A&K x Crystal Cruises: French Riviera to Lisbon

Meeting the Mediterranean with fleets of moored mega yachts and rows of terraced Belle Époque villas, Monte Carlo weaves its meandering footprint into the base of the Maritime Alps. This sparkling leading lady of the French Riviera hosts Michelin-starred restaurants, exclusive boutiques, the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo and a legendary Formula One grand prix.

Delve into the French Riviera as you sample authentic local cuisine in the markets and shops of Nice. Then, head into the hills to explore the artistic enclave of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, home to the Chapelle du Rosaire — a masterpiece of tile and stained-glass regarded as the culmination of Henri Maitisse’s life’s work. Alternatively, hike the pebble beaches and fragrant pine groves of Cap Martin, gain VIP access to the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo or create your own signature scent in one of France’s most renowned perfumeries.

Explore the vast car collection of His Serene Highness Prince Rainier III with an exclusive, early-access visit to the Prince’s Palace of Monaco. Or, head to the refined coastal enclaves of Menton and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, each with its own story to tell. A visit to the vineyards of the Bellet wine region is also on offer. Afterward, head to the Monte Carlo waterfront to board your vessel.

A cypress-dotted vision of Italian beauty, Tuscany charms like a Medici prince, capturing the very essence of the nation’s heartland. Stroll Livorno’s markets as you sample local bites. Then, ascend the hills overlooking the port to visit a pilgrimage site honoring the Madonna of Montenero. Or, head further afield to stroll Lucca’s picturesque town center and explore Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower, Baptistery, Campo Santo and Duomo. A visit to the Carrara marble quarries is also on offer.

The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, the mountainous island of Corsica juts imposingly from the Mediterranean, as bold and proud as the French emperor himself. Walk in Napoleon’s footsteps as you stroll amid the cobbled lanes, baroque churches and neoclassical facades of Ajaccio, pausing to taste Corsican charcuterie and visit the Maison Bonaparte. Alternatively, head to the hills of Mezzavia to visit one of the region’s oldest vineyards.

The easternmost of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Menorca charms with its postcard-perfect ports, pastoral interior and laid-back vibe. Come ashore in the island’s historic capital of Mahón to stroll the waterfront promenade and visit a local winery. Alternatively, visit a private estate for an exclusive culinary experience, explore the island’s former capital of Ciutadella, or hike the pine forests, salt flats and sandy beaches of Es Grau.

Artist Antoni Gaudí made the paintbrush-straight avenues and leafy squares of the Catalan capital his living studio. Explore this legacy in the mosaics of Parc Güell and in the gingerbread spires of Sagrada Família, a basilica 144 years in the making. Or, head to the labyrinthine lanes and quiet squares of the medieval Gothic Quarter to visit the magnificent 13th-century cathedral and Santa Maria del Mar Church. Alternatively, take a day trip to the pink-hued peaks and Black Madonna of Serra de Montserrat.

Continue your exploration with visits to Barcelona’s Montjuïc Hill, Olympic complex, and majestic MNAC (National Museum of Catalan Art). Or, delve deeper into the Gaudí legacy at the Casa Batlló Museum and Casa Milà, one of Barcelona’s best-known Art Nouveau buildings.

Relax as you cruise toward Málaga, taking advantage of the ship’s amenities along the way. En route, the team sets the stage for tomorrow’s shore excursions with a series of enriching presentations.

For eight centuries, Spain’s Andalusia region straddled the crossroads of Christianity and Islam. Here, ancient mosques became churches, cuisine is infused with North African spices, and hammams and teterías (teahouses) lend a Moorish feel. The port city of Málaga serves as your gateway to Andalusia and the alluring Costa del Sol as you discover the Alhambra’s Alcazaba fortress, Royal Palace and Generalife Gardens; escape to the charming hilltop town of Ronda; sample the region’s wines, tapas and paella; or traverse the dramatic Gaitanes Gorge on a hike of the Caminito del Rey.

Cruise through the Straits of Gibraltar to the naval bastion of Cádiz, a port that once served as a main artery of the Phoenician and Spanish empires. From here, discover Andalusia’s iconic white villages of Ubrique, El Bosque and Arcos de la Frontera; delve into the region’s vibrant capital of Seville; or explore the sherry-making heritage of Jerez de la Frontera.

The southernmost region of continental Portugal, the Algarve is known for its sunny beaches, coastal cliffs and mysterious sea caves. Come ashore in Portimão’s bustling marina, where you board a small boat for a cruise of Ponta da Piedade’s cut cliffs and sea caves. Alternatively, drive inland to take in the rugged beauty of Mount Fóia and the cliffs of Carvoeiro, or the Moorish enclaves of Loulé and Silves.

Disembark Crystal Symphony in Lisbon and head to the airport, or continue on your post-tour extension.