DETAILS
Discover the enchantment of European coastal life on this well-paced cruise down the Bay of Biscay aboard the luxurious Le Lapérouse. Charming French ports, lively Spanish cities and the rich heritage of Portuguese traditions await your exploration. This thoughtfully curated itinerary includes immersive cultural and historical excursions to UNESCO World Heritage sites, renowned museums and iconic villages. Accompanied by a team of expert guides, each stop offers profound insights and unforgettable experiences designed to enrich your journey.
- Pricing from
- $8,995
Call 866-639-0079 to reserve this tour today!
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International Ocean & Sea Voyages
- Departure Dates
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Oct 1, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026
Le Lapérouse is a masterpiece of innovative design and cutting-edge technology. With a commitment to preserving the beauty of our planet, this intimately sized cruise vessel takes you on a sailing voyage like no other. From the energy-efficient propulsion system to its minimized carbon footprint, every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure a minimal impact on the environments we explore.
• All ocean view staterooms with private balconies
• Three modular marinas for water activities
• Complimentary Wi-Fi (dependent on location)
• Individually-controlled air conditioning
• Dressing room with shelves and closet
• Dressing table and hairdryer
• Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
• Minibar
• Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
• Electronic safe
• Direct line telephone
• Bose Bluetooth speaker
• Flat screen TV, international channels (dependent on location) and videos on demand
• 110V American / 220V European outlets
• Two ADA staterooms
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and cultural charm of Bordeaux, a legendary region that blends world-class wine with decadent cuisine and unparalleled hospitality. From historic towns to centuries-old vineyards, every moment celebrates the essence of this alluring destination.
Day +1: En Route from U.S.-Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Day +2: Arrive in Bordeaux, France-Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Upon arrival to Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore independently.
Day +3: Bordeaux-Thursday, October 1, 2026 (B)
After breakfast at the hotel meet with a local guide for a captivating panoramic walking tour of Bordeaux—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin at Place de la Bourse, a masterpiece of 18th-century French classical architecture. Marvel at the grand Palais de la Bourse—a symbol of Bordeaux’s trading legacy—and be enchanted by the Water Mirror, the world’s largest reflecting pool. The dazzling effects provide stunning photo opportunities.
Continue to the Cathedral of Saint-André, an extraordinary Gothic marvel adorned with intricate carvings, towering spires and breathtaking stained-glass windows that narrate centuries of history.
See Porte Cailhau, an ornate medieval city gate that once served as a royal entrance. Standing guard over the city’s connection to the Garonne River, the structure once formed part of the city walls and was a focal point for visiting dignitaries and merchants.
This afternoon and evening take advantage of the plentiful amenities and dining options at the hotel.
Day +4: Bordeaux | Saint-Émilion | Main Program Begins-Friday, October 2, 2026 (B,L)
Following breakfast set out for a full-day excursion to Saint-Émilion—a picturesque medieval village renowned for its vineyards and vintages. Stop at a local winery for a gourmet lunch featuring exquisite delicacies paired with the finest varietals. Then descend into Saint-Émilion’s fascinating network of underground passages, tunnels and chambers that played a crucial role in the region’s winemaking history for centuries. Formed over time through the process of erosion, the natural caverns were expanded and modified by human hands as generations of vintners sought to harness their unique properties for wine storage and aging.
Late afternoon join guests arriving at the port for the main program and embarkation.
Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
Inclusions
- 2 nights hotel accommodations
- 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch
- Guided panoramic city tour
- Wine tasting experience
- Guided Saint-Émilion caves tour
- Transportation for included activities
- Luggage porterage
- Guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director
- Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guide, driver, porters, hotel staff, and wait staff for included meals
- Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times
Rates
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $1,995 |
| Single: | $2,895 |
*Pre-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.
Lisbon’s charm lies in its hilly streets, iconic trams and vibrant neighborhoods buzzing with energy and creativity. Embrace the city’s stunning panoramic views, notable historic sites and delicious food—each guaranteed to capture the imagination—during guided touring plus time to explore at your own pace.
Activity Level: 3
Full Itinerary
B = Breakfast
Day 12: Lisbon-Monday, October 12, 2026
After disembarkation set off on a guided panoramic city tour of Lisbon. First make a brief photography stop at Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks. Built in the early 16th century during the reign of King Manuel I, the tower originally served as a defensive structure to protect the entrance to the Tagus River and a nearby monastery.
Continue down Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s grand boulevard often compared to Paris’s Champs-Élysées. This major thoroughfare—famous for its luxurious boutiques, hotels and cafés—features an architectural mix of 19th-century buildings and contemporary glass structures. It’s also home to important cultural institutions including the National Theatre of São Carlos and Eduardo VII Park, which offers expansive green spaces and views over the city.
Next explore Lisbon’s oldest historic district, Alfama, on foot. Regarded as the city’s cultural heritage center, Alfama’s origins date back to Moorish times, and much of the architecture within this labyrinthine neighborhood reflects the area’s rich Islamic heritage with decorative blue-and-white tiles adorning many façades.
Stop into a local bakery to sample pastel de nata—one of Portugal’s most iconic and beloved pastries. This round tart is filled with a creamy egg custard and encased in a flaky, golden-brown puff pastry. The top of the tart is traditionally caramelized or lightly browned, giving it a slightly crisp and caramelized texture.
Conclude today’s touring with an inside visit to the National Coach Museum, a facility featuring one of the finest collections of historic carriages in the world. View the impressive array of royal coaches, ceremonial carriages and horse-drawn vehicles showcasing the evolution of transport in Portugal from as early as the 16th century.
The museum’s most notable pieces include the gold-encrusted coach of King John V and the state coach of Queen Maria I, which was used for royal processions. Many of the carriages on display were transport vehicles used by the church and nobility and are richly decorated with fine artwork, gilded woodwork and tapestries.
Continue to the hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Lisbon independently.
Day 13: Lisbon | Sintra-Tuesday, October 13, 2026 (B)
Following breakfast meet a local guide for a half-day excursion to Sintra. This picturesque village and UNESCO World Heritage Site—which has been a retreat for royalty and nobility over generations—is renowned for its stunning landscapes, fairy-tale-like palaces and rich history.
See Pena Palace standing atop a hill surrounded by lush gardens. This multi-colored structure features an eclectic mix of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance and Moorish styles reflecting the 19th-century Romanticism that inspired its construction. Pass by Sintra National Palace in the heart of town, distinguished by its two conical chimneys. It’s the oldest surviving palace in Portugal with roots tracing back to the Middle Ages. Sintra’s charming old town is a delightful maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, cafés and bakeries. During the tour hear anecdotes and historical tales about the figures who lived and vacationed here, such as King Ferdinand II, who was pivotal in shaping the region’s aesthetic legacy.
Take advantage of the hotel amenities during free time this afternoon.
Day 14: Lisbon | Depart for U.S.-Wednesday, October 14, 2026 (B)
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary group transfer to the airport for flights home.
Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
Inclusions
- 2 nights hotel accommodations with breakfast each morning
- Guided panoramic touring of Lisbon and Sintra
- Admission to the National Coach Museum
- Transportation for included tours
- Luggage porterage
- Guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director
- Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
- Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times
Rates
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $1,995 |
| Single: | $2,895 |
*Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.
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Linda Harper
Linda was on the NTHP National Main Street program’s management team working with over 200 communities. As the director for Exchange Programs for the Countryside Institute she provided oversight for communities in 3 counties to implement sustainable environmental and economic programs. Her time as the Board Chair and Executive Director of Historic Congressional Cemetery saw the property go from being listed on the NT’s 11 Most Endangered to being listed as a National Landmark with a $4M endowment. Most recently she served as the CEO for Cultural Tourism for Washington, DC promoting the embassies, monuments, arts and neighborhoods as an integral part of the city’s economic development plan. Her background in historic preservation, cultural tourism and community engagement will help each traveler better understand the flavor and significance of our stops along the way.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1
En Route from U.S.
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day 2
Arrive in Bordeaux, France – Embarkation
Upon arriving at Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hospitality room prior to embarkation.
Late afternoon continue to Le Lapérouse, your home away from home for the next 10 days. This masterpiece of first-class cruising features spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms and impeccably designed public spaces. As embarkation begins, take time to unpack and become familiar with your accommodations.
Among the vessel’s unique features is the Blue Eye Lounge, an innovative and immersive underwater observation area featuring large, curved windows that provide views of the subaquatic environment. The lounge is a multi-sensory experience—you can feel the ocean’s vibrations through the seats and listen for marine sounds using the hydrophone headsets. Visit the reception desk on board to schedule time to visit the Blue Eye Lounge, as hours of operation vary and guest capacity is limited.
This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a special welcome reception to celebrate the exciting journey ahead.
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day 3
La Rochelle
After breakfast disembark for a guided panoramic tour of Île de Ré, a picture-perfect island off the coast of La Rochelle. Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saint-Martin-de-Ré enclosed by Vauban-designed ramparts. Then stop for a fresh seafood tasting along the coast.
Return to the ship for lunch before an afternoon exploring La Rochelle, a picturesque port city known for its old town lined with medieval half-timbered houses and arcaded streets. The 14th-century Vieux Port (Old Harbor) features two iconic towers—Tour Saint-Nicolas and Tour de la Chaîne—which once guarded the entrance.
Conclude today’s touring with a delightful cognac tasting experience at Château de la Péraudière before returning to the ship for an afternoon cruise to Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
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day 4
Saint-Jean-de-Luz
After lunch visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a diverse fishing town with a tapestry of colorful Basque traditions. The Basque people are one of the oldest ethnic groups in Europe with roots tracing back thousands of years, throughout which they have maintained a strong sense of identity and community.
Continue to the Church of Jean Baptiste for an inside visit. This is where King Louis XIV (le Roi Soleil) married Maria Theresa of Spain in 1660.
This afternoon enjoy additional time to explore Saint-Jean-de-Luz on your own or remain on board for a special activity. Gather by the pool for a festive wine tasting hosted by Le Lapérouse‘s sommelier featuring a selection of locally produced varietals.
In the evening after dinner, stop by the ship’s theater for live entertainment or a film on the big screen.
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day 5
Bilbao, Spain
This morning disembark for an inside visit to Bilbao’s star attraction—the Guggenheim Museum. This architectural masterpiece houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art including permanent works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, such as Richard Serra’s The Matter of Time, Jeff Koons’ Puppy, and Louise Bourgeois’ Maman. The museum is also known for its multimedia and interactive installations that encourage guests to engage with the art through movement, sound or digital elements.
After lunch set off on a guided walking tour of Bilbao’s medieval quarter, Casco Viejo. The oldest part of Bilbao, dating back to the 14th century when the city was officially founded, Casco Viejo was a bustling port town that thrived on trade. The area expanded over centuries to include seven main streets called Las Siete Calles and showcases Bilbao’s historical architecture blend of medieval, Baroque and neoclassical styles. Key landmarks include: Santiago Cathedral, the oldest building in Bilbao; Iglesia de San Antón, an iconic Gothic church that is part of Bilbao’s coat of arms; and Plaza Nueva, a neoclassical square completed in the 19th century.
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day 6
Bilbao, Spain
Following breakfast depart for the Basque countryside to partake in an entertaining cooking demonstration and food tasting experience. Traditional Basque dishes emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients rather than complex preparations. Learn about pinchos (or pintxos)—small, flavorful bites (similar to tapas) often served on bread showcasing a variety of toppings including seafood, chorizo and local cheeses.
Tonight while cruising the Bay of Biscay towards Gijón, delight in another gourmet dinner crafted from locally sourced ingredients, expertly paired with exquisite wines.
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day 7
Gijón
A coastal city in Asturias—an autonomous community in northwest Spain—Gijón features a blend of maritime heritage and lush green landscapes.
Join a guide for a scenic tour of the Cimavilla historic district, an old fishermen’s quarter and cultural complex. The area exudes a timeless feel, with traditional stone houses, rustic façades and vibrant balconies.
Next visit Universidad Laboral for a guided tour. Once intended to serve as an orphanage, this important cultural center features an impressive central plaza, bell tower, church, art exhibition halls and workshop studios, and colorful gardens adorned with striking sculptures and installations.
Following lunch on the ship, visit a sidrería (or traditional cider house) to sample Asturias’ famous cider. Witness the unique technique of cider-pouring, done from high above the glass to aerate it and enhance its flavor.
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day 8
A Coruña| Santiago de Compostela
Today’s highlight features an excursion to Santiago de Compostela, a historic city in Galicia and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area rose to prominence during the Middle Ages as a major center of pilgrimage and religious scholarship, and it became an essential part of the Christian reconquest of Spain. Santiago de Compostela’s importance is tied to the Apostle Saint James the Greater, who is believed to have spread Christianity in the Iberian Peninsula. According to tradition, after his martyrdom in Jerusalem, his remains were transported by boat and buried here. The network of pilgrimage routes, known as the Camino de Santiago, passes through various European countries and converges in Santiago de Compostela.
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day 9
Vigo
Take advantage of a leisurely morning and lunch on board before disembarking for the Rías Baixas region—an area famous for mussel cultivation.
Travel by motor coach to the village of Combarro for a guided estuary tour followed by a mussel and wine tasting.
Continue to Pontevedra for a guided panoramic walking tour past town hall and the medieval ruins of the convent of Santo Domingo, plus see St. Mary’s Church, Prazo do Teucro, Praza da Peregrina, the Church of Saint Francisco, Lena Square and the Renaissance palace, Parador de Pontevedra. Enjoy time for independent exploration along Herreria Square before returning to the ship.
Back on board retreat to the main lounge for snacks and beverages accompanied by live music.
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day 10
Porto, Portugal
After breakfast explore Porto’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Riberia district, during a guided walking tour. The colorful labyrinthine cobblestone streets dating back to the Middle Ages reveal hidden squares, charming alleyways and stunning views of the Douro River.
The Dom Luís I Bridge is one of Porto’s most iconic structures, connecting the city with Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank of the river. Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this double-deck iron bridge provides breathtaking 360º views of over the town.
A visit to Porto would be incomplete without experiencing its world-famous port wine. This afternoon take part in a lively port wine tasting accompanied by insights offered from vintners on the history of port wine production, the aging process and the various varietals.
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day 11
Day at Sea
Awake this morning to a leisurely schedule on board as the ship cruises toward Lisbon. Take advantage of time for relaxation and reflection from the comforts of the Panoramic Lounge while admiring the passing scenery.
The final evening on board, gather for a lively farewell reception followed by a convivial gala dinner to commemorate this epic journey cruising the Bay of Biscay and Europe’s Atlantic Coast.
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day 12
Lisbon – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
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