8 Nights Europe

Rotterdam is a major port city in the Dutch province of South Holland. The Maritime Museum's vintage ships and exhibits trace the city's seafaring history. The 17th-century Delfshaven neighborhood is home to canalside shopping and Pilgrim Fathers Church, where pilgrims worshiped before sailing to America. After being almost completely reconstructed following WWII, the city is now known for bold, modern architecture.

Situated on a peninsula that juts into the English Channel, the French city of Cherbourg serves up bountiful ocean views and a deep history. Cherbourg-Normandy cruises give you access to the docks where the Titanic made one of its final stops before its fateful voyage. Ascend Roule Mountain, also called the Montee de Resistants ? the summit offers a priceless panorama and a museum that pays homage to the liberation of the city and Europe during World War II. Later, walk to the waterfront for oysters or fresh-caught Demoiselles de Cherbourg, the local mini lobsters, and a glass of crisp white wine.

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.

This English borough, located on an inlet of the English Channel, is the country's busiest deep-water port. Southampton is a vibrant city known for its rich maritime history and its meandering Old Town walls. The city's Westgate is where the Pilgrims set sail for America aboard the Mayflower.

Known in German as Tor zur Welt ? the Gateway to the World ? Hamburg is Germanys most cosmopolitan metropolis. Come here to stand before architectural landmarks, like the towering neo-renaissance Hamburg Rathaus and the baroque Church of St. Michael. Cruise to Germany to experience the lively restaurant and bar scene along the River Elbe, and take in the maritime scenery of Hamburg Harbor, Europes third-busiest port. Steep yourself in international influence in the Sankt Pauli district, which has a Chinatown that dates back to the 1890s. Or delight in the distinctly German character of Moenckebergstrasse, with its classic churches and old-school European vibe.

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.

Rotterdam is a major port city in the Dutch province of South Holland. The Maritime Museum's vintage ships and exhibits trace the city's seafaring history. The 17th-century Delfshaven neighborhood is home to canalside shopping and Pilgrim Fathers Church, where pilgrims worshiped before sailing to America. After being almost completely reconstructed following WWII, the city is now known for bold, modern architecture.