crystal cruise are effortless and carefree. You will revel in a wealth of time, a luxurious sense of leisure and ease; your hours are your own, to spend as you see fit. Released from the pressure of schedules and routines, you are free to play, to rest, to mingle and relax – to allow for the luxury of serendipity. Like the open sea, each day is limitless. You can chart a course, then change it at your whim. Let possibility fill the sails of your imagination and see what magic might appear.
Crystal Cruises gives you space to stretch out and explore. There are broad, sunny decks to stroll and inviting corners to settle into. There are cozy nooks where you can be alone. You can join a spellbound audience at an exciting Broadway-style show or get together with a few new friends over a frothy cappuccino. Your stateroom is a comforting place to call your own, where you can snuggle in and dream.
With skilled and practiced sleight-of-hand, chefs prepare the finest cuisine from around the world. Guests may begin a cruise alone, but within days they find themselves greeting new-found friends. There is a spirit of cheerfulness and good humor to be found wherever you are on the ship. Guests say that’s the real magic of a Crystal cruise. There’s no mystery to it; it’s simply a commitment to heartfelt service that creates an atmosphere of enchantment, every day.
Crystal Cruises now all-inclusive value provides: * Complimentary fine wines, champagne and premium spirits as well as dining in all restaurants, including specialty venues Prego, and Silk Road and The Sushi Bar by Nobu Matsuhis * Open-bar service throughout the ship * Gratuities for housekeeping, bar and dining staff throughout the ship * All non-alcoholic beverages including bottled water, specialty coffee drinks, soft drinks, fresh juices and Afternoon Tea service * Acclaimed Crystal Wine & Food Festival® cruises featuring famous chefs and wine authorities on select voyages * Early embarkation luncheon * Welcome champagne * 24-hour room service * Enrichment & Entertainment Programmes
202 Sq. Ft. Travel the world in comfort and luxury in this stylishly-furnished, elegant stateroom featuring deluxe amenities, unobstructed views from large picture window, and deliciously attentive 24-hour room service.
LIVE & SLEEP:
Be welcomed into the comfortable luxury of this well-appointed stateroom featuring a comfortable sitting area with soft leather sofa, queen-size bed or twin beds, and spacious wall closet. A large picture window offers gorgeous vistas.
REFRESH:
Your elegant, double-vanity bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
Relish 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping and evening turndown service, all delivered by your friendly and eminently experienced stateroom attendant.
202 Sq. Ft. Travel the world in comfort and luxury in this stylishly-furnished, elegant stateroom featuring deluxe amenities, unobstructed views from large picture window, and deliciously attentive 24-hour room service.
LIVE & SLEEP:
Be welcomed into the comfortable luxury of this well-appointed stateroom featuring a comfortable sitting area with soft leather sofa, queen-size bed or twin beds, and spacious wall closet. A large picture window offers gorgeous vistas.
REFRESH:
Your elegant, double-vanity bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
Relish 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping and evening turndown service, all delivered by your friendly and eminently experienced stateroom attendant.
202 Sq. Ft. Travel the world in comfort and luxury in this stylishly-furnished, elegant stateroom featuring deluxe amenities, unobstructed views from large picture window, and deliciously attentive 24-hour room service.
LIVE & SLEEP:
Be welcomed into the comfortable luxury of this well-appointed stateroom featuring a comfortable sitting area with soft leather sofa, queen-size bed or twin beds, and spacious wall closet. A large picture window offers gorgeous vistas.
REFRESH:
Your elegant, double-vanity bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
Relish 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping and evening turndown service, all delivered by your friendly and eminently experienced stateroom attendant.
202 Sq. Ft. Travel the world in comfort and luxury in this stylishly-furnished, elegant stateroom featuring deluxe amenities, unobstructed views from large picture window, and deliciously attentive 24-hour room service.
LIVE & SLEEP:
Be welcomed into the comfortable luxury of this well-appointed stateroom featuring a comfortable sitting area with soft leather sofa, queen-size bed or twin beds, and spacious wall closet. A large picture window offers gorgeous vistas.
REFRESH:
Your elegant, double-vanity bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
Relish 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping and evening turndown service, all delivered by your friendly and eminently experienced stateroom attendant.
202 Sq. Ft. Travel the world in comfort and luxury in this stylishly-furnished, elegant stateroom featuring deluxe amenities, unobstructed views from large picture window, and deliciously attentive 24-hour room service.
LIVE & SLEEP:
Be welcomed into the comfortable luxury of this well-appointed stateroom featuring a comfortable sitting area with soft leather sofa, queen-size bed or twin beds, and spacious wall closet. A large picture window offers gorgeous vistas.
REFRESH:
Your elegant, double-vanity bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
Relish 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping and evening turndown service, all delivered by your friendly and eminently experienced stateroom attendant.
246 Sq. Ft. All-inclusive luxury is yours in this elegant, deluxe stateroom with contemporary furnishings, 24-hour room service, glorious bedding and delightful, private verandah.
LIVE & SLEEP:
This beautifully appointed stateroom includes a comfortable sitting area, queen-size bed or twin beds, sizable wall closet, and private verandah for morning coffee, stunning views and fresh ocean breezes.
REFRESH:
Your well-appointed bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
The gracious services of your stateroom attendant ensure your accommodations are always meticulously attended to with twice daily housekeeping and evening turndown service. And of course, 24-hour room service.
246 Sq. Ft. All-inclusive luxury is yours in this elegant, deluxe stateroom with contemporary furnishings, 24-hour room service, glorious bedding and delightful, private verandah.
LIVE & SLEEP:
This beautifully appointed stateroom includes a comfortable sitting area, queen-size bed or twin beds, sizable wall closet, and private verandah for morning coffee, stunning views and fresh ocean breezes.
REFRESH:
Your well-appointed bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
The gracious services of your stateroom attendant ensure your accommodations are always meticulously attended to with twice daily housekeeping and evening turndown service. And of course, 24-hour room service.
246 Sq. Ft. All-inclusive luxury is yours in this elegant, deluxe stateroom with contemporary furnishings, 24-hour room service, glorious bedding and delightful, private verandah.
LIVE & SLEEP:
This beautifully appointed stateroom includes a comfortable sitting area, queen-size bed or twin beds, sizable wall closet, and private verandah for morning coffee, stunning views and fresh ocean breezes.
REFRESH:
Your well-appointed bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
The gracious services of your stateroom attendant ensure your accommodations are always meticulously attended to with twice daily housekeeping and evening turndown service. And of course, 24-hour room service.
246 Sq. Ft. All-inclusive luxury is yours in this elegant, deluxe stateroom with contemporary furnishings, 24-hour room service, glorious bedding and delightful, private verandah.
LIVE & SLEEP:
This beautifully appointed stateroom includes a comfortable sitting area, queen-size bed or twin beds, sizable wall closet, and private verandah for morning coffee, stunning views and fresh ocean breezes.
REFRESH:
Your well-appointed bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
The gracious services of your stateroom attendant ensure your accommodations are always meticulously attended to with twice daily housekeeping and evening turndown service. And of course, 24-hour room service.
246 Sq. Ft. All-inclusive luxury is yours in this elegant, deluxe stateroom with contemporary furnishings, 24-hour room service, glorious bedding and delightful, private verandah.
LIVE & SLEEP:
This beautifully appointed stateroom includes a comfortable sitting area, queen-size bed or twin beds, sizable wall closet, and private verandah for morning coffee, stunning views and fresh ocean breezes.
REFRESH:
Your well-appointed bathroom features a full bathtub/shower, ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers, and exclusive bath amenities from the renowned Italian fashion house.
RELAX:
The gracious services of your stateroom attendant ensure your accommodations are always meticulously attended to with twice daily housekeeping and evening turndown service. And of course, 24-hour room service.
367 Sq. Ft. Families will love the exclusive shared entryway connecting two luxurious, butler-serviced Seabreeze Penthouses. 24-hour room service, in-suite dining, and private teak verandah highlight these fabulous, contemporary suites.
LIVE & SLEEP:
The beautiful living area of the Seabreeze Penthouse includes queen-size bed or twin beds with soft bedding, vanity and walk-in closet, flat-panel TV, and in-suite tea or cocktails, canapés and dining from Umi Uma and Prego menus.
REFRESH:
The luxurious double-vanity master bath features a large luxury shower with body jets, and exclusive ETRO bath and body amenities, bathrobe and slippers.
RELAX:
Personal butler service pampers you with packing and unpacking upon request, in-suite dining, reservations for spa, specialty dining and shore excursions, garment pressing, shoeshine, and more.
367 Sq. Ft. Warm tones, welcome champagne, private verandah and indulgent amenities highlight the luxurious elegance of this spacious suite.
LIVE & SLEEP:
Perfectly designed for ultimate comfort, your Penthouse features an inviting queen-size bed or twin beds with superior bedding, vanity and dressing area, flat-panel TV and direct access to private verandah.
REFRESH:
The master bath features a Jacuzzi, television, separate shower and bidet, Calcutta marble floors, and ocean view. The guest bath includes a shower, discreet entry and exclusive bath amenities including ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers.
RELAX:
Personalized 24-hour butler service means our staff attends to your every need, including unpacking and unpacking upon request, in-suite dining, reservations for spa, dining and shore excursions and more.
491 Sq. Ft. Feel relaxed and pampered in the understated elegance of your Seabreeze Penthouse Suite featuring a luxurious private bedroom, sumptuous bath with large luxury shower and revitalizing body jets.
LIVE & DINE:
Invite friends for cocktails and canapés or afternoon tea served by your butler in this stylish suite, where a soothing palette of classic ocean hues and private teak verandah offer an environment of peaceful tranquility.
SLEEP:
Sheer relaxation epitomizes the comfort of your luxurious private bedroom that includes king-size bed or twin beds, walk-in closet, and direct access to your spacious private verandah.
REFRESH:
Unique touches of your indulgent, luxury bath include a large deluxe shower with body jets, exclusive ETRO bath and body amenities, bathrobe and slippers, and convenient double vanity.
RELAX:
An attentive butler anticipates your every need, catering to both you and your suite with expert care. Services include packing and unpacking, in-suite dining, reservations for shore excursions, spa and specialty restaurants, and more.
491 Sq. Ft. Unwind and entertain in the splendid luxury of your Penthouse Suite, featuring elegant living and bath areas, in-suite cocktails and dining, 24-hour dedicated butler service, and dramatic ocean views from your private verandah.
LIVE & DINE:
After a day of discovery and enrichment, relax in the sublime comfort of your spacious living and dining area with separate study, or enjoy an amazing ocean sunset and glass of champagne from your own private verandah.
SLEEP:
Your luxurious suite features a state-of-the art TV, comfortable queen-sized bed or twin beds with fine bedding and third berth, and generous walk-in closet.
REFRESH:
Indulge in the spa-like atmosphere of your elegant master bath, which features a full Jacuzzi tub, heated bench and floor, and luxury bath amenities including ETRO bathrobes, kimonos and slippers.
RELAX:
Relish the comforts of your beautifully appointed suite with 24-hour personal butler service including packing and unpacking, in-suite dining, reservations for shore excursions, spa, specialty restaurants,and more.
982 Sq. Ft. Stylish and elegant, refined and spacious, the finest of all Crystal Symphony’s suites boasts a deluxe master bedroom, the attentive service of your own personal butler, and sweeping views from the stunning teak verandah.
LIVE & DINE:
Enjoy in-suite dining, socializing or simply relaxing in the comfort of your luxurious living room and separate dining area. A built-in bar, Swarovski chandelier, and custom entertainment center with flat-screen HD TV make you feel right at home.
SLEEP:
Relax in a luxurious master bedroom that includes a dreamy queen-size bed or twin beds and features you’ll love including his & her walk-in closets, fine Frette linens, television, and private access to the expansive verandah.
REFRESH:
Soak in the stunning ocean views from the Jacuzzi of your lavish master bath, which also boasts flat-screen HD TV, heated floor and bench, separate shower and bidet, and decadent marble features. A separate guest bath includes shower and discreet entry.
RELAX:
Extraordinary 24-hour butler service enhances your stay in this remarkable suite. Services include packing and unpacking, free pressing and laundry, in-suite dining, reservations for shore excursions, spa and specialty restaurants and more.
It begins the moment you embark. An immersion into luxurious wonder. An extraordinary sense of well-being. The Crystal Symphony is one of the most spacious and luxurious cruise ships at sea. Onboard amenities feature grand lounges, a full-service fitness facility, exciting casino, a lavish spa, expansive decks, a swimming pool with an extra-large Jacuzzi, award-winning cuisine and entertainment. To top it off, exquisitely-appointed staterooms, more than half of which offer private verandahs. Considered to be the finest shipboard staff afloat, it is their goal to anticipate your every need and to make this a vacation to remember.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 781 ft
- Tonnage: 51,044 tonnes
- Maiden Voyage: 1995
- Refurbished: 2017
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 848
- Crew Nationality: American/European
- Officer Nationality: International
- Dining Staff Nationality: European
- Ship Registration: Bahamas
Ship Facilities
- Crystal Salon & Spa
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Retractable Swimming Pool Cover
- 2 Whirlpool(s)
- Boutiques/Shops
- 8 Elevator(s)
- Library
- Waterside Open Seating Restaurant
- Medical Centre
- Seahorse Pool
- Crystal Cove Bar
- Galaxy Lounge Showroom
- Caesars Palace Casino
- Hollywood Theatre & Cinema
- Starlite Club Night Club
- Jade Garden Restaurant
- Connoisseur Club
- Avenue Saloon
- Computer University @ Sea
- Prego Restaurant
- Bridge Lounge
- Self Service Laundry
- Palm Court
- Waves Teen Centre
- Fantasia Children’s Playroom
- Trident Bar & Grill
- Ice Cream Bar
- Marketplace Restaurant
- Golf Driving Net
- Wimbledon Tennis Court
- Golf Putting Green
- Dessert Bar
- Bistro Cafe
- Silk Road Restaurant
- Kids Club
- Sushi Bar
- Crystal Casino
- The Vintage Room
- Churrascaria Steakhouse
- Umi Uma Specialty Restaurant
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 Jun '22 | Monte Carlo, Monaco |
10:00 PM | |
| 17 Jun '22 | Carrara, Italy |
07:00 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 18 Jun '22 | Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy |
07:00 AM | 08:00 PM |
| 19 Jun '22 | Santa Margherita, Italy |
08:00 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 20 Jun '22 | Ajaccio, Corsica. FR |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 21 Jun '22 | St Tropez, France |
08:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| 22 Jun '22 | Antibes |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 23 Jun '22 | Monte Carlo, Monaco |
10:00 AM | overnight |
| 24 Jun '22 | Monte Carlo, Monaco |
10:00 PM | |
| 25 Jun '22 | Portofino, Italy |
08:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| 26 Jun '22 | Livorno, (Florence, Pisa) Italy |
07:00 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 27 Jun '22 | Cannes, France |
08:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| 28 Jun '22 | Le Lavandou, France |
07:30 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 29 Jun '22 | Barcelona, Spain |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 30 Jun '22 | Barcelona, Spain |
10:00 PM | |
| 01 Jul '22 | Ibiza, Spain |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 02 Jul '22 | Ibiza, Spain |
08:00 AM | |
| 03 Jul '22 | Malaga, Spain |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 04 Jul '22 | Malaga, Spain |
05:00 AM | |
| 04 Jul '22 | Gibraltar, United Kingdom |
09:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 05 Jul '22 | Casablanca, Morocco |
06:00 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 06 Jul '22 | Portimao, Portugal |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 07 Jul '22 | Lisbon, Portugal |
10:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 08 Jul '22 | Oporto (Porto), Portugal |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 09 Jul '22 | Ferrol, Spain |
08:30 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 10 Jul '22 | At sea | ||
| 11 Jul '22 | Bordeaux, France |
06:30 AM | overnight |
| 12 Jul '22 | Bordeaux, France |
overnight | |
| 13 Jul '22 | Bordeaux, France |
07:00 AM | |
| 14 Jul '22 | Lorient, France |
08:00 AM | 05:00 PM |
| 15 Jul '22 | St Malo, France |
07:45 AM | 06:30 PM |
| 16 Jul '22 | St Peter Port, Guernsey |
07:00 AM | 05:00 PM |
| 17 Jul '22 | Honfleur, France |
06:00 AM | overnight |
| 18 Jul '22 | Honfleur, France |
05:15 PM | |
| 19 Jul '22 | Dover, England |
10:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 20 Jul '22 | Amsterdam, The Netherlands |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 21 Jul '22 | Amsterdam, The Netherlands |
06:00 PM | |
| 22 Jul '22 | At sea | ||
| 23 Jul '22 | Copenhagen, Denmark |
08:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| 24 Jul '22 | At sea | ||
| 25 Jul '22 | Helsinki, Finland |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 26 Jul '22 | St Petersburg, Russia |
07:00 AM | overnight |
| 27 Jul '22 | St Petersburg, Russia |
overnight | |
| 28 Jul '22 | St Petersburg, Russia |
07:00 PM | |
| 29 Jul '22 | Tallinn, Estonia |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 30 Jul '22 | Stockholm Sweden |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 31 Jul '22 | Stockholm Sweden |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
45 Night Cruise sailing from Monte Carlo to Stockholm onboard Crystal Symphony.
The 50,000-ton, 940-guest Crystal Symphony is one of the most spacious and luxurious cruise ships at sea. Onboard amenities include grand lounges, a full-service fitness facility, a Caesars Palace at Sea® casino, a lavish spa, expansive decks, two pools, award-winning cuisine and entertainment, in addition to exquisitely-appointed staterooms, more than half of which offer private verandahs.
From the moment you step into the brilliant atrium of Crystal Plaza, you’ll sense the relaxed elegance and attention to detail called the Crystal Experience. It is as if a weight has lifted from your shoulders. You feel yourself at ease, with room to breathe, stretch and relax.
Take a look around at the lavish Crystal Dining Room with its vista of the sea; the elegant Galaxy Lounge showroom; sunlit Palm Court, furnished in charming white wicker like a scene from a Somerset Maughan novel. Along the marble walkway of the Avenue of the Stars, you’ll find a glittering gallery of handsome shops. And outside, generous teak decks encircle expansive pools and Jacuzzis. No other ships of this size offer so much space for each guest on board.
The richness of each detail reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship. Lustrous polished marble, the glow of rare wood paneling, sparkling Murano Glass and Austrian crystal chandeliers, supple Italian leather, muted silks and custom English carpets grace our interiors, echoing the ambiance of a stately mansion. Refreshing floral bouquets delight your eye. Soft piano music plays somewhere nearby, mingled with sounds of laughter and delight as old friends meet and new acquaintances become friends.
Highlights of this cruise:
Monte Carlo, Monaco
An ancient principality steeped in rich and colorful history, Monaco was bought from the Genoese in 1309 by the Grimaldis, who still rule as the world’s oldest monarchy – presided over today by Prince Albert.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Venture through Civitavecchia, noted for its fine seafood and beautiful monuments. Then, travel to the Eternal City of Rome, with more than 2,500 years of history and ancient landmarks that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
Ajaccio, Corsica
Home to the Maison Bonaparte, the residence-turned-museum bearing the general’s name, this once fortified town founded by the Genoese in 1492 today boasts a Côte d’Azur flair along its trendy waterfront promenade. Nestled between sea and mountains, its magnificent UNESCO-designated Golfe de Porto is part of Corsica’s Regional National Park, renowned for its geologic and ecologic natural value.
Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Giotto, Brunelleschi, Botticelli and Michelangelo made their marks of genius here. This cradle of the Renaissance owes its UNESCO status to the overwhelming influence the city and its museums, churches, architecture and artworks have had on Europe and, ultimately, the world. Vestiges of this enlightened period are everywhere today – at the Uffizi gallery, the Palazzos Pitta and Vecchio and throughout the city streets.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s seaside beauty, sprawling beaches, eclectic architecture, world-class tapas and Tempranillo are all reasons to fall in love with the city of GaudÃ. Indeed, the treasures here are many and diverse, captivating travelers and experts alike. In fact, nine important sites in the city, seven designed by the famed architect himself, have earned the acclaim of UNESCO.
Gibraltar, U.K.
Climb your way to the top of this legendary limestone mass. With more than 140 caves and soaring to almost 1,400 feet, there’s no question why the Rock of Gibraltar has been a staple in ancient legends.
Casablanca, Morocco
With visions of Bergman and Bogart filling the imagination, it’s easy to explore the French-colonial design and narrow alleyways of the old Medina, and bargain-filled souks are reminders of mysterious days past. Yet this gleaming city has a firm grasp on the 21st century and today encompasses broad palm-lined boulevards, attractive public parks and soaring high-rises.
Lisbon, Portugal
Discover the world’s last colonial empire, turned bustling cosmopolitan city. Lisbon has dozens of Moorish castles, pastel buildings, and white sand beaches to explore. This Atlantic-coast city perfectly encapsulates Mediterranean charm with its wine, food, and architecture.
Oporto, Portugal
Oporto brings together the best of Portugal: warm sunshine, a relaxed riverside setting, grand churches, winding medieval streets, and courtyards filled with geraniums. Perhaps what Oporto is most famous for, however, is its port wine. Crafted in the neighboring Vila Nova da Gaia district, ports from all over the region can be sampled in the lodges just across the river. Wander through historic Ribeira, the recently restored riverside district and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bordeaux, France
This UNESCO-designated city known as Port of the Moon due the natural shape of its harbor is celebrated for its glorious chateaux, its mouth-watering cuisine and its incomparable wines – Bordeaux is surrounded by the world’s most famous vineyards including Medoc, St-Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes. One time the richest community and largest port in France, Bordeaux today is second only to Paris as the country’s most densely populated city.
St. Malo, France
Within its fortified walls, this city of bustling shops, cafés and bars is home to the highest concentration of seafood restaurants in Europe. Heavily bombed during World War II, it was lovingly restored to its original splendor. The city’s top destination is the citadel, from where Corsairs would raid enemy ships in the name of the King. Be sure to take a stroll atop the ramparts for magical views, and save time for a journey to the medieval Mont St-Michel abbey.
London (Dover), England
For centuries, Dover has been a symbol of England’s royal fortitude. The port’s legendary White Cliffs have long been a welcomed landmark for seafaring travelers. The solid Dover Castle has faced invasions by Roman, French and even English troops. London’s legendary sights, including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament Square, Whitehall and the fashionable West End, lie just 80 miles from historic Dover.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Everyone has an image of Amsterdam. For some, it’s small boats gliding on the canals and locals two-wheeling on bikes to work and, as frequently, to meet friends for drinks. For others, it’s gabled buildings leaning, seemingly precariously, over cobbled streets and cozy taverns illuminated by candles. Still others imagine tulips in bloom and the paintings Vermeer, Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Each vision is even more beguiling when experienced in person.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark, the world’s oldest kingdom, awaits your discovery on this visit to its lively capital, Copenhagen. Immerse yourself in the vitality of this delightful city as you explore its expansive parks and plazas, as well as its treasure trove of historic galleries and buildings. Discover its exquisite combination of Scandinavian elegance and European joie de vivre. Visitors traveling outside the city enter an altogether different world; one where stately castles are found nestled in the gentle, emerald-green Danish countryside.
Helsinki, Finland
This “City of the Sea†with over 450 years of creative heritage has produced some of the world’s finest architects, and legacy of their splendid work is seen everywhere. Mother Nature has also made her mark here, as leafy parks and picturesque bays continue punctuate the promenades. A political and economic hub, this city is also a cultural center with 20 theatres, the National Opera, and fascinating museums and art galleries.
St. Petersburg, Russia
Experience Russian culture like no other in the beautiful city of Saint Petersburg. Walk the halls of its many affluent palaces, like the elegant Winter Palace, get close to world famous art in the rich Hermitage Museum and stare up in awe at the gold plated dome of St. Isaac’s Cathedral.
Tallinn, Estonia
Put yourself in a fairytale as soon as you walk through the medieval walls of Tallinn’s Old Town where you can dine and shop in the center square or see panoramic views by climbing St Olaf’s Church. Leave the Old Town and go to the historic Kadriorg Palace erected by Tsar Peter the Great.
Stockholm, Sweden
Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, which sprawls over 14 islands, is often called the “Beauty on Water.” Resting amid wooded hills, it is a city surrounded by water, firmly linked by over 50 bridges. Originally founded as a fortress in the 12th century, the earliest mention of Stockholm as a city was in the year 1252. By 1850, the city had less than 100,000 inhabitants. Today it is one of Europe’s most prosperous cities with a population of over a million.