SPAIN & PORTUGAL

As the location for the perennial first stop on an Ex-UK Mediterranean cruise, the ports of Spain and Portugal are well known to experienced British cruisers. Spanish ports are a fantastic mix of modern facilities and a varied culture that matches the mixed heritage present in many Spanish cities.

Like Italy, many of Spain’s major cities are on the sea and the opportunity to visit Barcelona, Valencia and Malaga is something that many passengers relish. In Portugal most of the country’s key cities are also on the coast and both Lisbon and Oporto are particularly beautiful for those on smaller ships who can sail upriver and into the centre of town.

Both countries are also in possession of a number of islands and locations and Palma de Mallorca, part of Spain, and Madeira, part of Portugal, are famous cruise destinations and offer a different insight and flavour, despite remaining obviously Iberian. It is also key not to forget some of Spain’s northern ports which are often overlooked. The beauty of La Coruna, the unique Basque flavour of San Sebastian and the incredible pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela, accessible from Vigo, should not be missed.

Spain and Portugal’s cruise infrastructure are in good condition and therefore do not be surprised to see a number of cruises start from the country. Barcelona, Palma and Lisbon are all regular turnaround ports for some key cruise lines and this can offer a welcome opportunity to experience more of the Mediterranean than is sometimes possible from the UK.

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DESTINATION GUIDES

HistoryThe Iberian Peninsula has a rich history of mixed cultures, which have spread ever since it was invaded by the Romans over 2200 years ago. It was the Romans who gave the land its original name Hispania and it soon became a key province in the empire, not only giving them some of their most skilled soldiers and philosophers, but also numerous Emperors themselves.

Since the fall of Rome multiple tribes have laid claim to the land, many of them Germanic, and the peninsula swapped hands many times. Even after they were settled by the Visigoths, peace in the region would only last 100 years before the Umayyad conquest was led against them, which led to a long period of Muslim rule. In many cities, such as Granada and Cordoba, this time in history still a key part of the architecture and culture of the city and it is this that leads to such rich diversity that draws many tourists.

Numerous houses rose to prominence in the Middle Ages and it was from these that we get many of the regions of Spain now, as well as Portugal itself. It was the houses of Aragon, Castile, Navarre and Leon which led to the downfall of Muslim occupation and over time the land became unified under the title of the Iberian Union. With the separation of Portugal, the peninsula arrived at is current position.After the restoration of democracy following a period of dictatorial instability, Spain has experienced steady growth, including a huge boost following the creation of the Euro, and it has now become one of Europe’s most prominent nations, both politically and as a tourist destination.

CuisineSpanish food has not risen to the prominence of its Italian and French counterparts; however it still provides a number of options that are well known in the UK. In recent years Tapas particularly has become very popular and there are now a number of high quality Tapas institutions across Britain. These small bites are perfect as a lunchtime option and in fact can often form a meal of its own in the mid-afternoon due to the Spanish penchant for eating late. Classic rice dishes like Paella are most prominent in the south of Spain near Valencia but are still popular all over and hark back to the Moorish influences on the country. In Portugal, cuisine is similar; however with the Atlantic so close do not be surprised to find some fantastic seafood options, such as the famous Bacalhau or Salt-Cod.

Key PortsBarcelona, SpainPalma de Mallorca, SpainGibraltar, UK DependencyFunchal, PortugalLisbon, Portugal

Key AttractionsSagrada Familia & Camp Nou, Barcelona

Cadiz CathedralCadiz

New Year LightsFunchal

Rock of GibraltarGibraltar

Ponte 25 de AbrilLisbon

AlcazabaMalaga

Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela (Port: Vigo)

Best Times to Go Cruises operate in this region year round and some guests may prefer out of season holidays when places are less busy.Peak Season: May to SeptemberShoulder Season: April & October

Key InformationLanguages: Spanish & Portuguese – local dialects of Catalan/Basque also spoken and English widely spoken

Currencies: Euro

Visa Required: No for EU Nationals

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