Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp is a city and municipality in Belgium and the capital of the Antwerp province of Flanders. Antwerp's total population is 507,007 (as of 31 December 2011),making it the largest municipality in both Flanders and Belgium in terms of its population
Antwerp has long been an important city in the Low Countries both economically and culturally, especially before the Spanish Fury (1576) in the period of the Dutch Revolt. It is located on the right (eastern) bank of the river Scheldt, which is linked to the North Sea by the estuary Westerschelde. The city has one of the largest seaports in Europe.
Brest, France
Brest is a centre of commerce, combining the cobbled streets and fortifications of the old port with all the attractions and facilities of the modern city.
Brest is a city in northwestern France. Located in a sheltered position,the city is an important harbour and the second French military port. Due to heavy bombing during World War II, the city of Brest does not have much remaining historical architecture, apart from a few select monuments such as the castle and the Tanguy tower. However, this is a nice place which takes us to the Navel history while visiting the marine museum. Also, a few kilometres out of town, there are more impressive landscapes, from sandy beaches to grottos to tall granite cliffs. In this place you can enjoy sunbathing, windsurfing, yachting and fishing. Finally, visiting Oceanapolis is highly recommended as you get in touch with penguins, sharks, tropical forests.
BRUGES (ZEEBRUGGE)
Nestled in the heart of Belgium, Bruges and Zeebrugge create a captivating contrast of historical grandeur and modern coastal allure. Bruges, with its enchanting medieval architecture and romantic canals, transports visitors back in time to a bygone era of prosperity and artistry. The Belfry Tower stands tall as a timeless symbol of the city's rich heritage, while the Church of Our Lady houses a treasured Michelangelo sculpture. As a contrast to Bruges' medieval charm, Zeebrugge boasts a thriving port, connecting Belgium to the world with its bustling maritime activity. Here, visitors can enjoy sun-drenched beaches and indulge in the region's famed seafood offerings. Zeebrugge's vibrant seafront promenade and modern amenities complement Bruges' timeless beauty, making this duo a captivating destination that seamlessly blends the past and the present.
Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao is a municipality and city in Spain, the capital of the province of Biscay in the autonomous community of the Basque Country. With a population of 353,187 as of 2010,it is the largest city of its autonomous community and the tenth largest in Spain. With roughly 1 million inhabitants, Bilbao lies within one of the most populous metropolitan areas in northern Spain. The Bilbao metropolitan area includes the comarca of Greater Bilbao (875,552) plus satellite towns, ranking the fifth largest in Spain.
Concarneau, France
Boasting a rich historical heritage, the "blue town" of Concarneau developed from an old fortified island, the Ville Close. It was built on a rocky islet and ramparts were erected around it in the 13th century, then remodelled in the 17th century by Vauban. This strategic position made it a first-rate military and trading site, which would require the town to be extended as time went by, with the addition of several suburbs and neighbouring villages. You can access the fortifications during the school holidays thanks to the Heritage House (Maison du Patrimoine), which provides access to the ramparts via the Governor's tower. From there, you can enjoy an impressive view of the Bay of Concarneau, the fishing harbour and the marina. Inside the Ville Close are the pretty, narrow streets of restaurants and shops that make this Finistère town so charming…An active fishing port, Concarneau tells the story of maritime activity at the Fishing Museum, with an impressive collection of boats, scale models and everyday objects used by sailors.
La Coruna, Spain
If there was ever a maritime city, it would be La Coruna. It was a world port-gateway for travelers for over 2000 years. The visitor can enjoy the panoramic ocean view from almost every point of the city.
Lisbon, Portugal
Discover the captivating views of the city and harbor from the Alto do Parque Belvedere Park. Take a bike and go for a walk along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. See the fascinating marine life to the aquarium in Lisbon. Visit the charming village of Fatima, where is said that Virgin Mary had been seen by many people. Visit the St George Kasteo with multimedia reports of the city's history and breathtaking views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.
Oporto, Portugal
Porto is one of the oldest European centres and the second largest city in Portugal. Many archaeological ruins from the Roman times indicate its interesting history. Baroque carvings, the Douro Valley and the Porto river make the city one of the most charming cities in Europe. Its beautiful monuments by well-known architects such as Gustave Eiffel's Dona Maria Bridge make the city an atmospheric place. Do not miss to taste the sweet local wine, the famous Porto.
