Lisbon to Southampton Cruise: Spain, Portugal & France
This 11-night Lisbon to Southampton cruise offers Irish holidaymakers a wonderful way to see the highlights of Western Europe without the stress of constant packing and unpacking. Starting in the sunny hills of Lisbon, you will travel north through Portugal, Spain, France, and Belgium before arriving in the United Kingdom. This Ocean Cruise is operated by the well-regarded Norwegian Cruise Line on the Norwegian Star, a ship that has been recently updated to provide a comfortable and modern environment for all guests.
The holiday begins with a direct flight from Dublin to Lisbon, where you will be transferred to the port to begin your journey. Lisbon is a city of stunning tiled facades and historic trams, providing a perfect backdrop for the start of your voyage. From there, the ship moves to Porto, where you can explore the medieval Ribeira district. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many guests enjoy taking a guided tuk-tuk tour to see the sights before sampling some of the world-famous port wine produced in the region.
As you move into Spain, you will visit La Coruña in the Galicia region, home to the only working Roman lighthouse in existence. Gijon follows, offering a taste of Asturian charm and maritime heritage. One of the highlights for many is Bilbao, where the architecturally striking Guggenheim Museum stands as a testament to the city’s modern transformation. Walking through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter is a lovely way to spend an afternoon before returning to the ship for an evening of entertainment.
The French portion of this Lisbon to Southampton cruise is equally impressive. You will stop in Le Verdon, the gateway to the world-renowned Bordeaux wine region. Here, you can enjoy a wine tasting tour or explore the ornate buildings and grand squares of Bordeaux city. Further north, La Rochelle offers a look at medieval half-timbered houses and a stunning old harbour that has been a centre for trade since the 12th century.
After a relaxing day at sea to enjoy the amenities of the Norwegian Star, such as the Mandara Spa or the various entertainment venues, the ship arrives in Zeebrugge. This is the perfect point to visit Bruges, often called the ‘Venice of the North’ because of its charming canals and historic buildings. The final stops include the artistic capital of Amsterdam and the port of Le Havre, which provides easy access to the beautiful landscapes of Normandy. Everything is organised for your convenience, including airport transfers and a 20kg check-in bag, making this a great value option for those looking to explore Europe’s Atlantic coast.
Are flights from Ireland included in the price?
What dining options are available on the Norwegian Star?
Is there a baggage allowance included?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Direct flight from Dublin to Lisbon
- Airport transfers to the port
- 11 nights onboard the 4-star Norwegian Star
- Fine dining on a full-board basis
- A variety of day & evening entertainment onboard
- Return transfer from port to airport
- Flight from Heathrow to Dublin
- Taxes, charges and 20kg check-in bag per person
Itinerary
1Departure for your Lisbon to Southampton cruise+
Upon arrival at Lisbon airport, you will be met by a representative and transferred to the port. Here, you will board the Norwegian Star to begin your 11-night voyage through Western Europe.
2Porto’s Riverside Charm+
Arrive in Porto, a coastal city in northwest Portugal famous for its stately bridges and port wine. Explore the medieval Ribeira district where narrow cobbled streets wind past merchant houses and riverside cafes. You might choose to visit the São Francisco Church or the 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa.
3Historic La Coruña+
Visit the busy seaport of La Coruña in Spain’s Galicia region. Highlights include the Tower of Hercules, a Roman lighthouse offering coastal views, and the compact Old Quarter (Ciudad Vieja) with its medieval walls and the Plaza de María Pita.
4Asturian Heritage in Gijon+
Explore Gijon on Spain’s northern coast. This city is known for its maritime heritage, the old fishermen’s quarter of Cimadevilla, and the clifftop park on Santa Catalina hill. It is a city that perfectly blends history with a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
5The Culture of Bilbao+
Bilbao is a dynamic city that balances 700 years of history with modern architecture. Take a walk through the Old Quarter to see the Santiago Cathedral or visit the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, a stunning work of art in itself.
6Wine and History in Bordeaux (Le Verdon)+
Docking at Le Verdon, you are at the gateway to the world-renowned Bordeaux wine region. Explore the city’s ornate buildings and broad avenues, or visit local vineyards and châteaux to sample some of the finest wines in France.
7The Old Harbour of La Rochelle+
La Rochelle is a picturesque coastal city in southwestern France. Known for its Vieux Port (old harbour) and half-timbered medieval houses, the city centre features Renaissance architecture and charming 17th-century arched walkways.
8At Sea+
Spend a relaxing day at sea enjoying the facilities of the Norwegian Star. This is the perfect time to visit the Mandara Spa, enjoy the onboard dining, or simply find a quiet spot on deck to watch the Atlantic coastline go by.
9The Canals of Bruges (Zeebrugge)+
Often called the 'Venice of the North', Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its medieval architecture and meandering canals. Key landmarks include the 13th-century Belfry and the Church of Our Lady.
10Amsterdam’s Golden Age+
Discover the Dutch capital, known for its elaborate canal system and narrow gabled houses. You can visit the Museum District, home to the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, or enjoy a stroll along the historic waterways.
11The Modern Style of Le Havre+
Le Havre sits at the mouth of the River Seine and is celebrated for its modern architecture, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also an ideal base for exploring the wider landscapes and panoramas of Normandy.
12Southampton and Home+
After breakfast, you will disembark in Southampton and be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, bringing your European adventure to a close.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 Apr 2027 | Inside | €1,269 | Enquire Now |
| 18 Apr 2027 | Oceanview | €1,369 | Enquire Now |
| 18 Apr 2027 | Balcony | €2,819 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: NCL
