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Western Europe: a Medley of Man-Made and Natural Masterpieces

Western Europe: a Medley of Man-Made and Natural Masterpieces

From EUR €5,390

Description

Enjoy Western Europe in the most beautiful autumn colours. Accompanied by exclusive classical concerts at select locations ashore and on board, this cruise is a masterful symphony of beautiful coastlines. Culture, architecture and music set the tone.

Trip Name
Western Europe: a Medley of Man-Made and Natural Masterpieces
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 138 m Passenger Capacity: 230 Built: 2021 The expedition class combines the thrill of true exploration with the comfort of luxury cruising. Aboard the small yet ultra-modern expedition ships HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC inspiration, and HANSEATIC spirit, a maximum of 230 guests can venture deep into some of the world’s most remote and captivating regions — from icy polar landscapes to tropical islands. These vessels are purpose-built for discovery, featuring advanced technology, the highest ice class for passenger ships (PC 6), and an expert team of scientists and expedition leaders who turn every journey into an enriching experience. Whether gliding through ice fields, landing by Zodiac in untouched bays, or learning from onboard experts, guests are immersed in nature and culture at their purest. With over 30 years of expedition expertise, these voyages redefine adventure travel by blending knowledge, comfort, and sustainability. Guests enjoy world-class dining, elegant suites, and warm, attentive service while exploring regions inaccessible to larger ships. Every itinerary is designed to uncover hidden corners of the planet safely and respectfully — leaving only traces of curiosity behind. From close-up wildlife encounters to champagne toasts beside icebergs, each journey promises rare experiences and unforgettable memories, guided by a crew whose passion for discovery is matched only by their dedication to comfort and care.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Hamburg
Individual travel arrangements to Hamburg, departure 18.00 hrsEvening cruise on the Elbe
Day 2 - Day 2 Relaxation at sea
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Day 3 - Day 3 Honfleur/France
Honfleur/France, 12.30 – 19.30 hrsSail past beautiful coastlines on your way to France and one of the most attractive places in Normandy: Honfleur at the mouth of the Seine. The birthplace of Impressionism, painters like Renoir, Monet, Pisarro and Cézanne used to meet here. Stroll through the picturesque old town of Honfleur with its timbered houses, historic Vieux Bassin port and the famous church of Sainte Catherine. The Pont de Normandie, built in 1995 to connect Honfleur to Le Havre, is the longest cable-stayed bridge in Europe. Bridging the gap from the past to the present, the experts joining you on your walks will delve deep into the history of the town.
Day 4 - Day 4 St Malo
St Malo, 10.00 – 19.00 hrs Port, coastal resort, pirate stronghold: the fortified city of St Malo in north-west France is an example of Breton architecture that can be seen from afar. Behind the fortified walls, which you can walk around, the historic town centre will reveal its interesting past. Its narrow streets are filled with the legends of pirates and the seafarer Jacques Carter, who set out to sea from here to discover Canada, which he also named. Off the beaten track, miles of sandy beaches, the picturesque promenade and street art in the harbour are special places to explore. Of course the town also offers some tempting culinary highlights, including Cancale oysters. St Malo is also the perfect starting point for visiting the famous monastery island of Mont-Saint-Michel*, which has been attracting pilgrims from all over the world for centuries.
Day 5 - Day 5 Relaxation at sea
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Day 6 - Day 6 La Pallice
La Pallice (La Rochelle), 07.00 – 17.00 hrsThe coastal city of La Rochelle can be compared with the complex aroma of a cognac – a combination of maturity, tradition and exclusivity symbolising indulgence and savoir-vivre. As you walk around, uncover the secrets of brandy production, which the city is famous for. A walk from the quays in the Vieux Port through narrow, cobbled streets and across lively squares to the old town, with its picturesque half-timbered houses, is like something out of a dream. There are monuments steeped in history to discover throughout the city: on your way, learn about the religious wars and the siege by Cardinal Richelieu in the 17th century. Look forward to some interesting lectures and talks with your experts on art and history, against the authentic backdrop of the coastlines of western Europe.
Day 7 - Day 7 Bilbao/Spain
Bilbao/Spain, 08.00 – 18.00 hrsThe economic and cultural centre of the Basque country is a melting pot of innovation and proud traditions. Over the past few decades, leading international architects have given Bilbao a visible sense of self-confidence. One example of this is an avant-garde building in a class of its own: the Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank O. Gehry, which, with its wafer-thin metal outer shell, lies like a shimmering oversized fish on the banks of the Nervion. Thanks to its daring architecture and exquisite art, this former industrial city has been able to transform itself into a world-class cultural centre. As you make your own explorations of the city or go on guided excursions*, take in the sights, from the Guggenheim Museum to the Zubizuri bridge and the elegant 19th century buildings.
Day 8 - Day 8 Gijon
Gijon, 07.00 – 18.00 hrsGijon lies on the beautiful Asturian coast, with its picturesque beaches and charming fishing villages. The city on the Bay of Biscay reveals stunning contrasts: the Plaza Mayor is where the old part of the city meets the new, a picture of traditional and modern Europe. Immerse yourself in the charm of the historic centre with its narrow streets and impressive buildings, including the San Lorenzo church and the Revillagigedo Palace – and in the city’s lively cultural life with its museums, festivals and vibrant food scene. In Gijon itself or on excursions* into the surrounding area with your experts, shed light on the Reconquista, the reconquest of the Iberian peninsula: the crusade against the Muslim conquerors, or Moors, to regain Christian supremacy laid the foundations for modern Spain.
Day 9 - Day 9 La Coruna
La Coruna, 08.00 – 17.00 hrsThe treasures of Galicia await when your ship arrives in La Coruna, Spain. The Torre de Hercules, the city’s impressive landmark, tells of great history from afar – it is the only still active lighthouse from Roman times. Discover the city’s architectural history as you stroll through the lively old town and trace the transition from Roman to baroque times San Carlos Garden is an oasis of calm right in the city centre, or you can enjoy the dramatic Atlantic coastline on an invigorating walk along the promenade. La Coruna is also a popular starting point for excursions* to the pilgrimage site Santiago de Compostela, whose magnificent cathedral combines Romanesque, Renaissance and baroque styles.
Day 10 - Day 10 Viana do Castelo/Portugal
Viana do Castelo/Portugal, 12.00 – 19.00 hrsA journey into the past will take you to the medieval lanes of Viana do Castelo, one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal. Between the ocean and the mountains, the history of exploration and architecture flow together at the estuary of the River Lima. Churches and monasteries, palaces and fountains illustrate the craftsmanship of the past. Stroll through the historic centre or walk up to the Santa Luzia Basilica on the hill for an impressive panoramic view. The town has successfully made the leap into the present day with the help of contemporary Portuguese architects. Souto Moura, Fernando Tavora and Alvaro Siza Vieira are just a few names – take a detailed look at their works together with your experts on board. In Viana do Castelo, it will once again become clear how Hapag-Lloyd Cruises shows you the way from your own front door to a new understanding of Europe.
Day 11 - Day 11 Leixoes (Porto)/Portugal
Leixoes (Porto)/Portugal, arrival 08.00 hrs
Day 12 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
07-10-202617-10-2026EUR €5,390Outside Cabin. From
07-10-202617-10-2026EUR €5,390Panoramic Cabin. From
07-10-202617-10-2026EUR €6,720French Balcony Cabin. From
07-10-202617-10-2026EUR €7,290Balcony Cabin. From
07-10-202617-10-2026EUR €10,120Junior Suite. From
07-10-202617-10-2026EUR €13,770Grand Suite. From

Inclusions

    • Tracing the sounds of Europe – in landscapes like a painting by Monet or Renoir
    • Classical music concerts in St Malo and Bilbao – exclusively for guests on board
    • Savoir-vivre: explore Honfleur with pleasure and leisure on a stroll through the town
    • Architecture on the Bay of Biscay: the old town of La Rochelle with its half-timbered houses
    • Portugal’s city gem Viana do Castelo to round off your cruise – with its palaces and churches

Map