Dutch traditions are the theme of this excursion which takes you from the port by coach for a guided tour of the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM01T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM01D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $73.00Adults $51.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Dutch traditions are the theme of this excursion which takes you from the port by coach for a guided tour of the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM01T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM01D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $73.00Adults $51.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Combining two of the things for which Amsterdam is best known – the Van Gogh Museum and diamonds – this enjoyable tour begins with am 1-hour coach drive to Amsterdam and with a sightseeing leg through the city’s historical centre. The route will first take you past Dam Square and the Mint Tower before dropping you at Museum Square and the Van Gogh Museum, which is home to the largest collection of works by the renowned Dutch post-Impressionist master, who only lived to the age of 37. Largely unknown and unappreciated his short lifetime, the artist seemed always on the move from one place to next, during which time he produced an abundance of groundbreaking art. Following your museum visit, the tour slowly draws to a close with a visit to a store selling one of nature’s most beautiful masterpieces: diamonds. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. Taking photos or shooting videos inside Van Gogh Museum is prohibited. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM02T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM02D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $85.00Adults $60.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Combining two of the things for which Amsterdam is best known – the Van Gogh Museum and diamonds – this enjoyable tour begins with am 1-hour coach drive to Amsterdam and with a sightseeing leg through the city’s historical centre. The route will first take you past Dam Square and the Mint Tower before dropping you at Museum Square and the Van Gogh Museum, which is home to the largest collection of works by the renowned Dutch post-Impressionist master, who only lived to the age of 37. Largely unknown and unappreciated his short lifetime, the artist seemed always on the move from one place to next, during which time he produced an abundance of groundbreaking art. Following your museum visit, the tour slowly draws to a close with a visit to a store selling one of nature’s most beautiful masterpieces: diamonds. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. Taking photos or shooting videos inside Van Gogh Museum is prohibited. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM02T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM02D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $85.00Adults $60.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port of Ijmuiden for a 1-hour drive to Amsterdam. Your tour will include highlights such as the Dam Square, the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk, the museum district and Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the concert building and the lively Leidseplein district. On reaching the heart of the city, we will enjoy an hour-long canal cruise through the historic centre, admiring the gabled historic buildings such as Anne Frank’s house, Westerchurch, the Twin Houses and Amsterdam’s historic bridges from the water. We will end the tour with a visit to an exclusive diamond retailer. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM03T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM03D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $70.00Adults $49.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port of Ijmuiden for a 1-hour drive to Amsterdam. Your tour will include highlights such as the Dam Square, the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk, the museum district and Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the concert building and the lively Leidseplein district. On reaching the heart of the city, we will enjoy an hour-long canal cruise through the historic centre, admiring the gabled historic buildings such as Anne Frank’s house, Westerchurch, the Twin Houses and Amsterdam’s historic bridges from the water. We will end the tour with a visit to an exclusive diamond retailer. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM03T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM03D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $70.00Adults $49.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   This whistle-stop tour of Amsterdam’s main attractions – perfect for guests booked on early flights out of Amsterdam – will give you a succinct overview of the Netherlands’ principal city. Known the world over for its bicycles, canals and bridges, Amsterdam is a delightfully relaxed and friendly place with cosmopolitan charm to spare. Your tour begins with an hour coach drive and takes you past the city’s main sights, including elegant squares, lovely old streets, beautiful architecture that spans the centuries and also the vibrant flower market, another feature for which Amsterdam is famed. The iconic canal system dates back to the 17th century and has since formed the city’s beating heart. The whole area was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites as recently as 2010. Your tour ends at the airport. Please note: this excursion is only for guests who are disembarking and booked on a flight at or after 17.30. The duration of the tour also includes the time of transfer to the airport.

Price per Person Starting from: $61.00Adults $43.00Children

Reservation On Board

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  Take a journey into the heart of Dutch culture. After an-hour drive you will reach Volendam where the residents still dress in traditional costumes and wear the typical wooden clogs. Time is scheduled here for shopping or to have lunch (not included). You will continue to the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.30 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM05T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM05D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $80.00Adults $56.00Children

Reservation On Board

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  Take a journey into the heart of Dutch culture. After an-hour drive you will reach Volendam where the residents still dress in traditional costumes and wear the typical wooden clogs. Time is scheduled here for shopping or to have lunch (not included). You will continue to the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.30 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM05T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM05D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $80.00Adults $56.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port for an hour-long drive to Amsterdam and use the day to visit what is perhaps one of the world's most poignant sights - the Anne Frank Museum, where the courageous young diarist hid with her family from Nazi persecution. Before the museum visit we will leave the port for a tour through old and new Amsterdam, viewing the famous tree-lined canals and soaking up the multi-cultural, cosmopolitan atmosphere. We will tour the famous Anne Frank Museum and see the movable bookcase that concealed the annex where the Franks hid for over two years. You will learn more about the history of this remarkable girl while visiting the museum. Back outside, you can appreciate the scenic side of this attractive city with a visit to the popular flower market. Free time is scheduled for strolling the city or visiting the ‘Bloemenmarkt’ which stretches for a whole block and where you can admire a huge array of flowers, plants and purchase bulbs of Holland’s national flower, the tulip. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:00 hours. The old part of Anne Frank’s House is not suitable for wheelchairs and there are also stairs in some parts of the House. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM06T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM06D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $81.00Adults $57.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port for an hour-long drive to Amsterdam and use the day to visit what is perhaps one of the world's most poignant sights - the Anne Frank Museum, where the courageous young diarist hid with her family from Nazi persecution. Before the museum visit we will leave the port for a tour through old and new Amsterdam, viewing the famous tree-lined canals and soaking up the multi-cultural, cosmopolitan atmosphere. We will tour the famous Anne Frank Museum and see the movable bookcase that concealed the annex where the Franks hid for over two years. You will learn more about the history of this remarkable girl while visiting the museum. Back outside, you can appreciate the scenic side of this attractive city with a visit to the popular flower market. Free time is scheduled for strolling the city or visiting the ‘Bloemenmarkt’ which stretches for a whole block and where you can admire a huge array of flowers, plants and purchase bulbs of Holland’s national flower, the tulip. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:00 hours. The old part of Anne Frank’s House is not suitable for wheelchairs and there are also stairs in some parts of the House. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM06T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM06D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $81.00Adults $57.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    A 1-hour drive takes you to Amsterdam for a 60-minute cruise on the canals in the historical city centre with its typical gabled buildings. Your boat will take you past Anne Frank’s house, the Wester Church and the Twin Houses as well as under Amsterdam’s many bridges. Next up is a walk to the Albert Cuyp open-air market, selling everything from fruit and veg to clothing and cameras, for time to spend on your own. Your tour draws to a close with a walk to the former Heineken Brewery and the fascinating “Heineken Experience” for a chance to learn about the history of one of the world’s best-known beer brands. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:30 hours. This tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM08T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM08D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $107.00Adults $75.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    A 1-hour drive takes you to Amsterdam for a 60-minute cruise on the canals in the historical city centre with its typical gabled buildings. Your boat will take you past Anne Frank’s house, the Wester Church and the Twin Houses as well as under Amsterdam’s many bridges. Next up is a walk to the Albert Cuyp open-air market, selling everything from fruit and veg to clothing and cameras, for time to spend on your own. Your tour draws to a close with a walk to the former Heineken Brewery and the fascinating “Heineken Experience” for a chance to learn about the history of one of the world’s best-known beer brands. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:30 hours. This tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM08T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM08D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $107.00Adults $75.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    On leaving the port of IJmuiden, a pleasant 1-hour coach drive will first take you to Amsterdam, the cosmopolitan capital of the Netherlands and the country’s main financial, cultural and creative centre. Founded in the late 12th century, the city boasts a wealth of architectural heritage, among which one can count the 1,500 bridges criss-crossing the city’s trademark network of canals. You will have 2 hours of free time to explore the city at your own pace. Some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sights include Anne Frank’s house, the Rijksmuseum, the Hortus Botanicus botanical gardens and the Nieuwe Kerk church where Queen Beatrix was crowned in 1980, to name but a few. The tour concludes with your return to the port and your ship. Please note: this tours is only for guests in transit in the port of Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $39.00Adults $32.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Spend a few hours off the ship on a tour that is guaranteed to leave you smarter than you were. The family-friendly jaunt begins with a short coach drive from IJmuiden to the Netherlands’ largest science museum, the so-called NEMO. You will then have plenty of time to explore the museum’s five fascinating floors, which are brim-full of interesting things to discover, exciting stuff to do and astounding facts to learn about the worlds of science and technology. All of the fascinating exhibits, creative enactments, films, workshops and demonstrations that make up the NEMO are connected to science and technology in some way. This live-and-direct, multisensory NEMO experience is certainly the most fun you’re ever likely to have encountering your natural environment. If you ever wondered what makes bridges strong or what you will look like in 30 years’ time, why family members resemble one another or how to purify water, what happens to a person when they enjoy a kiss or perhaps how lightning and satellites work, the NEMO will provide the answers to these and many other questions. In short, this informative, immersive and highly entertaining tour is a very clever way to spend a few hours off the ship, no matter how old you are. Please note: this tour is not available on calls falling on a Monday and is available only for transit guests in the port of IJmuiden

Price per Person Starting from: $84.00Adults $59.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Retail is detail, they say, and the details of this shopping trip to a cut-price outlet centre are sure to have you beaming. After leaving the port of IJmuiden by coach, a roughly 1-hour drive will take you to the Batavia Stad complex in Lelystad, a town situated on the shores of the Markermeer and IJsselmeer. Constructed in faux-historical style, complete with “old” city gates, the purpose-built Batavia Stad “shopping village” provides an appealing, car- and dog-free setting in which to shop till you drop – and save money at the same time. With more than 100 top brand outlets offering discounts of between 30% and 70% on regular retail prices, you really can’t go wrong. The old-world appeal of Batavia Stad is added to by the friendly shopkeepers and various eateries, one of which could be the perfect spot to have some lunch (not included in the price of the tour). You, your tired feet and all of your bargain buys will then be taken back to the port in the comfort of a modern coach. Please note: this tour is available only for transit guests in the port of IJmuiden

Price per Person Starting from: $51.00Adults $36.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   This panoramic tour of Guernsey’s wild and rocky coastline also includes a visit to the Little Chapel, which is possibly the world’s smallest church. From Saint Peter Port, you head north past the harbour at Saint Sampson and on to L’Ancresse Bay. The parish of Vale, which used to be a separate island, affords fine views of some of the coastal fortifications built during WWII. A short drive inland takes you to the19th-century brick kilns at the Oatlands site for afternoon tea. Then it’s on to the cliffs at Pleinmont Point and the broad sandy expanses of Vazon Bay and Rocquaine Bay, the latter of which is also home to Fort Grey and its Martello tower. A scenic drive inland then takes you to the Little Chapel for a short photo stop. Built in 1914 as a miniature version of the grotto at Lourdes, this tiny church is beautifully decorated with seashells, pebbles and colourful shards of broken china. Your tour ends with your return to the ship. Please note : the bus driver will be your guide; information available only in English. Being a tender port, this tour is not recommended for guests using a wheelchair.

Price per Person Starting from: $66.00Adults $46.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by the Germans during WWII, as a result of which many towers and bunkers were built using forced labour as part of Hitler’s ”Atlantic Wall” defences against Allied attack. This tour visits some of the places most associated with the occupation, including coastal fortifications and the Occupation Museum. After leaving Saint Peter Port, a scenic drive will take you to the parish of Forest and the German Occupation Museum with a fascinating collection of artefacts relating to the five years of enemy occupation. The tour continues along Guernsey’s coastline, which is dotted with remnants of the occupation such as watchtowers and gun bunkers. Stops will be made at the Hommet Gun Casement Bunker – part of a complex of reinforced concrete fortifications – and the fully restored Pleinmont Point Observation Tower. You will then head back to your vessel at Saint Peter Port. Please note : the bus driver will be your guide; information available only in English. Being a tender port, this tour is not recommended for guests using a wheelchair.

Price per Person Starting from: $70.00Adults $49.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Stretch your legs and discover the rich history of Saint Peter Port, Guernsey’s capital, and the Guernsey Museum. Saint Peter Port, with its cobbled high street, narrow alleys, Regency buildings and French influences, was founded during the Roman era and grew to become the Channel Islands’ premier port. The harbour provides views of Castle Cornet, which was built on an island in the 13th century and can now be reached via a causeway. It started out as a fortification against the French when Guernsey sided with England after the loss of Normandy. The next stop is the Victorian Candie Gardens and the statue dedicated to Victor Hugo, who lived on Guernsey during his most productive period from 1856 to 1870. The tour ends with your return to the ship. Please note : guides available only in English. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

Price per Person Starting from: $47.00Adults $33.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Explore the historical centre of Saint Peter Port, Guernsey’s capital, and the harbour fortress, Castle Cornet, on foot. Saint Peter Port, with its cobbled high street, narrow alleys, Regency buildings and French influences, was founded during the Roman era and grew to become the Channel Islands’ premier port. The harbour provides views of Castle Cornet, which was built on an island in the 13th century and can now be reached via a causeway. It started out as a fortification against the French when Guernsey sided with England after the loss of Normandy. Today, the Castle contains a numbers of interesting museums that you will have time to visit at the end of the tour. The next stop is the Victorian Candie Gardens and the statue dedicated to Victor Hugo, who lived on Guernsey during his most productive period from 1856 to 1870. The tour ends with your return to the ship. Please note : guides available only in English. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

Price per Person Starting from: $57.00Adults $40.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   From the port of Vigo on the Atlantic coast, a pleasant 1.5-hour coach ride will take you to the historical city of Santiago de Compostela, one of Spain’s most important religious centres. The city’s splendid cathedral and old quarter are both listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. You will have an opportunity to amble through the streets, narrow alleys and tiny squares before continuing on foot to the Plaza do Obradoiro, which is situated at the heart of the city and was named after the stonemason’s workshop that was established there while the cathedral was being built. An external viewing of the cathedral, an eclectic blend of various architectural styles including Baroque, gives you an opportunity to take some photos before your tour is brought to a close with your return to the port. Please note: this is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties, heart problems or using a wheelchair. Cameras inside the Cathedral are prohibited. The guide will give explanation only outside the Monastery; guests will visit the site individually.

Price per Person Starting from: $74.00Adults $52.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   After first making a brief stop at the Monte Castro vantage point to admire the beautiful view over the city, your tour then continues on to La Guardia, a village near Spain’s border to Portugal. Next on the itinerary is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Galicia, the pretty town of Baiona and its enchanting medieval centre, which is scenically situated by the outlet of Vigo Bay. You will have some free time to explore Baiona’s main sights, which include Monterreal Castle and the Monte Boi peninsula, the clock tower and the Prince’s Tower, the 13th-century Ex-collegiate Church and the 15-metre monument called the Virgin of the Rock. Your tour concludes with your return to the port of Vigo and your ship. Please note: this tour includes long transfers by coach. It is not suitable for guests in a wheelchair.

Price per Person Starting from: $55.00Adults $39.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    This tour offers a fascinating introduction to Galician culture. Leave the port for a guided trip northwards to the Rande Strait, past Pontevedra. Your guide will talk about the history of the region and point out the different locations of the “Ria Vigo”, which is shaped like a great mouth devouring a stretch of sea. Our first stop will be Cambados, famous for its production of the white wine, Albariño. We will continue to the Agro de Bazan Winery for a cheese and wine tasting session. These renowned cellars produce high quality wines made purely from the Albariño grape. Return to the ship. Please note: this tour includes periods of walking on uneven ground with steps; it is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

Price per Person Starting from: $55.00Adults $39.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Cross the frontier from Spain into Portugal on this exclusive tour and discover Valença do Minho. A 45-minute coach ride will take you to this gorgeous walled town, which dates back to Roman times. Enjoy a guided tour of the fortress, a specimen of gothic and baroque military architecture whose first walls were built in the 13th century. Then take a break to do some shopping before heading back to Spain. The return trip to the port includes a brief photo stop at El Castro, a 17th century fort situated high above Vigo and a tour of the oyster market.

Price per Person Starting from: $55.00Adults $39.00Children

Reservation On Board

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  Get a fascinating introduction to Galician culture at two of the region’s most charming communities: Pontevedra and Combarro. Heading north from Vigo, a 30-minute coach ride will take you to Pontevedra (which means ”old bridge“). Your guide will illuminate the city’s rich history during a walking tour of its key sights. Then spend some free time discovering the local shops before continuing a few kilometres up the coast to the small, picturesque fishing village of Combarro. Visit the historical district of one of Galicia’s best preserved towns before returning to Vigo and the port. Please note: this tour is not suitable for for guests with mobility limitations for long periods of walking on uneven ground.

Price per Person Starting from: $55.00Adults $39.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Leave the port and drive to the Belém district where we will admire two masterpieces built in the decorative Portuguese style known as Manueline. These are Jeronimo’s Church and Belém Tower, both built in the beginning of the XVI century, just after Vasco da Gama’s exploratory voyage to India. We will visit the monastery church which holds the tomb of Vasco da Gama and have time to explore the cloisters. The excursion continues with a scenic tour through Lisbon’s “new” city centre built after the devastating earthquake of 1755 : we will pass the Parliament and Prime Minister’s House, the Marquis of “Pombal” Square, “Liberdade” Avenue and “Rossio” Square – the heart of Lisbon’s downtown. Free time before returning to the ship. Please note: on Monday calls, the visit to the Monastery will be replaced with a visit to Ajuda Palace. Shooting videos or taking photos with flash inside Jeronimo’s Monastery is prohibited. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting places of religious importance.

Price per Person Starting from: $68.00Adults $48.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Those interested in theology and religious mysteries can look forward to a special day out in Fatima. We will leave the port of Lisbon for a 1.5-hour drive coach crossing the Portuguese plains to reach this important religious destination. This site has been visited annually by millions of pilgrims since 1917 when three shepherds saw a vision of the Virgin Mary here. Visit the Shrine and the chapel where the Holy Virgin appeared before enjoying some free time in Fatima to stroll around or to shop for souvenirs. Lunch included. Please note: this tour is available only for guests onboard MSC Preziosa and for July, August and September calls by MSC Opera with the exception of the call on 29 September 2013. Guides will give explanations from outside the site; guests will proceed to inside visits individually. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting places of religious importance.

Price per Person Starting from: $126.00Adults $88.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the ship and board a coach for a 45-minute drive inland to reach the lovely Portuguese town of Queluz. You will then visit the royal residence of Queluz, a magnificent palace with elegant rooms and beautiful gardens that is also known as the Portuguese “Versailles”. Continuing on to nearby Sintra, you will have time to explore this lovely UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace. Sintra houses the National Palace, the former residence of the royal family and the best-preserved medieval royal palace in Portugal. Finally, the coach will return to Lisbon for a tour of the Jerónimos Monastery. A brief photo stop will be made at Belém National Palace, Lisbon’s main landmark before returning to the port and to your cruise ship. Lunch included. Please note: on Monday calls, Jeronimo’s Monastery will be visited only from outside. Shooting videos or taking photos with flash inside Jeronimo’s Monastery is prohibited. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting places of religious importance.

Price per Person Starting from: $130.00Adults $91.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Sintra is famous for its mountain range, its temperate climate and country palaces and cottages. Drive to this lovely UNESCO World Heritage Site village to visit the historic National Royal Palace which houses the oldest collection glazed tiles in Portugal and features fine examples of the large conical medieval chimneys. Continue to “Cabo da Roca”, the most western point of Europe, where you can enjoy fine views over the Atlantic Ocean. Our next stop will be Cascais, a fishing village and favourite summer retreat of the royal family. Free time to explore the village before returning to Lisbon along the coast, admiring the beaches, the mouth of the Tagus River. Here the city is spread out for all to admire and we will drive past Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries and the Jeronimo’s Monastery. Please note: shooting videos or taking photos with flash inside Sintra Palace is prohibited.

Price per Person Starting from: $76.00Adults $53.00Children

Reservation On Board

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  Those interested in theology and religious mysteries can look forward to a special day out in Fatima. We will leave the port of Lisbon for a 1.5-hour coach drive to cross the Portuguese plains and reach this important religious destination. This site has been visited annually by millions of pilgrims since 1917 when three shepherds saw a vision of the Virgin Mary here. Visit the Shrine and the chapel where the Holy Virgin appeared before enjoying some free time in Fatima to stroll around or to shop for souvenirs. Please note: this tour is not available for guests onboard MSC Preziosa and for all July, August and September calls by MSC Opera; it is available for MSC Opera call on 29 September 2013. Guides will give explanations from outside the site; guests will proceed to inside visits individually. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting places of religious importance.

Price per Person Starting from: $59.00Adults $41.00Children

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     Depart from the pier and, passing over 25th April Bridge, sister bridge of the Golden Gate, you will drive to the base of the Statue of “Christ the King”, from where magnificent views of Lisbon can be seen. Our excursion continues in the town of Azeitao, renowned for its famous pastries and for the “Moscatel de Setubal” wine. We will visit a local wine lodge for wine tasting session and to learn more about how this sweet aperitif wine is produced. Next we will proceed towards the “Parque Natural da Arrabida” – National Park – which was established to protect the wild, beautiful landscape and rich variety of birds and wildlife found here. The road winds across the mountain ridge and offers stunning views of Setúbal and Tróia. Return to Lisbon to enjoy a sightseeing tour and then reach “Rossio” where we will stop for a little time at leisure. Return to the port. Please note: this tour includes long transfers by coach.

Price per Person Starting from: $55.00Adults $39.00Children

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     Excursion to Lisbon on a tour around the oldest part of the city, the atmospheric Alfama district. Meander through its labyrinth of narrow alleys, honeycombed with steps and archways, and admire the houses with their painted façades, decorated with panels of tiles and embellished with wrought iron balconies. We will visit the Cathedral of Lisbon noted for its interior which takes the form of a Latin cross, with three naves. Our walk continues downtown to the “Baixa” quarter which was completely rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755. You will have free time in “Rossio” square before proceeding to Belém Tower for pictures followed by a short visit to the legendary “Confeitaria de Belém” bakery where you will enjoy the typical custard cream cake, “pasties de Belém”. Our tour will also include a visit to one of the two masterpieces built in the decorative Portuguese style known as Manueline: the Jeronimo’s Church, built in the beginning of the XVI century, just after Vasco da Gama’s exploratory voyage to India. We will visit the monastery church which holds the tomb of Vasco da Gama before returning to the port. Please note: the tour is mainly by walking on uneven and sometimes uphill streets; tour not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. Shooting videos or taking photos with flash inside Jeronimo’s Monastery and Cathedral is prohibited. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting places of religious importance. This tour is not available on Saturday and Sunday calls.

Price per Person Starting from: $59.00Adults $41.00Children

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     Leave the port for a bus transfer to the most authentic and vibrant part of the city - Lisbon’s “Baixa” district, an historic area that was completely rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755. Your walk will take you from Comercio Square, across Augusta Street to Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon. Here you will have free time to explore the area and to soak up the atmosphere of Portugal’s lively capital city. The excursion will pick up again at the “Elevador da Gloria”, a funicular lift, which transports you to the upper levels of the city; we will stop at “Sao Pedro de Alcantara” Belvedere, with views over the tiled rooftops. The excursion also allows time to sample a glass of typical ‘porto’ wine and a visit to Sao Roque church, noted for its beautiful painted wood ceiling. Other important stops during the tour include the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist with a small collection of treasure and the model statue of the Saint. Please note: the tour is mainly by walking on uneven and sometimes uphill streets; it is not suitable for guests with mobility problems or in a wheelchair. Shooting videos or taking pictures with flash inside Sao Roque Church is prohibited. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting places of religious importance. This tour is not available on Sunday calls.

Price per Person Starting from: $62.00Adults $43.00Children

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    Begin your discovery of Lisbon enjoying a scenic drive around this beautiful city; you will pass “Comercio” Square, still commonly referred to as “Terreiro do Praço” (Palace Square), before continuing along the “Praça de D. Pedro IV”, known as the “Rossio”; a key meeting point in the city since the XIII and XV centuries and still the bustling hub of the city today. We will also pass the “Marques de Pombal” Square, dedicated to the man who was largely responsible for rebuilding Lisbon after the earthquake of 1755. The excursion also includes a stop in a restaurant for a traditional Fado folk show. 2 drinks included. Please note: this tour is available only during following calls : 13.09.2013 (MSC Musica) & 22.09.2013 (MSC Magnifica)

Price per Person Starting from: $70.00Adults $49.00Children

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    This tour offers a great opportunity to explore Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city, from a unique perspective: on board one of its wonderful, old-fashioned trams, which are not only used by scores of commuters on a daily basis, but have also become a real tourist attraction. After leaving your ship, a short coach ride will first take you from the pier to Estrela Square, from where you will catch your tram. Once on board, you will be served a local speciality known as “pastel de nata” (a succulent little custard tart) along with a glass of “porto” wine to further sweeten your ride up to the hills of Lisbon, passing the elegant Baixa district on your way to the quaint Portas do Sol area. A gentle walking tour then follows through the famous Alfama district for a glimpse of old Lisbon, including Rossio Square and the 12th-/13th-century Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Mary Major, a building originally constructed in late Romanesque style, but later added to in a variety of other architectural styles. After visiting the Cathedral, you will have some free time to do as you please before boarding a coach for a drive-by tour of Lisbon’s main sights. Look forward to an exterior viewing of Jerónimo’s Monastery, a 15th-century building, as well as the early 16th-century Belém Tower on the banks of the River Tagus, both of which are fine examples of Manueline architectural style (also called late Portuguese Gothic) and both of which were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your tour comes to a close with your return to the port and your ship. Please note: the tour is mainly by walking on uneven and sometimes uphill streets; it is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or in a wheelchair. Shooting videos or taking pictures with flash inside the Cathedral is prohibited. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting places of religious importance.

Price per Person Starting from: $100.00Adults $70.00Children

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    Our tour kicks off with a drive to the architecturally stunning Guggenheim Museum where we’ll have time for a photo stop before boarding the bus to Bilbao’s Old Quarter. We will access the city via the Calatrava bridge, a pedestrian bridge that spans the Nervión River and which is part of an enterprising plan to reinvigorate the city and the riverside district around the Guggenheim Museum. If you wish to take photos, note that there is a great view of the museum from this bridge. Once in the city, we will enjoy a walking tour through El Arenal, the old town. We will pass the famous Cathedral of Santiago, reputedly the oldest building in Bilbao. In former times, the Cathedral was the centre of Bilbao, and all the city's main streets converged here. Today the cathedral is dedicated to the city's patron saint, St James, and boasts a beautiful Neo-Gothic tower. We will then take the bus to Moyúa Square populated with exclusive boutiques and from there, return to the pier. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties as it involves almost 3 hours' walking; comfortable shoes are recommended. Limited number of guides in languages other than Spanish. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in Spanish only.

Price per Person Starting from: $51.00Adults $36.00Children

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    Great art and architecture converge on this tour that takes in the Guggenheim Museum and the historic sights of Bilbao. The fabulous Guggenheim collection is distributed across three museums managed by the Foundation: the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Guggenheim Museum SoHo, both in New York, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, in Venice. The permanent collection of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao includes works by the most prominent artists of the last forty years, and is supplemented by works from the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation. Exhibited are significant examples of Pop Art, Minimalism, Arte Povera, Conceptual Art and Abstract Expressionism among others, together with special exhibitions sponsored by the Foundation. After the Museum visit we will head to El Arenal, Bilbao's old town for a walking tour; you will see the famous Cathedral of Santiago, reputedly the oldest building in Bilbao. The cathedral was formerly the center of Bilbao, and all the city's main streets converged here. Today, the cathedral is dedicated to the city's patron saint and features a beautiful Neo-Gothic tower. Please note: each guide can give explanations inside the Guggenheim Museum to a maximum of 20 guests. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties as it involves almost 3 hours' walking; comfortable shoes are recommended. Limited number of guides in languages other than Spanish. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in Spanish only.

Price per Person Starting from: $86.00Adults $60.00Children

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    After boarding a coach at the port, your scenic all-day tour begins with a 1-hour drive through the beautiful Basque countryside to San Sebastián, a relatively small town situated on the coast of the Bay of Biscay that is the capital of the Gipuzkoa province. Your tour of this lovely city will take you to see all the main sights, such as the late-19th-century Miramar Palace, which was built as a summer residence for Queen Maria Cristina, as well as the Gothic Revival Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, whose construction was completed in 1897. Also on the drive-by itinerary are the Victoria Eugenia Theatre and the elegant Hotel Maria Cristina, both of which were inaugurated in 1912. San Sebastián’s glorious old quarter, the so-called Parte Vieja, and port will then be explored on foot – the best way to soak up the special atmosphere of these history-laden streets. Time permitting, you can also do some shopping or have a bite to eat (not included in the price of the tour). Your return journey to Bilbao will also take you to visit Mount Igueldo for superb views of the city and a chance to take some memorable photos to show your friends and family at home. Please note: limited number of guides in languages other than Spanish. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in Spanish only. Shopping is not foreseen on calls falling on Sundays.

Price per Person Starting from: $100.00Adults $70.00Children

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   Bilbao is over 700 years old and was founded by the nobleman D. Diego López de Haro. We will begin our tour with a panoramic view of the city from the top of Mount Artxanda. You will enjoy a scenic drive through the city, passing the famous Guggenheim museum before reaching the Old Quarter, the most important area of the city. Enjoy free time walking through the pedestrian area of the city: shop for bargains or relax with a meal, sampling local wine and tapas (not included). We will leave Bilbao for a short drive to Getxo (pronounced Get-cho) an elegant residential marina set on the bank of the Nervion River with large palaces and mansions. You can enjoy a panoramic driving tour of the city before proceeding to Hanging Bridge, or “Bizkaia Bridge” for a photo stop. The Bridge joins the riverbanks at Portugalete and Las Arenas, allowing for free-flowing maritime traffic. Similar in style to the Eiffel Tower, due to its black iron structure, this amazing feat of engineering is now over 100 years old and is the oldest transporter bridge in the world. Return to pier. Please note: limited number of guides in languages other than Spanish. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in Spanish only. Shopping is not foreseen on calls falling on Sundays.

Price per Person Starting from: $50.00Adults $35.00Children

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     On leaving the port, part one of your excursion will take you on a panoramic tour of Le Havre, which was rebuilt in classic style with large avenues and open spaces to offset the sea front. The second part of your tour will then see you visit the town of Étretat, which is considered to be a major French national site. Whatever the season, the grandeur of the high cliffs and crashing waves is certainly unforgettable. Look forward to viewing the three natural arches and the formation known as “The Needle”. Furthermore, Étretat has inspired writers and artists alike, with the painters Monet and Courbet being just two examples. You will have time to explore this natural beauty spot on your own. The tour will also take you past timber-framed houses, the town’s medieval church and the covered marketplace. You will have enough time to discover the town at your own pace before returning to Le Havre and your ship.

Price per Person Starting from: $61.00Adults $43.00Children

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    On leaving the port you will reach Honfleur, a tiny town known for its picturesque harbour and beautifully preserved old buildings with slate-covered frontages. A favourite motif of many a painter, Honfleur is known to have particularly inspired Gustave Courbet, Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin and Johan Jongkind, collectively referred to as the Honfleur school. You will have enough time to spend in this delightful village on your own. Enjoy the olde-worlde feel of the narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses and be sure to visit Sainte-Catherine Church, France’s largest church made entirely of wood. The church also features bell tower that is separate from the main building. The tour concludes with your return to the ship.

Price per Person Starting from: $61.00Adults $43.00Children

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    Considered to be the historical capital of Normandy, Rouen is located on the north bank of the river Seine, some 1.5 hours from the sea port of Le Havre. Your guide will introduce you to the old part of the town and take you on a walk down the city’s narrow streets, which are lined with more than 700 timber-framed houses. Enjoy the special atmosphere of Rue St. Romain and then reach the so-called Gros Horloge – an astronomical clock from the 16th century – located in the aptly named Rue du Gros Horloge. The tour then continues on to the Roman Catholic Rouen Cathedral with its Gothic architecture and its so-called “Butter Tower”, which was built in the early 16th century with money appropriated from the local population for the indulgence of eating butter. It has also featured as the famous subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Before returning you to the ship, the last stop on the tour is the “Place du Vieux Marché”, the site where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, at the centre of which stands the modern Church of Saint Joan of Arc. Please note: if the call falls on a Sunday the visit to the Cathedral will be around the exterior only. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting sites of religious importance.

Price per Person Starting from: $88.00Adults $62.00Children

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   An enjoyable drive will take you to the tiny town of Honfleur, a sleepy settlement known for its picturesque harbour and beautifully preserved old buildings with slate-covered frontages. A favourite motif of many a painter, Honfleur is known to have particularly inspired Gustave Courbet, Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin and Johan Jongkind, collectively referred to as the Honfleur school. You will have enough time to spend in this delightful village on your own. Enjoy the old-fashioned feel of the narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses and be sure to visit Sainte-Catherine Church, France’s largest church made entirely of wood. The church also features bell tower that is separate from the main building. Choose one of the many harbour-front restaurants for a delicious and scenic lunchtime experience. The afternoon leg of the tour will take you to the stylish resort of Deauville, which is famed as the venue of an annual international film festival to promote American cinematography and is generally regarded as the “queen of the Norman beaches”. It is certainly one of the most prestigious seaside destinations in the whole of France and you will have plenty of time to explore the old-fashioned streets of this lovely place and savour its special ambience at your leisure. Apart from a racecourse, harbour, marina and grand casino, Deauville also has sandy beaches for you to enjoy. The tour concludes with your return to the ship.

Price per Person Starting from: $107.00Adults $75.00Children

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    This all-day excursion will give you an opportunity to see some of the major sights of France’s magnificent capital city and find out why Paris is known worldwide for its elegance and grandeur. On leaving the port of Le Havre, a leisurely three-hour drive will take you to Paris for a chance to discover this eternally romantic city and its boundless culture. The special splendour of the Champs-Élysées – proudly referred to as “the most beautiful avenue in the world” by the French – awaits you just as the modernity of the Eiffel Tower, which was considered to be a marvel of modern engineering when it was built in 1889. At a height of 324 metres, it is the tallest building in Paris and the second-tallest in the whole of France. You will have approx. 2 hours free time to explore the area around Place de la Concorde or reach the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral. No tour of Paris would be complete without a chance to view this famous Paris landmark; during your free time you will have the opportunity to to have lunch on your own and/or visit this outstanding Gothic landmark on your own. With the cornerstone laid in 1163 and the building finally completed in 1345, the cathedral took a staggering 182 years to build. Before returning to Le Havre, your tour will take you through other lovely parts of Paris, with a short photo stop at the Eiffel Tower. Please note: all the sites will be visited from outside. Guests will be met by guides in Paris. Transfers to and from the port will be unguided.

Price per Person Starting from: $130.00Adults $91.00Children

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    This tour will take you through on a 2.5-hour drive across the attractive Normandy countryside to the wonderful Mont Saint Michel, known as “the wonder of the west” due to its unique island setting, rich history and beautiful architecture. As the bay is partially silted up, the mount is usually viewed surrounded by huge sand banks which shift with the tides. The abbey’s origins date back to the early VIII century when Archangel Michael appeared to the bishop of Avranches and this vision led to the construction of a series of beautiful buildings dedicated to the archangel. After visiting the Abbey, the church and its cloister, you can walk along the ramparts which offer a fine view of the bay and the abbey gardens. Time allowed for exploring and purchasing souvenirs before returning to Le Havre. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties as it involves walking uphill and on uneven ground. Limited number of guides in languages other than French. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be provided in French only. You may have to queue at the car park for the shuttle to reach the site.

Price per Person Starting from: $141.00Adults $99.00Children

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   Leave the port of Le Havre for a 2.5-hour drive across the attractive Normandy countryside to the wonderful Mont Saint Michel, known as “the wonder of the west” due to its unique island setting, rich history and beautiful architecture. The abbey’s origins date back to the early VIII century when Archangel Michael appeared to the bishop of Avranches and this vision led to the construction of a series of beautiful buildings dedicated to the archangel. You will have time to explore the little village or to visit the Abbey on your own. A walk along the ramparts offers a fine view of the bay and the abbey gardens. Return to the port. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties as it involves walking uphill and on uneven ground. You may have to queue at the car park for the shuttle to reach the site.

Price per Person Starting from: $84.00Adults $59.00Children

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     With its lovely countryside, wooded valleys, apple orchards, dairy farms and reputation for producing fabulous cheeses, some of the world’s best cider and the appellation contrôlée-protected Calvados, Normandy is just the sort of place of which you’ll want to get a taste. After boarding a modern coach at the pier and leaving the port in Le Havre via the super-modern, cable-stayed Normandy Bridge, you can first look forward to an approx. 1.5-hour drive through the lush landscape of the Auge region to reach Le Breuil-en-Auge. The tiny village is home to the gorgeous 16th-/17th-century Château du Breuil, the residence of several notable families over the years and now a Calvados distillery that forms your first stop. Your tour of the Château will provide a fascinating insight into the way in which the famous apple brandy ages in oak casks in the castle’s deep cellars. A chance to taste some of the excellent brandy distilled at the Château will round off your visit to this spirited place. More wonderful views then await you on the drive to Beuvron-en-Auge, a real jewel of a place with meticulously maintained historical buildings and pristine streets that has been voted one of the most beautiful villages in France by an independent association named “Les Plux Beaux Villages de France”. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of this special spot for posterity as you spend some free time exploring the village and its wonderful timber-framed houses. A relaxing return drive to Le Havre and your ship then brings the tour to a close.

Price per Person Starting from: $88.00Adults $62.00Children

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