Itinerary: Cruise from Southampton – Funchal (Madeira) – Santa Cruz (Tenerife) – Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) – Arrecife (Lanzarote) – Cádiz (tours to Seville) – Vigo – La Coruna – Return to Southampton.
Ports of Call
Cruise from Southampton
- Funchal (Madeira): Gardens tumble down to a calm harbour. Ride the cable car to Monte, then try the wicker toboggan run for a dash of tradition. Levada paths tempt walkers with easy gradients and views; the Mercado dos Lavradores is suitable for a quick taste of island produce. Smooth, scenic and compact to explore in a day.
- Santa Cruz (Tenerife): A modern port city with beaches and museums close at hand. Wander the old streets to Plaza de España, then head for San Cristóbal de La Laguna’s UNESCO centre or the laurel forests of Anaga. TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes adds a clean hit of architecture and exhibitions. Plenty of cafés make it an easy-going stop.
- Las Palmas (Gran Canaria): City and beach in one call. Explore Vegueta’s cathedral quarter and Casa de Colón, then walk the promenade at Las Canteras for a swim and a coffee. Buses reach Arucas for basalt stonework and hill views if you fancy a short hop inland. Lively without being hectic.
- Arrecife (Lanzarote): Low-rise, lava-born landscapes and bright sea. Day trips to Timanfaya and César Manrique’s creations show the island at its best. Stay local for Charco de San Ginés and a slow harbour loop. Sun, sculpture and volcanic curves keep it memorable.
- Cádiz (tours to Seville): Salt-bright peninsula with golden towers and tight lanes. Take the train to Seville for the cathedral, Alcázar and tapas — or stay to climb Cádiz Cathedral and watch local life around Plaza de las Flores. Sunset on the ocean side is quietly superb. Both choices feel like a win.
- Vigo: A working port wrapped around steep streets and seafood bars. Ferry across to the Cíes Islands for beaches if the weather plays along, or stay ashore for oysters in the old market. The Casco Vello’s stepped lanes offer views and shade. Honest, appetising and close to the pier.
- La Coruna: Atlantic breezes and a deep sweep of bay. Walk to the Roman Tower of Hercules and along the long promenade, then cut back to the old town for squares and galleries. Rua da Estrela is a neat line of seafood spots. Simple to navigate and satisfying.
Return to Southampton