Valencia, Spain

Lladro’s beautiful porcelain figurines decorate homes all over the world - and here’s your chance to see where they originate from. We’ll take you to the famous factory of Lladro just outside of town, to see how the much-loved porcelain is produced. The origins of Lladro can be traced back to a tiny workshop built in a town near Valencia back in the 1950s. It was a family business set up by three brothers, Juan, José and Vicente Lladro. Today, the company exports to more than 120 countries. Once you’ve had a look round, it’s time to leave the factory and set off on a guided tour of Valencia. We’ll take you through the city centre, where the architecture is a mix of Arabian and Gothic styles. Head to Plaza de la Virgen and stand in the shadow of the cathedral. Now this place is a real grab-bag of styles ranging from Roman and Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque. Have a look inside then head over to the Basilica de los Desemparados. Built in the 17th century, it’s one of the most important religious buildings in the city. Next up is a walking tour of the old quarter known as El Carmen, before making your way back to the pier. En route we’ll call in at a Lladró shop near the factory.

This easy-going tour does exactly what it say on the tin. A coach will whizz you from the ship to the centre of Valencia, ready for a short, guided walking tour of the old quarter. There’s plenty to see en route. Think Gothic monuments, Renaissance architecture and elegant art nouveau buildings. Part two takes in Oceanografic, the biggest aquarium in Europe. There you’ll find over 500 different marine species ranging from sea urchins and sharks to whales and walruses.