European soil in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean off Africa’s coast, spoiled by the sun and with a mild climate – the Canary Islands welcome you with open arms. Firstly, Fuerteventura greets you with its authentic flair and scenic sandy beaches. Explore the island on a hike through the landscape* or delve into the secrets of aloe vera*. Pirates used to store their booty in the spectacular Ajuy Caves*. The former island capital Betancuria* boasts impressive traditional Canarian architecture from the 15th century. The island also attracts wind and wave sports enthusiasts from all over the world, who appreciate the ideal conditions for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

On the fiery island of Lanzarote you’ll encounter its volcanic origins at every turn. How about a hike through the lunar landscape in Timanfaya National Park*, a realm of lava flows, volcanoes and craters? Immerse yourself in the typical relaxed and fun-loving charm of the island on a walk at your own pace through the small streets of Arrecife. Tracing the footsteps of César Manrique*, dive into the island’s colours that inspired the painter with its bold contrasts.

With volcanoes, forests and dark beaches, La Palma is the pearl of the archipelago. Nature lovers can take a ride to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park* along breathtaking escarpments to one of the world’s largest calderas. A hike through La Palma’s rainforests* takes you to lush vegetation with laurel trees and majestic ferns. The capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, has great cultural and historic value and boasts many 16th- and 17th-century buildings. Take the opportunity to explore the old town at your own pace and stroll along the Avenida Maritima with its typical wooden balconies.

A paradise for hikers and nature lovers, Porto Santo welcomes you to the Madeira archipelago. An island tour* will reveal many facets of the unique landscape. The sandy beach spanning 9 km (5.5 mi.) is just one example of its idyllic beauty. Alternatively, you can hike on Pico do Castelo*, the only green mountain on the island with many endemic plant species. Enjoy Funchal on an eventful city tour in a tukxi*, but the capital of Madeira is also perfect for exploring at your own pace. Take an all-terrain tour* and marvel at the island’s hinterland or get active on a levada hike*.

Lisbon is built on great seafaring history. Portuguese ships set out from the city to explore the world during the Golden Age of the country. As you pass the Torre de Belem, the Monument to Discoveries and under the Ponte 25 de Abril on an impressive cruise on the Tagus, the city will lie at your feet. Take the historic tram* uphill and downhill through the narrow streets and past the most famous landmarks. The numerous steps make your individual explorations on foot a sporty undertaking. Alternatively, the excursion to Sintra and Cascais* reveals the Garden of Eden reserved for the high society of the 19th century, with its exotic plants and a medieval fortress.

Porto is like an open-air museum of the baroque. Explore the city on the Douro in a off road vehicle on a photo tour* in a highly original way. Alternatively, take a city tour with a boat trip*. The port wine cellars are situated along the river. Visit a wine cellar where you will have the opportunity to sample this icon of Portuguese culture. Or are the Middle Ages more of a fascination for you? If so, historic Guimaraes* is perfect for you, with a majestic castle, opulent palace rooms and town houses.

In November, you can also explore La Coruna in a relaxed way without the hustle and bustle of the high season. The Tower of Hercules welcomes you as the only lighthouse dating back to Roman times that is still in operation. As a contrast, the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela* will inspire you with its relics and architectural styles – as will the labyrinth of the historic quarter with arcade-lined streets. Discover historical and religious sites on a visit to the pilgrimage site of San Andres de Teixido*.

Culture lovers will feel like they’re in paradise when they arrive in Honfleur. The maritime district around the old port with its colourful houses is a lovely place for an independent stroll. At this time of year, when the hills and fields are freshly green, a scenic tour to medieval Rouen* is particularly appealing. With half-timbered houses, a Gothic cathedral and the Le Gros-Horloge astronomical clock, the city has a story to tell of turbulent times. The surrounding countryside has already inspired many French artists like Monet and Boudin. Develop your own impressions on a hike along the Alabaster Coast*. The route to the coastal resort of Etretat takes you past steep cliffs with inspiring views.