From the rugged cliffs of Vigo to the timeless charm of Paris, the European Cruise with Lysa TerKeurst isn’t just a vacation—it’s a magnificent experience through Scripture and some of Europe’s most captivating cities. You’ll make stops in Vigo, Bilbao, La Coruna, and Paris (Le Havre). Keep reading for our recommendations of things to do at each stop!
Spend a day in London on the front or back end of your trip
- Visit Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben.
- We recommend the big hop-on, hop-off bus tours that will take you all over London to see the sites.
- Visit Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Oxford on the way south to Southampton from London.
- Ride the London Eye! One of London’s most recognizable and in-demand attractions, the lastminute.com London Eye welcomes millions of visitors every year. Save yourself any sightseeing hassle and secure your admission before you travel when you book your tickets in advance.
- Take a boat ride down the Thames River to see London sites from the water.
Bilbao, Spain
In Bilbao, you must visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum, explore the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town) for pintxos (Basque tapas), and the Ribera Market, ride the Artxanda Funicular for views, stroll the riverside, and experience local culture at Azkuna Zentroa, with nearby day trips to the dramatic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and the historic Vizcaya Bridge.
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: See contemporary art and marvel at the building’s Frank Gehry architecture, plus the famous Puppy sculpture.
- Bilbao Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes): A major art museum with Basque and Spanish works.
- Azkuna Zentroa: A unique cultural center in a former wine warehouse with stunning design.
- Arriaga Theatre: Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic theatre.
Vigo, Spain:
- Casco Vello (Old Town): Wander through its narrow streets, visit the Co-Cathedral, and see the Praza Porta do Sol.
- Monte O Castro: Climb this hill for historic ruins, fortifications, and breathtaking views of the harbor. (we did this on the site and have images of Chaz and Lysa at the top!)
- MARCO (Vigo Museum of Contemporary Art): Housed in a former prison, it features modern art exhibitions.
- Museo do Mar de Galicia (Museum of the Sea): Explore Galicia’s maritime history in a unique setting by the sea.
- Quiñones de León Museum: A beautiful manor house and museum showcasing Galician art.
- Islas Cíes: Take a ferry to this protected archipelago for stunning white-sand beaches and hiking
La Coruna, Spain
La Coruña offers a mix of history, stunning coastlines, and culture, with top activities including visiting the ancient Tower of Hercules, exploring the beautiful Praza de María Pita, walking the Paseo Marítimo (coastal path), relaxing on Riazor & Orzán beaches, and discovering museums like the Picasso Museum, Aquarium Finisterrae, or the interactive Domus (House of Man), plus enjoying local food and the unique glass-fronted architecture.
- Visit Monte de San Pedro, the Castles of San Anton, and the Tower of Hercules.
- Picasso Museum: See works from Pablo Picasso’s childhood years in the city.
- Aquarium Finisterrae: Visit an oceanographic center with seals and touch tanks.
- Domus (House of Man): An interactive museum about the human body.
- MUNCYT: The National Museum of Science and Technology.
- Riazor & Orzán Beaches: Popular city beaches perfect for walking, surfing, or relaxing.
Le Havre, France
- Take a day trip to Paris to see the stunning sites of Paris like the Eiffel Tower.
The distance from Le Havre to Paris is approximately 110 miles (177 km) by train or about 123 miles (196 km) by road. Travel times vary by mode of transport:
- Train: the fastest and most recommended way, taking about 2 hours and 5 minutes on a direct service from Le Havre station to Paris Saint-Lazare station. Prices start around $20.00 (€16-€19).
- Car/Taxi: Driving can take around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending heavily on traffic conditions. The A13 is the most direct route and is a toll road.
- Bus: The most budget-friendly option, with direct routes taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to 3 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the operator and traffic. Tickets can be found for as low as $9 (€8).
- Rideshare: A shared car journey can take about 2 hours and 37 minutes and costs around €13, making it a cheaper option than driving alone or taking the train.
Cherbourg, France
- Day trip to the beaches of Normandy (45 minute drive).
- Take a French cooking class.
- Tour Mont Saint Michel.
