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Barcelona, Spain
The capital of Spain's Catalonia region, Barcelona, is located on the Mediterranean coast and is known as one of the most cosmopolitan and fashion forward cities of the world. Architectural masterpieces by Antoni Gaudi such as Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila and Palau and Park Guell and many more have made Barcelona the centre of Modernist architecture. The most popular tourist attraction is the Sagrada Familia Basilica, a monumental marvel of architecture and revolutionary vision, to which Gaudi devoted over 40 years of his life and to this day remains unfinished. 70% of Barcelonians see themselves as pedestrians rather than motorists. On average, every day, 150 000 people walk along La Rambla, a 1.2 kilometre tree-lined pedestrian mall in central Barcelona home to the finest shopping, restaurants and the Christopher Columbus monument. Don't forget to sample Barcelona's tapas and local Catalan cuisine!
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Ibiza (Balearic Islands), Spain
The Spanish island of Ibiza, one of the Balearic Islands, has earned a reputation for being a Mecca for partygoers and young holidaymakers. But this historic island also has another side – popular with hippies and artists during the 70's, Ibiza has long been a chic retreat for worldly and artistic travellers. Ships calling into the 'white island' (so named for the many white washed houses) enables passengers to visit Ibiza town and the surrounding area. Once off the cruise ship, you can spend time exploring Ibiza old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or on one of the island's 80+ beaches. If you have euro to spend, head to one of the islands' many handicraft markets which sell items by local artists including paintings and jewellery. The Archaeological Museum is located in the Dalt Vila (old town) and contains a collection of works of art from the island dating from prehistoric times to the 15th century.
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Palma De Mallorca, Spain
The city of Palma belongs to Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands. Palma's beautiful scenery and mild climate have made the island into a major European tourist destination. Visitors who arrive in Palma by a cruise ship will discover a city spread across the curve of a wide bay, with an imposing cathedral still standing guard. Palma offers an array of attractions for all visitors, from families with young children to honeymooning couples, naturaphiles, history buffs, 'culture-vultures' and music-lovers! Take a guided city tour of Palma by bike or a boat trip around the neighbouring picturesque islands and a trip to Valldemosa, the village where George Sand and Frederic Chopin came to live in 1838 to name a few ways to explore this island. Families should not miss Marineland, a wonderful aqua park with a fantastic aquarium. Seeking a truly unforgettable and magical vacation experience? The concert staged in Palma's mysterious Dragon's Caves on the largest underground lake in the world will be hard to beat. Finally, why not round off a fantastic day with a dazzling Majorcan display of song, music, magic and dance, enjoyed in the company of your fellow cruise passengers, accompanied by a selection of delicious authentic dishes.
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Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
As the port of Rome, the city of Civitavecchia is the access port to one of the world's greatest cities. Civitavecchia also contains a few places of interest worth a visit if you have a few hours to spend at the beginning or end of your stay in this port. Wander through the town and you will spot lengths of the old town walls, Benedict XIV's fountain, ancient buildings like the old hospital and pretty squares or head to the beach for a dip! Most visitors will head to Rome. From its inception in 753 B.C. to the days of its decline, Rome has been the focal point for many of the world's greatest artists, architects, rulers and philosophers. Home to the world's largest church St. Peter's Basilica, which collapsed after a 1000 years and was rebuilt in the 1500 and 1600 and today displays the work of Michelangelo, Raphael and Maderno. Visit the Pantheon, built in 27 B.C. and remains intact to this day. Head to the Colosseum which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Trevi fountain is one of the most visited areas in Rome, be sure to throw in a coin, sooner or later you will return. The largest and the capital of Italy, Rome is the third most visited tourist spot in the European Union. Rome also has a Pasta Museum, showcasing everything to do with pasta from pasta-making machines to contemporary art. After 3000 years of existence, Rome has earned the name of Eternal City.
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Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy
Livorno is situated in the Province of Livorno, which borders the region of Tuscany and is the third-largest port along this coast of Italy. Visitors can stroll Livorno's pleasant streets intersected with canals and visit the city's fortified town walls. Venture beyond this lovely seaside town to explore some of the gems of the Tuscan region such as Florence, Pisa and Lucca the 'town of 100 churches'. Florence, one of the loveliest towns in Italy, if not all of Europe offers visitors a plethora of mesmerizing sights to explore and of course don't miss the Leaning Tower of Pisa along the way! All three of these Tuscan cities offer an abundance of world-class Italian architecture, history, monuments and museums.
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Messina (Taormina), Italy
Messina is a pleasant town located to the northeast of the island of Sicily. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Messina itself, with a panoramic tour or take in sites further afield. Take a tour to view Europe's highest and most famous active volcano, Mount Etna, and stop to visit the Silvestri craters. Those in search of a spiritual dimension to their vacation may like to visit the 'picture-perfect' town of Tindari, which is home to the ancient black Madonna. Head to the town of Taormina to explore its beautiful architecture, stunning setting, excellent shopping opportunities and ancient monuments, including a Greco-Roman theatre, cathedral and 11th century palaces. You can also soak in the sun at the beach if you just want to chill!
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Genoa, Italy
A beautiful port cradled between land and sea. Discover Genoa's rich historical treasures and artistic heritage. Stroll through centuries-old parks perfect for a picnic or roam the attractive, sinuous streets of the old town and take in key places of interest or take the family to Genoa's acclaimed aquarium (one of Europe's largest). Old Town Genoa has row after row of specialty shops. Decadent chocolates, regional specialties, locally made pesto, handmade lace and olive wood carvings are all on display within the various shops. Genoa is famous for their gold and silver jewelry, ceramic pottery and marble items. Been there done that? If you are familiar with the lovely city of Genoa then you might want to take an excursion to the enchanting seaside village of Portofino on Italy's Riviera.
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Palermo (Monreale), Italy
Palermo is the capital of the Italian island, Sicily, an island renowned as a vacation destination due to its great beauty and historical significance. Thanks to its eclectic past, Palermo offers an intriguing mix of cultures. Many ancient monuments still exist today, lending the city a unique appearance. Journey back in time by visiting Agrigento and the 'Valley of the Temples', one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO heritage site since 1998. Those visiting Palermo can explore the local attractions or head to the beach for some fun in the sun. Want to shop? Head to the 'Capo' street market will ensure you bring back something to remember your holiday by.
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Naples, Italy
Naples offers a mix of breathtaking beauty and a strong sense of life being lived to its limits and has been designated a UNESCO world heritage centre with breathtaking beauty. Squeezed between Vesuvius, Europe's second-largest active volcano on one side and the sulphurous springs and boiling mud pools of the Flegrean fields on the other, Naples and its famous blue bay is a 'must-see' city. Explore beyond Naples to find the city of Pompeii or Herculaneum, extraordinary archaeological sites that preserve the tragic memory of Vesuvius' eruption in 79 AD. Take a trip to Sorrento, renowned for its beautiful classical architecture or head to Capri, the 'island of love' and sample a taste of the Italian bella vita in its truest form.
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Salerno (Amalfi Coast), Italy
Salerno is located in Campania, on the Gulf of Salerno on the Tyrrhenian Sea about 270 kilometres from Rome. It is in the centre of the triangle nicknamed the Tourist Triangle of the 3 P which refers to Pompeii, Paestum and Positano. The Lungomare Trieste promenade stretches nearly five miles and boasts very rare palm trees. Salerno is home to numerous castles and palaces including Arechis Castle, Castle La Carnale, Genovese Palace and Copeta Palace. Historical downtown Salerno is dominated by the Salerno Cathedral which holds a tomb of Saint Matthew the Evangelist, one of the twelve apostles. Today Salerno is an important cultural centre in Campania and is home to numerous art galleries and museums including Pinacoteca Provinciale located in the Pinto Palace, home to many Renaissance . Visit the Greco-Roman town of Paestum, home to the best-preserved collection of holy temples in the whole of Greater Greece (of which Italy used to be a part). You can also take a trip to Pompeii from this port and explore the extraordinary archaeological sites that preserve the tragic memory of Vesuvius' eruption in 79 AD. In the mood for more modern pleasures? Take a day trip to the beautiful town of Amalfi where you can discover the gorgeous Amalfi coast and indulge in a spot of shopping while strolling the lovely streets of this unique town.
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Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast starts in Sorrento and ends in Salerno. Amalfi is a town on the Gulf of Salerno in the region of Campania, 35 kilometres from Naples. Situated in the heart of Amalfi and overlooking the Piazza Duomo is Saint Andrew's Cathedral, with its late baroque style interior, gold caisson ceiling and bronze Saint Andrew sculpted by Michelangelo's pupil Michelangelo Naccherino. Maiori, Minori, Amalfi and Positano are just a few of the towns situated along the coast. The Arabian influence is clearly present in the architecture of Amalfi, more so in the white columns and pointed arches of the Cloister Of Paradise, once a burial ground for wealthy families now it is an open-air museum. Amalfi is one of the first places where paper as we know it today was made in Europe and there is a Museum of Handmade Paper dedicated to its manufacturing history.
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La Goulette, Tunisia
African and Arabic hospitality await you in Tunisia, on the coast of North Africa. The port of La Goulette is about 15 Km from the centre of the capital city of Tunis. Tunis actually consists of three cities: the modern Capital City of the Tunisian Republic, with its wide streets, skyscrapers and busy sidewalk cafes; the Arabic Medina (Old Town) from the Middle Ages, an exciting labyrinth laden with secrets, narrow alleyways, small shops, huge mosques and palaces and Carthage, a UNESCO world heritage site and ancient Phoenician - Roman city, which lies 18 km from the city. Don't miss Tunis' Bardo Museum, which is not only the most important museum in Tunisia but one of the most ancient in the Arab world; here you can admire ancient artifacts, statues and the richest collection of Roman mosaics in the world. A day out to the charming fishing village of Sidi Bou Said includes the chance to look around a typical house-turned-museum. A visit to Tunis is not complete without experiencing the Medina – the typical market. Haggle well and you'll be sure to pick up a terrific reminder of your vacation here!
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Valletta, Malta
Valletta is a city situated on the island of Malta, which lies 60 miles south of Sicily. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, here you'll find 7000 years of history living passionately in the present . The island's scenery and architecture provide a spectacular backdrop to your visit on this island and as you step off your cruise ship, you'll be struck by the colors: honey-coloured stone contrasted against the deepest of Mediterranean blues.
Valletta is full of cafés, bars, restaurants and well as interesting landmarks that the whole family can enjoy. Visit Comino Island, the smallest island in the Maltese archipelago with just seven inhabitants with numerous picturesque coves and bays. Or head out to the south-east part of the island to view the megalithic temples, which are older than the pyramids. Gourmet lovers will enjoy the scenic harbour tour with a wine tasting in Valletta – surely one of the best ways to kick back and truly relax, whilst those with a thirst for adventure can join a shore excurions to explore the island.
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Southampton (London), UK
Southampton is a large port city located on the south coast of England and a stating point for many cruise vacations exploring Northern Europe. Situated in the pretty county of Hampshire, Southampton is a gateway to many of southern England's historic attractions. A university town, Southampton is home to one of the longest medieval walls in England as well as a fascinating Tudor House Museum (built in 1496). Guests who have never visited London will be pleased to learn that the capital is within easy reach at around 1 hour 40 minutes, and a trip here will really make your vacation special.
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London, UK
Located is the southeast of England, London is the capital city of the United Kingdom, the biggest city in Europe and the most ethnically diverse city in the world. London's underground subway is known as “The Tube” and was the first in the world with over 253 miles of track and about 976 million people using it every year. With over 775 rooms, 1514 doors, 760 windows and 800 members of staff, Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen and the Royal Family and quite the site to see. London is home to four World Heritage Sites: the Palace of Westminster, the Tower of London, Maritime Greenwich and Kew Botanical Gardens. Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest castle in the world that is still in use today, and it is rumoured to be haunted by the ghosts of King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I and Mad King George. One of the most popular sites in the city is Big Ben, a chiming clock, located at the north eastern end of the House of Parliament. William Shakespeare, Karl Marx, Isaac Newtown, Charles Dickens, Mozart, Charlie Chaplin and Jimi Hendrix all called London their home. London is home to more than 100 theatres, and sixteen percent of England's restaurants! Don' forget to stop off and have a drink at the famous Sherlock Holmes Pub!
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St Peter Port (Guernsey), UK
St Peter Port is the capital of Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands located off the coast of Normandy. Although closer to France than to England, Guernsey is still loyal to the British crown; administratively independent, it has its own currency and stamps. With a warmer climate than Britain, Guernsians enjoy life 'al fresco', and St Peter Port pays testament to this with its bustling collection of waterside cafes and bars, and accessible, pretty beaches. Your cruise ship will dock just outside St Peter Port, the city which is hailed as 'the Channel Islands' most beautiful town' and there is much to see and do while visiting this port. With its 'low duty' (no VAT) status, you can indulge in some holiday shopping; perhaps traditional Guernsey jumpers for the whole family, or a treat from the Guernsey Pearl workshop; with its displays of thousands of pearls, gems can be strung or set for you. More jewels are found at the Guernsey Diamond Museum, which shows these stones from their origins to their settings. The Channel Islands are famed for flower production and a visit to the Orchid Fields is a treat in early summer, while children will enjoy the ancient royal fortress of Castle Cornet or the local aquarium.
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Ijumiden (Amsterdam), Holland
Ijmuiden (meaning mouth of the river) is a port city in the Dutch province of North Holland. Ijmuiden (pronounced 'eye-mouden') is known as the 'Gateway to the Netherlands due to its proximity to many of Holland's most popular cities. Ijmuiden is only 17 miles from Amsterdam and is close to the picturesque region of Zaanse Schans, a conservation area and inhabited open-air museum famous for its windmills. For those already familiar with Amsterdam, the heritage market town of Haarlem is just 15 minutes from Ijmuiden; more relaxing than Holland's busy capital, Haarlem is compact and lively and will make for a very pleasant day off your cruise ship. Haarlem gave its name to America's 'Harlem' in the days when New York was a Dutch colony known as 'New Amsterdam'. Don't miss Haarlem's quaint old district which is centred around the Grote Markt, or 'market square'. Relax with a boat trip along Haarlem's canals or soak up history in the city's equivalent to the Anne Frank museum: Corrie Ten Boom is a museum and former home that pays homage to a courageous family that hid Jews during the Nazi occupation. All it takes is a few hours away from your cruise ship to experience a slice of authentic Holland and to discover some wonderful, but lesser-known cities during your European cruise vacation.
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Amsterdam, Holland
The largest and capital city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, popularly known as the “Venice of the North” derives its name from a combination of the river Amstel and the Dam that was built on it to house the village of Amsterdam. The city has more than 100 kilometres of canals, more than 90 islands and more than a 1200 bridges. The city thrives on an eclectic, fashionable mix and despite being a highly popular vacation spot Amsterdam still manages to retain its soul and preserve its quintessentially Dutch feel. Amsterdam is great for shopping, a dose of culture, an injection of art and architecture or a pleasant stroll around pretty canal-side streets. The city is home to more than 40 museums exhibiting the works of renowned artists such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt and more. The city is also one of the best places for riding bikes, it houses more than one million bikes and even has a Cycle Beer Bar where you can drink while you ride. What a great place to begin or end your river cruise journey.
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La Coruna, Spain
La Coruna (also called A Coruna) is both a region and a busy port town located in Galicia, northwest Spain. The area combines its traditions of agriculture and fishing with successful new industries, notably fashion and textiles. Unlike other Mediterranean port destinations around Spain, La Coruna represents the 'green heart' of the country thanks to its panoramic ocean setting and verdant surrounding countryside. The city has a wide range of good museums and attractions, ideal for children and adults of all ages; take your pick from the Picasso Museum, the interactive House of Humankind (the first of its kind dedicated to the human being), MACUF, the contemporary art museum, the Fine Arts museum or the aquarium.
And don't forget to leave some time for shopping and sample the local 'tapas' cuisine.
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Bilbao, Spain
The Spanish city of Bilbao is the capital of Spain's Basque region, located on the country's north coast. An important industrial centre and seaport, Bilbao is rapidly gaining a reputation for innovation thanks to exciting urban regeneration projects that are driving development around the Gulf of Biscay. The stunning Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry with its sinewy, steel-clad exterior draws fans of contemporary architecture from around the world. With a lovely climate, Bilbao is conducive to walking tours and general sightseeing. With the presence of the Guggenheim Museum, art is certainly on the menu in this city, but those who prefer to explore the soul of Bilbao can wander the back streets of Casco Viejo - the old town. Ensure you don't return to the ship empty handed and check out the boutiques around Plaza Moyúa and the Gran Via.
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Paris, France
Paris is known as the City Of Lights because of its richness in art, literature, sculpture, architecture, culture and politics. Visited by more than 30 million tourists every year, the city is home to the most famous tower in the world. Built for the International Exhibition of Paris in 1889, the Eiffel Tower has over 2.5 million rivets, 15,000 iron pieces, over 40 tonnes of paint and to get to the top you need to climb 1652 steps. Tourist attractions include the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Elysees, and Musee d'Orsay. Art lovers flock to visit the Louvre, one of the largest museums in the world, exhibiting paintings by Monet, Cezanne and Renoir. The Cathedral of Notre Dame is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, naturalism in sculptures and stained glass. Parisians are known for their “joie de vivre” their cheerful enjoyment of life, food, music and art is infectious; no wonder Paris is known as the city of Romance and what a great place to begin or end your river cruise journey.
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Provence (Marseille), France
A wonderful blend of history, outstanding seafood, culture and heritage with numerous museums, theatres and opera houses. France's second largest city and the capital of the Provence- Côte d'Azur region, the cosmopolitan city of Marseille lies on the southeast coast of France. Hungry? Try the city's world famous dish, the tempting 'bouillabaisse' with its six different types of fish. From Marseille you can also further explore Aix-en-Provence to the charming town of Cassis or take a boat transfer to the island of Chateau d'If, home to Alexandre Dumas' fictional legend, the Count of Monte Cristo.
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Cannes, France
The French Riviera and its sun-kissed cities have attracted many artists, including masters such as Picasso and Monet who were inspired by the fresh air and quality of light - not to mention the gorgeous scenery and Cannes is no exception. La Croisette, Cannes' palm-lined main boulevard is ideal for strolling and people watching. It stretches for two miles with sandy beach and public gardens on one side and luxury hotels, cafes, shops and villas on the other. Drive up Suquet Hill for a view of the city, sea and Lerins Island – simply fabulous! The International Film Festival calls this home which of course, attracts movie stars and models to this gem of the French Riviera.
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La Rochelle, France
Cruise passengers calling on La Rochelle will encounter a charming French seaside village that is considered one of the best preserved port town in France. Dating back to the 10th century, La Rochelle serves up a generous portion of interesting heritage sites, restaurants and activities within the town to keep cruise visitors busy. The two 14th century towers Tour de la Chaîne and the Tour Saint Nicolas flank the harbor and once helped protect and guard the city from invaders now greet visitors upon arrival. Opposite the village of La Rochelle and connected by a two-mile bridge is the island of Ré, which is a haven for bird watchers, sunbathers and laid-back islanders. The core of the brandy trade is in Cognac, located approximately 50 miles from La Rochelle. Captain Richard Hennessy founded his namesake company in 1765. Martell and Remy-Martin are also located here.
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Oslo, Norway
Oslo, the capital of Norway, is situated at the head of the Oslo Fjord and surrounded by woodland and lakes. A relaxed city with an abundance of tourist sites, Oslo boasts world-class cultural amenities and great shopping all set against an eclectic architectural backdrop. Take a shore excursion off your cruise ship and experience a great mix of art , history, culture and sights. A must see, is the Vigeland Park, an outdoor museum home to over 150 stunning sculptures by Norway's finest sculptor, Gustav Vigeland. History lovers will appreciate the Viking-themed day out to the Viking Ship Museum featuring longboats from 900 AD and which also covers Oslo's main sights. And don't forget to treat yourself to a holiday souvenir as a memento of your time in Norway.
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Stavenger, Norway
Founded in the 8th century and one of Norway's oldest towns, the quaint town of Stavanger is situated on the Byfjord, an arm of the Stavangerfjord in southwest Norway. Echoes of Stavanger's proud heritage live on amid the evocative cobbled streets of Gamle (old) Stavanger and the whitewashed 18th century houses, which are perhaps the best-preserved community of wooden houses in Northern Europe. Visit an Iron Age farm, great for children and adults alike or take a boat trip around the Stavanger archipelago – a relaxing way to spend your day topping it off with traditional waffles and hot coffee. Don't forget to pick up some great souvenirs of your visit at a local handicrafts centre.
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Flåm, Norway
Set in picture-postcard scenery at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, the Norwegian town of Flåm boasts one of the most spectacular railway journeys in Europe. The railway, one of the steepest standard gauge railways in the world, climbs over 3,000 feet to the ancient town of Voss and offers magnificent views over the valley. Just over 12 miles long, you'll see rivers cutting through deep ravines and waterfalls cascading down the sides of snow-capped mountains. Flåm marks the innermost point of the famous Sognefjord region and makes the perfect starting point from which to explore its stunning scenery. If you're a nature-lover, leave your cruise ship behind for the day and venture into the great outdoors.
Ride the thrilling railway to the Kjosfossen waterfall and restore yourself with toasted waffles and hot coffee before making the hike back down.
Whether you're admiring what is reputed to be the most breathtaking view in Norway (Stalheim), experiencing the thrill of the region's magnificent waterfalls or taking in the pretty ancient villages, this particular stopover during your cruise vacation will leave you with some memorable visual impressions.
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Bergen, Norway
A jewel of a city set among seven sweeping hills and stunning fjords, Bergen is a lively university town, steeped in culture. The city is pleasantly compact, great for easy, accessible sightseeing, with an attractive warren of cobbled streets punctuated with leafy, green and areas perfect for rest and relaxation. If you love the great outdoors, Norway – and Bergen in particular - is the ideal holiday spot for you. Nature-lovers should have their walking boots at the ready, join us on a special trekking tour package that takes in the harbour town of Bryggen with its pretty wooden buildings and a forest hike, all rounded off with a photo opportunity and panoramic view from Floein Mount. Explore Bergen's colourful waterfront buildings and take time to drink in the local flavour before heading back to your cruise ship.
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