Warm hospitality, mild temperatures and delicious tapas: this is what many people associate with Spain. But the country on the Iberian Peninsula bordering the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean has much more to offer. Spain’s eventful history has left traces everywhere you look – whether from the Moorish rule, as a great seafaring nation or under Franco’s regime. The HANSEATIC nature takes you on a tour from the Arab-influenced Andalusia to the green north. Your on-board experts Dr Volker Gebhardt and Dr Ralph Quadflieg will share their rich knowledge of Spain’s art and cultural history with you, from the Moors to modern times. The starting point is Malaga. The city is another place famed for its cultural riches – whether the Castillo de Gibralfaro, the sculptures by Salvador Dalí or the house where Picasso was born. The expert excursion Malaga – from the Arabs to Picasso* with Dr Ralph Quadflieg provides comprehensive insights. For something else with a little surrealism, the Segway tour* is an unusual way to see the city. The two-wheeled electric vehicle is steered by the driver’s body movement. The scenic tour to Granada with visit to the Alhambra* (subject to availability of entrance tickets) takes you to one of the most outstanding masterpieces of Moorish Islamic architecture in Europe. The most beautiful palace of sultans in Spain enchants visitors with its vast gardens and prized mosaics. Take the advice of the joyful motto “viva la vida” in Mijas with a wine tasting* in a rustic bodega. How many winding streets weave through the village? Are you faster on foot than the donkey taxis? It’s time to find out.

The Spanish exclave of Melilla in North Africa is a very special destination, and this is the first time it features on a Hapag-Lloyd Cruises route. Our two experts will show you architectural features such as the art nouveau centre and the fortress shaped by centuries of different cultures on a comprehensive city walk*.

Gibraltar is like a melting pot of cultures. The history of English conquest and the influence of Spain sit on either side, surrounding your in-depth impressions of Gibraltar* – from the footsteps of Lord Nelson to the illuminated limestone network of St Michael’s Cave and the Victorian and Georgian buildings. Alternatively, join Dr Gebhardt and Dr Quadflieg for the expert excursion: fortified city of Tarifa and the Roman town of Baelo Claudia* at the southern tip of Europe. 

You’ll have two days in the much-praised capital of Andalusia, Seville, to thoroughly enjoy its charms. Explore the architecture shaped by broad boulevards, gorgeous gardens, narrow lanes and small squares. Dr Ralph Quadflieg will take an in-depth look at the city with you on the expert excursion: Seville – the metropolis of Andalusia*. Alternatively, embark on a musical journey through time with a walk to the locations in Carmen*. Make the most of the overnight lay time here and enjoy the evening charms of Seville independently – perhaps with a typical glass of sherry and some traditional tapas.

From the most economically important city in Asturias, Gijon, you will travel to a region known as the cradle of the Spanish nation. In the eighth century, this was the birthplace of the resistance against Moorish rule. The expert excursion: Oviedo and Covadonga* takes you on a very special Asturias tour with Dr Ralph Quadflieg. The expert excursion: pre-Romanesque churches in the capital of Asturias* with Dr Gebhardt will also unlock new horizons. Your excursion to Aviles, Cabo de Penas and Luanco* combines opulent merchants’ houses and baroque palaces with marvellous views of the rugged cliffs. 

The beauty of Spain unfurls artfully on the Atlantic coast. The old town of Santander nestles harmoniously into the steep slopes right by the sea. Enjoy two essential parts of the city’s character with a market visit and pintxos tasting*. The historic La Esperanza market hall offers an abundance of fish, vegetables and countless delicatessens. Try the typical little pintxos snacks as you walk around, just like the locals, who enjoy their nibbles at a bar counter. Your expert excursion: Santillana del Mar and the Cave of Altamira* with Dr Volker Gebhardt is a voyage far back in time: historic buildings from the twelfth century and prehistoric cave paintings around 14,000 years old are a testament to the skills of great masters.

The economic and cultural centre of the Basque Country is a melting pot of innovation and proud traditions. Discover the architectural city of Bilbao* on a walking tour of the old town with our expert Dr Ralph Quadflieg, including a visit to the Guggenheim Museum, designed by star architect Frank O. Gehry as a homage to the rough sea. Get to know the fascinating art city of Bilbao – with the Guggenheim and Museo de Bellas Artes* with Dr Volker Gebhardt. Alternatively, impressive natural surroundings await on a hike through the Basque landscape*.

A masterpiece of nature provides the finale to your cruise. If the authorities give the green light for us to explore the Islas Cies, we’ll set sail in our Zodiacs today and take you to these rarely visited islands with their pine forests, broad beaches and impressive cliffs. Keep an eye out for marine mammals here, too. The waters off Galicia are particularly rich in nutrients, attracting whales and dolphins. Enjoy a relaxing last evening on board with your new understanding of Spain’s history, culture and architecture.