The coastline of Southern Europe is a heady mix of breathtaking landscapes and enchanting coastlines; few can resist exploring, especially from the comfort of a luxury cruise ship.
This is the right time to book a spontaneous getaway to take your family on a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise through Spain, France, and Italy and take advantage of last-minute rates and discounts on special services, to turn a dream voyage into an affordable reality.
Day One: Barcelona, Spain
Departure: 6 pm
Your epic trip begins in the vibrant city of Barcelona, known for its rich history and stunning architecture dating back to 2000 years and a world-class drinking and dining scene. Today, without doubt, this is the most visited city in Spain.
As you board your cruise ship you will be welcomed with the sight of iconic spires of Sagrada Familia in the distance. But before sailing, remember to stroll the famous boulevard of La Ramblas, and explore the Gothic Quarter and the unmissable Park Guell, an Antoni Gaudi masterpiece.
As evening falls, you will set sail on your epic journey and be treated to a stunning sunset over the skyline of Barcelona from the harbor.
Day Two: Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Between 8 am to 4 pm
Watch Barcelona’s imposing harbor fade into the distance as you sail towards the Spanish island of Mallorca and its hidden gem the capital, Palma de Mallorca. As you cruise into this charming town, check out the famous Palma Cathedral and its impressive 14th century Gothic spires and its modern interior designed by Gaudi in the early 1900s.
Next, spend time admiring the arches and circular courtyard of Castell de Bellver, surrounded by miles and miles of pine forest and take in the scent of the fresh trees. Before heading back to the ship, rent a bike and pedal to Palma Beach and soak in the sun. If historic sites don’t interest you, rent a boat to explore the coastline of Mallorca from a different perspective.
Day Three: Provence, France
Between 9 am to 6 pm
The best time to explore the oldest city in France, Marseille and experience its Provencal beauty is early morning. So head straight to the Quai des Belges fish market which has been operating for more than 2,500 years. Stroll along the promenade and admire the 18th century Roman warehouse and the huge ceramic jugs which can hold 2000 gallons of water.
As you cruise to Provence check out the Byzantine style Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde which was built in the 19th century and the golden statue of Virgin Mary and the child inside it. Admire the Mediterranean cultural artefacts at MuCEM or if you love nature, go on a thirty minutes drive outside the city to the Calanques National Park and take in the awesome views of limestone cliffs.
Day Four: Florence/Pisa, Italy
Between 8:30 am to 8:30 pm
Your next port of call on the fourth morning will be on the port of La Spezia, located in north Italy on the border of Tuscany and Liguria. This also happens to be the ideal gateway to the two most popular cities of the country, Florence and Pisa. Head straight to the famous leaning tower and its sister structure, the Pisa Cathedral.
The other alternative is to enjoy your shore excursion at Florence, which is a two hour train ride, and get to see the world famous Duomo(done) and climb to the top to enjoy 360° views of the city. Before catching the return train, stroll through the San Lorenzo market and enjoy the heady smell of the spices and truffles with an espresso in hand.
Day Five: Civitavecchia, Rome, Italy
Between 7 am to 8 pm
Rome holds a distinct edge when it comes to adventure because of the 28 hundred years of history behind it. The once-largest empire in the world is a mix of ancient Roman ruins, world famous art, and a lively street culture. As you enjoy pasta in any Trattoria you will be able to recall the days of ancient Rome at the Colosseum, the battleground of gladiators.
Meander around the Roman Forum and admire its ruins and the crumbling basilicas and temples. Go to Palatine Hill, home of the former emperors of Rome and take a close look at the very well restored 2000 years old Pantheon Church. Please note that the train from Civitavecchia to the Eternal City takes eighty minutes one way.
Day Six: Naples, Italy
Between 7 am to 8 pm
With Mount Vesuvius towering over the skyline of Naples, this bustling Italian city and its neoclassical architecture will be your stop on the early morning of your sixth day on the sea. Go deep into history at the Gesu Nuovo Church or visit the San Gennaro catacombs, the burial ground of the bishops of the 2nd century AD These underground chambers can only be visited on a guided tour, so make sure your cruise operator books it well in advance.
Walk through the “Holy Mile” and watch the world go by or grab a sweet espresso and wander past the shops and cafes of the Sanitary District. Finally, take a short bus ride to the base of Mount Vesuvius and climb to the summit by an easy thirty-minute hike. Later on, take a tour of the ruined city of the volcano-hit Pompeii.
Day Seven: Cruising at sea
After several days of hectic sightseeing and shore excursions enjoying the beautiful coastal cities of southern Europe, it is time to relax and unwind on a day of cruising at sea. Additionally, you get a golden opportunity to enjoy the onboard amenities in full as you sail past the azure blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Enjoy the fresh seafood breeze after a leisurely breakfast and spend the rest of the morning lounging by the pool or indulge in a spa treatment at the ship’s wellness center. Some cruise ships offer a range of activities like cooking classes, a fitness center and talks and lectures on the destinations in the itinerary.
Cruise ships also have shopping outlets, where passengers can purchase duty-free goods, ranging from exclusive clothing to designer jewelry. Dress up for the formal farewell Captains Dinner in the evening and afterwards find a quiet spot on the deck to watch the stars in sky
Day eight: Barcelona, Spain
Arrival 5 am
You arrive early in the morning on the eighth day back to Barcelona. Bud farewell to the crew and fellow cruisers and take it as one last opportunity to visit some of the top attractions which you may have missed when you first arrived in this beautiful city
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