Western Mediterranean Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Rome (Civitavecchia) , Italy | Valencia , Spain | Palma De Mallorca , Spain | Barcelona , Spain | Nice (Villefranche) , France | Florence / Pisa (La Spezia) , Italy | Rome (Civitavecchia) , Italy
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EXPLORER OF THE SEAS
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
BORN TO ROME
The Eternal City endures with endless adventures. Sip a cappuccino in an al fresco café and watch the city wake. Peruse ancient artifacts in National Roman Museum and Italian masterworks in Villa Borghese. Or learn about the ancestors of the Romans at the National Etruscan Museum.
The Eternal City endures with endless adventures. Sip a cappuccino in an al fresco café and watch the city wake. Peruse ancient artifacts in National Roman Museum and Italian masterworks in Villa Borghese. Or learn about the ancestors of the Romans at the National Etruscan Museum.
in Rome (Civitavecchia)
ANCIENT AND AMAZING
Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
ADVENTURE SQUARED
Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
SACRED SPACES
Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
LOCAL CUISINE
Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
SHOPPING
Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.
INSIDER TIP
The train ride between Civitavecchia and Rome is approximately 80 minutes each way.
CRUISING
CAN'T MISS FAVORITES
Things To Do
NOW BOARDING FOR ADVENTURE
Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Valencia, Spain
PLAZAS AND PAELLA
Start your day in Valencia by roaming the cobblestone streets of Barrio del Carmen — walk along the 11th-century city walls built by the Moors before popping to one of the neighborhood's many restaurants for seafood-packed paella. Head to El Cabanyal, the old fishermen's quarter near the beach, to enjoy the sunshine and fresh seafood. Then, soak in the Mediterranean sun and bright-blue waters at Malvarrosa Beach.
Start your day in Valencia by roaming the cobblestone streets of Barrio del Carmen — walk along the 11th-century city walls built by the Moors before popping to one of the neighborhood's many restaurants for seafood-packed paella. Head to El Cabanyal, the old fishermen's quarter near the beach, to enjoy the sunshine and fresh seafood. Then, soak in the Mediterranean sun and bright-blue waters at Malvarrosa Beach.
in Valencia
Get Gothic
Architecture lovers will fall in love with the Old Town of Valencia. The winding lanes are filled with a mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture, including the Cathedral and Plaza del Virgen. Grab your camera and climb the 207 steps of the 13th-century Cathedral bell tower for a stunning view of the city to the countryside and the sea.
Arts and Carafe
Venture outside of the Old Town and over to the City of Arts and Sciences. Spend a few hours admiring the modern design of the futuristic buildings by Santiago Calatrava. Check out the Oceanografic Aquarium, home to a wide variety of sharks, belugas and walruses. Afterward, relax outside in the sunshine and beautiful gardens.
Go to Market
One of Europe's longest-running food markets, Central Market is the place to go to sample Valencia's seasonal produce, such as artichokes and pears. To beat the crowds, head here early in the morning to enjoy a warm espresso while you shop. Once properly caffeinated, watch as locals do their daily shopping and admire the stained-glass domes and mosaic details.
Local Cuisine
In Valencia, you'll find plenty of tapas to sample, but you can't leave without enjoying paella. The classic Spanish dish has its roots in this seaside city, where it's usually served up with rabbit, chicken, asparagus and local snails. If you prefer pasta over rice, go in for fideua, a hearty dish of pan-fried noodles piled with local seafood like squid, shrimp or monkfish.
Shopping
Head to the Old Town of Valencia during your cruise to find some of the best shops offering handmade fans, embroidered silk shawls and Lladro porcelain. If you happen to end up in the city on the weekend, browse the stalls at the flea market in Plaza Redonda.
INSIDER TIP
The city center is very walkable, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your day.
Palma De Mallorca, Spain
SPAIN'S ISLE OF PALMS
Palma de Mallorca is the perfect place to immerse yourself in history and beauty. Go back in time to the 14th century at Bellver Castle, with its mix of Arab arches and Roman-inspired fortification. Catch a wave on the golden sands of El Arenal beach. Then, tuck into cocarrois, a local take on empanadas, or cool off in the quiet gardens and medieval ruins of the 10th-century Arab Baths.
Palma de Mallorca is the perfect place to immerse yourself in history and beauty. Go back in time to the 14th century at Bellver Castle, with its mix of Arab arches and Roman-inspired fortification. Catch a wave on the golden sands of El Arenal beach. Then, tuck into cocarrois, a local take on empanadas, or cool off in the quiet gardens and medieval ruins of the 10th-century Arab Baths.
in Palma De Mallorca
Castles and Cathedrals
Palma de Mallorca's historic places look like something out of "Game of Thrones." Whether you traipse through the courtyard of 14th-century Bellver Castle or say your prayers inside Gothic Palma Cathedral, Palma de Mallorca can transport you back to medieval times. Your can also see the city's unique Arab influence dating back to the 10th-century Moorish conquest at spots like the Arab Baths.
Get Your Beach On
It's no surprise that Palma de Mallorca is home to some of the world's best beaches — what's astonishing is just how clear blue the water is at Cala Llombards, or how the warm, golden sands of Playa El Arenal will make you wish you never had to leave. No wonder so many red and yellow umbrellas dot the sands here.
Explore a Dragon's Lair
Head to Porto Cristo on the east side of the island, where you'll find the Cuevas del Drach — the dragon caves. While no actual dragons have been spotted here, the stalactites and stalagmites of this ancient underground cave make it easy to imagine. You can even take a violin-serenaded boat ride on the cave's underground lake during your cruise.
Local Cuisine
Mallorca is technically part of Spain, but Palma de Mallorca's cuisine is a world unto itself. Savor tombet, a vegetarian stew with sweet potatoes and carrots that's Mallorca's take on ratatouille. Cruise to Palma de Mallorca to sample the eclectic coca mallorquina, a kind of crunchy flatbread pizza with an olive oil-rich crust topped with roasted red peppers.
Shopping
Palma's premier shopping is to be had in the Passeig de Born neighborhood. Shop here for upscale brands like Mulberry and Zara. Then, head to Jaume III and Sant Miquel streets for boutiques specializing in fine local goods: Choose a necklace or earrings made with world-famous Mallorcan pearls, try on a pair of handmaid Menorquina sandals, or marvel at handicrafts like colorful pottery and traditional straw bags.
INSIDER TIP
If you're more interested in ocean time than historic sites, book a boat tour to see the coastline of Mallorca from the sunlit waves.
Barcelona, Spain
A MOSAIC OF ADVENTURE
Barcelona is bursting at the seams with culture and adventure. Marvel at modernist facades designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Meander along the whimsical garden pathways of Park Güell. Take a chef-led Catalan cooking class, relish citywide views atop Montjuïc Hill— even swim with sharks at one of Europe’s largest aquariums.
Barcelona is bursting at the seams with culture and adventure. Marvel at modernist facades designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Meander along the whimsical garden pathways of Park Güell. Take a chef-led Catalan cooking class, relish citywide views atop Montjuïc Hill— even swim with sharks at one of Europe’s largest aquariums.
in Barcelona
SKY HIGH DELIGHTS
Get an up-close glimpse of La Sagrada Família, a cathedral masterwork designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at its sky-piercing spires and then step inside to admire intricate mosaics, Montjuïc stone pillars and the Nativity façade. You can even climb to the tippy-top of the spires for panoramic city views.
SEAS THE DAY
With seven beaches spanning more than two miles of Mediterranean coastline, Barcelona’s harborfront is known for some of the world’s best sun-seeking and on-the-sea adventures. Lounge along the shore, kayak deep blue waters— or charter a fishing trip for the chance to reel in tuna, swordfish or Mediterranean spearfish.
IN THE MIX
Take a stroll along La Rambla’s pedestrian boulevard to experience the city’s pure essence. Souvenir shops, street artists, flower stalls, sidewalk cafes and Catalan folk sardana dancers set a lively scene. Its marvelous centerpiece, La Catedral, dates from the 1200s— and its tower delivers sweeping views of medieval Barcelona.
LOCAL CUISINE
Barcelona has mastered the art of eating. Many restaurants serve up creative nueva cocina española, while waterfront spots dish out seafood paella and multi-course lunch menus include a glass of sparkling cava wine. For a taste of Catalan cooking, try pa amb tomàquet (tomato-topped bread). Or nibble on Spanish tapas (bite-sized appetizers) around the bar like a local, with house-made vermouth in hand.
SHOPPING
You could spend hours checking out the markets of Barcelona for high-quality leatherwear, jewelry, old books and unique housewares. Passeig de Gràcia and Barcelona Shopping Line are two popular retail promenades— and the Gothic Quarter is home to dozens of family-owned shops that sell textiles, stationery, decorative ceramic tiles and earthenware kitchenware.
INSIDER TIP
Lunch and dinner are typically eaten later in Spain than in other European countries.
Nice (Villefranche), France
FRENCH RIVIERA
Make your way from Villefranche-sur-Mer into Nice's Vieille Ville (Old City), and acquaint yourself with the culinary, cultural and historical tapestry of France's Cote d'Azur region. Alternatively, head eastward toward the mountaintop town of Eze, where you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the glittering French Riviera.
Make your way from Villefranche-sur-Mer into Nice's Vieille Ville (Old City), and acquaint yourself with the culinary, cultural and historical tapestry of France's Cote d'Azur region. Alternatively, head eastward toward the mountaintop town of Eze, where you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the glittering French Riviera.
in Nice (Villefranche)
Hit the Beach
Not surprisingly, Nice is a great place for a day at the beach. Sun yourself at Beau Rivage along the Promenade des Anglais, where Nice's chic locals come to see and be seen, or walk a few minutes east or west or Villafranche-sur-Mer to find a quiet spot for a swim closer to the ship. The pristine Mediterranean waters instantly reveal why this place is known as France's Cote d'Azur — the Azure Coast.
Go Back in Time
Stroll the streets of Nice's Vieille Ville to take a trip back in time. Visit monuments such as the Baroque-era Palais Lascaris and the city's 19th-century Russian Orthodox cathedral, or explore the bevy of museums — don't miss the one dedicated to Nice's prodigal son, artist Henri Matisse. You'll find Nice is more than just a pretty face.
View From Above
Take a day-trip to see a little more of France's Cote d'Azur. A particularly popular option is Eze, which is less than a half-hour away from Villefrance-sur-Mer by public bus. Cruise to Nice and walk from the main town up to its mountaintop fortress, which provides a priceless panorama of the entire French Riviera.
Local Cuisine
Nice is home to the popular salade nicoise, but the culinary delights here transcend cold starters. Stop at a street vendor and order a crispy socca chickpea pancake, or enjoy la daube nicoise, a slow-cooked beef stew soaked in rich red wine and served with tender gnocchi. You'll find some of the best eateries in the heart of the Vieille Ville with your Nice cruise.
Shopping
Bring the flavors of Nice along with you after a stop Galleries Lafayette Gourmand, which also offers a wide selection of fines wines from France's nearby Provence region. Shop for postcards, keychains and other local kitsch at Coqueto, hunt down high-end Southern French soaps, or take in the fresh scent of Marche aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, one of France's largest outdoor flower markets.
INSIDER TIP
Many of Nice's city beaches are rocky. Consider laying out on a couple thick towels, instead of your usual beach blanket.
Florence / Pisa (La Spezia), Italy
LA DOLCE VITA
While traveling to Florence or Pisa, enjoy a scenic drive through the celebrated Tuscan countryside with its rolling hills, olive and cypress trees and medieval villages. After climbing Pisa's Leaning Tower, explore the atmospheric white, rose and red piazzas (squares). In Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, you can marvel at the paintings in the Uffizi Gallery and cross the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge, packed with local boutiques to poke your head into.
While traveling to Florence or Pisa, enjoy a scenic drive through the celebrated Tuscan countryside with its rolling hills, olive and cypress trees and medieval villages. After climbing Pisa's Leaning Tower, explore the atmospheric white, rose and red piazzas (squares). In Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, you can marvel at the paintings in the Uffizi Gallery and cross the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge, packed with local boutiques to poke your head into.
in Florence / Pisa (La Spezia)
Lean Into Adventure
Climb the 251 steps up the spectacular Leaning Tower or Campanile (bell tower) on the Field of Miracles in Pisa. The 56-meter-high tower took almost 200 years to build, but it was already leaning when it was unveiled in 1372. Access is limited to 45 people at a time. Book online in advance to save a space — many tourists flock here.
Day at the Duomo
In Florence, you can't miss the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, more commonly called the Duomo in honor of its red-tiled cupola, or dome. The city's most iconic landmark, dating back to 1296, the Duomo's pink, white and green marble facade is a must-take photo. Head inside to admire the 44 stained-glass windows and Vasari's magnificent fresco of the Last Judgment.
Museum of the Masters
The Galleria degli Uffizi is one of Italy's most famous and star-studded art museums. Cruise to Florence to admire the mind-blowing masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance, including works by Sandro Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci, as well as German, Flemish, Dutch and French masters. Just remember it's closed on Mondays.
Local Cuisine
Tuscany has its own unique cuisine and pasta dishes. Try fresh pecorino (sheep's milk cheese), fazzoletti (pasta filled with ricotta and spinach), papardelle (broad noodles), ribollita (a variation on minestrone) or zuppe di cavolo (cabbage soup). What about some pan ficato (fig cake) or castagnaccio (chestnut-flour cake with nuts) for dessert?
Shopping
Shop for souvenirs and jewelry at the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence. Mercato Centrale is the locals' favorite for food shopping. Buy or taste wine and truffles in Enoteca Obsequium during your Florence cruise. The best olive oils, platters and soaps can be bought from La Bottega dell'Olio. In Pisa, go Italian fashion shopping in Borgo Stretto for luxury items and Corso Italia for more affordable leather bags and shoes.
INSIDER TIP
You can skip the lines at many of Florence's museums by buying tickets online before your visit.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
ETERNAL ADVENTURE
Spend the afternoon combing Ancient Rome’s ruins or the spiritual treasures of Vatican City. Sip pre-dinner aperitivo— or better yet, hop in the home kitchen of a local chef for a hands-on lesson in La Cucina Romana. Evenings in this romantic city are perhaps best spent at the Teatro dell’Opera or wandering its many buzzing piazzas.
Spend the afternoon combing Ancient Rome’s ruins or the spiritual treasures of Vatican City. Sip pre-dinner aperitivo— or better yet, hop in the home kitchen of a local chef for a hands-on lesson in La Cucina Romana. Evenings in this romantic city are perhaps best spent at the Teatro dell’Opera or wandering its many buzzing piazzas.
in Rome (Civitavecchia)
ANCIENT AND AMAZING
Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
ADVENTURE SQUARED
Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
SACRED SPACES
Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
LOCAL CUISINE
Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
SHOPPING
Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.
INSIDER TIP
Conservative attire (no tank tops or shorts) is required when visiting Rome’s religious sites.
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INSIDER TIP