Your mind will be on Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden when cruising on the Thames. In London, Tower Bridge opens up and you sail through the Neo-Gothic monument – which is only possible on a small ship like this one. Breathtaking Gothic churches right next to impressive skyscrapers, punks in Camden and the elegant upper class – welcome to London! This city of contrasts is a lively mosaic of history and modern, culture and pleasure: walk along the Thames and visit Borough Market, a place where scents from all around the world tempt curious explorers. In Soho, you will find lively bars and street music, while the heavens above the pubs in Camden are full of faces that will never grow old. But it's also the little things that are the heart and soul of this busy city, such as a hidden garden or a trip on the underground. London is not just a destination in itself, but your own expedition through its diversity and lifestyle. One thing is for sure, you will take a wealth of impressions home with you as crown jewels.

On a cruise along the Seine, trace the inspiration sources of the Impressionist painter Claude Monet: his landscape paintings capture the special light and colours that you will experience for yourself on board. Only a small ship can provide this kind of depth of experience here. You will pass by green riverbanks and small villages, where the nature and culture of Normandy go hand in hand. Away from the fast pace of big city life, you can enjoy authentic France from the relaxed, romantic atmosphere of the deck.

Medieval Rouen transports you back to times gone by. Normandy’s capital opens up to you on this cruise like an open-air museum for Romanesque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture. On board, your experts will get you in the mood for the interesting dialogue between the past and present, so you can then expand your knowledge at the sites themselves. Half-timbered houses line the old town, while historic sites like the Place du Vieux-Marche, where Joan of Arc was executed, tell the story of the city’s turbulent past. Independently and on excursions*, you can see highlights including Le Gros Horloge astronomical clock and Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture immortalised by Monet in numerous paintings. Many artistic monuments have been erected in the “City of 100 steeples” – which will impress you the most?

Port, coastal resort, pirate stronghold: the fortified city of St Malo in north-west France is an example of Breton architecture that can be seen from afar. Behind the fortified walls, which you can walk around, the historic town centre will reveal its interesting past. Its narrow streets are filled with the legends of pirates and the seafarer Jacques Carter, who set out to sea from here to discover Canada, which he also named. Off the beaten track, miles of sandy beaches, the picturesque promenade and street art in the harbour are special places to explore. Of course the town also offers some tempting culinary highlights, including Cancale oysters. St Malo is also the perfect starting point for visiting the famous monastery island of Mont-Saint-Michel*, which has been attracting pilgrims from all over the world for centuries. 

A cruise on the Loire, the longest river in France, is an idyllic journey through the region’s picturesque landscapes. You will pass by rolling hills, green vineyards and picturesque villages on the riverbanks.

The French city of Nantes has managed to find a balance between changing with the times and preserving its cultural heritage. A medieval district with half-timbered houses over 500 years old is now a lively meeting point for going out and strolling around: don’t miss exploring the city on foot. Did Jules Verne, who was born in Nantes, find the inspiration here for his world-famous novels? Today, the city's famous son is honoured at the Jules Verne museum, where you can learn about his life and works, as well as by innovative cultural projects such as “Les Machines de l’Ile” with a huge mechanical elephant sculpture. Nantes constantly blurs the boundaries between reality and fantasy – to guide you to new experiences, you will have experts with an in-depth knowledge of the city at your side.

There’s a clue to the beauty of Brittany’s largest island in its name: Belle-Ile. Wild, vast and wonderful – see for yourself from the deck as the ship approaches the island. The decidedly pretty capital Le Palais welcomes you at its picturesque harbour. The promenade and the streets lined with little shops, galleries and cafes are a great place for a stroll. Treat yourself to some time simply to enjoy “le savoir-vivre” or follow your curiosity on a historic walking tour with insights into the island's rich history. Your experts will be happy to explain the military history and fortified architecture of the imposing Vauban Citadel, a well-preserved 17th century fortress. Or explore the historic fortifications, whose doubly reinforced walls are unique in France.

Surrounded by the Medoc wine-growing region, Bordeaux has as much character as the region’s wines. Contrasting with the historic part of the city, with its charming houses and cobbled streets, is a modern, often daring architectural style: the eye-catching Cite du Vin with its bold curves and undulating glass panels stands out here. The Arkea Arena demonstrates how functionality and modernity go together. As you explore, keep an eye out for the Maison de Bordeaux, built on a hill overlooking the city by Rem Koolhaas and described as the “best house in the world”. As well as impressions of Bordeaux, which you can gather on own activities or on excursions*, don’t miss seeing the delightful countryside and vineyards.

Enjoy a front-row seat with a view of the countryside of south-west France on a cruise on the Gironde. On both sides of the river, vineyards stretch out as far as the eye can see. Castles stand proud and imposing on the riverbanks and tell stories of centuries gone by. The Gironde and its surroundings will gracefully serve up a Cuvée of the best impressions. They say that the river is like a calm friend, who does not push but gently accompanies. The wide, sedate, peaceful river will take you gently on your way. Which metaphors for the Gironde will you find on your relaxing cruise? The answer can be found on board your small expedition ship.

The spring sunshine bathes the scenery along the longest river on the Iberian peninsula in a warm light. On a cruise on the Tagus, you will once again have the best seats on the deck tour at the bow or on the ship’s many open deck areas. In Lisbon, keep an eye out for the Portuguese fisherman who collect clams in baskets from the riverbed. Your varied experiences on your river cruise also take in the architecture: the red Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge will remind you of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. You will be even more surprised by the Ponte Vasco da Gama, the biggest bridge over the Tagus and one of the longest in Europe.

After the cruise on the Tagus, its wide estuary opens up and takes you into the port of Lisbon, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. In view of the monument to Henry the Navigator, the foray with your experts on board into the history of Portugal as a former naval power is particularly apt. The famous seafarer Vasco da Gama also found his final resting place here. Lisbon is as colourful as its history, with its blue tiles, pink walls and yellow trams. On a walk around the city centre, you can explore the pretty Arabic streets in the medieval Alfama district. In the museum of the Presidential Palace in Belem, learn about the role of the head of state and the history of the national symbols. Perhaps you will also follow in the footsteps of Fernando Pessoa, the most famous Portuguese poet of the 20th century, as you wander through the picturesque streets or fall in love with the city over and over again on excursions*.

An experience that’s only possible on a small expedition ship like with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: acruise on the Guadalquivir. Just like Colombus, who set off along the river from Seville on his journey of discovery to America, you will follow this lifeline. This is pioneering spirit at its most relaxing, as you watch the beautiful scenery go by, accompanied by the knowledgeable commentary of our experts. Enjoy the views of the fertile riverbanks, with meadows, forests and vast olive groves. Not only is the Guadalquivir a wonder of nature, it also has major historical significance, from the Moorish heritage of Andalusia to the Romans who used the river. The Spanish lust for life will fill your senses on board, perhaps with some culinary surprises. The region is too beautiful to be leaving it again too soon – but there are other exciting places to visit.

The colourful hustle and bustle of life in Seville is all about sunshine, light and zest for life. Enjoy the charm of Andalusia with all your senses in this Moorish city, where history and passion fill the streets with life. Discover the exceptional diversity of the city’s impressive architecture, such as Santa Maria de la Sede Cathedral with its five naves, the Giralda view point or the Moorish Alcazar royal palace, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The old town is a treat for the eyes, while the scent of jasmine fills the narrow streets. The Triana district is the heartbeat of flamenco, while life drifts along on the riverbanks of the Guadalquivir. The city also has plenty of culinary treats on offer: the tapas bars are a great place to try jamon, tortilla and Manzanillo olives. Seville is not just a city, it’s also a feeling – warm, lively and timeless.