Western Europe Cruise - from Dover - 107827

The port of Dover is just 28 km from France. 14 million passengers pass through here on the journey between the British Isles and the French mainland. But what Dover is most famous for is its beautiful white cliffs, upon which, hardly visible, stands the largest fort in England. Other sights include: Dover Castle and the lighthouse.

The port of "Le Havre de Grace" was founded in 1517 by François I on the right bank of the Seine estuary. The seafront, the beach and the harbour basin reach right into the heart of the town. The town's image is shaped by the Seine estuary and the port. Le Havre is not only an important trading port, but also has a yacht marina and a beach. The alabaster coast with its tall chalk cliffs stretches north from Le Havre to the Somme estuary. Always connected with the sea, today Le Havre is the fifth-largest European port. Sights include: the port, the town hall, Villa Maritime, the swimming dock, St. Josef's Church, the garden at St. Roch, Malraux museum, and Notre Dame cathedral.

'The capital of Guernsey brings the past to life. It is one of the 50 most historically important towns in Great Britain. Buildings of special importance include the church, the market building, the royal courthouse and Notre Dame du Rosaire church. Since you can shop duty-free on Guernsey, the small town has an astonishing array of exquisite boutiques. You can even acquire an antique or two at the Old Market and gourmets should be sure to try the fresh lobster. 'Sights include: Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery, Hauteville Haus, La Vallette.

In the West of Spain, ca. 30 km North of the border with Portugal on the South shore of an estuary lies the most lively and modern city in Galicia. Vigo has a population of around 300,000 and is one of the largest fishing ports in Spain. The city also has a varied night life with many bars, cafés and discos. Before the town lie the Cies Islands, which were designated a National Park and bird sanctuary in 1980. Sights include: El Castro, La Madroa, La Guia and the old town.

The white city by the sea, built on seven hills and framed by the natural harbour of "Rio Tejo" was founded by the Phoenicians in around the 9th-7th century B.C.. Today it is the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Lisbon is rich in architectural monuments. The Portuguese capital also has a varied and interesting cultural scene with theatre performances, concerts and exhibitions. "Bairro Alto" (the upper city) is well known for its nightlife. Sights include: Jerónimo's Monastery, Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, Comércio Square, São Jorge castle, and "Baixa Pombalina".

Portugal's unofficial capital, Porto, is the name-giver for the entire country. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and is known primarily for its famous port wine. Those who enjoy the city atmosphere will love Porto, the second-largest city in the country. The harbour is where the renowned Portuguese fleet was built. Now, there are lots of cafés and bistros here. The houses in the city are packed close together on the steep slopes, often close behind and beside one another, forming really lovely terraces. Sights incude: Praça da Liberdade, Câmara Municipal and the Soares dos Reis National Museum.

Zeebrugge, the largest fishing port in Belgium, is linked to Bruges, of which it is a subdivision, by means of a twelve kilometre long canal. Bruges is well worth a look. Along the long beach promenade there are lots of cafés where you can sit and relax. The fish auction hall at the rear of the harbour is one of the largest and most modern in Europe and can be seen during a tour of the harbour. Zeebrugge also has a yacht marina, with space to accommodate around one hundred ships. Sights include: St. George's Memorial, Pierre Vandamme sea-lock, the diamond museum, the Memling Museum, the Church of Our Lady, the Oldtimer and Motorbike Museum, Minne Water Park, and the home brewery 'De Halve Maan'.

The port of Dover is just 28 km from France. 14 million passengers pass through here on the journey between the British Isles and the French mainland. But what Dover is most famous for is its beautiful white cliffs, upon which, hardly visible, stands the largest fort in England. Other sights include: Dover Castle and the lighthouse.