Hurtigruten Expeditions Europe's Atlantic Highlights From Lisbon to Hamburg (2025/26)

12-day itinerary

Day 1: Legendary Lisbon

Your European Atlantic cruise commences in the enchanting city of Lisbon. Soak up Portugal’s rich cultural history by taking a stroll through the classical districts of Baixa and Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Alfama, the old Islamic quarter, where there are remains of a Roman theatre and Moorish fortress.

Want to extend you stay in Lisbon to explore the city’s wonders in more depth? If so, take advantage of one of the optional pre-programme packages available. This is the best way to fully experience the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.

Day 2: Charming Porto (Leixões)

Once you have left Lisbon behind, you will then dock at Leixões, prior to exploring the wondrous city of Porto. There’s so much to see while on your day visit, including the Lighthouse of Leça, the Boa Nova Chapel, and the beautiful beach of Praia Azul.

Recognised for its famous port-wine and UNESCO-listed historic centre, Porto is a lively hub of continuous activity. Perfect for exploring on foot, experience unique pastel houses and ornate churches in the city’s centre, whilst immersing yourself in the captivating street art and panoramic views across the Douro.

Stroll along the vibrant promenade by the Ribeira docks, and also take advantage of the region’s excellent delicacies. Enjoy wine tastings at the port cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, and indulge in the delicious local cuisines in one of the city’s fine restaurants.

Day 3: Galician highlights

As you travel along the rugged coast of Galicia, you will first be visiting the small fishing hamlet of Ferrol, a key strategic Spanish naval base. Unsurprisingly, due to its military background, there are more forts, citadels and barracks here than the any other harbour town in Spain.

Marvel at Northern Galicia’s highlights, including the historic centres of Ferrol and A Coruña on guided tours. Either choose to walk a section of the ancient pilgrimage trails which intersect Galicia, or alternatively, explore the UNESCO-listed towns of Lugo and Santiago de Compostela while on optional excursions.

Day 4: Gijón’s golden sands

Located in the Bay of Biscay, Gijon is an historic city which has developed from being a small fishing village to a key port city in modern times.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Cimadevilla park and Barrio del Carmen district to immerse yourself in Gijon’s ‘old town charm’, whilst also exploring breathtaking Baroque churches and the Plaza del Marques. Alternatively, take a hike up through Cimadevilla park and Barrio del Carmen district, in order to soak up the incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

After this, pay a visit to the beautiful Playa de San Lorenzo beach, or indulge in the region’s local delicacies including succulent fresh fish and refreshing cider.

Day 5: Explore San Sebastián

On your fifth expedition day, discover the jewel of the Basque Country as the cruise journeys to the vibrant city of San Sebastian. An ideal destination for food lovers, culture buffs and surfers, San Sebastian is steeped in rich cultural history which you will be able to experience during your visit.

Discover a Gothic church, Baroque façades and beautiful squares in the unique historical district of Parte Vieja. The idyllic beach of La Concha is certainly worth a visit, and why not drink in the excellent views of the bay by taking a cable car to Monte Igueldo.

Day 6: Bordeaux, ‘City of Wine’

A pulsating city with a captivating array of different art and culture, Bordeaux is an essential destination on your expedition cruise. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the possibilities are endless in Bordeaux’s old town. Witness the iconic water mirror at Place de la Bourse, or alternatively if you are a lover of art and architecture, don’t miss out on visiting the Gothic St André Cathedral and the Musée des Beaux-Arts Bordeaux.

However, at the core of the city is its quintessential love of wine. Staggeringly, there are over 8,500 châteaux and producers in the region, while numerous vineyards are accessible by taking a short tram journey. While there, compare some of the 60 appellations, indulging in the varied selection of fine wines.

Day 7: Laid-back in Île-d’Yeu

The charming Île-d’Yeu is home to an varied diversity of landscapes, whether that be rocky shores, dunes, pine forest or lush meadows.

An island located off the western coast of France, this small island was originally inhabited by farmers of the Neolithic period over 5,000 years ago. Currently standing as an exciting tourist destination, you will be able to explore the island’s historic remnants, including well preserved dolmens and menhirs to medieval castles and tiny villages. Either traverse the island by bike or foot, soaking up the refreshing sea air and remarkable scenery.

Due to the fact that ports in Île-d’Yeu are too small to facilitate the MS Fridtjof Nansen, the ship will instead be anchoring off the island. If weather conditions permit, you will then be entering small expedition boats and heading ashore to explore the secluded beauty of the island.

Day 8: Fascinating Finistère

Following the unique experience exploring the coastal town of Île-d’Yeu, you will then visit Finistère – located in the extreme west of Brittany. There’s so much to explore while here, and the Expedition Team will ensure you get the most out of your trip as possible.

Upon visiting the picturesque seaside town of Douarnenez, explore the vibrant quaysides, sandy beaches, and the intriguing Maritime Museum which is home to different boats from around the world. You will be visiting Douarnenez by using small boats to head ashore, however this is heavily dependent on good weather conditions. If the onboard team deem the conditions as being unsuitable, you will instead head to the nearby city of Brest.

While here, explore the older and modern influences as you head to the National Maritime Museum inside the military fortress of Château de Brest, to witness the remnants of medieval fortifications. Alternatively, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the quays and sock, indulging in some delicious locally sourced food.

Day 9: Citadel of Saint-Malo

Located in Ille-et-Vilaine, Brittany, Saint-Malo is an historic French port-city with an abundance of culture and intrigue. The walled city on the English coast had a long history of piracy which can be demonstrated through the region’s fortified bastions and long sloping beaches.

The city also offers many different walking trails to immerse yourself in the stunning panoramic views. Follow the historical trail within the old city walls through a maze of cobbled streets and visit Demeure De Corsaire to learn about the feared corsairs and the town’s pirate heritage. Take a leisurely stroll to Île de Grand Bé, or alternatively take part in an excursion to visit the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel – whereby you can explore the ruins of an ancient fort.

Day 10: Cruising the Channel

As you sail the ‘English Channel’ on your fourth day, more commonly referred to in Europe as ‘La Manche’, take time to relax and enjoy the excellent facilities onboard the MS Fridtjof Nansen.

During your transit to the breathtaking city of Saint-Malo, the Expedition Team will be happy to share their knowledge and insights about these fabled waters. It is estimated that around a quarter of the world’s entire Maritime trade passes through this channel – so you will be in good company during your journey!

Day 11: Harlingen’s rich heritage

Located on the shores of Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the beautiful town of Harlingen. Being a town of mostly canals and harbours, many people choose to walk or bike round this scenic town, with its previous maritime heritage being carried through to the modern day.

Home to the last traditional pottery factory in the Netherlands, be sure to visit the Harlingen Aardewerkmuseum, where you can marvel at displays of distinctive Frisian pottery.

Day 12: Germany’s second city

Your expedition cruise will conclude in Hamburg – Germany’s Hanseatic treasure.

There’s so much to see and do in one of Europe’s greenest urban areas. Visit the Aldstadt district which includes attractions such as the St Nikolai memorial and the historic street of Deichstrasse.

If you have enough time, there are also plenty of UNESCO recognised Heritage Sites while in Hamburg. Be sure to visit Chilehaus, the world’s largest historic warehouse complex in Speicherstadt, along with Kunsthalle, the nation’s prominent art museum.

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)

What’s not included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

MS Fridtjof Nansen