Compagnie Du Ponant Northern Europe: 14 nights from Lisbon with Le Bellot
20 Apr 2025

Leixoes

Vigo

Bilbao

Bilbao, located on the Northern coast of Iberian Peninsula, is the ideal starting point to visit this area of Spain. Tourists come here to enjoy the beaches, discover its culture and absorb its mild climate. With one of Europe's largest ports, the vibrant city has been able to invest in a redevelopment plan, trasforming its brownfield sites into cutting-edge cultural and architectural venues.

But it is its historic center, which continues to fascinate with its stores, alleys and monuments. The city was officially founded in the 1300s, consolidating its economic position. Thanks to the exploitation of mining and steel industry areas, port and ship activity and its financial center, the city became one of the most important cities during the Industrial Revolution. 

A modern and transportation network connects Bilbao to other cities in Spain. Thanks to its beautiful beaches, the city is the ideal destination for beach lovers. Beaches are not the only attractions in Bilbao, there are very fascinating places besides the beautiful beaches: the Cathedral of Santiago, located in the heart of the Old Town (Casco Viejo) is dedicated to the apostle Santiago, the official patron saint of the city of Bilbao since 1643.

Built at the end of the 14th century in the Gothic style, the neo-Gothic tower and façade were made by Severino Achúcarro in late 1887. The Old Bridge of San Antonio is located next to the church of the same name. Pablo de Alzola and Ernesto Hoffmeyer built a second bridge in 1877 but it was destroyed during the Civil War in 1937. San Antonio Bridge dates from the early 20th century, also known as the Atxuri Bridge, connecting the old neighborhood to the rest of the city. For nature lovers, the city is surrounded by a fertile landscape of forests, mountains, beaches, and cliffs that make Bilbao a tourist destination. A holiday aboard a cruise offers the opportunity to visit this beautiful city and partecipate in one of these unique activities.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is city on the Atlantic Ocean and its port hosts big ships. The city had initially the name Burdigala and was established in III Century B.C. by the Gallic people.

It was a neuralgic centre for the International commerce of tin and lead. After the arrival of the Romans, Bordeaux becomes one of the richest cities of Gallia and is robbed many times by populations such as Visigoths and Vandals. With the passing of time, the City starts economic relationships with England trading in salt and wine and, in XVI Century, also the colonial sugar and slaves start having a leading role in the sustenance of the city.
Bordeaux has a liveable city centre that can be visited by foot and that offers beautiful attractions and energy. At night, the city get crowded with young people filling up the main squares and the bars where you can taste excellent wines and plunge in the romantic atmosphere that the city assumes after the sunset. You can’t miss out Château de la Brède, a gothic style castle dated back to XIV Century, surrounded by a moat and an English garden. The philosopher Montesquieu lived here and tourists can visit his library and his bedroom that are just like they were in XIX Century.
We suggest to visit also the beautiful Saint Eloi Church. Established in XII Century, the construction and renovation works lasted until 1400’s. The current structure is dated back to this period. The church is one of the stop-overs of Santiago de Compostela walking tour and is part of UNESCO World Heritage. Bordeaux offers a wide variety of gastronomic and wine choices. There are many restaurants and bars where you can taste the best wines on the market and an amazing cuisine.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is city on the Atlantic Ocean and its port hosts big ships. The city had initially the name Burdigala and was established in III Century B.C. by the Gallic people.

It was a neuralgic centre for the International commerce of tin and lead. After the arrival of the Romans, Bordeaux becomes one of the richest cities of Gallia and is robbed many times by populations such as Visigoths and Vandals. With the passing of time, the City starts economic relationships with England trading in salt and wine and, in XVI Century, also the colonial sugar and slaves start having a leading role in the sustenance of the city.
Bordeaux has a liveable city centre that can be visited by foot and that offers beautiful attractions and energy. At night, the city get crowded with young people filling up the main squares and the bars where you can taste excellent wines and plunge in the romantic atmosphere that the city assumes after the sunset. You can’t miss out Château de la Brède, a gothic style castle dated back to XIV Century, surrounded by a moat and an English garden. The philosopher Montesquieu lived here and tourists can visit his library and his bedroom that are just like they were in XIX Century.
We suggest to visit also the beautiful Saint Eloi Church. Established in XII Century, the construction and renovation works lasted until 1400’s. The current structure is dated back to this period. The church is one of the stop-overs of Santiago de Compostela walking tour and is part of UNESCO World Heritage. Bordeaux offers a wide variety of gastronomic and wine choices. There are many restaurants and bars where you can taste the best wines on the market and an amazing cuisine.

Quiberon

Roscoff

Saint Malo

Guernsey

Dartmouth

London

London, a city where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly, offers a journey through time. From its founding by the Romans as Londinium to its evolution into a global metropolis, London's story is one of resilience, innovation, and diversity. The city's historical landmarks, such as the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey, stand as monuments to its storied past, while the echoes of influential figures like Shakespeare and Churchill remind visitors of its impact on world history and culture.

The climate in London is as varied as the city itself, featuring mild winters and warm summers. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, offering ideal temperatures for exploring the outdoors. While London is known for its rainy reputation, the weather adds to the city's charm, creating a perfect backdrop for cozy pub visits or museum explorations. This temperate climate ensures that London can be enjoyed in all seasons, making it a year-round destination for travelers and cruisers alike.

London's attractions are as diverse as its history. The city boasts an array of must-see sites, from the majestic Buckingham Palace to the modern London Eye, providing breathtaking views of the cityscape. Culture enthusiasts will revel in the treasures of the British Museum and the art at the Tate Modern. Yet, London's heart lies in its hidden gems—secret gardens, historic pubs, and quaint markets like Borough Market, offering a taste of local life. These iconic attractions and undiscovered corners provide a rich tapestry of experiences for every visitor.

London's culinary scene is a reflection of its multicultural fabric, offering an array of global cuisines alongside traditional British dishes. From classic fish and chips to innovative gastronomic delights in Michelin-starred restaurants, the city caters to every palate. The influence of its diverse population is evident in the variety of foods available, from Indian curries to Italian pastas. London is also home to vibrant food markets, such as Camden Market, where foodies can indulge in local and international delicacies.

Starting your cruise from London opens the door to an unforgettable adventure. Before embarking on your voyage, immerse yourself in the city's rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights. London's accessible location and its status as a global travel hub make it the perfect starting point for cruises to destinations across Europe and beyond. Embarking from London not only promises a seamless journey but also an opportunity to extend your travel experience, exploring one of the world's most captivating cities before setting sail to explore new horizons.