9 Nights Europe

The small capital of Portugal is older than Rome - older, in fact, than any other western European capital. Pastel-colour houses line tiny, stepped alleys in old parts of town, while wide boulevards and mosaic cobblestone sidewalks highlight its grand 18th-century centre. The Alfama, an old Moorish quarter, retains its intricate, Arab-influenced layout.

The Port of Leixoes is one of Portugal's major seaports, located 4 km north of the mouth of the Douro River, in Matosinhos municipality, near the city of Porto

Perched on a rocky peninsula in Spains northwest, La Coruna is brimming with ancient Roman heritage and maritime history. Head to the Crystal City, located right near the harbor, and check out the galerias

Travelers generally come to Bilbao to see the Guggenheim?some for the art inside, but many for the amazing building itself. The Fine Arts Museum and the Basque Museum may not have been designed by Frank Gehry, but are worth a visit, and you can catch international opera stars at the Palacio Euskalduna.

Le Verdon-sur-Mer is a commune in the Gironde department in Nouvelle Aquitaine in southwestern France

La Rochelle is a coastal city in southwestern France and capital of the Charente-Maritime department. Its been a center for fishing and trade since the 12th century, a maritime tradition thats reflected in its Vieux Port (old harbor) and huge, modern Les Minimes marina. The old town has half-timbered medieval houses and Renaissance architecture, including passageways covered by 17th-century arches.

IJmuiden is a port city in the Dutch province of North Holland and is the main town in the municipality of Velsen

Bruges offers the best of both worlds: a European cultural hub and, not far beyond, a seafront paradise. Often called the Venice of the North, the capital of Belgiums West Flanders province is lined with canals, bridges and historic buildings. One of Europes best-preserved medieval towns, Bruges historic town center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Belgium cruises give you access to the lively market square and see the Belfry of Bruges, a popular piece of Middle Ages architecture. Encounter the citys other personality in Zeebrugge ? or "Bruges on sea." This international port and seafront resort is home to cafes, a beach and a marina.

Paris is an iconic city ? a melange of everything artistic and sublime, with a worldwide reputation for excellence in cuisine, fashion, architecture and the fine arts. After you take the drive in from the port (just over two hours), hit the streets to see the citys monumental landmarks: Pass through the Arc de Triomphe, and stand in the presence of the Eiffel Tower.