Zeebrugge is the gateway to Bruges, the capital of the Belgian province of West Flanders. Bruges was a wealthy city during medieval times when trade with Baltic ports flourished. The Zwin River, connecting Bruges with the North Sea, slowly began to narrow, marking the end of the city’s great trade period. Today, visitors flock to Bruges to enjoy the charming, well-preserved medieval architecture lining the old and narrow roads and canals and to see some of Western Europe’s finest artistic masterpieces

The peaceful setting of the picturesque port of Honfleur along the Seine attracted many artists and writers over the years, including English painter Bonington, French painter Boudin, French poet Charles Baudelaire and later the members of Impressionist Painters. Throughout its history, numerous maritime journeys were initiated from Honfleur. It is especially known for its old, beautiful picturesque port, characterized by its houses with slate-covered frontages.

Enjoy complimentary coffee drinks prepared by our baristas, as well as delicious pastries, gourmet sandwiches and homemade cookies. Whether perusing international newspapers or simply taking in an always spectacular view, our café is the perfect place to relax, converse and enjoy coffee and snacks throughout the day.

La Coruna is a busy port on the Atlantic Ocean that provides a distribution point for agricultural goods from the region. It was the arrival of democracy in Spain after the death of Francisco Franco that caused a major growth in the city. The city is the site of the Roman Tower of Hercules, a lighthouse that has been in continuous operation for nearly 2,000 years. The city is also well-known for its characteristic glazed window balconies, called galerías.

This charming Spanish town is the gateway to the Galician capital of Santiago de Compostela. There, you can visit the famous cathedral, home to the relics of Saint James. The cathedral took more than 150 years to build and was finally completed in 1211. Four magnificent squares surround the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and are graced by fountains, framed by historic buildings and dotted with shops and boutiques. The entire Old Town of Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Legend states that Ulysses founded Lisbon, calling it Olisipo. Others claim that the name is Phoenician, but all agree it’s one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations. On All Saints’ Day in 1755 a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the city. The Baixa (Lower City) was rebuilt on neo-classical lines that still form the heart of the city. The elegant ‘City of Explorers’overlooks the River Tagus, and offers a number of distinctive neighborhoods to discover. Tour the Alfama, where the winding streets still retain much of their Moorish atmosphere. Stroll to Bairro Alto and hear the melodious sounds of Portugal’s Fado music. Nearby excursions transport you to the lavish 18th-century palace of Queluz and Sintra’s Royal Palace.

Framed by golden sands and impressive cliffs, Portimão offers a relaxing beach getaway for sun-seekers. For lovers of history and architecture, take a stroll through the medieval Castle of Alvor, and for those that enjoy the beauty of nature delight in the cultivated fields and slopes covered with pine trees and wildflowers. Visit the Igreja da Nossa Senhora da Conceição that dates back to the 14th century. After a devastating earthquake it was restored with an altar made from walnut wood and the interior walls that feature religious depictions in azulejos tiles. Bring home traditional lace, ceramics, leather goods and baskets.

Situated on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Malaga is the region’s capital and a popular holiday destination. The city is also renowned as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, whose works can be seen in the fairly new Museo Picasso housed in the Palacio de Buenavista. And connoisseurs can imbibe in the sweet Malaga dessert wines that come from the hilly vineyards just outside of town. This is a pleasant town to explore and also serves as a popular starting point for excursions to splendid Granada and the famed Alhambra, located inland at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.

It is thought that John Lennon penned the lyrics of “Strawberry Fields Forever” while in Almería. The southeastern Spanish city is also the location where the award-winning, “Lawrence of Arabia,” was filmed. However, the city’s greatest claim to fame is The Alcazaba, a massive fort that dominates the landscape and offers amazing views. The cathedral and the Almeria Museum also compete for your attention. Whether you travel east to the quiet Cabo de Gata-Nijar coast or to the west toward the Roquetas de Mar, Almeria delivers an unforgettable experience.

There is something for everyone in Alicante. The historic Mediterranean port city is located in renowned Costa Blanca, within the region of Valencia. From outdoor cafés to white-sand beaches to museums that house rare masterpieces, this town has everything one would expect of a Mediterranean escape. Be sure to visit the picturesque town of Guadalest, one of the most unique destinations in all of Spain.

One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.