Cruise Celebrity Apex: France, Spain, United Kingdom, Portugal departing from Southampton

The port:

The Port of Southampton, located on England's south coast, is one of the country's largest cruise ports. Just 1.5 kilometers from the city center, it's perfectly positioned for easy exploration of Southampton. Easily accessible by cab, bus or even on foot, this modern port is the ideal starting point for discovering the city's rich maritime history and contemporary culture. The vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront, with its many restaurants and stores, offers a warm welcome to visitors.

What to visit in Southampton

Southampton, a historic port city, offers a wealth of attractions. The SeaCity maritime museum tells the story of the Titanic, which is closely linked to the city. Southampton's medieval walls and historic Bargate bear witness to the city's medieval past. The City Art Gallery presents collections of modern and historical art. For a more natural experience, city parks such as Southampton Common offer peaceful green spaces. The cultural district, with its theaters and galleries, is a must for culture lovers.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The area around Southampton offers many possibilities for excursions. The New Forest National Park, a short distance away, is a paradise for walkers and nature lovers, with its moorland landscapes and free-roaming ponies. The historic city of Winchester, with its imposing cathedral and ancient buildings, is a rewarding day trip. For sailing enthusiasts, the Isle of Wight, accessible by ferry, offers beautiful beaches and famous regattas. Finally, history buffs can explore the remains of Stonehenge, less than an hour's drive away.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

The port :

The port of Vigo, located in the Galicia region of Spain, is adjacent to the historic center, the Casco Vello. Surrounded by a landscape of rias and hills, Vigo is an ideal starting point for exploring the natural and historical beauty of Galicia.

What to visit in Vigo

Vigo, with its unique blend of culture and maritime history, offers a varied visitor experience. The Casco Vello, Vigo's historic center, is full of charm with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings. Don't miss the Pedra market, famous for its seafood stalls and local produce. For a nature break, the hilltop Parc de Castro offers a breathtaking view of the city and port. The Vigo Museum of Contemporary Art, or MARCO, is also a major cultural landmark for lovers of modern art.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The area around Vigo offers a wide range of options for exploring. The Cíes Islands, in Galicia's Atlantic Islands National Park, are a natural paradise with some of the world's most beautiful beaches. The historic town of Pontevedra, with its well-preserved medieval center, is a rewarding excursion. For wine lovers, the region is famous for its Albariño, and numerous wine routes offer the chance to visit vineyards and taste local wines. Finally, the small town of Baiona, with its fortress and picturesque beaches, is a charming destination close to Vigo.

Lisbon, Portugal's sunny capital, seduces you with its historic districts and panoramic views. Stroll through the narrow streets of Alfama, listen to traditional fado and visit São Jorge Castle. The Belém district, with the Belém Tower and the Hieronymites Monastery, bears witness to the great maritime discoveries. The iconic yellow streetcars climb the hills, offering a picturesque experience. Taste pasteis de nata in a local pastry shop. Lisbon, with its combination of history, culture and gastronomy, is an essential European destination.

The port :

The port of Porto is located on the Douro River in northern Portugal. This port, located in the heart of the city, offers immediate access to Porto's many monuments and emblematic bridges.

What to visit in Porto

Porto, famous for its wine, architecture and history, is full of treasures. Explore the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful alleyways and views of the Douro River. Visit the Lello bookshop, one of the finest in the world, and Porto Cathedral. Discover Porto's wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across from the city, for unforgettable wine tastings. For a panoramic view of the city, climb the Clercs Tower or cross the Dom Luís I Bridge.

What to visit on the Douro?

A cruise on the Douro takes visitors through spectacular landscapes of terraced vineyards. Discover the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its cultural landscapes and historic vineyards. Small towns along the river, such as Peso da Régua and Pinhão, offer an authentic insight into Portuguese culture and rural life. For a more in-depth experience, visit the quintas (wineries) for wine tastings and to learn more about Port wine production. The natural landscapes along the river, with their picturesque views and serenity, are perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Puerto de Santa María, Spain, is an Andalusian treasure trove with a rich history. Taste local wines in historic bodegas and savor authentic Andalusian cuisine. Visit San Marcos castle and ancient churches. Beaches like Valdelagrana are ideal for water sports and relaxing in the sun.

The port :

The Port of Bilbao, around 15 kilometers from the city center, is one of the most important commercial and passenger ports in the Bay of Biscay. Easily accessible by metro or bus, this port is your gateway to the cultural and industrial wealth of the Basque Country.

What to visit in Bilbao

Bilbao, Spain's city of reinvention, is famous for the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture. Discover the city's old quarter, the Casco Viejo, for its lively, narrow streets. Don't miss the Ribera market and the Euskalduna palace for a taste of Basque culture.

What to visit in the area

Explore the Basque coast with towns such as San Sebastián, famous for its Concha beach and fine cuisine, or Guernica, steeped in history. The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a paradise for nature lovers, offers magnificent scenery and outdoor activities.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

The Port:

Le Havre Port, located at the mouth of the Seine on the Normandy coast, is a strategic stop to discover Normandy. Just a few minutes from the city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is easily accessible by shuttle or taxi.

What to Visit in Le Havre?

In Le Havre, don’t miss Saint-Joseph Church, a masterpiece by Auguste Perret, notable for its lantern tower reaching 107 meters and its thousands of colorful stained glass windows. The André-Malraux Museum of Modern Art (MuMa) will delight art lovers with its exceptional Impressionist collection. Then take a stroll through the Hanging Gardens, set in an old military fort, offering a panoramic view of the city and the port. Also, explore the lively Saint-François district, known for its charming alleys and its many restaurants serving local specialties, especially freshly caught seafood.

What to Visit in the Surrounding Area?

Around Le Havre, explore the impressive cliffs of Étretat, immortalized by Impressionist painters and offering a spectacular natural setting. Visit Honfleur, a small historic town famous for its Vieux Bassin lined with half-timbered houses and art galleries. Finally, venture into the Pays d’Auge, renowned for its typically Norman villages, calvados distilleries, and bucolic landscapes dotted with apple orchards and lush pastures.

The port:

The Port of Southampton, located on England's south coast, is one of the country's largest cruise ports. Just 1.5 kilometers from the city center, it's perfectly positioned for easy exploration of Southampton. Easily accessible by cab, bus or even on foot, this modern port is the ideal starting point for discovering the city's rich maritime history and contemporary culture. The vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront, with its many restaurants and stores, offers a warm welcome to visitors.

What to visit in Southampton

Southampton, a historic port city, offers a wealth of attractions. The SeaCity maritime museum tells the story of the Titanic, which is closely linked to the city. Southampton's medieval walls and historic Bargate bear witness to the city's medieval past. The City Art Gallery presents collections of modern and historical art. For a more natural experience, city parks such as Southampton Common offer peaceful green spaces. The cultural district, with its theaters and galleries, is a must for culture lovers.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The area around Southampton offers many possibilities for excursions. The New Forest National Park, a short distance away, is a paradise for walkers and nature lovers, with its moorland landscapes and free-roaming ponies. The historic city of Winchester, with its imposing cathedral and ancient buildings, is a rewarding day trip. For sailing enthusiasts, the Isle of Wight, accessible by ferry, offers beautiful beaches and famous regattas. Finally, history buffs can explore the remains of Stonehenge, less than an hour's drive away.