Iberian Explorer with Viking

Circumnavigate the Iberian Peninsula and uncover the historic treasures of Spain. Explore the Roman past and tranquil beauty of Cartagena and its Murcia province. Visit Málaga, the city of Picasso’s birth, and Granada’s Alhambra palace. Cruise through the Strait of Gibraltar and into the scenic bay of Vigo, gateway to Santiago de Compostela. This enlightening itinerary is complemented by a call on England’s maritime city of Portsmouth.

Day 1 — Barcelona, Spain

Arrive in Barcelona and step on board your ship. Settle in to your veranda stateroom and explore. As we remain in port until the afternoon, you may have time to see some of Barcelona’s sights. The vibrant Las Ramblas boulevard is just 25 minutes away.

Day 2 — Murcia, Spain

Uncover the rich history of Cartagena today, brimming with remarkable architecture spanning the ages—from the days of Rome to art nouveau. Outside the city, marvel at the beauty of the sanctuary of the Virgin of Fuensanta, Murcia’s patron saint, and the baroque- and Gothic-style cathedral. Alternately, explore Cartagena’s impressive Roman Theater and Roman Forum.

Day 3 — Granada, Spain

Today you can experience firsthand the stuff of Andalusian dreams. Birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga is the gateway to Andalusia, the seductive province of rolling hills and endless olive groves. An included tour features the 11th-century Alcazaba Palace, residence of Arabian caliphs, the ancient Moorish Gibralfaro Castle, the Renaissance Cathedral and Picasso’s birthplace. Or, choose to explore the mighty Alhambra palace in Granada, one of Spain’s most treasured sites.

Day 4 — Scenic Sailing: Strait of Gibraltar

Sail through the famed Strait of Gibraltar today into the Alboran Sea, the westernmost portion of the Mediterranean. According to legend, the Rock of Gibraltar, an enormous geological wonder, is one of the Pillars of Hercules—the other being Monte Hacho, a low mountain in Ceuta, a Spanish province in North Africa. As you cruise, perhaps soothe your body with a hot sauna and a few minutes amid the gently falling snow of the Snow Grotto. This evening, enjoy cocktails in the Explorers’ Lounge and an authentic Italian meal at Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant.

Day 5 — Vigo, Spain

Call on Vigo today, Spain’s “Gateway to the Atlantic” and one of the most historic cities on the northwestern coast of Galicia. For stunning views of its dramatic bay, ascend to El Castro Mount. Then get a closer look at Vigo’s elegant thoroughfares and plazas and the French gardens of Castrelos Park. Alternately, visit the revered city of Santiago de Compostela, one of medieval Europe’s most important pilgrimage sites.

Day 6 — Sail the Atlantic Ocean

Perhaps you will get a morning workout at the Fitness Center and soothe your body with a hot sauna and a few minutes amid the refreshingly chilled air of the Snow Grotto. In the evening, enjoy cocktails in the Explorers’ Lounge and an authentic Italian meal at Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant.

Day 7 — Portsmouth, England

You’ll enjoy a picturesque arrival into Portsmouth, sailing between Napoleonic forts in the Solent Strait and passing stunning citadels at the harbor’s entrance. Then discover the city’s prestigious maritime past. This historic naval port houses such historic vessels as Henry VIII’s Tudor battleship Mary Rose and Lord Nelson’s HMS Victory. Stroll the docklands of the rejuvenated waterfront and visit the D-Day Museum, commemorating the preparations for the Allied landings of the massive fleet that departed here on June 6, 1944.

Day 8 — London (Tilbury), England

Awake in Tilbury, a historic town on the north bank of the Thames River. Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport. Or explore more with Viking and spend time in London.