Mediterranean Venice Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Barcelona , Spain | Nice (Villefranche) , France | Florence / Pisa (Livorno) , Italy | Rome (Civitavecchia) , Italy | Kotor , Montenegro | Split , Croatia | Venice , Italy | Venice , Italy | Barcelona , Spain
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Barcelona, Spain
OH MY GAUDI
Grab a steamy cortado in a pavement café and then take a morning walk along the Mediterranean shore. Take the plunge and swim with sharks at one of Europe’s largest aquariums. Comb ancient excavated relics at Barcelona City History Museum. Or peruse extraordinary art collections by Spanish talents at one of the city’s renowned museums.
Grab a steamy cortado in a pavement café and then take a morning walk along the Mediterranean shore. Take the plunge and swim with sharks at one of Europe’s largest aquariums. Comb ancient excavated relics at Barcelona City History Museum. Or peruse extraordinary art collections by Spanish talents at one of the city’s renowned museums.
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 harbour-front 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, pavement cafes and Catalan folk sardana dancers set a lively scene. Its marvellous centrepiece, 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 appetisers) 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, jewellery, 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.
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 flavours 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 (Livorno), Italy
RENAISSANCE
Spend your day in nearby Florence: Visit the impressive Santa Croce Cathedral, where you can visit the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli, and check out the Galleria degli Uffizi, which houses Botticelli's "Birth of Venus" and other masterworks. Or head to Pisa instead: Climb to the top of the iconic Leaning Tower or Campanile (bell tower), and explore the vibrant streets lined with Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and gelaterias to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Spend your day in nearby Florence: Visit the impressive Santa Croce Cathedral, where you can visit the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli, and check out the Galleria degli Uffizi, which houses Botticelli's "Birth of Venus" and other masterworks. Or head to Pisa instead: Climb to the top of the iconic Leaning Tower or Campanile (bell tower), and explore the vibrant streets lined with Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and gelaterias to satisfy your sweet tooth.
in Florence / Pisa (Livorno)
Respite by the River
Leave the tourist masses behind at the Leaning Tower on the Field of Miracles in Pisa and escape for a pleasant stroll along the banks of the Arno River. Admire the colors and architecture of the palazzi that line the southern riverside embankment, stop for a picnic with some simple focaccia bread, mozzarella and wine, and continue to Pisa's medieval heart north of the water.
City Panorama
In Florence, hike up the 418-steps of the Torre d'Arnolfo tower, part of the Palazzo Vecchio. The fortress palace was built in the fourteenth century and is still Florence's seat of power. Inside, admire Michelangelo's Genio della Vittoria sculpture as well as several large paintings by other masters such as Giorgio Vasari.
Marble and Monasticism
Visit Florence's Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, with its eye-catching green-and-white marble facade. Inside the basilica, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, you'll find countless artistic masterpieces, such as the frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandaio. Continue through a side door into the vast, serene monastic complex.
Local Cuisine
Tuscans share a proud culinary tradition, with seasonal and sustainable quality ingredients sourced locally. Cruise to Livorno to sample a traditional bowl of earthy ribollita (bean, bread and vegetable soup) from a humble family-run eatery. Sample a bistecca alla fiorentina, or Florentine steak, cooked over roasted chestnuts to impart a smoky flavor. Or grab some salami, parmesan cheeses and biscotti for lunch from the Mercato Centrale.
Shopping
Ignore the souvenir shops around Pisa's tower and head to the main shopping streets Corso Italia and Borgo Stretto, where you'll find Italian fashion shops. In stylish Florence, homegrown designers include Guccio Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo. During your Tuscany cruise, look for the workshops in the medieval alleys, with handcrafted jewelry and leather goods from shoes to purses.
INSIDER TIP
Buy entry tickets in advance to save time at museums.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
ADVENTURE SET IN STONE
Experience 'la dolce vita' in The Eternal City – recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Soak up Trastevere’s backstreet charms. Discover Vatican City’s spiritual legacy. Or ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino.
Experience 'la dolce vita' in The Eternal City – recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Soak up Trastevere’s backstreet charms. Discover Vatican City’s spiritual legacy. Or ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino.
Things To Do
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 artisanal 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.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
THINGS TO DO
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 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
SWIM IT TO WIN IT
Soak up the sun or savour the shade on expanded pool decks, with complimentary loungers, live music and the opportunity to enjoy a frosty cocktail.
Kotor, Montenegro
FORTRESS OF PARADISE
Discover all Kotor has to offer. Explore the monuments and museums inside the city's picturesque Old Town, where you can also enjoy a fresh seafood lunch — try riblja corba, the local fish soup. Or enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Kotor, either from the fortifications that rise above it or across the bay in Prcanj.
Discover all Kotor has to offer. Explore the monuments and museums inside the city's picturesque Old Town, where you can also enjoy a fresh seafood lunch — try riblja corba, the local fish soup. Or enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Kotor, either from the fortifications that rise above it or across the bay in Prcanj.
in Kotor
Old-Town Exploration
After entering through the Sea Gate, which dates back to 1555, discover all the attractions inside Kotor's compact Old Town. Say your prayers at the 11th-century St. Tryphon's Cathedral or in front of St. Nicolas Church, one of Kotor's best examples of Orthodox architecture. Alternatively, learn about the long history of seafaring in this important port at the Maritime Museum, which is housed within a Baroque-era palace.
Fort Hike
Want to get your blood pumping? Hike up the Fortifications of Kotor, a serpentine wall and UNESCO World Heritage site that protected Kotor during its violent past. Reaching the top, which not only affords you a panorama of Kotor Bay but also the iconic Church of Our Lady of Health, takes about an hour if you hike at a moderate pace. Follow signs throughout the Old Town to find the trail head, or simply ask a friendly local.
Gain Another Perspective
Want to enjoy a great view of Kotor and not get winded? Take a taxi or public bus across the bay to Prcanj, where you can see Kotor (and the fortifications rising above it) from across Kotor Bay with your Montenegro cruise. If the water is calm, you'll notice in its reflection that the Fortifications of Kotor form a heart shape — that should make for a worthy photo.
Local Cuisine
Not surprisingly, seafood is the star of the culinary show in Kotor. Head to the Old Town to enjoy Montenegrin dishes like octopus salad or mussels stew. Or seek out the local favorite "black risotto," named for the color it takes from the ink of the cuttlefish that flavors the dish.
Shopping
Shop a quirkier take on traditional Kotor souvenirs with a visit to Cats of Kotor, which features cat-themed Montenegro keepsakes. Cruise to Montenegro and stop in at Efesya Souvenir, where you can explore handmade ceramics, jewelry, lighting fixtures and textiles made by artisans from in and around Kotor.
INSIDER TIP
The stone paths of Kotor's Old Town are well-worn — and slick. If you're wearing flip-flops, walk slowly and firmly so that you don't fall.
Split, Croatia
HISTORIC AND MODERN
Split's town centre is compact, so you can see its main sights in a morning. This includes Diocletian's Palace, the large and ancient fortress that constitutes approximately half of Split's Old Town; and Riva, its infamous seaside promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. In the afternoon, relax at one of Split's beaches or do a half-day cruise to picturesque Brac Island.
Split's town centre is compact, so you can see its main sights in a morning. This includes Diocletian's Palace, the large and ancient fortress that constitutes approximately half of Split's Old Town; and Riva, its infamous seaside promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. In the afternoon, relax at one of Split's beaches or do a half-day cruise to picturesque Brac Island.
in Split
Discover Diocletian's Palace
One of the world's most dominant Roman ruins, Diocletian's Palace (and its nearby cathedral) was constructed over 10 years in the mid-4th century. There are 220 buildings within its boundaries, which include homes, bars, hotels and cafes. The palace's cellar was used in season four of Game of Thrones, as Daenerys' Throne Room.
Aim for the Adriatic
Split is home to both sandy and pebbly beaches, which have calm turquoise waters. Radisson Blu Resort manages Trstenik Beach, which has umbrellas and sun lounges. Bacvice is the most popular and central beach option. About a 20-minute walk from Split is Kastelet Beach and its beachfront bars, too.
Island Hop
Although Split is beautiful, make the most of your time on the Croatian coast and visit one of its neighbours. Island spot on your breezy catamaran ride from Split to Hvar, which only takes one hour. On the island, bike along the Stari Grad Plain and visit Stari Grad and its historic buildings, including Tvrdalj Castle. Meanwhile, Brac Island is only 50 minutes from Split and is home to beautiful beaches, such as Punta Rata and Zlatni Rat.
Local Cuisine
Split's cuisine is a mix of Croatian and Italian specialities. Located in Diocletian Palace's western gate, Poseidon Restaurant serves fresh seafood such as octopus, fish and oysters, and black cuttlefish risotto, a traditional Croatian dish that's made with cuttlefish ink. Along the Riva visit Brasserie on 7, with its delicious platters of prawns, clams and tuna, as well as charcuterie and cheese.
Shopping
A traditional Croatian souvenir is a licitar heart – a unique way to show someone you loved them in the 16th century. They're bright red and edible, but most people use them today as Christmas decorations. To remember your cruise to Split, Croatia, visit Break Time for unique nautical-themed bracelets.
INSIDER TIP
With Split's Mediterranean climate, always remember your sunscreen year-round.
Venice, Italy
UNMASKING ADVENTURE
Adventure looms beyond every winding canal and backstreet corner in Venice. Ride in a classic gondola under the Rialto Bridge. Discover the city’s political history at Doge’s Palace. Admire Venetian masterworks in Gallerie dell'Accademia. Sunbathe along the Adriatic Sea. Or delve deep into the city’s mysterious side with a Venetian Carnevale mask-making workshop.
Adventure looms beyond every winding canal and backstreet corner in Venice. Ride in a classic gondola under the Rialto Bridge. Discover the city’s political history at Doge’s Palace. Admire Venetian masterworks in Gallerie dell'Accademia. Sunbathe along the Adriatic Sea. Or delve deep into the city’s mysterious side with a Venetian Carnevale mask-making workshop.
in Venice
IN GOOD CAMPANILE
Discover the heart of Venice in Piazza San Marco, home to outdoor cafés and flocks of hungry pigeons. Enter San Marco Basilica to admire its Byzantine architecture and golden mosaics. Then take a lift to the top of the 100-metre Campanile bell tower for rewarding views of Venice.
PADDLE THROUGH THE AGES
A boat cruise is a must-do when visiting the City of Canals. Relax in a gondola, as you’re rowed along the Grand Canal and under the stone-arch Rialto Bridge. Paddle your own kayak through the Venetian lagoon. Or take the motorised Vaporetto waterbus around neighbouring islands.
SEE HOW IT’S MADE
Travel to the offshore island of Murano to go behind the scenes in a historical glass-blowing factory. Watch local artisans create one-of-a-kind glassworks, using techniques dating from the 13th century. You can even take home your own masterpiece from one of the island’s glass showrooms.
LOCAL CUISINE
Fresh-off-the-boat seafood from the surrounding lagoon highlights many Venetian menus. Try fritto misto (lightly fried seafood) or risotto frutti di mare (fruit of the sea). Afternoon cicchetti (small plates) come in the form of meatballs and bruschetta, while baicoli (thin oval cookies) and fregolotta (almond cake) satisfy dessert lovers. Enjoy a bellini in Harry’s Bar, birthplace of the Italian cocktail.
SHOPPING
A string of souvenir kiosks borders the Grand Canal, but roam the backstreets to browse in artisan studios. Pick up authentic Venetian pearl jewellery, marbled paper travel journals and long-nosed carnival masks. Burano is known for its handmade lace products, while hand-blown Murano glass comes in the form of vases, jewellery and housewares.
INSIDER TIP
The Vaporetto water bus runs regular routes along the Grand Canal and between the city’s islands, offering a low-cost way to travel around town.
Venice, Italy
UNMASKING ADVENTURE
Adventure looms beyond every winding canal and backstreet corner in Venice. Ride in a classic gondola under the Rialto Bridge. Discover the city’s political history at Doge’s Palace. Admire Venetian masterworks in Gallerie dell'Accademia. Sunbathe along the Adriatic Sea. Or delve deep into the city’s mysterious side with a Venetian Carnevale mask-making workshop.
Adventure looms beyond every winding canal and backstreet corner in Venice. Ride in a classic gondola under the Rialto Bridge. Discover the city’s political history at Doge’s Palace. Admire Venetian masterworks in Gallerie dell'Accademia. Sunbathe along the Adriatic Sea. Or delve deep into the city’s mysterious side with a Venetian Carnevale mask-making workshop.
in Venice
IN GOOD CAMPANILE
Discover the heart of Venice in Piazza San Marco, home to outdoor cafés and flocks of hungry pigeons. Enter San Marco Basilica to admire its Byzantine architecture and golden mosaics. Then take a lift to the top of the 100-metre Campanile bell tower for rewarding views of Venice.
PADDLE THROUGH THE AGES
A boat cruise is a must-do when visiting the City of Canals. Relax in a gondola, as you’re rowed along the Grand Canal and under the stone-arch Rialto Bridge. Paddle your own kayak through the Venetian lagoon. Or take the motorised Vaporetto waterbus around neighbouring islands.
SEE HOW IT’S MADE
Travel to the offshore island of Murano to go behind the scenes in a historical glass-blowing factory. Watch local artisans create one-of-a-kind glassworks, using techniques dating from the 13th century. You can even take home your own masterpiece from one of the island’s glass showrooms.
LOCAL CUISINE
Fresh-off-the-boat seafood from the surrounding lagoon highlights many Venetian menus. Try fritto misto (lightly fried seafood) or risotto frutti di mare (fruit of the sea). Afternoon cicchetti (small plates) come in the form of meatballs and bruschetta, while baicoli (thin oval cookies) and fregolotta (almond cake) satisfy dessert lovers. Enjoy a bellini in Harry’s Bar, birthplace of the Italian cocktail.
SHOPPING
A string of souvenir kiosks borders the Grand Canal, but roam the backstreets to browse in artisan studios. Pick up authentic Venetian pearl jewellery, marbled paper travel journals and long-nosed carnival masks. Burano is known for its handmade lace products, while hand-blown Murano glass comes in the form of vases, jewellery and housewares.
INSIDER TIP
The Vaporetto water bus runs regular routes along the Grand Canal and between the city’s islands, offering a low-cost way to travel around town.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
THINGS TO DO
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
AL DENTE INDULGENCE
A casual Italian trattoria, Giovanni's Table offers rustic dishes with a contemporary flair, including fresh pastas, braised meat dishes and stews.
CRUISING
SHOW-STOPPERS
THINGS TO DO
PEACE, LOVE & DISCO BEATS
Throw it back to the era that started it all with the best disco music and dancing that will leave you boogie woogie-ing all night long.
ENTER STAGE RIGHT
Sing along to your favourite show tunes as the rhythm, rhyme, words and music of Broadway transport you to NYC.
Barcelona, Spain
CROWN OF CATALONIA
Afternoons in Barcelona are best spent eating Spanish tapas in a cosy bar. Then take a Gaudí-inspired architecture crawl to see modernist wonders like Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, Park Güell and the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Família. Explore medieval dockyards at the Maritime Museum – or throw on an apron and learn the centuries-old art of Catalan cuisine in a chef-led cooking class.
Afternoons in Barcelona are best spent eating Spanish tapas in a cosy bar. Then take a Gaudí-inspired architecture crawl to see modernist wonders like Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, Park Güell and the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Família. Explore medieval dockyards at the Maritime Museum – or throw on an apron and learn the centuries-old art of Catalan cuisine in a chef-led cooking class.
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 harbour-front 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, pavement cafes and Catalan folk sardana dancers set a lively scene. Its marvellous centrepiece, 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 appetisers) 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, jewellery, 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.
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INSIDER TIP