Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal’s second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance, and is best known as the home of the country’s most famous export, port wine.

The Galician city of Ferrol, birthplace of General Franco, doesn’t feature on too many tourist itineraries, though maritime enthusiasts may enjoy a visit to the 18th-century shipyards. Most cruise visitors will use Ferrol as a base to explore Galicia’s wild coast, the nearby city of La Coruña or the famous pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela.

Holyhead is best known as the departure point for ferries to Ireland, but it’s also the gateway to the enchanting island of Anglesey. This green and ancient land was once a druid stronghold, and the rugged landscape is crowned with some of the most beautiful castles in Wales.

Disagreements over the correct name for Northern Ireland’s second city date back to 1613, and are unlikely to be resolved any time soon, so let’s focus instead on what the city has to offer. Highlights include the 17th century city walls, a vibrant live music scene and a city centre rejuvenated by Derry’s stint as UK Capital of Culture in 2013. (Greencastle is actually in the Republic, but it's a short drive south to Derry.)

Saint-Malo grew rich off the back of maritime trade and its plundering corsairs, a seafaring heritage that is still proudly on display today. It’s great fun getting lost in the streets of the walled old town, and the famous medieval abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is an easy day-trip.

An important naval base and major commercial port, Cherbourg is the gateway to the many attractions of Normandy, including the Bayeux Tapestry and the beaches where the D-Day landings took place. Cherbourg’s excellent Cité de la Mer maritime museum is also well worth a visit.