Take this route less traveled down the Atlantic coast to discover some of Western Europe&#39;s highlights. Sailing from Dover, explore the picturesque French coastal towns of Honfleur and Saint-Malo before immersing yourself in Bordeaux&#39;s heritage and fine wines. Enjoy a relaxing day at sea before arriving in the port town of La Coruña, Spain. Finish the journey in Portugal by discovering quaint Porto followed by its lively sibling Lisbon.

Europe & Mediterranean

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Michael C. Ryan

Michael Ryan was most recently a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense culminating a 40-year career. 

Chuck Richardson

Charles “Chuck” Richardson has been a destination/enrichment speaker aboard cruise ships for 27 years.

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FIVE FARM-TO-TABLE EXPERIENCES TO MAKE YOUR MOUTH WATER

CRYSTAL'S EXQUISITE ONBOARD REDESIGN BY TILLBERG AND GEM

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MEET DALILA ROGLIERI: CRYSTAL’S NEW CULINARY NUTRITIONIST

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Grand Journey

For centuries, Dover has been a symbol of England`s royal fortitude. The port`s legendary White Cliffs have long been a welcomed landmark for seafaring travelers. The solid Dover Castle has faced invasions by Roman, French and even English troops. London`s legendary sights, including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament Square, Whitehall and the fashionable West End, lie just 80 miles from historic Dover.

With a name that literally means, "the Harbor," Le Havre is indeed a city that grew out of a need for a working port. In the early 16th century, the harbor at Honfleur was silting up, rendering the port less and less usable. King Francois I had a solution: establish another harbor on the right bank of the Seine estuary, just 15 miles from Honfleur. So it came to pass that in 1517, Le Havre was built. Though it always had a military function, Le Havre flourished essentially as a commercial port, receiving cotton, tobacco and sugar from America and distributing the goods throughout France. But its military role was expanded in the 17th century when the harbor was converted to a naval base. In WWII, Le Havre was pressed into even greater military service as it became a stronghold on the continent. The city you see today is mostly post-war construction-much of Le Havre was destroyed during the war. Its reconstruction was overseen by architect Auguste Perret. Its commercial rebirth was spurred by the bustling port activity that began in the 1960s, and continues today.

Start your exoerience with an approximate two-hour panoramic drive through Normandy&rsquo;s countryside, where memories will be evoked of D-Day. At Arromanches-les-Bains, situated close to the famous Gold Beach, you will discover the seafront with traces of old tanks used by the Allies to build the famous artificial &ldquo;Mulberry Harbor&rdquo;. On June 6, 1944, the largest amphibious assault with combined forces of over 190,000 troops invaded the Beaches of Normandy. Arromanches owes much of its fame to the &ldquo;Mulberry&rdquo; operation, the Allied establishment of an artificial prefabricated port. Some elements of the Normandy invasion remain and visits to the Landing Museum gives helpful insights into the Allied strategy. Afterward, proceed by motor coach to Port-en-Bessin for lunch at a charming restaurant. You will then proceed towards Omaha beach where the amphibious landing of Allied infantry and armored divisions took place.&nbsp; A profoundly moving experience then awaits you at the American Cemetery in Colleville St. Laurent. Here, over 9,000 soldiers were laid to rest, marked by the iconic marble crosses that stand in orderly ranks over Omaha Beach. Pondering the great importance and sacrifices of D-Day, begin the approximately 90-minute return journey to your Crystal ship. If you wish to remain in Honfleur for independent sightseeing, you may disembark your motor coach during a brief stop in town and make your way to the ship later on your own.

2024 marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Today, you will visit the famous landing beaches of Normandy, where you will experience the history of one of the largest amphibious invasions in world history, comprised of over 190,000 troops and successfully executed by land, sea and air. Although thousands of troops lost their lives, D-Day&rsquo;s success allowed the Allies to achieve a foothold in Europe, which some historians considered to be the turning point in European Theater in World War II. World War II veterans and guests with interest in the events of World War II will not want to miss this journey to the site of the D-Day invasion that took place in Normandy at &ldquo;H&rdquo; hour on June 6, 1944.

D-Day 80th Anniversary

Arrive in the City of Lights after over 2 hours from the pier via air-conditioned motor coach. Immediately commence your city overview, learning about Paris as your guide points out the most important sights, including Place de l&rsquo;Etoile, the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysees. At one end of this famous avenue is the Place de la Concorde, boasting the legendary obelisk which once stood in the Temple of Ramses II in Luxor. Continue to the Rive Gauche, the location of more Parisian landmarks. Les Invalides and its Champ de Mars is a favorite park of the locals. At the foot of the iconic Eiffel Tower, a glass-covered sightseeing riverboat awaits to take you on a scenic cruise on the river Seine. Enjoy a different perspective of this timeless city as you pass the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum and much more. Enjoy Lunch, served on board for the best view on Paris.&nbsp; Re-boarding your motor coach for the return to the ship in Le Havre.

Visit Paris, the City of Lights, on a panoramic drive through the main highlights followed by a relaxing cruise with lunch on the River Seine.&nbsp;

Panoramic Paris & Seine River Cruise

A local escort will accompany you for the three-hour journey to Paris, during which you will be assisted with sightseeing plans and provided with accurate information about location and hours of attractions and shops. The drop-off and pick-up location for this transfer will be Place de la Concorde. This experience includes only transportation to and from Paris&#39; Place de la Concorde and map.

Crystal has arranged comfortable air-conditioned motor coaches for guests who wish to explore Paris independently. This opportunity is ideal for guests who have been to Paris before and wish to re-visit some of their favorite sites, or for those who would like to seek special mementos in its legendary boutiques.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Paris on your own

A transfer of about one hour and 30 minutes brings you to the Caen Memorial, a museum and war memorial located in Caen, Normandy, commemorating World War I &amp; II. A journey through the history showing the entire world before, during and the time after of WWII, including the cold war and the Berlin wall. The inscription on the building, written by local poet Paul Dorey, reads &ldquo;The pain broke me, the fraternity relieved me, of my wound sprang a river of freedom&rdquo; making clear the sacrifice and brotherhood that ultimately liberated France and Europe. The museum opened on June 6, 1988, the 44th anniversary of D-Day, and features exhibits dealing with World War II, with a focus on the Battle of Normandy. Period objects and archival films put you in the middle of the conflict, while a 1991 gallery dedicated to the Nobel Peace Prize sheds light on the hope of a world without war. Three memorial gardens bloom in memory of the American, Canadian and British Allied forces engaged in the struggle for freedom. After your visit to the memorial and museum, make your way to a charming countryside manor for lunch. Refreshed, rejoin your motor coach and return to the pier. Along the way, pass by Pegasus Bridge, one of two&nbsp; bridges that were the centerpiece of an Allied operation to thwart German armor from attacking the eastern flank of the D-Day landings at Sword Beach. Originally named Benouville Bridge after the nearby town, the rolling lift bridge was dubbed Pegasus Bridge in honor of the British Parachute Regiment, whose shoulders were emblazoned by an emblem depicting the Greek hero Bellerophon riding the flying horse Pegasus. Drive back to Le Havre and your ship.

Visit the Caen Memorial, a museum and war memorial located in Caen, Normandy, commemorating World War I &amp; II.&nbsp; The museum opened on June 6, 1988, the 44th anniversary of D-Day, and features exhibits dealing with World War II, with a focus on the Battle of Normandy. Pass by Pegasus Bridge, one of two&nbsp; bridges that were the centerpiece of an Allied operation to thwart German armor from attacking the eastern flank of the D-Day landings at Sword Beach.

Caen D-Day Memorial & Pegasus Bridge

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide.<o:p></o:p> Embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. <o:p></o:p>Pricing and pre-reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Only one person needs to book it. Private cars accommodate maximum two guests comfortably. <o:p></o:p> Unfortunately, half-day services are not available for mid-day departures, from 10:00am to 1:30pm. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability.<o:p></o:p> Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.<o:p></o:p>

For guests wishing to explore independently, Crystal is pleased to offer this private vehicle service and English-speaking guide.&nbsp;

Private Half-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide - Le Havre

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide.<o:p></o:p> Embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for eight hours.<o:p></o:p> We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee. <o:p></o:p> Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Only one person needs to book it. Private cars accommodate maximum two guests comfortably. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard.<o:p></o:p> While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability.<o:p></o:p> Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.<o:p></o:p>

Private Full-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide - Le Havre

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide.<o:p></o:p> Embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private van and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours.<o:p></o:p> We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee. <o:p></o:p>Pricing and pre-reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Only one person needs to book it. Private vans accommodate maximum four guests comfortably. Guests in the middle seats will not have a window. Unfortunately, half-day services are not available for mid-day departures, from 10:00am to 1:30pm. <o:p></o:p>Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard.<o:p></o:p> While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability.<o:p></o:p> Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.<o:p></o:p>

Private Half-Day Van & English-Speaking Guide - Le Havre

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide.<o:p></o:p> Embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private van and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for eight hours.<o:p></o:p> We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee.<o:p></o:p> Pricing and pre-reservations are based per vehicle, not per person.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>Private vans accommodate maximum four guests comfortably. Guests in the middle seats will not have a window.<o:p></o:p> Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard.<o:p></o:p> While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability.<o:p></o:p> Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.<o:p></o:p> &nbsp;

Private Full-Day Van & English-Speaking Guide - Le Havre

Your day of artistic discovery begins with an approximately 90-minute journey to Giverny. Situated on the right bank of the Seine, this charming city is known the world over as the home of Claude Monet, who lived here from 1883 to his death in 1926. Monet&rsquo;s house and gardens are now a museum, which you will visit for a chance to delve into the life and works of the beloved artist. Explore the picturesque home, restored to its original pink and green and containing Monet&rsquo;s collection of 18th- and 19th-century prints, ?ne pieces of China and reproductions of his works. Especially noteworthy are the dining room with its yellow painted furniture, the bedroom, the &ldquo;blue&rdquo; reading room and the kitchen with its attractive wall tiles. Then there is the garden. Replanted to Monet&rsquo;s original design, it displays a spectacular array of color and features the Japanese-inspired water garden. In a lush and lovely landscape, the water garden features gracefully arched bridges, bamboo trees, rhododendrons, a majestic weeping willow and, of course, the lily pond, the subject of Monet&rsquo;s iconic Water Lilies paintings. After the visit, free time will be allowed before driving back to Le Havre and your ship.

See the real-life inspiration for Claude Monet&rsquo;s famous series of Water Lilies paintings with a visit to his beautiful home and gardens at Giverny.&nbsp;

Monet&#39;s Giverny

Departing Le Havre by motor coach, you will soon join the main highway. Traveling toward F&eacute;camp, the road rolls through a switchback of breezy headlands and wooded valleys. Once in F&eacute;camp, your guide leads you on a brief walking tour of the vast Benedictine Palace. Combining Gothic and Renaissance styles, the palace pays homage to Alexander LeGrand, a local wine merchant of the 19th century who rediscovered the monk&rsquo;s 16th-century recipe for Benedictine, the famous herbal liquor. Building of the palace began in 1880. Today, the palace incorporates a distillery and an eccentric museum packed with art treasures and curios. Documents and objects related to the production of Benedictine from the end of the 19th century to the present are also displayed. The adjacent halls provide an aromatic account of the 27 herbs and spices that go into making the liquor. As your visit at the palace comes to an end after you pass through the laboratory and cellars, enjoy a sample of the Benedictine liquor. Rejoin your motor coach and enjoy the breathtaking sights from the coastal road leading to Etretat. The C&ocirc;te d&rsquo;Alb&acirc;tre, or alabaster coast, gets its name from the chalky cliffs and milky waters that characterize the Normandy coastline. Due to the marvelous location, Etretat has always enjoyed its great reputation in association with the coastline.&nbsp; Explore independently for approximately 30 minutes after a short, guided walk-through town. With the grandeur of the high cliffs and crashing waves still fresh in your mind, re-board your motor coach for the journey back to Le Havre and your ship.

The Benedictine Palace at F&eacute;camp and the unforgettable setting of Etretat are introduced to you on this half-day excursion.

Palais Benedictine & Fécamp

Enjoy a scenic drive the Auge country towards Pont L &lsquo;Eveque, continue your drive of the countryside to a famous local calvados distillery, where you will have the opportunity to visit, as well as taste the famous Millesime Calvados. Discover a typical Normann Manor House and visit the distillery cellar followed by a delicious tasting. Afterwards continue your Scenic drive towards Honfleur. Experience the charming Honfleur. With a history and quaint beauty revealed in narrow streets, timber-framed houses and the old port, Honfleur has been the subject of admiring reviews and painterly pursuits. Gustave Courbet, Eugene Boudin and Claude Monet are among the artists who have captured beautiful impressionistic images of Honfleur on canvas. The artists have been credited with forming the &eacute;cole de Honfleur, or Honfleur School of painting. Following your guided discovery then return transfer to the pier of Le Havre and your&nbsp;ship. &nbsp;

Honfleur considered as favorite resort getaway for the Parisian, in the one of the most charming fishing villages in all of Europe, are the focus of this half-day outing as well as the scenic discovery of Auge Country. Today&rsquo;s visit will also include a visit at a calvados distillery, where you will sample this delicious liqueur.

Honfleur & Calvados Tasting

Board the motorcoach for the 30-minute drive by the bridge of Normandy to the heart of Honfleur, a charming city replete with history. Following your guide, walk the narrow streets, encounter timber-framed houses and view the old port, appreciating city scenes that have inspired admiring praise and painterly pursuits. In fact, Gustave Courbet, Eugene Boudin and Claude Monet are among the artists who painted colorful impressionist images of Honfleur, forming the &eacute;cole de Honfleur, or Honfleur School of painting. Look through your own artistic lens as you stroll through the historic center and past the old slate-shingled houses of Place Arthur Martin, the Louis XIII house, the tile-covered stone buildings of the 17th century, and picturesque Prison Street with its distinct half-timber houses. Also, admire the Old Bassin and clock of the Duquesne quayside, along with La Lieutenancies where the governor of Honfleur once lived. Continue by Rue de Logettes to the famous St. Catherine&rsquo;s Church, a rare example in Western Europe of a building constructed entirely with wood. A stop will be made at a caf&eacute; for a refreshment, followed by free time. Drive back to Le Havre.

With a quaint quayside and charming streets lined by characteristic half-timbered buildings, Honfleur is ideally discovered by foot, an opportunity afforded with today&rsquo;s guided stroll.

Honfleur Walking Exploration

A scenic, one-and-a-half-hour journey by motor coach takes you near the village of Rots, where you will visit the headquarters of the D-Day Academy, an association that has assembled a wealth of artifacts and information relating to World War II, bringing the events of D-Day vibrantly and movingly to life. After a welcome introduction and refreshment, discover a comprehensive display of authentic World War II relics and allow military historians to offer compelling explanations and demonstrations. View an amazing collection of weapons, clothing, vehicles and ammunition, and gain an even deeper understanding of the life of a soldier as you survey exhibits covering the subjects of daily rations, the morale-boosting role of music, cinema and mail, and the regulation of reading materials, sports and games, and even romantic relationships. Unlike other museums, the D-Day Academy actually encourages you to touch items on display; you may wish to try on a real helmet, feel the fabric of a uniform or hold the infamous MG42. Next, rejoin your motor coach and head to Omaha Beach, where you will board an authentic British, German or U.S. World War II vehicle for an unforgettable journey into the pages of history. Conducted by expert historians, your expedition explores some of the key engagements that took place over the Norman countryside between June and September, 1944. Hear commentaries about the role of the National Guard and the 116th Infantry Regiment, and scan your eyes over &ldquo;Bloody Omaha&rdquo; to try to fully comprehend how the beach earned its nickname, meanwhile inspecting historic photographs to visualize this hallowed ground in a time of war. An homage will be paid to the GIs, giving you a chance to contemplate the significance of one of the most fateful days in military history. Lunch will be served at &nbsp;a restaurant located right by Omaha Beach and near a bunker. After lunch, a drive in a military vehicle to Colleville for your encounter with the German defensive position known as WN62, where German soldiers, concealed in bunkers and pillboxes, pinned down the American Assault Forces in a barrage of gunfire. See some of the well-preserved bunkers and look down on the cliffs and beach below, a bucolic landscape that on D-Day became a scene of almost unfathomable causalities. Pay tribute to the 627 fallen soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division, also called the Big Red One, at the memorial overlooking the Easy Red sector of Omaha Beach. Another emotional visit will be at the U.S. Cemetery, where you will have the opportunity to honor the memory of the young soldiers in a private and individual ceremony. From here, proceed by motor coach to Pointe du Hoc, the promontory that on D-Day was heavily fortified by German forces. After scaling the 100-foot-high cliffs and enduring two days of battle, the United States Army Rangers captured the position, a victory that came with staggering losses. Of the initial 225 Rangers who launched the assault, only 90 remained. A long day remembering &ldquo;The Longest Day&rdquo; drawing to a close, return to the pier by motor coach, taking the one-and-a-three-quarter-hour journey to ponder the sights and insights of D-Day.

This &ldquo;history on the move&rdquo; expedition puts you aboard an authentic, World War II military vehicle for an immersive introduction to Omaha Beach, complete with an onboard historian to offer rare insights into the D-Day landings. Your full-day outing also includes a visit to the D-Day Academy Collections, available by appointment only, where you are invited to not only view but touch exhibits that feature everything from pistols and hand grenades to howitzers and a crashed Spitfire.&nbsp;

Experience D-Day by Military Truck

Within its fortified walls, this city of bustling shops, cafés and bars is home to the highest concentration of seafood restaurants in Europe. Heavily bombed during World War II, it was lovingly restored to its original splendor. The city`s top destination is the citadel, from where Corsairs would raid enemy ships in the name of the King. Be sure to take a stroll atop the ramparts for magical views, and save time for a journey to the medieval Mont St-Michel abbey. 

Even the name of Saint-Malo reflects a fascinating tidbit of history. The town was named after a 6th-century monk who converted the locals to Christianity. By the 16th century, Saint-Malo was a flourishing trading port. Wealthy ship owners built beautiful homes here in town and the surrounding countryside. Growing in affluence and importance, Saint-Malo needed to strengthen its defenses, which can be seen today as you walk along the village&#39;s ramparts. You will also explore the narrow streets and admire the splendid cathedral. Enjoy refreshments and some free time before returning to your Crystal ship.

Explore the superb town of Saint-Malo, also known as the privateer city, on foot by strolling inside the city walls and enjoy a gourmet break in a typical creperie.

Saint-Malo Citadel Walk

Spreading out over the summit of an immense granite precipice 250 feet above the sea, the fortified abbey is a monument to the heyday of Norman power and influence. During the Hundred Years&#39; War, the English repeatedly attempted to capture the island but were thwarted by the abbey&rsquo;s fortifications. The island and abbey are thought to make their strongest impression from a distance. You may agree as you walk along the five-mile-long causeway by which the abbey is accessed and approach this imposing sight. Once on the tiny island, your visit by foot involves numerous stairs and steep paths. Still, your efforts will be rewarded with magnificent views and an intimate acquaintance of this incredible architectural achievement. Stroll the labyrinth of streets, browse the shops, and take in the historic atmosphere. Free time will be allowed for guests to have lunch at your leisure. Return to your ship, passing small towns and traditional fishing harbors along the way.

Visit Mont Saint-Michel, the grandiose construction in France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After your guided visit, enjoy free time for independent exploration and lunch.

Mont Saint-Michel

Take a brief walking tour of Saint-Malo before boarding your motor coach for the drive to the Montmarin estate, a magnificent example of a 'Malouiniere,' country residences built by wealthy ship owners from Saint-Malo in the 17th century. The estate, located on the banks of the river Rance, features a grand gateway and a beautiful Court of Honor with an exquisite Italian marble fountain. The front of the house is adorned with a formal French garden that has remained virtually unchanged since it was &nbsp;created in 1885, and offers a delightful mix of lawns, borders, shrubs, plants, and a rockery. The estate also houses a unique botanical collection, constantly enriched with new species. After exploring Mortmain&#39;s Gardens and grounds, return to your ship in Saint-Malo.

Explore the charming streets of Saint-Malo by foot and the fabulous Montmarin Gardens.

Saint-Malo & the Montmarin Gardens

Scenic 45-minutes drive through the verdant countryside of Brittany to Combourg, a tiny village that is large in authenticity and charm, dominated by the magnificent Ch&acirc;teau de Combourg. Begin your discovery of a place infused with myth and drama. The castle&rsquo;s romantic appeal begins with its location, nestled on the fringes of Broc&eacute;liande, the legendary forest with ties to Arthurian tales. It was here that, according to the works of Norman poet Robert Wace and other tales within the canon, Merlin the wizard was trapped in an oak tree and the Fairy Vivien lived. Even as Merlin perished, his legend lives on, as he is allegedly buried within the forest. The magic of Combourg grew stronger as it became the home of Fran&ccedil;ois-Ren&eacute; de Ch&acirc;teaubriand, considered to be the founder of Romanticism in French literature. The Ch&acirc;teaubriand family acquired the castle in 1761, and Fran&ccedil;ois-Ren&eacute; de Ch&acirc;teaubriand spent his childhood in this idyllic locale, surely drawing inspiration from its leafy beauty. Allow yourself to be captivated by the town and its castle, which certainly seem designed to cast a spell on visitors. The ch&acirc;teau is everything you might picture a French fairytale castle to be: perched on a hill near a tranquil lake, with four massive conical-roofed towers and tall, fortress-strong walls enclosing a courtyard. In the Tour du Chat tower is Ch&acirc;teaubriand&rsquo;s bedroom. The castellated parapet walk showcases views over the grounds, lake and town. After exploring the castle&rsquo;s interior, enjoy a short stroll in the park and let your guide lead you to an inviting cr&ecirc;pe caf&eacute;, where you will savor a traditional crepe and a drink, all in the delightful atmosphere of a historic medieval building. Your own romantic tale set in the fabled French countryside coming to a close, return to your Crystal ship. &nbsp;

Venture through the verdant countryside of Brittany to Combourg, a tiny village that is large in authenticity and charm, dominated by the magnificent Ch&acirc;teau de Combourg. &nbsp;

The Romantism of Château Combourg

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide.<o:p></o:p> Embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours.<o:p></o:p> We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee.<o:p></o:p> Pricing and pre-reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Private cars accommodate maximum two guests comfortably.<o:p></o:p> Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard.<o:p></o:p> While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability.<o:p></o:p> Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.<o:p></o:p> &nbsp;

Private Half-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide - Saint Malo

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide.<o:p></o:p> Embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for eight hours.<o:p></o:p> We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee.<o:p></o:p> Pricing and pre-reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Private cars accommodate maximum two guests comfortably.<o:p></o:p> Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard.<o:p></o:p> While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability.<o:p></o:p> Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.<o:p></o:p>

Private Full-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide - Saint Malo

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide.<o:p></o:p> Embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private van and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours.<o:p></o:p> We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee.<o:p></o:p> Pricing and pre-reservations are based per vehicle, not per person.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>Private vans accommodate maximum four guests comfortably. Guests in the middle seats will not have a window.<o:p></o:p> Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard.<o:p></o:p> While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability.<o:p></o:p> Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.<o:p></o:p> &nbsp;

Private Half-Day Van & English-Speaking Guide - Saint Malo

Private Full-Day Van & English-Speaking Guide - Saint Malo

Meet your guide for a brief inner-city visit, followed by a beautiful walk to Briantais Park. Follow the border via the Bas-Sablon port towards the city of Alet. Discover the history of the Corsair towards the city of Alet. Discover the history of the Corsair and find the WWII defense fortifications opposite Saint-Malo; hike along parks, picturesque homes, some beaches, and the rocky coastline. Near Solidor Cove and its tower, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local Cr&ecirc;perie. After this refreshing break, continue towards Corbi&egrave;res Park, passing Four &agrave; Chaux beaches, views on the Rosais beach, and finally arriving back at Briantais Park, where a pickup will drive back to the Port of St-Malo.&nbsp;

Enjoy a beautiful hike along the coastline with amazing views from Saint-Malo, and enjoy a delightful lunch at a local Cr&ecirc;perie

Saint Malo Bay Hike with Lunch at local Crêperie

Dinard is a popular holiday destination regarded as one of France&#39;s most prestigious seaside resorts. Situated on the Emerald Coast of Brittany, it has beautiful beaches and a mild climate. It has gained the reputation of being the &#39;Cannes of the North,&#39; with its international film festival, sumptuous hotels, and casino. The town has attracted a wide variety of stars in its time. Joan Collins is a frequent visitor, and Winston Churchill enjoyed holidaying here. It is claimed locally that Alfred Hitchcock based the house used in his most famous movie Psycho on a villa standing over the Plage de l&#39;&Eacute;cluse. Departing from the port, make your way to the boat pontoon and embark on a scenic taxi boat ride across the bay. From there, start the leisurely half-mile stroll to the Dinard. Appreciate the town&#39;s elegance and timeless allure, reminiscent of the glorious era of la Belle &Eacute;poque. Dinard boasts breathtaking coastlines, highlighted by the charming Promenade du Clair de Lune, where protected from sea winds, you can admire the diverse, flourishing &nbsp;Mediterranean flora. Take advantage of your free time to explore the town and its attractions. Then walk back to the marina, where the taxi boat will ride you back to St-Malo.

Explore Dinard on the Emerald Coast by boat and by foot.&nbsp;

Dinard  Walking Exploration & boat ride

Departing from St-Malo, drive to Dinan past the Barrage de la Rance, a unique tidal power station. 45 minutes of driving through pretty winding country roads bring you to Dinan, located at the head of the Rance estuary. Begin by walking to the House of the Harp. Located in the heart of the medieval city of Dinan, the House of the Harp will teach you everything there is to know about both the Celtic harp and traditional harps. Learn about ancient and modern harps, gaining insights into their origins and significance. Musicians are on hand to explain and perform these exquisite instruments. Continue your exploration of Dinan with some free time in this picturesque town. As the excursion draws closer, you return to your ship aboard a comfortable motor coach.&nbsp;

Dinan, a captivating town enclosed by nearly three kilometers of ancient fortification walls. Visit the House of the Celtic Harp. &nbsp;

The charming Medieval Village of Dinan

Situated on the bay of Mont Saint-Michel, Cancale garners most of its resources from the sea. In particular, oysters have been a famed harvest since the days of Julius Caesar, when his soldiers savored these sea delicacies. King Louis XIV also enjoyed oysters and received daily deliveries of these delicious mollusks. You will discover why Cancale is renowned for its oysters yourself as you independently experience the town. Stroll the pier, where you can see the expansive oyster beds, and stop in one of the numerous restaurants to sample the oversized oysters for which the region is so well known. Then, with a guided visit to an oyster farm, you will taste two kinds of oysters. Return to your ship with your appetite for local food and culture having been satisfied.

Enjoy a relaxing time in the city capital of oysters. Stroll the pier where you can see the expansive oyster beds and stop in one of numerous restaurants to sample the oversized oysters for which the region is so well known.

Cancale & Oysters

This UNESCO-designated city known as Port of the Moon due the natural shape of its harbor is celebrated for its glorious chateaux, its mouth-watering cuisine and its incomparable wines – Bordeaux is surrounded by the world`s most famous vineyards including Medoc, St-Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes. One time the richest community and largest port in France, Bordeaux today is second only to Paris as the country`s most densely populated city.

Scenic drive to the Cognac region. Cognac, home of the world-famous brandy, is a pretty little town located on the Charente River banks, with an old 13th century ch&acirc;teau where French King Fran&ccedil;ois I was born. &nbsp; Visit one of the world&#39;s most-famous houses of Cognac, Hennessy. Explore the cellars and discover the secrets of the swan&rsquo;s neck-shaped alembic, still in use to distill cognac. After learning about the oak cask ageing process and the art of blending, your visit will conclude with a tasting.&nbsp; After the tasting, lunch will be served at one of the town&#39;s Brasserie-style restaurants, followed by a brief guided walking tour of Cognac. Aftre your visit, drive back to your ship. &nbsp;

On this full-day excursion, enjoy a visit to one of the world&rsquo;s most famous cognac houses, Hennessy. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of some of their finest Hennessy liquors, as well as lunch at a local Brasserie-style restaurant.

Hennessy Cognac Distillery & Lunch

Bordeaux, a world heritage since 2007, offers 18th-century marvels in terms of architecture, including a rich past starting in the gallo roman period. Bordeaux is known for having the second-largest 18th-century patrimony after St. Petersburg. In addition, the city was recently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This distinction recognizes the beauty and unity of the style of Bordeaux&#39;s architectural heritage, which has developed harmoniously over the centuries and remained remarkably well preserved. This excursion is an opportunity to discover most of its treasures. Depart by bus from the ship berth for a panoramic and walking tour of Bordeaux. Along the way, you will taste Bordeaux&#39;s treasured local cake: the canel&eacute;! Onboard your coach, you will get to view the Chartrons district, a lively quarter that used to be the cradle of the wine trade in Bordeaux from the Middle Ages. Continue your drive to the &#39;Esplanade des Quinconces&#39;, one of Europe&#39;s largest squares (12 hectares) with a column commemorating the French Revolution; the Cailhau Gate (15th) and the Big Bell (14th). Passing by Palais Rohan (18th), now known as the City Hall, you will view the 13th-century Cathedral of St Andrew, where Alienor d&#39;Aquitaine married Louis VII, for an inside visit. You will then reach Bordeaux Opera House, or 'Grand Theatre,' which was built by Victor Louis in 1773 and is one of the most beautiful in Europe: a pure work of art from the 18th century. From there, your guide will offer you some free time or follow them through the Old Bordeaux area, where you will discover beautiful squares such as &#39;La Place du Parlement,&#39; the former royal marketplace (1760) with harmonious facades and fountains and &#39;La Place de la Bourse,&#39; the former royal square dedicated to Louis XV (1729). &nbsp; The tour concludes with a taste of canel&eacute;s, a typical local pastry.

Enjoy a brief panoramic drive through Bordeaux, designated a UNESCO world heritage site. After a short walk to the old district area, guests will enjoy a canel&eacute;, or cake tasting.

Panoramic Bordeaux & Caneles

Going to a museum is an excellent way to see some incredible and iconic works of art, but there are few places where you can go somewhere to feel fully immersed in the art you are looking at. Transfer to The Bassins de Lumi&egrave;res in Bordeaux, a new digital art center that opened in 2020. It is located in what used to be one of France&#39;s largest bunkers during WWII, used by Germans to house U-boats. The monumental space, which stretches over 14,500 square meters (about 156,000 square feet), is dedicated to the great Master of Art History and contemporary art. The digital exhibitions are perfectly adapted to the monumental architecture of the submarine base. They are reflected in the water of the four enormous basins, thereby adding a new dimension to the immersive experience. Visits will be conducted on gangways above the water and along the quays of the enormous basin.

On this brief but informative excursion, visit Les Bassins de Lumi&egrave;res, a unique art museum located in Bordeaux&#39;s former submarine base. &nbsp;

Bassins de Lumières

Written sources confirmed the presence of a small Jewish community in Bordeaux from the start of the 6th century. In the Middle Ages, a small number of Jews living in Bordeaux set up a home outside the town, near the Saint-Seurin area. At the end of the 15th century, Louis XI granted privileges to foreigners wanting to settle in Bordeaux. Avoiding the persecutions of the Inquisition, many of them decided to settle down beyond the Pyrenees. The Jewish community of Bordeaux remained prosperous for several centuries, supplying some great names in the domains of Literature, Arts, and Trade. Then, they settled in the Jewish district, which still keeps (in the name of some streets) track of this past: the Jewish Street, or the 'Dijeaux' door (meaning 'of the Jews' in Occitan language).&nbsp; In 1809, the great synagogue was built under its impulse at Causserouge Street in Bordeaux. After the first synagogue was ravaged by fire in 1873, the decision was very quickly taken to build another one, which was inaugurated in 1882. Your guide will tell you all about the history of the Jewish community in Bordeaux as your coach drives you around to see Bordeaux and its Jewish heritage. First, stop at the Bordeaux Synagogue for an exclusive inside visit. Bordeaux&#39;s synagogue is one of France&#39;s most monumental and largest synagogues. The memorial for Martyrs of the Community, victims of Nazi barbarism, was inaugurated on the western wall, facing the square. Since the beginning of the 21st century, it has undergone many repairs to its roof, floor, and paintings, as well as restoration of the stained-glass windows and cleaning of the fa&ccedil;ade. Your tour concludes with the drive back to your Crystal ship.

Follow our Jewish heritage specialist guide for an orientation tour of Bordeaux with a focus on its Jewish community&#39;s heritage, ending with an exclusive visit to the Great Synagogue of Bordeaux.

Jewish Heritage & Synagogue Visit

Depart towards the little village of Bouliac, southeast of Bordeaux, nicknamed &ldquo;Bordeaux&rsquo;s balcony&rdquo; because of its incredible panoramic view. The Relais Ch&acirc;teau Saint-James, with its Michelin-awarded restaurant and 18-room Relais &amp; Ch&acirc;teaux, was designed by the French architect Jean Nouvel in the 1980s, inspired by the traditional tobacco dryers. In this unique haven of peace environment, circled by vines and nestled next to a charming Roman Church, you will attend a cooking class in the restaurant&rsquo;s special cooking school of the Relais &amp; Ch&acirc;teaux. During this class, the instructor will share the secrets of traditional French cuisine centered on a specific seasonal product. Each themed class is a chance to practice the professional techniques that will allow you to reproduce at home. The service includes a practical cooking class with the preparation of a starter and a main course. After sharing a memorable experience, you will relax and savor the fruit of your labors during lunch paired with a dessert, a glass of wine, and coffee. After lunch, sit back in your minibus and return to your ship.

Learn the secrets of French cuisine, classified as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, during a special cooking class at the Relais &amp; Ch&acirc;teaux Michelin-starred Saint-James restaurant, followed by an on-site lunch.

 Cooking Class at a Michelin Star Restaurant

There can be no better place to start a visit to this beautiful region than at the UNESCO World Heritage Classified Saint Emilion &nbsp;village, the home of the Merlot grape. The vines on the 'hill with a thousand ch&acirc;teaux' reach right up to Saint-Emilion&#39;s 13th century town walls and surrounding moat dug out of solid rock.&nbsp; On arrival, your guide will take you for a short orientation tour in the medieval village. You will visit the main monuments of the town: the Collegiale church and its magnificent cloister from the 12th century, the ramparts, and the marketplace. Strolling in the charming streets of the village, you will also see the Cadene gate and the King&#39;s Tower.&nbsp; Then, you will either visit the underground monuments of the village, with its monolithic church, catacombs and the hermitage, OR enjoy some free time. Continue your visit to the region by going to a nearby wine estate. You will learn about the techniques of wine making during your visit to the cellars, before tasting the wines of the estate.

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage classified village of Saint Emilion, followed by a visit to a local wine estate.

UNESCO World Heritage Village of Saint-Emilion 

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person (only one person in the party needs to book it). Private cars accommodate a maximum of two guests seated in the back of the vehicle. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 150 kilometers (approximately 93 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this experience require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.

For guests wishing to explore independently, Crystal Cruises is pleased to offer this private vehicle service and English-speaking guide.

Private Half-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide

Enjoy a bike ride, passing historical sites of beautiful Bordeaux; the Palais Gallien Roman Amphitheater, Grands Hommes district, the Great Opera House and La Comedie Square.&nbsp; Peddle past the Pey Berland area with St-Andre Cathedral, Palais de Rohan, and the Town Hall. There are so many things to see, Grosse Cloche, Saint Eloi church, Camille Julian Square, Royal Cailhau gate, St Pierre Square and its church, and Le Parlement Square. &nbsp; Stop at a caf&eacute; terrace for a light refreshment during your ride. &nbsp; Finish the bicycle ride with what Bordelais call 'The two bridges boucle.' Ride across the river to reach the right river bank and enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Bordeaux. Cross the modern Chaban Delmas Bridge and the ancient Pont de Pierre Bridge. &nbsp; Return via the La Bourse square and the riverside to your ship.

<div class='fcmtt4a'>Take a bike ride through historic Bordeaux, passing by landmarks like the Roman Amphitheater, St-Andre Cathedral, and the Pont de Pierre Bridge. Finish with the 'two bridges boucle' and enjoy the beautiful view of Bordeaux.</div> <div class='fbz4qca'> <div class='fve4vxu'></div> </div>

Bordeaux by Bicycle

Ch&acirc;teau de La Dauphine at Fronsac was built between 1744 and 1750 in the classical style and set within beautiful gardens. Begin your visit with a presentation of the property&#39;s ethical and environmental initiatives: including work in the vineyard, the beehives, the biodynamic workshop, aquaponics, the permaculture vegetable garden and the scented garden, finishing the talk with a tasting. The property converted to an organic and biodynamic approach with a philosophy of no concessions to convenience, 'the details produce the quality, but quality is not a detail.' &nbsp; Technical decisions are carried out plot-by-plot basis; plowing, grass cover, pruning, the height of trellising, canopy management, enriching agents and even restructuring.&nbsp; Following 'AB' certification (organic agriculture) in 2015, the property&#39;s work ethic has expanded by adopting Biodynamic methods. Natural preparations based on manure, plants and minerals are mixed and applied according to the lunar calendar. This painstaking task is carried out in harmony with natural cycles, with respect for the environment and people living there.

Tour Chateau de La Dauphine &ndash; an organic and biodynamic wine estate, complete with a tasting of their dynamic wines.

Château de La Dauphine Wine Estate

Today you will be invited to a special private wine tasting and visit to Pessac-L&eacute;ognan Classified Great Growth Ch&acirc;teau Smith Haut Lafitte estate. This great growth owes its reputation as 'the quintessential Graves' to its superb G&uuml;nz gravel terroir in a single block. The estate&#39;s history dates back to the Crusades. The Scottish navigator Georges Smith acquired the ch&acirc;teau in the 18th century and Monsieur Duffour-Dubergier, a Mayor of Bordeaux from a famous family of n&eacute;gociants, was a subsequent owner. Since its purchase by Florence and Daniel Cathiard in 1990, Smith Haut Lafitte has become one of the leading lights of Bordeaux thanks to its elegant, powerful red and white wines. &nbsp; In twenty years, the owners have not only brought the wine of Smith Haut Lafitte up to the very highest level, but also restored the ch&acirc;teau&#39;s 16th century tower, completely renovated two underground cellars, built their own cooperage and introduced organic methods into the process. During your visit you will be granted special access to the owners&#39; private, secret cellars, where you will see many wonderful treasures of wines. &nbsp; After visiting this splendid estate, follow your guide for a tasting of 3 wines from the estate; a once in a lifetime occasion to taste both first label wines from the estate (red and white: Ch&acirc;teau Smith Haut Lafitte) and one red wine from its second label (Les Hauts de Smith). After your experience tasting some of the finest wines of the Bordeaux region, you will return to your ship.&nbsp;

Enjoy a special, private wine tasting and visit to Pessac-L&eacute;ognan Classified Great Growth Ch&acirc;teau Smith Haut Lafitte estate, including a sampling of three wines from the estate.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte & its Cellars Private Visit

After driving along the famous Quai des Chartrons, the cradle of the Bordeaux wine trade, your guide will take you to the Margaux vineyards, the southernmost part of the M&eacute;doc area and starting point of the famous 'Route des Ch&acirc;teaux.' The Medoc wine road, located between the Gironde estuary and the Landes forest, provides magnificent views of vine-covered gravelly rises as far as the eye can see. You will have the chance to stop at celebrated Ch&acirc;teau Margaux for a photo opportunity before heading towards a classified wine estate, where you will learn all about the wine-making techniques and taste two different wines, paired with bread and cheese.&nbsp;

Travel to a classified wine estate where you will learn about wine making techniques. Enjoy a taste of two wines from the estate, paired with bread and cheese.&nbsp;

Wine & Cheese at Grand Cru Classé Wine Estate

For J&eacute;r&ocirc;me &amp; Nathalie, a visit to Chateau Boutinet rhymes with conviviality. This beautiful 17th-century winery has been brought back to life with the owners&#39; passion for wine-making and tourism. You will start by walking around the property &ndash;discovering the grapevine and the beautiful surrounding forest. Then, Nathalie and her dog will guide you on foot through the vineyard, explaining the work done in the vines, the challenges of a wine producer&#39;s life, and organic wine-making technics. In the meantime, J&eacute;r&ocirc;me will prepare the tapas you will enjoy later. Finally, after effort comes comfort: back to Ch&acirc;teau Boutinet, and after a visit to the estate, J&eacute;r&ocirc;me will invite you to a homemade tapas tasting, sampling some of the local delicacies paired with three wines from the estate.

Enjoy a half-day visit with Nathalie, owner of Ch&acirc;teau de Boutinet, a beautiful 17th century winery that has been brought back to life with the passion of the owner&rsquo;s love of wine making and tourism. End your visit, by enjoying tapas accompanied by three wines from the estate with J&eacute;r&ocirc;me.

Walk, Wine & Tapas Tasting with the Owners of Château de Boutinet

Legend holds that Hercules founded this city of Romanesque squares and medieval churches, and indeed, its Tower of Hercules is one of La Coruña`s most enduring symbols. Steeped in beauty, the city is renowned for its gardens, including the Jardines de Méndez Núñez, located in the center of the Pescaderia, and the Jardine de San Carlos in the Old City. Visit the Museo Arqueologico e Historico for exceptional views, and see the elaborately carved door on the church of Calle de Santa Maria.

This picturesque city is popular for its colorful tile-decorated buildings, its many hills and the iconic bridges by the Douro River. For an authentic Portuguese experience, go to the Ribeira neighborhood and cross the Dom Luis I bridge to watch the magical sunset among the locals.

Drive along the riverside to see architectural mixtures displaying the old and new housing plus the social status division. As we occasionally stop for cultural visits, you will be surprised by the atmosphere in the Ribeira district, which is full of life. Along this tour, you will: Visit to the Church of Saint Francis. Visit the Bolsa Palace, where you will have a chance to admire the garden in front that features a statue of Prince Henry pointing down to the ocean side. Explore the difference between the old part of town on the riverside and the 18th-century baroque area. See the Clerigos Tower, measuring 76 meters. This impressive construction dates back to 1763, when an architect of Italian origin tried very hard to cut the sheer aspect of a watch tower. Visit Lello Bookstore, the most visited monument in Oporto. The inside is spectacular with its puzzling staircase; the steps are painted red, with a decorated handrail and stained-glass ceiling. Visit the church of Carmo with its side wall covered in tiles from 1908, adding beauty to this open square. Continue to Aliados Avenue, where the tower rises to 70 meters with a carillon clock in its center, rivaling the Clerigos Tower. Pass by the building that took part in the modern transformation of Oporto. The train and the S&atilde;o Bento station are known for the 20,000 hand-painted tiles, as an expression of the local art. Cross the Infante bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and stop for a scenic view of Oporto. Both D. Luis and D. Maria Bridges can be seen here. Stop at the old monastery for a photo op, now the military headquarters of Pilar. There you will see the traditional boats that used to transport the port wine barrels, the big rooftops for the wine cellars, the bishop&rsquo;s palace from the XVIII century, the lively colors of the Ribeira houses, and finally, at a distance to the left, the Arr&aacute;bida bridge.

Be amazed at the different architecture in the city of Oporto while walking through the main streets. See the Stock Exchange Palace, the church of St. Francis, the Ribeira Quarter, and more.

Fascinating Architecture of Oporto

Discover the green fields of Minho province as we drive to Guimar&atilde;es along the highway of the north. Guimaraes is the city where the independence of Portugal was proclaimed in 1143 and therefore it is known as the cradle of the Nation. Upon arrival, enjoy an approximate 25-minute photo stop in the park filled with ruins of the medieval Castle, the little Romanesque style church of our first kings, and the Palace of the Dukes of Bragan&ccedil;a. The program then continues with a walking tour through the old city. This is a town to be appreciated on foot, with its very narrow old streets, picturesque medieval houses, and elegant 18th century fa&ccedil;ades. One of the most charming squares is the 'Nossa Senhora da Oliveira' with its cafes and terraces surrounding the 10TH century Church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The walking tour ends at the &ldquo;Torre da Alfandega&rdquo; old tower in a lovely avenue bordered with gardens, shops of arts and crafts, and local cafes. There will be some free time to enjoy the area before returning by coach directly to your Crystal ship.

Step back into time as you visit the Portuguese city of Guimar&atilde;es where the country was born all the initial decision were taken to form this great nation.&nbsp;

Guimarães: Where the Country was Born

Drive south of Oporto to the city of Aveiro. &nbsp; Situated on the inland side of a saltwater lagoon, the city of Aveiro is unique in Portugal because it is threaded with canals that connect the lagoon with the Atlantic Ocean. Consequently, Aveiro is known as the Portuguese Venice. &nbsp; Because of its location, Aveiro has always been a busy port and it became very important in the 16th century when ships set sail from here&nbsp; that used to go as far as Newfoundland and Greenland to catch Cod fish (salted cod is still highly valued by the Portuguese). Today, this charming town is also one of the most prosperous in northern Portugal with plenty of private industries, an important university, and highly developed for tourism.&nbsp; On this tour, we take you on a cruise along the canals on board a typical boat called a &ldquo;moliceiro;&rdquo; it looks like a gondola painted with naive motifs.&nbsp; 'Ovos Moles&rdquo; pastry and sparkling wine will be served on board.&nbsp; Afterwards, the guide will lead the group on a walking tour around the city center. Aveiro is known for its architecture and guests will see several lovely facades decorated in art nouveau style.&nbsp; Before joining the bus to return to Oporto, there will still be some leisure time for shopping or simply to relax in one of the many outdoor terraces.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A visit to Aveiro, known as Portugal&rsquo;s Venice, would not be complete without a boat ride in the canals from where you will be able to see the typical houses and old factories. Sweets and drinks will be served on your ride. Your guide will then take you through the streets of this city, so you can get a sense of daily life.&nbsp;

Aveiro Canal Cruise & Town Walk

Cycle through the streets of the historical center of Oporto (classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996). &nbsp; Those who know Oporto&#39;s layout may think this tour is something of a Mission Impossible. Well, there is good news and bad news. Let&#39;s start with the bad news: Oporto has some steep hills. Here&#39;s the good news: Our bikes are electric, surprisingly easy to ride, and eco-friendly. Go up and down Oporto&#39;s narrow streets without breaking a sweat. &nbsp; We have hand-picked the very best highlights of this gorgeous city for you to visit including Cordoaria Garden, Cl&eacute;rigos Tower, Gomes Teixeira Square, Lello Bookstore, C&acirc;ndido dos Reis and Galerias, Aliados Avenue, S&atilde;o Bento Train Station, Oporto Cathedral, Bridge D. Lu&iacute;s, and Ribeira. &nbsp;

Grab an electric bike and enjoy this unique way of getting acquainted with the lovely city of Oporto.&nbsp;

Historical Oporto by E-Bike 

Quinta da Aveleda is a beautiful private estate where a unique and still relatively unknown Portuguese wine is produced, called &ldquo;Vinho Verde,&rdquo; which literally means green wine.&nbsp; You will love the well-kept gardens and park, the charm of the owner&rsquo;s manor house, the fountain with the representation of the family, and the view of the vineyards. It all comes together during this guided visit that ends with a wine tasting.&nbsp; &ldquo;Vinho Verde&rdquo; is made at the demarcated region starting south of Oporto and continues eastwards all the way to the Spanish border. It is a light, semi-sparkling wine, which is bottled after production and not left to mature, like other wines, in casks of oak. Therefore, it is a wine to be consumed within a year of the harvest. Scenic drive to Penafiel (the town where Aveleda is located) while you discover the lovely countryside of northern Portugal.&nbsp; The large entrance gate of Aveleda is surrounded by magnificent century-old trees and, as you enter the estate, you will discover the beautiful gardens and vineyards. In this area, the vines are draped on trees or on specially built trellises to keep them clear of the ground. This technique serves a double purpose: first, to free the land beneath for cultivation and, second, to protect the vine against damp and parasitic rot.&nbsp; After touring the gardens, you will visit the bottling factory to see the wine-making process, followed by the highlight of the tour &ndash; a wine tasting.&nbsp; Drive back to Oporto and your awaiting ship. Please note: This tour involves approximately 45 minutes of walking over uneven ground and there are some steps to negotiate. Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair accessible.

An unexpected, enchanted garden is waiting for you at this lovely wine estate. Walk through all the greenery and, at the end, enjoy a nice wine, ensuring that&nbsp;your memories of this place come back to you in sights, scents, and flavors.&nbsp;

Quinta da Aveleda – The Green Wine Estate & its Gardens

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person (only one person in the party needs to book it). Private cars accommodate a maximum of two guests seated in the back of the vehicle. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 120 kilometers (approximately 74 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this experience require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated. &nbsp;

Private Half-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide - Oporto

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private van and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance with confirmation provided 72-hours following your request. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Private vans accommodate four guests comfortably with a maximum of six guests seated in the back of the vehicle. The guests in the middle seats will not have a window. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 120 kilometers (approximately 74 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.

Private Half-Day Van & English-Speaking Guide - Oporto

The attraction of the second largest city of this country lies in its workday atmosphere, and the city that we see today dates mainly from the 18th Century when trade was booming, and the merchants financed fine houses for themselves and fine buildings for their city that you will have the chance to see during this excursion. View the imposing Tower of Clerigos, the viewpoint, and control of the city, a Baroque 18th-century construction, as well as the cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque building that served as a church and fortress. Oporto has imposing streets and squares; the Avenida Dos Aliados, with its magnificent buildings, shows a prosperous city, part of an 18th-century European community, and that agriculture is not the be-all and end-all of northern Portugal. We then proceed to the &ldquo;Ribeira&rdquo; quarter, where we take a river cruise boat that gives us a different panoramic view over Oporto City and its impressive six bridges. Finally, on the other bank of the river, the city of Vila Nova de Gaia is where we will find the wine cellars of the well-known drink - port wine. We will visit one of the leading port wine cellars, followed by a port tasting before returning to your Crystal ship by motor coach.

Explore Oporto by land and from the water on this informative excursion. Take a cruise on the Douro River before arriving at a local wine cellar to taste the famous Port Wine. &nbsp;

Douro River Cruise & Port Wine Tasting

Take a walking tour to discover Oporto&rsquo;s old town and the splendid tiles adorning many historic buildings. Later visit a local port wine cellar to taste this special wine. &nbsp; Begin your exploration as you drive to the city center, which provides a glimpse of modern and old housing in Oporto. The working riverside area that became the elegant part of town for the wealthy families and the old warehouses now transformed into apartment blocks. The imposing Arr&aacute;bida Bridge is one of the six linking riversides. Inaugurated in 1963, it was innovative in terms of engineering and construction technics and turned the spotlight on a brilliant young engineer Edgar Cardoso, who has been unstoppable ever since. Passing under the bridge, we understand the light aspect of this robust structure and the arch subdivided in two to allow the strong winter wind to pass without damaging it. As we start our guided walking tour, you will see the striking Torre dos Cl&eacute;rigos which rises to a height of 75 meters and is staggered in six floors of different scales, ending in a beautiful and audacious crown, and then, on the side, the wonderful square in front of the Carmo church with 1912 hand painted tiles outside, the &#39;Lions&#39; fountain, one of the inspirations for the Harry Potter books that started to take shape at the Lello Bookstore, a temple for local culture since 1906. Walking down Aliados Avenue, you will find the 'beaux arts' buildings from the turn of the 20th century. For example, the train station, with its 20,000 hand-painted tiles, was done between 1916 and 1920, depicting both historical and daily episodes of Portugal. We will also see the Cathedral of Oporto. As you continue along the streets of Oporto, you will admire the fa&ccedil;ade of the Misericordia church. Our walk will take us to Ribeira, the old part of town, to see the full glory of the old harbor area. Enjoy some free time and then cross the lower deck of this fantastic bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia for a visit and a taste of the famous port wine.

Tour the streets of Oporto and down the riverside, crossing the bridge, to understand the local cuture. Then, visit a wine lodge for a taste of Oporto&rsquo;s famous Port Wine.&nbsp;

Oporto&#39;s Old Town Walk

Discover the world’s last colonial empire, turned bustling cosmopolitan city. Lisbon has dozens of Moorish castles, pastel buildings, and white sand beaches to explore. This Atlantic-coast city perfectly encapsulates Mediterranean charm with its wine, food, and architecture.

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