Itinerary: Cruise from Southampton – Funchal (Madeira) – Santa Cruz (Tenerife) – Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) – Arrecife (Lanzarote) – Lisbon – Vigo – La Coruna – Return to Southampton.
Ports of Call
Cruise from Southampton
- Funchal (Madeira): A garden city with Atlantic views at every turn. Cable car to Monte, then either the tropical gardens or a steady wander down through old lanes. A levada walk offers shade and birdsong for an hour. Finish by the marina with a quiet drink.
- Santa Cruz (Tenerife): Palm-lined squares and clean-lined culture spaces. Try the market early, then tram to La Laguna’s pastel streets or head for Teide’s high-altitude moonscapes. TEA and the Auditorio give architecture fans a tidy hit. Plenty of benches and cafés if you’re pacing yourself.
- Las Palmas (Gran Canaria): Beach life and city life in one place. Vegueta’s history pairs well with a dip at Las Canteras and a coffee on the promenade. If you want a short hop inland, Arucas and its gardens are easy by bus. Lively without being chaotic.
- Arrecife (Lanzarote): Sea air, low horizons and white walls. Day trips to Timanfaya, Mirador del Río and Jameos del Agua show the island’s shapes and colours. Staying local, the Charco and the small castle make a gentle circuit—good light for photos almost all day.
- Lisbon: Hills and viewpoints over a slow, wide river. Belém’s monuments and custard tarts are the classic pairing; Bairro Alto gives a different mood after lunch. The Time Out Market is handy if you’re short on minutes. Easy to cover a lot without rushing.
- Vigo: Broad bay, granite steps, and honest food. Head to Castro Park for a sweep over the harbour, then drop into the old town for seafood. Ferries run to the Cíes Islands if the weather smiles. Trains to Santiago are simple if you’re set on the cathedral.
- La Coruna: A long promenade and the Tower of Hercules set the scene. The old quarter has shaded squares for an amble and a snack. Aquarium Finisterrae adds a low-key family option. The walk back along the water is half the pleasure.
Return to Southampton