Italy, Africa & Iberia Discovery

From $9,398 per person

15 days

1 countries

Ships: Viking Astrea, Viking Vela

Journey Summary

Detailed Itinerary

Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.

Extensions

Available extensions for this itinerary

All prices are per person.

post: Basque Country: Bilbao & San Sebastián 5 nights

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post: Basque Country: Bilbao & San Sebastián  5 nights

Discover Spain’s Basque Country, a region with its own distinct language, culture and cuisine. Sample wine in Rioja, savor delectable pintxos and explore Bilbao’s modern art at the iconic Guggenheim. Delve into Guernica’s history and journey through Zaragoza, home to medieval treasures.

Day 1 – Zaragoza & San Sebastián, Spain

Disembark your ship in Barcelona and transfer to the train station for a high-speed train to Zaragoza, Spain’s fifth-most populous city. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a walking tour of its notable landmarks, including the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, one of Spain’s most important pilgrimage sites. After free time for lunch on your own, board your motor coach and transfer to San Sebastián to check in to your hotel. The evening is yours to spend at your leisure.

Day 2 – San Sebastián, Spain

Following breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a panoramic drive to the hilltop setting of Monte Igueldo for views over the city. After time for photos, head to the old town for a leisurely walking tour to sample a selection of typical pintxos, the Basque region’s distinct version of tapas. The charismatic old town is a maze of medieval streets featuring shops, bars and hidden squares. Enjoy free time here to explore on your own before returning to your hotel for an evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 3 – Guernica, Spain

Today, visit Guernica, famously razed to the ground by German aircraft during the Spanish Civil War in 1937; the atrocity inspired Pablo Picasso’s painting. Next, head to Bermeo, a colorful town with a strong fishing heritage, for a guided tour and time to explore on your own. Continue to the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe viewpoint and a nearby restaurant for lunch, after which you may join a hike to the top of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe before heading to Bilbao and your hotel. (B, L)

Day 4 – Bilbao, Spain

See the sights of Bilbao’s old quarter and head to La Ribera to meet a local chef who will introduce you to the region’s cuisine, including its famous pintxos—small appetizers topped on a slice of baguette. At a local txoko, a traditional Basque restaurant, attend a cooking demonstration and sample the prepared dishes for lunch. Continue to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, to explore its repository of modern art. Return to your hotel for an evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 5 – Rioja Wine Region, Spain

Journey to Laguardia, the capital of the La Rioja Alavesa region, and take a guided walk around its medieval center. Continue to the Marques de Riscal City of Wine vineyard, one of Rioja’s most beloved winemakers, for a wine tasting and lunch. Considered the Spanish château of the 21st century, the vast complex combines historic cellars, award-winning dining and an avant-garde hotel designed by Frank Gehry. Enjoy a lunch of local dishes paired with wine before returning to your hotel. (B, L)

Day 6 – Bilbao, Spain

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Dates and Prices

(per person*)

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* Per double occupancy. Some pricing may reflect single traveler rate.

** Double asterisk - for reverse direction indication

Ship

Your cruise ship

Viking Astrea
Viking Ocean Cruises logo
About this ship

Viking Astrea

Viking Astrea, entering service in 2027, is part of the next generation of Viking’s celebrated ocean fleet. Designed to host 998 guests, this elegant, all-veranda vessel will preserve Viking’s acclaimed small-ship ethos while offering enhanced space, elevated amenities, and new destinations. Built with the mature traveler in mind, Viking Astrea embodies the brand’s signature fusion of Scandinavian design, cultural depth, and destination-first cruising.

Like her ocean-class siblings, Viking Astrea will feature a sleek, modern design that prioritizes light, open spaces and a seamless connection to the sea. Every stateroom aboard will offer a private veranda—ensuring each guest has uninterrupted ocean views and a quiet retreat. Interiors will showcase the understated elegance that Viking is known for: clean lines, warm woods, soft textiles, and curated artwork that evoke a sense of calm sophistication.

Accommodations aboard Viking Astrea will be thoughtfully arranged across multiple categories, from spacious Veranda Staterooms to expansive Explorer Suites and the indulgent Owner’s Suite. Standard features will include king-size beds, large bathrooms with walk-in glass showers and heated floors, in-room espresso machines, and quiet, residential-style décor. The largest suites will offer wraparound verandas, separate living and dining areas, and exclusive privileges including priority reservations and complimentary laundry.

Dining aboard Viking Astrea will continue the brand’s culinary excellence with a range of inspired venues. The Restaurant will serve globally influenced menus that reflect the day’s destination. Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant delivers rustic, regional fare, while The Chef’s Table rotates themed tasting menus with wine pairings. The World Café will offer fresh, market-style selections and open kitchens, and Mamsen’s will serve Norwegian comfort food. With complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks served at lunch and dinner, guests enjoy a relaxed yet refined dining experience.

Public spaces will echo Viking’s dedication to enrichment and quiet luxury. The Explorer’s Lounge will offer forward-facing views and cozy corners for reading or conversation. The Wintergarden provides a tranquil setting for afternoon tea, while the Aquavit Terrace will serve as an ideal outdoor gathering place. The LivNordic Spa will include Viking’s signature thermal suite—complete with snow grotto, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and heated loungers—alongside a full menu of wellness services.

Programming will emphasize cultural immersion, with onboard lectures by historians, scientists, and authors that complement the journey’s destinations. Guests will enjoy included shore excursions in every port, plus options for more specialized experiences. Onboard entertainment will include classical music performances, destination-themed shows, and presentations in the high-tech theater.

Deckplans

Viking Astrea ship deck plan
Viking Astrea ship deck plan 2

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*$250 credit applies to a non-cruise portion of your booking and is only available to new clients who have not previously booked with Small Ship Travel.

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