Spain Granada Cruise from Málaga to Dublin — 17 Days

Malaga, Spain

Málaga is more than a gateway to Andalusia; it is a port city with a confident life of its own. In the old centre, the Roman Theatre sits below the Moorish Alcazaba, while the cathedral rises above nearby streets. Visit the Picasso Museum or his birthplace, then try grilled sardines and local wine at a pavement table. The Mediterranean is close: city beaches, Atarazanas Market and palm-lined promenades make lingering easy.

At Sea (At Sea)

Funchal, Portugal

Funchal sits in a broad, sunlit amphitheatre above Madeira’s deep Atlantic harbour. Its compact centre rewards exploration, from the Old Town’s painted doors to the cathedral’s carved cedar ceiling. Ride the cable car uphill to Monte for sweeping views, then descend through gardens or by traditional wicker toboggan. Madeira’s wines and market produce offer a taste of the island before your ship sails.

At Sea (At Sea)

Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Ponta Delgada is the Azores’ Atlantic gateway, set on São Miguel, the archipelago’s largest island. Roads from the city lead to crater lakes, steaming fumaroles and the green caldera of Sete Cidades. In town, tiled churches and handsome squares reward an unhurried walk, while cafés serve local cheese and pineapple. Choose a scenic island drive, or explore the historic centre before returning to the waterfront.

Horta, Portugal

Horta sits on Faial, one of Portugal’s Azores, with Pico’s volcanic peak rising across the channel. Its marina is a landmark for Atlantic sailors, whose painted messages cover the breakwater. On shore, Peter Café Sport has welcomed generations of visiting crews. The nearby Scrimshaw Museum displays carved whale teeth and bones. Beyond town, drive to Capelinhos, where a 1957–58 eruption reshaped the coast, or walk the rim of Faial’s vast Caldeira.

Flores Island Azores, Portugal

Flores Island, Portugal’s westernmost Azorean island, rewards visitors with volcanic cliffs, crater lakes and waterfalls. At Fajã Grande, cascades descend the green escarpment toward the Atlantic, while Monchique Islet marks Europe’s western edge. Inland, Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida fill volcanic calderas, reached by roads that reveal the island’s changing landscapes. Come ashore for uncrowded trails, intimate villages and a side of Portugal far removed from the mainland.

Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Ponta Delgada is the Azores’ Atlantic gateway, set on São Miguel, the archipelago’s largest island. Roads from the city lead to crater lakes, steaming fumaroles and the green caldera of Sete Cidades. In town, tiled churches and handsome squares reward an unhurried walk, while cafés serve local cheese and pineapple. Choose a scenic island drive, or explore the historic centre before returning to the waterfront.

Angra do Heroismo, Portugal

Angra do Heroísmo is the Azores’ most compelling historic port, set on Terceira’s south coast. Its sheltered bay once served ships crossing the Atlantic, and the streets still reflect that maritime wealth. UNESCO-listed since 1983, the centre rewards an unhurried walk among pastel façades, churches and Praça Velha. Climb toward Monte Brasil for wide harbour views, then explore the vast 16th-century São João Baptista fortress.

At Sea (At Sea)

Bantry (Ask Travel Agent)

Aran Islands Ireland, Ireland

At Ireland’s western edge, the Aran Islands meet the Atlantic in limestone, wind and open sea. Three islands—Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr—preserve Irish-language traditions and a landscape shaped by generations of farming. On Inis Mór, the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa stands above sea cliffs, its stone ramparts facing the Atlantic. Walk or cycle quiet lanes past dry-stone walls, then pause for views that make the islands’ scale and isolation unmistakable.

• Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Skellig Islands Ireland (Scenic Stop)

Cobh-Cork, Ireland

Cork is Ireland’s most independent-minded city, built on islands in the River Lee and shaped by its maritime past. Most cruise ships berth at Cobh, a handsome harbour town about 15 miles from Cork. A direct railway connects the two. Browse the English Market, visit St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, or seek out the city’s cafés and pubs. Allow time for Blarney Castle, a short drive away.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is a city best explored on foot, where Georgian squares, lively lanes and centuries of history sit close together. From Dublin Port, the centre is a short drive away, making a day ashore easy to shape. See the Book of Kells at Trinity College, then trace the Liffey through the city centre. A pint in a traditional pub is an invitation to linger.