Get ready for a bucketlist itinerary onboard NCL STAR
Lisbon, Portugal ➤ Bilbao, Spain ➤ Bordeaux (Le Verdon), France ➤ La Rochelle, France ➤ Paris (Le Havre), France ➤ Amsterdam (Ijmuiden), Netherlands ➤ Hamburg, Germany ➤ Portsmouth, United Kingdom
DAY 1 – Arrival in Lisbon
On arrival at Dublin Airport terminal 1, proceed to the TAP bag-drop desk and through security to your departure gate.
On arrival in Lisbon, after collecting your luggage, make your own way to Lisbon cruise terminal where your cabin on the Norwegian Star awaits.
Once onboard explore the ship and all it has to offer. Why not take the opportunity to book any excursions or Broadway shows you may like to do during the week. (Any NCL excursions booked are at an additional cost)
DAY 2 – Day at Sea
Spend the day at sea and enjoy all that Norwegian Star has to offer onboard.
DAY 3 – Bilbao, Spain
The largest city of the Basque Country, Bilbao is magnificent mix of historic and spectacular modern architecture. Head to Casco Viejo to meander medieval streets and sample some of the best pinxtos (tapas) around. And don’t miss the massive, ultramodern Guggenheim Museum Bilbao across the river, featuring the works of leading artists of the 20th century. Clad in glimmering titanium, this enormous structure is a work of art itself.
DAY 4 – Bordeaux (Le Verdon), France
Located on the Gironde River, Le Verdon is the gateway to Bordeaux, only 2 hours away. Savour the city’s visual feast of classic French ornate buildings, broad avenues, picturesque squares and the Cathedral of St. Andre with stunning stained glass windows. Stroll through old Bordeaux, or head out of the city to one of the area’s famous vineyards. The gourmet in you will delight in the foie gras, truffles, chocolate and superb wines. Vive la France!
DAY 5 – La Rochelle, France
Having been a beacon for the fishing and trade industries since the 12th century, La Rochelle still boasts a bustling marina today. Hints to the city’s storied past abound, from its covered passageways and half-timbered medieval houses to the imposing towers guarding the picturesque bay. Explore the vibrant museums and historic sites, marvel at iconic architecture whilst strolling its boutique-lined streets and pause to savour local cuisine at an outdoor cafe Lounge on a nearby beach or journey to ile de Re for a day of sun, cycling and relaxation. Get ready to say bonjour to a perfect day in France.
DAY 6 – Day at Sea
Spend the day at sea and enjoy all that Norwegian Star has to offer onboard.
DAY 7 – Paris (Le Havre), France
Why not hop on a tour bus to the City of Light to experience the magic of Paris. Stroll down the Champs-Elysees as you nibble on a croissant. Take photos of beautiful Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Montmartre and all the other iconic places of Paris lie 120 miles up the Seine from the port of Le Havre. Or explore the charms of Le Havre, spend the day at Monet’s Giverny or explore Rouen’s Old Market Place, where Joan of Arc was burned in 1431.
DAY 8 – Amsterdam (Ijmuiden), Netherlands
History, culture and architecture intertwine in Amsterdam amongst its narrow lanes and numerous canals. Featuring more bridges than Venice, enjoying a canal tour is a great way to take in the many sights of Amsterdam (and get some great photo ops). Art lovers won’t want to miss the Van Gough Museum and the Rijksmuseum whilst history buffs will want to make time for the Anne Frank House and the Amsterdam Museum.
DAY 9/10 – Hamburg, Germany
Nestled along the beautiful Elbe River lies exquisite Hamburg, the second largest city in Germany. You can barely tell that this illuminated metropolis traces its history to the year 831. And whilst there are plenty of modern buildings to see, like the highly anticipated Elbphilharmonie along the water, it’s Hamburg’s older culture that can be most exciting. Try a visit to the Fish Auction Hall and Market, an open-air market that’s been hawking local wares since 1703. Your visit promises authentic local culture, because it’s not just a market. It’s a neighborhood scene, a great place to absorb local colour. And that means you might be lucky enough to catch the occasional rock band playing there in the morning, alongside locals selecting their evening meals from the catches of the day. Model enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the spectacular Miniatur Wunderland, a massive model exhibit that leaves visitors speechless with its detail and realism. Of course, there’s historic architecture all around and a lovely botanical garden at Park Planten un Blomen. With something for everyone, there’s no question you’ll have a guten tag in Hamburg!
DAY 11 – Day at Sea
Spend the day at sea and enjoy all that Norwegian Star has to offer onboard.
DAY 12 – Portsmouth, United Kingdom
All too soon you find yourself in Portsmouth. Make your own way back to Southampton airport for your flight to Belfast.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: A valid passport is required for this tour and must match exactly the name shown on your holiday confirmation. One checked in bag per person (20kg) is included plus one small cabin bag. Please see airline website for dimensions and restrictions. Cabin bags should be placed under the seat in front of you. Excess weight will be charged at the airport. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance in place before your departure. If you have a complaint or take ill during your holiday it is very important that you or a travelling companion reports this to your Tour Manager or Resort Representative immediately. If you are in a hotel where we do not offer this service you must report this to the hotel management and get a written confirmation. Failure to do this may affect how we can investigate and respond to any issues at a later time.
