P&O Cruises Short Break Holidays

P&O Cruises Short Break Holidays

P&O Cruises Short Break Holidays

Here’s a flavour of some of the fantastic places you can visit on one of P&O Cruises Short Breaks. And don’t forget, they offer a wide range of exciting shore excursions at almost every port of call.

St Peter Port, Guernsey. A busy port since Roman times and one-time home of Victor Hugo, Guernsey's capital, St Peter Port, is the prettiest town in the Channel Islands with fine Georgian and Regency houses, tumbling terraced gardens, winding streets and hidden leafy alleyways. The best way to discover the true beauty of Guernsey is on foot, exploring the Ruettes - tranquil, quiet lanes that are dedicated to walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

Hamburg, Germany. On the banks of the Elbe River, 70 miles inland from Travemünde, lies the city of Hamburg. Germany’s second-largest city is bursting with centuries of maritime heritage: a key Hanseatic port in the Middle Ages, today it’s an irresistibly cool blend of old and new, with a buzzing nightlife of brewhouses, cocktail bars and clubs. With more than 2,300 bridges (more than Venice, London and Amsterdam combined) and many parks (it's one of Germany's greenest cities), Hamburg is a delight to explore.

Le Havre, France. With a sweeping beach, thriving shopping centres and attractive docksides to explore, Le Havre has a lot to offer. This bustling French port serves up memorable sights from across the ages. The modern city centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its spectacular post-war reconstruction by Auguste Perret. For more works of art, visit MuMa (the Museum of Modern Art) where Monet's Waterlilies float alongside many Impressionist masterpieces.

Amsterdam (from IJmuiden), The Netherlands. Amsterdam is a uniquely beautiful city with its picturesque canal network, rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Amsterdam’s neighbourhoods offer distinctive atmospheres. The city’s famous red light district in De Wallen has a unique charm and history of its own – and standing proud in its midst is Oude Kerk (the Old Church), the city’s oldest building dating back to the 1200s. Capture its true spirit by exploring the narrow winding streets, bustling bars and eclectic shops of Joordan, its fascinating old district. Visit Leidseplein Square with its street performers and ice skating rink surrounded by lovely food stalls. Amsterdam Noord, meanwhile, has blossomed into a cultural hipster hub. The charming ‘village in the city’ is a green and family-friendly place for pottering with fun activities, street markets and fresh foodie venues.

Zeebrugge, Belgium. Understand that Zeebrugge literally means Bruges-on-Sea and you immediately appreciate why this ferry port is also Belgium's major cruise port. A medieval jewel on the North Sea, the charming city of Bruges is just 10 miles away. Sometimes called the Venice of the North because of the picturesque criss-crossing canals on which you can enjoy fascinating and romantic boat rides, Bruges actually has a character all its own.

Cherbourg, France. Now officially known as Cherbourg-Octeville, having formed a union with the smaller city in 2000, Cherbourg cruise port has long been a gateway between Britain and France. Well worth a visit is Cherbourg's aquarium, allowing visitors to explore the many facets of underwater exploration. Another must see is the Gothic-style Benedictine Abbey Mont St Michel, perched on a rocky islet near the port. Alternatively simply sit at a traditional French café and enjoy a drink while watching the boats as they come and go from the harbour.