Canary Islands Cruise 2026 | Fleet Fiesta | Fred. Olsen

The winter sun in the Canaries makes this the perfect time to explore Tenerife and its beautiful beaches, including the man-made golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas in the north and the volcanic black sands of Puerto de la Cruz.Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, dominates Tenerife’s skyline, and its summit can be reached by cable car for spectacular views across the island and beyond. Meanwhile, as the waters surrounding the island are home to a diverse range of wildlife, there will be opportunities to spot pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The renowned “guachinches”, small, family-run restaurants, offer hearty Canarian food and are well worth discovering.

Las Palmas combines the vibrancy of a modern city with a rich maritime history, as well as perfectly clear waters lapping against golden beaches. At Christmas time, you can explore the charismatic Historic Quarter, home to the twin towers of Santa Ana Cathedral, built in a unique combination of Renaissance, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles, before discovering picturesque plazas and authentic tapas bars offering delicious dishes like “papas arrugadas” (wrinkly potatoes) with spicy majo sauce. Meanwhile, you could visit nearby Maspalomas, home to the renowned sand dunes that create a desert-like landscape or wander through its festive market for sweet treats and handmade products.

The lunar-like landscapes of Lanzarote are streaked in hues of orange, red, and yellow which contrast dramatically against the blue of the sea and the white-washed houses on the island. After exploring the mysterious volcanic terrain of Timanfaya National Park, with its geothermal demonstrations and magnificent backdrop of the Fire Mountains, you could be enjoying a stroll in the winter sun along one of the islands beaches or taking a dip in a natural pool. Arrecife’s picturesque lagoon of El Charco de San Ginés is a delight to wander round and enjoy dishes like boquerones at little cafés, while the Jameos del Agua cave, created by César Manrique, offers the chance to explore its unique volcanic formations.

The glorious island of Madeira is known as the ‘Garden Island’ due to its array of subtropical flowers and plants that seem to burst from every direction. From Funchal, you’ll be able to witness the floral beauty of the island at the exquisite garden in Monte, featuring themed gardens and tropical plants, while its levada walking trails offer unique views of enchanting forests and flowing streams. During December, you will have the opportunity to sample traditional foods and the renowned fortified Madeiran wine or visit one of Europe’s tallest cliffs, Cabo Girão, standing 580m above sea level, with a suspended glass platform viewpoint.

Visiting Lisbon in December allows for opportunities to explore at a slower pace, including marvelling at views across the city from the many miradouros (viewpoints). You will also be ideally placed for wandering along the labyrinth of cobblestoned streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, which offers a captivating journey through the city, from the grandeur of São Jorge Castle to the stirring rhythms of Fado music. There will also be opportunities to try local dishes like bacalhau (salt cod) or the deliciously crumbly Pastéis de Nata custard tart with a Portuguese espresso, known as Bica, ride through the city on a vintage tram, and visit the nearby fairytale-like town of Sintra, set against the backdrop of rolling hills.

Matosinhos is a delightful city to explore, where, during the winter months, the coastline offers a refreshing change of pace, with scenic walks along the promenade, sweeping ocean views and welcoming cafés overlooking the Atlantic. Venture further afield to Porto, and you’ll be offered opportunities to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and colourful houses of Ribeira, or perhaps take a boat trip along the Douro River to witness scenic landscapes of terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates known as quintas. Meanwhile, the city is well known for its production of Port wine, which can be sampled at one of the many wine cellars, or for enjoying Porto’s signature dish, Francesinha, a mouth-watering hearty sandwich of meat covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick sauce in an authentic Portuguese restaurant.