Amsterdam to Lisbon

Amsterdam

Amsterdam wears two faces. On one, it beckons youth with its
notorious Red Light District and liberal views around marijuana
use. On the other, it offers discerning travellers some of Europe's
finest museums and art galleries. Its house boats, bicycles,
cobbled streets, and quaint canals are a visual treat.

For tourists, Amsterdam's compactness is a plus. The old part of
town is a story-book setting of narrow lanes, gabled houses and
ancient bridges, and a pleasure to explore on foot. Visitors can
shop boutiques for souvenirs such as Delft china or wooden clogs,
or relax at cosy bars and pavement cafes.

At night even the most conservative visitors are drawn to the
Red Light District's lively atmosphere, where prostitutes stand in
shop windows and touts encourage passers-by to view raunchy
floorshows. For the most part, travellers will find the best bars
in the bustling Leidesplein and Rembrandtplein.

Antwerp

Antwerp is perhaps best known for its
diamonds, and the city's sparkling allure attracts the glitterati
with a thriving fashion and entertainment culture. The city also
has countless shopping opportunities, trendy bars and nightclubs
for the fashion-conscious and young at heart.

As the second-largest city in Belgium and a
major European port, Antwerp has a more modern face than many of
its neighbours. Much of the city was destroyed in World War II, but
its history is present in its beautifully-preserved Gothic and
Baroque architecture. At the centre of the city is the Grote Markt,
with the baroque Brabo Fountain in the middle. The work of baroque
sculptor Pieter Paul Reubens is visible all over the city, most
notably at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts.

A visit to Antwerp is a must on any Belgian
holiday. Indeed, the city does a uniquely European balancing act of
old and new, offering plenty of pretty sights, good museums, family
attractions and sidewalk cafés.

London (Greenwich)

Whether you arrive in London via the underground or inside one
of the city's ubiquitous black taxicabs, you will immediately be
greeted by a deep sense of history and met with the unique vibrancy
of this incredible destination.

In its dark and troubled past, the city of London has survived
Roman occupancy, sackings from the Celts, Romans, Vikings and
Saxons, a Norman invasion, two great fires, the bubonic plague and
Nazi bombings. This resilient and proud city promises something for
everyone and is one of the most iconic tourist destinations.

The London Eye lifts visitors high above the river into
stretching urban vistas. Further down on the South Bank, the Tate
Modern contains one of the world's most incredible collections of
Modern Art, while the city's 30,000 stores and boutiques will
exhaust even the most avid shopper, and its 6,000 restaurants are
only too eager to demonstrate why Britons revere their chefs as
celebrities.

For those interested in exploring the country's heritage, the
Tower of London is an excellent starting-point. First constructed
in the 11th century, the Tower has been rebuilt several times as
later monarchs have left their mark. Still one of London's biggest
attractions, and a great celebration of pomp that is free to all
visitors, is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which
happens daily.

As the great dome of St Paul's reflects the colours of the
setting sun, London comes alive with an unrivalled nightlife. For
those up for something more energetic than dinner and the West End
musicals and theatre, London has a vast number of bars and
nightclubs catering to all tastes.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is situated on the Bay of Biscay in the western part of France. It is the capital of the Charente-Maritime department and has a population of just over 80,000. La Rochelle is a seaport and yachting centre and is famous for its medieval harbour, which is one of the busiest in Europe. The city has a long history dating back to the 12th century when it was founded by Eleanor of Aquitaine. La Rochelle was an important strategic town during the Hundred Years' War and was also a key Huguenot stronghold during the French Wars of Religion. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination with its medieval architecture, sandy beaches and lively nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is synonymous with its greatest
export: wine. Bordeaux wines have commanded respect worldwide since
Roman times, when vines were first cultivated in the region. The
first winery is said to have emerged around AD 37-38. The lush
green countryside captures perfectly the meaning of the French
saying la douceur de vivre: 'the sweetness of living'. To the east
lie the vineyards of Route de Medoc and the charming medieval town
of St-Emilion. The North hosts white-sand beaches on the Atlantic
coast. The region is also a major stop on the fabled pilgrimage to
Santiago de Compostella.

The city of Bordeaux itself is on the rise.
Bordeaux is consistently voted one of the best French cities for
young people to live in, and has the largest number of preserved
historical buildings in France, aside from Paris. The city is
tucked into a bend of the Garonne River and houses stone-sculpted
palaces, 18th century wine-merchant mansions, and stunning
contemporary architecture such as the decanter-shaped La Cite du
Vin. Bordeaux features several interesting museums, including the
Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Musee D'Aquitaine, featuring
exhibits of Gallo-Roman statues and relics dating back some 25,000
years.

Wine connoisseurs looking to take home some
of their favourite bottles from the region would do well to buy
directly from the wine farms. However, shops such as La Vinotheque
on cours du XXX Juillet, or L'Intendant and Badie on allees de
Tourny are good alternative options. The city also plays host to
the world's most famous wine fair, Vinexpo, every two years.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a charming coastal town located in the southwestern part of France, in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. With its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, this beautiful town offers visitors a delightful experience.

One of the main attractions of Saint-Jean-de-Luz is its stunning beaches. The town boasts a 2.5-kilometer stretch of sandy shoreline, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and various water activities. The Plage de Saint-Jean-de-Luz, located right in the town center, is the most popular beach, offering amenities such as beach clubs, restaurants, and water sports equipment rentals. The views of the Bay of Biscay from the beach are simply breathtaking.

Aside from its beaches, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is also famous for its picturesque old town. Walking through its narrow, winding streets, visitors will discover charming Basque-style houses adorned with colorful shutters and balconies. Exploring the town's squares, such as the Place Louis XIV or the Place Maurice Ravel, provides a unique glimpse into its rich history and architectural heritage. The old town is also home to several quaint boutiques, art galleries, and traditional Basque souvenir shops, perfect for those looking to bring back a piece of Saint-Jean-de-Luz with them.

For history enthusiasts, Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers a fascinating past to dive into. The town played a significant role in the history of France, especially during the 17th century. It was here that the famous marriage between Louis XIV and Maria Theresa of Spain took place, sealing a peace treaty between the two countries. The grand wedding ceremony can still be relived through the beautifully preserved Maison de l'Infante, where the Queen of France resided during her stay. The Maison Louis XIV, a magnificent mansion turned museum, also provides insight into the town's royal connections.

Cuisine is another highlight of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. The town is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes, with fresh catches of the day being prepared in local establishments. Restaurants along the waterfront offer a great selection of seafood delights, including the famous Basque fish soup and marinated anchovies. Moreover, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is known for its patisseries, where you can indulge in mouthwatering traditional Basque cakes such as the gâteau basque or the macaron basque.

Surrounded by scenic landscapes, Saint-Jean-de-Luz also serves as a perfect base for exploring the Basque Country. Just a short drive away, visitors can find themselves amid rolling green hills, stunning mountains, and charming coastal villages. The nearby town of Biarritz, known for its world-class surfing beaches and vibrant nightlife, is a must-visit for beach lovers and partygoers. The coastal road to the Spanish border also offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore other charming Basque towns such as Guéthary or Hendaye.

Whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach, cultural immersion, or outdoor adventures, Saint-Jean-de-Luz has it all. With its stunning beaches, rich history, delicious cuisine, and proximity to other picturesque destinations, this charming coastal town is a perfect choice for a memorable holiday in France.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a vibrant city located in the northern region of Spain known as the Basque Country. It is the largest city in this region and the tenth-largest in Spain, with a population of over three hundred thousand people. Over the past few decades, Bilbao has transformed itself from an industrial city into a cultural and economic hub, drawing tourists from all over the world.

One of the main attractions that put Bilbao on the map is the Guggenheim Museum. Designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, this avant-garde building is a work of art itself, with its curving titanium walls and unique structure. Inside, visitors can explore a vast collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by artists such as Andy Warhol and Jeff Koons. The museum has become an international symbol of the city's transformation and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Apart from the Guggenheim, Bilbao has many other cultural and historical attractions to offer. The Casco Viejo, or Old Town, is a charming neighborhood that showcases the city's rich history. Here, visitors can wander through narrow streets, admire traditional Basque architecture, and indulge in local pintxos, a type of tapas popular in the region. The Plaza Nueva, located in the heart of the Old Town, is a lively square surrounded by cafes and bars, making it an ideal spot for people-watching and enjoying the local atmosphere.

Another landmark worth visiting is the Bilbao Cathedral, also known as Santiago Cathedral. Built in the Gothic style, this impressive structure dates back to the 14th century and houses many significant artworks and relics. Its stunning exterior and beautiful stained glass windows make it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.

For those interested in Basque culture, a visit to the Basque Museum is a must. Located in a former convent, this museum showcases the history, language, customs, and traditions of the Basque people. Visitors can explore exhibitions on topics such as Basque folklore, traditional sports, and the region's rural heritage. The museum also hosts regular cultural events and performances, showcasing Basque music, dance, and gastronomy.

Bilbao is also famous for its culinary scene. The city is home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as small, family-run eateries serving traditional Basque cuisine. Visitors can sample local specialties such as bacalao al pil-pil (codfish in a garlic and olive oil sauce) or txangurro (spider crab). Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, are also a must-try. These bite-sized snacks, often served on a slice of bread, are available in bars throughout the city and are a great way to experience the local flavors.

In addition to its cultural and culinary offerings, Bilbao is surrounded by natural beauty. The city is located on the banks of the Nervion River, offering picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor activities. The nearby mountains and coastline provide further options for hiking, surfing, and enjoying the outdoors.

In conclusion, Bilbao is a city that has successfully reinvented itself, transforming from an industrial hub into a world-class cultural destination. With its iconic Guggenheim Museum, rich history, vibrant culinary scene, and stunning natural surroundings, Bilbao offers something for everyone. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, Bilbao is sure to captivate you with its unique charm and endless possibilities.

Porto

Bridges and port wine are what
characterises Porto, Portugal's gracious northern capital and
second largest city after Lisbon. Porto sits astride a great gorge
at the point where the River Douro enters the Atlantic. Although
it's mainly industrial, the city centre has plenty of charm with
art treasures, medieval cathedrals and museums. The narrow streets
sport wrought-iron balconies decorated with splashes of potted
geraniums.

The main reason tourists visit Porto is to
sample its legendary port wine, processed, blended and aged in the
various lodges of the Vila Nova da Gaia district across the river
from the city, reached via the spectacular two-tiered Dom Luis
bridge. Visitors can tour the lodges and finish up with a tasting
session. The city also has a historic riverside district called
Ribeira, which is undergoing restoration and has been classified as
a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Within easy reach of Porto are numerous
coastal resorts and fishing villages along the Atlantic coastline,
well-known for their seafood restaurants. It's the perfect end to a
day spent cruising down the River Douro, ideal for taking in the
scenic splendour.

Lisbon

Lisbon has somewhat rediscovered itself in recent years,
reclaiming its rightful place as the 'golden city' of southern
Europe. Much of this is due to the officials of Lisbon having
elected to rejuvenate the city during the 1990s. This ongoing focus
on the future has meant making the most of the attractions, both
old and new.

One day can span centuries as visitors move between the
picturesque medieval section of the Alfama district and historic
São Jorge castle to being amazed by the spectacle of the futuristic
Oceanarium of Lisboa.

Infrastructure has also been improved, with additions like the
impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge across the River Tagus, which links
the city's airport to a network of national motorways and has
facilitated access to other parts of Portugal. There is also a new
showcase railway hub, the Gare de Oriente, which is the pride of a
new modern suburb on the east bank of the Tagus, creating an even
better link between Lisbon and the rest of Europe. But if tourists
really want to see the city in style, they must be sure not to miss
a ride on the famous Tram 28, which winds its way through the
oldest parts of the city and gives visitors a feel of the history
and rich culture Lisbon has to offer.