Worldway Travels x A&K x Crystal Cruises: Epicurean Highlights of Western Europe

Day 1

Arrive Liverpool, England – A City’s Undaunting Spirit

A former maritime powerhouse of northwest England, Liverpool was once among the nation’s most influential cities, second only to London. But Liverpool fell on hard times, its ever-proud citizens coping through it with help from their hardscrabble “scouse” wit and a fierce devotion to their local football club. Today, Liverpool has mounted an impressive comeback while spawning some of the 20th cent

Day 2

Liverpool – Fab Four Legacy

Begin with an exploration of Liverpool’s landmarks, including the Neoclassical façade of St George’s Hall and the city’s stunning Anglican cathedral, considered the biggest in Britain. Or, delve into Liverpool’s Beatles legacy at Penny Lane, the band members’ childhood homes and The Beatles Story museum. A tour of Anfield, Liverpool’s beloved football stadium, is also on offer.

Day 3

Liverpool – Welcome Aboard

Head south to Chester to stroll its town center brimming with authentic Tudor and Victorian architecture and tour Chester Cathedral, home to the most complete set of monastic buildings in Britain. Afterward, head to the port, where your vessel awaits.

Day 4

At Sea – Crossing the Channel

Relax as you transit the English Channel, taking advantage of the ship’s amenities along the way. En route, the team sets the stage for tomorrow’s shore excursion with a series of enriching presentations.

Day 5

Brest, France – Gateway to Brittany

The daunting battlements of Brest Castle loom large over this historic port city, much as they have in some form for over 1,700 years. Brest was all but destroyed during World War II, with the castle alone withstanding the fierce bombardment. Relive the medieval or wartime history of Brittany amid the halftimbered houses of Morlaix or the former Nazi submarine pens that remain along the coast. Or,

Day 6

Nantes – Quintessentially Breton

Set on the banks of the Loire estuary, the salty-aired town of Nantes affords an authentic glimpse of a quintessential Breton town without the crowds that mob the region’s more touristy cities. Get a bird’s-eye view of Nantes with a walk around the ramparts of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a sprawling 15th-century castle that served as the official residence of the Dukes of Brittany. Then, hea

Day 7

Bordeaux – Intoxicating Art De Vivre

Not all of Bordeaux’s pleasures come by the glass: a deal with a Chartrons antique dealer, the taste of a rum-sweet canelé, the 18th-century grandeur of the Place de la Bourse. But Bordeaux’s rich, full-bodied heritage is hard to resist, be it on a bar’s cobbled terrace or in any number of the region’s world-beating vineyards. Delve into Bordeaux’s rich wine heritage with a tour and tasting at an

Day 8

Bordeaux – Oysters of Arcachon

Visit the seaside resort town of Arcachon, where you experience its golden beaches, soak in its romantic Belle Époque atmosphere and savor a sampling of fresh local oysters, renowned as some of Europe’s finest. Or, opt for a visit the charming medieval village of Saint-Émilion.

Day 9

Bordeaux – A Parting Glimpse

Savor your final day in Bordeaux with a walking tour revealing the Old Town’s 13th-century Cathedral of St. André, the Palais Rohan (now the City Hall) and the Grosse Cloche, the belfry of the former town hall.

Day 10

Bilbao, Spain – Basque Country Renaissance

Arrive in Bilbao, a medieval city and proud Basque enclave that has transformed itself into a modern cultural crucible. Bilbao’s skyscraper-filled downtown mixes in dashes of Gothic, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Neo-Gothic and contemporary architecture. Most notable, though, is the curvaceous, titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry. Explore the museum’s contemporary collections and outd

Day 11

At Sea – Time to Reflect

Relish a day of relaxation aboard, perhaps enjoying some time in the spa or conversing with newfound friends. Later, the team shares insights into your next destination.

Day 12

Porto, Portugal – Petiscos Paired with Port

At once moody and magnificent, Porto is a city of brutish good looks, set on the steeply terraced banks of the Douro River. Here, explore vibrant Cais da Ribeira, discovering its Stock Exchange Palace and St. Francis Church. Or, see why this region is renowned among foodies the world over as you set out on a culinary tour of Porto’s vibrant central market and beloved backstreet petiscos (tapas) ta

Day 13

Depart Lisbon – The Voyage Ends

Disembark in Lisbon and transfer to the airport for your homebound flight, or continue on your post-tour extension.