If you’ve not enjoyed a cruise this year or even if you’re looking at booking an extra last-minute escape, it’s important to know that autumn cruises offer some great opportunities to see some fantastic and diverse ports. Here’s a look at just a few of them.
Barcelona
One of Europe’s most celebrated cities and a Med cruise mainstay, Barcelona is a city with so much to offer. Even later in the year, the beaches enjoy pleasant climates and the architecture is something truly special. Many of the landmarks here are Gaudi masterworks, including the world famous Sagrada Familia and Cassa Batlo.
Leixoes
Another port you may not have heard of, Leixoes serves the beautiful Portuguese city of Porto or Oporto as it is also known. It offers visitors the opportunity to take a trip on the famed River of Gold, the Douro and also the chance to see the city’s most famous landmark, the beautiful Pont d Luis I bridge.
Kusadasi
You may not have heard of Kusadasi, but it’s a popular Turkish port to visit because it’s the gateway to the ancient Greek city of Ephesus. Dating back to the 10th century BC, it was the location of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only foundations remain today, but there’s a wealth of other amazing architecture to explore.
La Palma
Sometimes overlooked in favour of more well-known Canary Islands such as Tenerife and Lanzarote, La Palma is a real sun-kissed gem. It’s rugged and volcanic landscape offers a different type of beauty and the chance to explore the breathtaking Caldera de Taburiente National Park should not be missed.
Cozumel
The Mexican island of Cozumel is famed for its beautiful coral reefs and a Western Caribbean cruise will give you the chance to see them for yourself, as this is one of the region’s most famed diving spots. There are opportunities to swim with dolphins and rays too, while inland, you can explore ancient ruins and Mayan history.
Phillipsburg
The capital of the popular island of St Maarten is a Caribbean cruise favourite and with good reason. The beaches are fantastic and a trip along the boardwalk to soak up the atmosphere is a must, as is a duty-free shop in bustling Front Street. Inland, you’ll encounter architectural landmarks which reflect the islands Dutch and French heritage.
Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo’s reputation goes before it as a playground of the rich and famous and indeed, you can live out your James Bond fantasies in style with a trip to Casino Square. It’s a people-watchers paradise for sure but don’t miss a visit to the beautiful opera house and the harbour, where a wealth of luxury yachts are berthed.
Tromso
There are plenty of ports to experience when you’re on a fjordland cruise but Tromso is one of the most celebrated because it offers an excellent opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights in the autumn. Cruise the beautiful Tromso fjords and be sure to visit the planetarium and the Polar Museum.
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