Explore and book MSC Cruises 7 Night Mediterranean - Western Cruise on the MSC Grandiosa departing from Palermo, Sicily, Italy on May 5, 2025 and ending in Palermo, Sicily, Italy on May 12, 2025 Sail to Ibiza, Spain, Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, Valencia, Spain, Genoa, Italy, Marseille, France, Palermo, Sicily, Italy

Palermo, Sicily, Italy

True Partner Cruise OBC

This vibrant city is famed for its architectural marvels, including the Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace, standing as testaments to a diverse past shaped by various civilizations. Wander through bustling markets like the Ballarò or Vucciria, bursting with the flavors and colors of Sicilian produce. Delve into the city's street food culture to savor arancini and cannoli, or escape to the serene beaches just a short drive away. Palermo offers a vivid glimpse into the soul of Sicily, where every street and alleyway tells a story.

Ibiza, Spain

Known for its lively nightlife and pristine beaches, Ibiza is a Mediterranean hotspot. Beyond its party scene, the island offers historic towns, rustic countryside, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Valencia, Spain

On Spain's eastern shores lies Valencia, a city where innovation meets tradition. Renowned for its City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia is also the birthplace of paella. Meander through its ancient lanes, explore futuristic structures, and indulge in Mediterranean flavors during your sojourn.

Marseille, France

See the City Essentials
Taste Cheeses and Wines
Get Next to an Ancient Roman Aqueduct
Enjoy a French Lunch
See the Home Town of Nostradamus
Learn About Lavender
Catch a Fishing Village
Visit a Winery
Get the Best of Two Worlds
Familiarize Yourself with a French Fort
Revitalize Yourself at a 21st Century Park

Genoa, Italy

Genoa City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus
A Taste of Genoa
Private Panoramic Genoa and Local Tastings Tour
Private Walking in Genoa
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Best of Civitavecchia (Rome), Palma De Mallorca, and Genoa Package
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Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

This Italian seaport town is the essential gateway to the wonders of Rome, with excellent transportation links to the capital. While many will head straight to the Eternal City, Civitavecchia itself has charms to offer, including the Forte Michelangelo, the Terme Taurine (the ruins of Roman thermal baths), and a quaint historic center. Whether you're embarking on a Mediterranean exploration or returning from the marvels of Italy, Civitavecchia is a starting point that promises the romance and history of the country within easy reach.

7 Night Mediterranean - Western Cruise

Mediterranean

Europe

Iberian Peninsula

MSC Grandiosa, MSC Cruises’ newest and most innovative ship to-date entered service on October 31, 2019, and is one of the most environmentally-sound ships at sea and an energy-efficient role model for modern cruising.

Strike! That’s what you want to hear every time the bowling ball barrels down the alley. See whether you have the knack and play against your family and friends to crown the bowling champion in your midst.

Bowling

Our casinos are elegantly designed, featuring games for all types of players. You’ll be able to try your hand at Roulette or Blackjack, challenge yourself at one of our Poker tables, or choose among a variety of slot machines.

Casino

While away a few enjoyable hours of game play at the Arcade on board the ship. Pit your wits and skill against those of your friends in any number of typical arcade options, including video games, pinball and more. Great fun guaranteed.

Arcade

Check out our Himalayan Bridge! Take the sky walk across a suspension bridge located at the aft of the vessel at a height of some 195 feet above sea level. A truly unique place to take your daily constitutional, with superb ocean views thrown in for good measure.

Himalayan Bridge

Our amazing on-board F1 Simulator delivers an adrenaline-pumping virtual-reality race, with you in the driver’s seat of an F1 racing car. Go head to head against other racers and thrill to the feel of engines gunning. Huge fun for the young and the young at heart, regardless of who wins the race.

MSC Formula Racer

Tennis Tournament - if you've got a killer backhand then why not enter our onboard tennis tournament? It might not be Wimbledon but it'll serve up a great workout and possibly a taste of glory, too
Soccer Tournament - can you kick it? Yes you can! Sign up for the onboard soccer tournament and show off your skills. Your team needs you, so get involved.
Volleyball Tournament - unleash your competitive side in our very own onboard volleyball tournament. Quick reactions and impressive reach could lead you and your team to glory!
Basketball Tournament - ready to shoot some hoops? Then enter our onboard basketball tournament. Get involved and prepare for glory!
Ping Pong Tournament - pick up a paddle and prepare for battle! The ping pong tournament is on and you're invited. Ready for the challenge? See you there!
Table Soccer Tournament - if you're a fan of football in the miniaturized form known as foosball why not enter today's tournament? Just remember the golden rule - no spinning!

Sports Tournaments

What is normally admired in the art galleries of the world awaits youon board MSC Grandiosa in a 2 year exhibition: "Degas Danse Dessin" by the world-famous Parisian artist Edgar Degas. The immersive experience featuring “Degas Danse Dessin” will bring you closer to the world of fine art with a spellbinding exhibition of original Impressionist art.

The Art Wall

High jinks and water are two elements you’ll find plenty of at the on-board Waterpark, perfect for people of all ages to unwind and have tons of aquatic fun. Among the features are twisting slides, a range of pools and activities to suit every age group.

Waterpark

Hunger can strike at any time and at the Atmosphere Bar South our expert chefs serve up fresh and tasty specialties hot off the WI Satisfy your cravings from our menu of freshly grilled food while you enjoy yourself by the pod.

Atmosphere Bar South

Relax at the poolside with friends and family, with a refreshing drinkfrom the Atmosphere Bar North. From signature cocktails, beers, Coladas, soft drinks, coffee and tea there is something to suit everyone's taste.

Atmosphere Bar North

This pool-side ice-cream bar offers six flavors of delicious soft ice-cream and fresh fruit treats, as well as tropical and frozen drinks and Coladas.

Atmosphere Ice Cream Bar

Dance away into the early hours in our chic nightclub. Grab yourself a drink from our extensive list of cocktails, mocktails, Spritz, Mojito's, classic cocktails, beers or ciders and dance the night away.

Attic Club

Our pre-dinner bar is the ideal spot to join friends for a cocktail before a meal, or for a refreshing drink at any time of day. From traditional aperitifs, our Signature Cocktails to the contemporary classics, there is something to suit your taste.

Edge - Cocktail Bar

Our cocktail bar offers a wide choice of meticulously selected aperitifs, cocktails, spirits and more! Take a moment to relax in our intimate cocktail bar and let our artful bartenders prepare something special for you!

Grandiosa Bar & Lounge

With an array of first-rate champagne, bubblies, fresh oysters, caviar and fish, the chic Champagne Bar is a place to indulge in the finer things in life.

Champagne Bar

There are infinite choices in this ideal spot to join friends for an aperitif before a meal, or for a refreshing drink at any time of day. From traditional cocktails, signature cocktails to contemporary classics, there is something to suit your taste.

Infinity Bar

Magnificent views of the sea, fantastic cocktails. The Horizon Bar is the place to be. With our handpicked and carefully sourced drinks and fresh ingredients, gaze out over the stunning panorama of the ocean while you sip on a cocktail at the Horizon Bar.

Horizon Bar

Hit the jackpot at our spacious bar in Le Grand Casino. Order a drink from our wide variety of selected cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine and fine spirits to refresh yourself while you take a break from play.

Le Grand Casino

Atmospheric and charismatic, our traditional Brittish pub is the perfect setting to drop in for a pint, Serving beer, whiskey and a range of delicious snacks in a comfortable environment, the pub is an ideal palce to kick back and have fun.

Masters of the Sea

Exclusive to Yacht Club guests, this sundeck buffet offers freshly grilled specialties alongside homemade pasta and salads. Savor breakfast, lunch, or a light snack in a relaxed, upscale outdoor setting.

MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar

Get your hands on one of our freshly made nutritional drinks with ingredients supplied by the world's finest producers and relax in the poolside comfort of the Safari Bar.

Safari Bar

Exclusive to Yacht Club guests, this sundeck and bar is where luxury meets sophistication. Here, you can indulge in premium cocktails crafted by expert bartenders, complemented by a selection of top-tier drinks in a serene and opulent setting.

MSC Yacht Club Sundeck & Bar

Broadcasting live throughout the ship, our 1V Studio and radio suite air live games, quizzes, talent contests and other fun content An excellent selection of coddzils, beer. wine and soft drinks are available to get you ready for your big performance.

TV Studio & Bar

Catch the big game, enjoy quality entertainment or relax with a cocktail at the convivial Sports Bar. Enjoy a selection of cold beer, cocktails, energy drinks, protein shakes or juices and complimentary hot dogs.

Sports Bar

While you listen to live piano music, enjoy a drink after a long day exploring onshore. Or meet up with friends for a cocktail. This multipurpose bar is also ideal to enjoy a selection of complimentary hot and cold snacks that will keep hunger at bay.

Sky Lounge

Reserved exclusively for MSC Yacht Club Guests, this elegant lounge with its panoramic views offers the Yacht Club bar list of craft cocktails, beer, fine wine, soft drinks and coffee drinks in addition to a selection of gourmet finger food throughout the day.

Top Sail Lounge

Get set to be wowed by the creativity of our talented chefs at the Daily Special Corner. Wrap your taste buds around a different specialty every day of your cruise for an unforgettable culinary surprise.

Daily Special Corner

Indulge your sweet tooth at the Dessert Corner, a cornucopia of deliciously sweet treats that will have your mouth watering. Enter the magical world of fine patisserie, crafted with love by our team of talented bakers and pastry chefs with meticulous attention to detail.

Dessert Corner

Enticing aromas and mouth-watering flavors are served up at our Ethnic Corner. Choose your personal favorite from a range of delectable dishes, hand-selected from every corner of the world, from Asian to Indian – and everything in between.

Ethnic Corner

Il Campo

Our main restaurants invite you on a journey around the world’s cuisines, offering exceptional international dishes every day of your cruise. Check out the Elegant Dinner to try a signature dish by two Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa.

International Dining

Created with the little ones in mind, Kids’ Corner offers a selection of tasty, healthy and fun meals to tickle your children’s taste buds throughout your cruise. Dishes change on a daily basis so there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Kids Area

Our onboard main restaurants will always give you a wide choice of high quality cuisine with a different menu selection every day and signature dishes by star chefs, from International to the best Mediterranean food.

La Loggia

La Perla Grigia

La Perle Grise

Extensive buffet with a wide array of cuisine. The Buffet is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks. It's the ideal place for enjoying a great informal Meditterranian dining experience with a spectacular sea view. The extensive buffet area incldues various multifunction corners serving international dishes, ethnic cuisine, healthy options and a multitude of other tastes.

Marketplace Buffet

Come to the Carvery for deliciously tender, juicy and flavorful roast meat specialties that will please your palate any day of the week. Enjoy the theater of watching your personal favorites being carved right in front of your eyes especially for you.

Meat Carvery

As one of the healthiest diets on the planet, Mediterranean food takes center stage at our main restaurants, tempting you with French, Italian and Spanish cuisine. Don’t miss the Elegant Dinner with a signature dish our Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa

Mediterranean Dining

Check out the Pasta Station for authentic Italian pasta just like mama used to make. Discover a new selection of delicious flavor combinations every single day to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Pasta Station

Purple Crab

We believe everyone’s special on an MSC cruise ship which is why we provide tailored menus and solutions to meet everyone’s dining requirements

Special Diets and Menus

The Take-Away Station is just the place to be when you’re feeling peckish for a snack on the go. A wide range of the most popular fast foods awaits you, the perfect casual dining fix for those moments when hunger suddenly strikes.

Take Away Station

A selection of light and tasty dishes awaits you at our Wellness Corner. Made with your health in mind, these dishes will boost your well being without putting a strain on your waistline. Stock up on your five-a-day with dishes that are delicious, nutritious and packed with flavor.

Wellness Corner

This warm, friendly bistro promises high-quality French quisine: snacks from cheese and charcuterie to escargots and foie gras. For something more substantial, try ribeye steak fries & blue cheese sauce followed by a traditional French dessert. You can even pop in for a Parisian-style breakfast.

L'Atelier Bistrot

A stylish teppanyaki restaurant. Step in, choose your spot at one of four cooking stations and watch your delicious japanese dishes come to life, right before your eyes. Our expert chefs cook with flair on an open grill: a feast for the senses that sees flames and the finest sizzling ingredients coming together to form delicious dishes you'll remember forever.

Kaito Teppanyaki

Tradition and modernity go hand in hand in this stylish sushi restaurant. This charming venue offers deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with only the freshest, highest quality ingredients.

Kaito Sushi Bar

French Master patissier Chocolatier Jean-Philippe Maury brings his award-winning touch to this coffee and chocolate bar boutique. As well as choosing from a variety of exquisite Chef created chocolate candies, guests can also create their very own chocolate bar right at the tablet stations. The boutique offers a wide assortment of delectable French macaroons and freshly roasted coffee.

Jean-Philippe Maury Chocolate Bar

A gourmet ice cream parlor and French-style creperie dreamed up by award-winning master pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury. Located in the impressive indoor promenade, it's the perfect place to enjoy a mouth-watering made-to-order crepe, with your choice of delicious sweet or savory fillings.

Jean-Philippe Crepes & Gelato

HOLA! Tapas Bar welcomes you into an amazing culinary experience created by the renowned spanish chef Ramon Freixa, awarded two Michelin Stars. Designed as a social dining experience where guests can enjoy shared plates and a wonderful celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.

HOLA! Tapas Bar

This American-Style house serves select Linz Heritage Angus beef, the gold standard in high-end Angus beef thanks to the best genetics in breed. The highhest quality product custom cut by master butchers and aged to perfection. The menu is inspired by the great plains and it is accompanied by bold New World wines and cocktails with swagger.

Butcher's Cut

It’s all white for a night with dazzling décor and costumes to suit the theme, plus a special performance starring our theater cast.

White Party

A start-of-the-cruise event celebrating the ship's departure, led by the Entertainment Team and dancers in a spectacular Costume Parade.

Sailway Party

Thanks to our Broadway-style theaters you can enjoy superlative entertainment with an international line-up of artists without having to leave the ship. Take your pick from a fabulous program, there’s sure to be a show you love.

The Théâtre La Comédie

The Mini Club welcomes children aged between 3 and 6 years old, bringing them new friends and lots of fun, enriched by the stimulating toys of our partnership with LEGO®. The club offers games, events and activities like Arts & Crafts to free their imagination and make every day special. And the whole family is invited to the Doremi Family Disco!

Mini Club 3-6

With the Young Club, kids from 12 to 14 years old can dive into a world of discovery, involvement and interaction.Each day holds the promise of new experiences, with a dedicated programme of sport tournaments, hi-tech games and lots of other fun activities. And of course, every day also brings opportunities to make new friends.

Young Club 12-14

The Junior Club inspires connection and cooperation among 7 to 11-year-olds, through a wide variety of activities. Highlights range from Masterchef at Sea Juniors and Dorebro Sport competitions to our Fire & Ice live video game. Do you like acting, dancing or singing? Enjoy the thrill of filming with the Kelly & Kloe On Board Green Screen Experience!

Junior Club 7-11

Teenagers aged from 15 to 17 years old can look forward to having the time of their lives on board. Teen Club activities range from sports and competitions, dance contests and social network games to Wii, Xbox and PS4 tournaments.

Teen Club 15-17

Once during every cruise we hold a special entertainment event called the LEGO® Experience On Board: an entire day dedicated to fun LEGO activities for the whole family to enjoy. Thanks to this special activity your kids can spend hours building and creating  whatever they want!

Lego Experience

Every MSC Cruise is full of fun and discovery for kids of every age, starting with all the activities organised just for them and included in your fare. With a packed program of sports, games, competitions, parties and more, your children will enjoy endless discoveries with their new friends.Children can discover a world of their own thanks to 5 dedicated clubs for ages ranging from 0 to 17 years old, where they are looked after by our trained, multilingual personnel, certified for safeguarding children.

Kids Clubs

Our partnership with leading baby care brand Chicco provides a dedicated play area with facilities for babies and toddlers under 3 years old. You can leave your toddlers with our MSC Babycare staff*, or stay with them and enjoy the special Chicco toys and games. They'll love our music and rhythm activities, designed to awaken their curiosity.

Baby Club 0-3

Enjoying time off on your cruise doesn’t need to mean letting your fitness routine slide, so gear up and rendezvous with the power walking and jogging track on deck to get your daily exercise fix while also savoring outstanding ocean views.

Power Walking Track

Fast-paced, energetic and a ton of fun to play, volleyball is one of the world’s most popular team sports and one you can enjoy at the outdoor volleyball court at the onboard Sport Center. Burn some calories and get a thorough cardio-vascular workout while you land a kill and beat the opposing team.

Volleyball

Fancy a game of footy? Your wish can be granted at the outdoor five-a-side football pitch at the Sport Center. Team up with some friends or family and play a match against another on-board team. A great way to have fun, get active and turn strangers into friends.

Five-A-Side Football

MSC Aurea Spa boasts an exotic interior of natural stone, precious woods and rich mosaics, and is equipped with specific and massage treatment suites. Being pampered by a traditional Balinese Massage is a truly unique experience. Thanks to a blend of scented essences and aromatic oils, your body is enveloped in an endlessly peaceful and relaxing aura.

MSC Aurea Spa

Get a lasting sensation of absolute well being that will accompany you well beyond your cruise. All our ships are equipped with a Thermal Area where you can enjoy a soothing sauna, a relaxing steam or an invigorating whirlpool bath.

Thermal Area

Relaxing on one of our ships will do wonders for you, but we also have a few secrets on board to help you look and feel even better. Make the most of our range of safe and effective Anti-Ageing treatments and return from your cruise visibly rejuvenated.

Medi Spa Center

You can enjoy the expertise of highly specialized staff in aesthetic treatments to offer you excellent results and improve the relaxing effects of your cruise. Customize your cruise with the best treatments for your body. Unwind and feel fantastic!

Beauty Salon

Refresh your look with a new hairstyle! There are different packages which include a personalized shampoo & conditioning mask, a haircut and a single process color treatment. Leave the salon styled and ready for a great evening onboard.

Hair Salon

Inside the MSC Aurea Spa there’s a dedicated Barber Shop to keep you looking at your best during your time on board! Leave the salon styled and ready for a great evening.

Barbershop

Anyone for tennis? Play to your heart’s content at the outdoor tennis court of our onboard Sport Center. Tennis is ideal for getting some healthy activity, honing your hand-to-eye coordination and having loads of fun. Game, set and match to you.

Tennis Court

Come to the outdoor Basketball court at the Sport Center for a chance to hang out with friends, have fun shooting hoops and enjoy a full-body workout at the same time. You may not make the latest line-up of the Harlem Globetrotters, but you’re sure to have a great time.

Basketball

Fitted with authentic TechnoGym® equipment and featuring panoramic ocean views, the onboard gym is the place to be for all those who take their fitness regime seriously. Hone your physique with a full set of TechnoGym® apparatus every day of your cruise to look better than ever before.

Gym by Technogym

MSC Cruises

MSC Grandiosa

This tour is made easier by riding a pedelec - an electrically powered bicycle which assists the rider's pedal power at speeds of up to 25 km/h. Leaving the port, you'll pedal around the harbour basin past Genoa Aquarium and the Old Harbour (Lanterna) all the way to the Porta del Molo. Cycling through the atmospheric narrow "caruggi" streets, you'll come to the Old City Gate (Porta Soprana) and Christopher Columbus' House, located just outside the ancient medieval city walls. From there, you'll continue to Genoa Cathedral and the Piazza De Ferrari, where you'll have a first short stop to admire the beauty of this magnificent square and the nearby Doge's Palace, one of the oldest buildings in the city. Photo break over, you'll leave the old city to visit the famously picturesque village of Boccadasse, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely coffee or a swim from the small but charming beach, surrounded by cafés. Suitably refreshed, you'll cycle back towards the city centre, but turn north before getting there to access a magnificent viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the city. The partly steep and winding road will lead you to the Terrazze Capolinea Funicular Railway Station for a quick coffee break before you make your descent back to the city and port.

Short but sweet, this entertaining tour takes you off the ship to discover the city of Genoa by Segway®, a great means of transport that's not only fun and very green, but also makes for leisurely urban exploration without having to get footsore in the process. Your guided roundup of Genoa's main sights takes you through the town's historical centre and includes views of the 13th- to 16th-century Doges' Palace, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and Porta Soprana, the best-known section of Genoa's remaining city walls. Your Segway® tour then rolls to a close with your return to the ship.

Leave the ship for a few hours and instead check yourself in to a thoroughly edutational and family-friendly outing for a behind-the-scenes look at Italy's largest aquarium, the Acquario di Genova. Built to coincide with the Genoa Expo in 1992, which in turn commemorated the 500th anniversary of the New World being discovered by Columbus, the aquarium is home to a vast collection of marine wildlife. After a short ferry transfer to the old part of Genoa and the Acquario, you and your family can first enjoy an unguided visit of the various tanks that provide a habitat for tropical fish, sharks, natural coral, penguins and dolphins. At a prearranged time, you'll then proceed on an expertly guided "behind-the-scenes" tour of the facility, during which you'll get to see the on-site laboratories, maintenance and plankton farming activities as well as how the animals are cared for and reared. And among the tank backstage areas, highlights include the jellyfish and dolphin enclosures. Your time at the Expo site wraps up with a little more time to explore on your own before the boat returns you to the ship.

This appealing half-day outing will acquaint you the rich history of Genoa's aristocracy, as showcased in the splendid palaces found along the city's Via Garibaldi. As one of Genoa's oldest sections, Via Garibaldi dates back to the Renaissance era with resplendent edifices that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You'll first meet your guide and then stroll along the time-honored street with inside visits planned at the richly stuccoes Palazzo Nicolosio Lomellino and Palazzo Bianco. Constructed between 1530 and 1540, Palazzo Bianco hosts key art collections by old masters from the 12th- to 17th-century, including Van Dyck, Rubens, Paolo Veronese and forms part of the Le Strade Nuove Museums. These brushes with history will be followed by a break to taste some of the city's world-famous pesto sauce at Palazzo Cattaneo-Adorno before you can enjoy some leisure time on your own. The walk back to Port Antico and your cruise ship then brings the outing to a close.

Milan is the most famous town for fashion and shopping, here you will immerse into its famous designer shops including Gucci, Armani, and Versace, and for its stylish ambience. Take advantage of this tour to have good chance for window browsing and soak up the atmosphere of this famous city. Leave the port for a 2-hour coach drive to Milan and enjoy free time in the city with some good shopping opportunity. At the fixed time, you will meet your coach again to drive back to Genoa port and to your cruise ship.

Dedicate a day to exploring the Eternal City on a gentle biking route through mainly pedestrianised areas and side roads with little traffic. First, though, you'll board a coach for the transfer to Circus Maximus, from where you'll then follow your guide by bike. The escorted tour will take you past such iconic landmarks as the Capitol, Pantheon, the fountains on Piazza Navona, Castel Sant'Angelo, the world-famous Spanish Steps and the equally notable Trevi Fountain, the one in which it is customary to toss a coin for good luck. Also, on the cycling itinerary are views of the Roman Forum, People's Square and Villa Borghese and the Colosseum. A stop is scheduled at St. Peter's Square, home to St. Peter's Basilica, so you can have a bit of a breather and enjoy the surroundings. Your bike ride will also include plenty of stops to take photos of all you see and at the end, you'll rejoin your coach for the relaxing return journey to your ship.

The Eternal City has hosted its annual International Exhibition of Nativity Scenes, your main destination on this all-day outing, for more than four decades now. A 1.5-hour drive to Rome begins the tour, after which you'll enjoy a narrated drive, passing the Pyramid, Baths of Caracalla, Circus Maximus, Arch of Constantine, Colosseum and Via Veneto. Next, you'll get to walk to the Trevi Fountain, Piazza di Spagna at the base of the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon en route to Piazza Navona, one of Rome's famous squares where free time for lunch will be allowed. Finally you will be transferred to St.Peter's, at the exhibition centre, feel free to unleash your inner Christmas elf and browse the beautiful Nativity scenes at your leisure. Coming from all over the world and made of a wide variety of materials, these scenes are a massed celebration of seasonal spirit. Next, you'll have another hour to enjoy a visit of St. Peter's Basilica  along with its Christmas tree in the forecourt  in Vatican City before you return to the ship.

This tour is especially intended for all guests disembarking and wanting to enjoy a sightseeing tour of the eternal city. After boarding a coach, a 1.5-hour drive will take you to Italy's capital city and its wonders. Meet your guide and enjoy a coach drive passing by Rome's main tourist sites including Cestia Pyramid, Caracalla Baths, "Circus Massimus", the Colosseo, the romantic "Lungotevere" and the Dolce Vita's street, Via Veneto, until reaching St. Peter's Square. You will have time to explore on your own and, if you like, visit the Basilica. Your guide will be happy to provide information on the site beforehand. Next, reach your coach and continue to Fiumicino airport.

All roads may lead to Rome, but the Tiber is the river that gave the city its birth and its life. See Rome like you've never seen it before! Leave the port, enjoy the coach drive to Rome, meet your guide and begin a short sightseeing coach of the city passing the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus. At Lungotevere, you will get off the coach for a pleasant walk through Trastevere, one of the most authentic Roman quarters. Enjoy a tasting of local products in a typical open-air market. Visit the famous church of Santa Maria in Trastevere and the colourful Via della Lungaretta with its several osteria restaurants. Legend has it that the only island in the River Tiber is where Rome had its beginnings. Enjoy a relaxing and interesting 20-minute cruise on the river. Disembark at Castel Sant'Angelo for the second leg of your walking tour including the Vatican area with Via della Conciliazione and external look at St. Peter's Basilica. Next, discover the amazing sights of Baroque Rome, including Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the Via Condotti and its famous VIP shops, Via del Babbuino, Piazza del Popolo and Viale Washington. Some free time will be scheduled along the itinerary. Board your coach to head back to your ship.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do: know your pasta dishes! Aiming to turn you into a true pasta connoisseur, this all-day outing not only reveals the best of Rome, but also includes a palate-popping pasta-tasting session during a sit-down lunch with a glass of wine. A 1.5-hour coach ride will see you reach Rome, followed by coach-based views of the Pyramid, Circus Maximus, and Caracalla Baths, plus a photo stop at the Colosseum. Back on the coach, you'll cross St. John's Square, St. Mary Major and Piazza della Repubblica to reach Ludovisi Parking and walk to the Trevi Fountain into which you should toss a coin. Stroll through the Baroque quarter, with the Pantheon and Navona Square. Finally, it's time to savour a sit-down pasta-tasting lunch, accompanied by a glass of wine. Learn the difference between Amatriciana, carbonara, gricia and cacio & pepe - classic Roman pasta sauces. With ingredients such as guanciale (cured pork cheek), pecorino cheese, eggs, tomatoes, and black pepper to tempt your taste buds, lunch promises to be truly delicious. Lastly, enjoy passing views of Castel Sant'Angelo and St. Peter's Dome on the way back.

An all-day date with the Eternal City awaits you on this outing, which begins with a relaxing 1.5-hour coach ride from the port. On arrival, you'll meet your guide and embark on a sightseeing route that includes the Pyramid of Cestius, the Baths of Caracalla, the ancient chariot racing stadium Circus Maximus, the city centre, and a photo stop at the Colosseum. You'll then take your leave of Rome and move on to Vatican City, where you can attend the Pope's Sunday Angelus on St. Peter's Square if you wish. Your guide will provide you with some information on the square and its splendid obelisk, after which you'll have about 2 hours to explore on your own. Get your Papal blessing at the Angelus or use the time to have lunch (at extra cost). Next up, you'll find yourself taking a stroll along the banks of the River Tiber and crossing the St. Angelo Bridge to reach Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most beautiful, and then passing the Pantheon before you re-board the coach for the unguided return journey to the port.

The origins of Tuscania goes back to the myth and legends; some want the town to be founded by Hercules' son, some others by Aeneas' son, Ascanius. Your excursion will begin with a 50-minute coach drive across the beautiful landscape until reaching the village of Tuscania. Enjoy a guided walking tour of its historical centre, surrounded by medieval walls and marvel at the view from the Tower of Lavello. Your guide will point out the village's main sights including the Church of Saint Peter; a unique opportunity to feel the atmosphere of central Italy's little villages. Next, after boarding your coach again, you will drive to Tarquinia, one of the 12 Etruscan cities in the past. Your guide will take you on an interesting itinerary to discover of this important village in the heart of Tuscia territory.

Take the family on this funny excursion to the popular Genoa Aquarium; a quick ferry transfer takes us to what is reputed to be one of Europe's best aquariums, renowned for its size and vast variety of marine creatures. As one of the most natural and environmentally friendly aquariums in the world, everyone will enjoy the collections of multi-coloured tropical fish, sharks, natural corals, penguins and dolphins. After you will have a quick boat trip back to the ship.

This enjoyable half-day outing begins with a boat transfer to Genoa's aquarium area from where you'll then set off on your city tour. A walk through the narrow lanes  called caruggi  of Genoa's historical district will see you reach the Diocesan Museum, located in the old residence of the canons of the "Cattedrale di San Lorenzo" and accessible through its lovely cloister. Follow your guide inside the Cardinal Fieschi's room, where recipes and instructions will be given to learn the use of mortar and pestle to prepare a classic pesto alla Genovese. In addition to seeing the expert preparing the pesto sauce, you'll also learn about the the ingredients and the secret of making perfect pesto and curious history of the green sauce. Next, walk to the lovely cloister, built in the XII century, for a tasty treat of bruschetta and focaccia with the freshly made pesto. The guided return walk will then take you through the historical district to the aquarium area and from there, back to the pier by boat.

Get off the ship and spend a day in magnificent Milano, the 2nd largest city in Italy as regards to population, politics and cultural affairs, and the first in the field of commerce, industry and banking. Relax on your 2-hour coach drive on the motorway from Genoa to Milan. Upon arrival, begin a 1.5-hour guided walking tour that will unveil some of Milan's best spots: Piazza Castello until reaching "La Scala"  Milan's Opera House, "Galleria Vittorio Emanuele" and Cathedral Square. Enjoy some free time in "Piazza Duomo" looking for a nice place to have lunch or, for the braver, to climb up the gold statue "Madonnina", the statue of the Virgin Mary placed atop the Cathedral. Alternatively, if you are a shopping lover, Milan is the place to be! Your 2-hour coach drive to Genoa port and your cruise ship ends this exclusive excursion.

Just a few hours of your time are all it takes to get the best of Genoa, beginning with a short walk from the port to your first stop: the truly resplendent 16th-century Palazzo del Principe. You will have a chance to explore the historical building with its frescoes, tapestries, artwork by old masters and other hidden treasures during the guided visit. A private coach will then whisk you off on a non-stop drive around Genoa, taking in such sights as the port district, Genoa's famed aquarium, the Fiera del Mare indoor arena and the expo complex. After passing through Albaro, a district once favoured by the aristocracy, you will move on to the city centre. Look forward to views of the monuments on Victoria Square, the lawns displaying Columbus' caravels in flowers, the main Via XX Settembre and bridge, Piazza de Ferrari and Columbus' House and proceed to Piazza Caricamento. Time to stretch your legs follows during a short walk with outside views of the Doges' Palace, St. Lawrence's Cathedral and St. George's Palace to enjoy. After some free time, the tour ends with a short boat trip back to the ship.

Explore Palermo on an electrically powered bike that will assist you as you discover the beauty of the city. After picking up your e-bike at the port, youll head for the promontory of Monte Pellegrino, 620 metres above sea level. Following a paved road, you will first reach the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, built inside a cave near the top of Monte Pellegrino. Visit the sacred cave and see the bones of the saint, then enjoy the enchanting view of the Mondello Gulf and the city below. Before starting the descent along an old cobbled road  nowadays used by pilgrims  stop to recover your strength at the "Sosta del ciclista" where you can taste some authentic Palermo street food. Going down the promontory, youll reach the Parco della Favorita, the green lung of the city, and Mondello, where you will have some time to relax on the beach. Finally, enjoy a photo stop at the exquisite Chinese Palazzina, built in the 18th century. Your tour wraps up with your return to the port. Please note: this tour includes cycling approx. 40 km, on a route which ascends 620 metres in total. Min. age to take part: 14 years old.

This Christmas-themed outing to the mountain town of Erice  which stands atop Mount Erice at approx. 750 m above mean sea level  begins with about 1.5 hours on the coach, after which a mere 10-minute walk will see you reach your first stop: the 14th-century Gothic "Mother Church". Continue walking through town to the Cordici Museum, whose exhibits include archaeological finds, decorative artefacts, a weapons room, paintings, sculptures and contemporary art. On reaching Erice's La Loggia Square, you'll have time to explore the magical Christmas market, with stalls selling wine, local crafts and food. Last on the itinerary is an outside photo stop at the 12th-century Norman Castle, which sits on an isolated cliff in the southeast of Mount Erice. Photo-worthy views of the valley and the Saline nature reserve follow on the way back to the ship.

Joining this outing is sure to give you a thorough workout as you pedal around Palermo's hinterland on an approx. 40-km route with a 600-m gain in elevation. After leaving the confines of the city, you'll first cycle through the village of Arenella to reach the foothills of Monte Pellegrino, Palermo's neighbourhood mountain. Then you'll climb 500 m on a 7km uphill trail to reach the Santa Rosalia pilgrimage site, dedicated to the patron saint of Palermo. Take a break and browse the souvenir stalls at the site before continuing onwards and upwards to reach one of Monte Pellegrino's nearby viewpoints  perfect for taking photos. Further photo-worthy vistas follow on the way down before you reach the Bay of Mondello, where a white sand beach and turquoise water await you. Time to relax or go for a refreshing swim will be yours at the beach, which is also served by numerous small cafés if you prefer to chill out with a drink. The final leg will give you one last chance to soak up gorgeous coastal views before you return to the ship. Please note: the tour involves arduous and in part uphill cycling along an approx. 40-km route and is considered to be suitable only for guests with a high level of physical fitness. Children are allowed to take part in this tour provided their height is 155 cm. A declaration of agreement must be signed by an adult with parental authority for children before authorisation can be given for such guests to take part.

This appealing outing gives you a chance to team a little gentle exercise with seeing the sights of Palermo, Sicily's capital city, on foot. Your guided walking tour begins on Via Francesco Crispi, a large boulevard leading to Piazza XIII Vittime and its monument to 13 victims of the notorious mafia. A short photo stop is scheduled there, after which you'll continue your walk down Via Cavour, then past the well-known Teatro Massimo and Quattro Canti, an octagonal square flanked by a number of Baroque buildings. You'll also get to see Piazza Pretoria and Piazza Bellini en route to the ancient Vucciria marketplace and Piazza San Domenico. As a final flourish, you'll be able to please your palate with an authentic taste of Sicilian granita  a semi-frozen dessert made of sugar, water and flavourings  as well as cannoli, a delicious pastry tube filled with sweet ricotta, before you return to the port and your ship.

Take a trip back in time to the medieval town of Caccamo and its Norman castle, which sits at 521 m above mean sea level at the foot of Monte San Calogero. On arrival at the site, you can both savour glorious views of the valley and enjoy being welcomed by courtiers in period costumes. Then, climb the impressive stairway that leads to Sicily's largest castle, whose origins can be traced all the way back to the Carthaginians. As part of your visit, you'll get to watch a brief medieval enactment that even gets the kids involved when imposing the sword and oath, after which you'll move on to the on-site workshop-museum of peasant civilisation. While at the museum, also enjoy a complimentary sweet snack before watching how bread is made by hand and sampling delicious pasqualora sausage. Next up, you'll visit the church of San Benedetto alla Badìa, home to an outstanding 18th-century majolica floor, then move on to Piazza Duomo and finally get to browse at Monte di Pietà (pawnbrokers). Last up, the return transfer to your ship winds the tour up.

Enjoy an exhilarating overview of Palermo from the saddle of a mountain bike. Your adventure begins at the port, where you will pick up your bike. Then youll head for the promontory of Monte Pellegrino, 620m above sea level. Following a paved road, you will first reach the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, built inside a cave near the top of Monte Pellegrino. Visit the sacred cave and see the bones of the saint, then enjoy the enchanting view of the Mondello Gulf and the city below. Before starting the descent down an old cobbled road, stop to recover your strength at the "Sosta del ciclista" where you can taste some authentic Palermo street food. Going down the promontory, youll reach the Parco della Favorita, the green lung of the city, and Mondello, where you will have some time to relax on the beach. Finally, enjoy a photo stop at the exquisite Chinese Palazzina, built in the 18th century. Your tour wraps up with your return to the port. Please note: this tour includes cycling approx. 40 km, on a route which ascends 620 metres in total. Min. age to take part: 14 years old. A small bottle of water is included.

Enjoy a 1-hour coach drive to Cefalù, a small yet pretty town situated one hour away from Palermo and which was founded by the Norman King Roger II in the XII century on the site of an earlier historic settlement. You will visit Cefalù Cathedral, the "Duomo del Cristo Pantocratore", an example of Norman-Romaneque architecture with stunning interior Norman-Byzantine mosaics. Next on the list is the visit to the medieval lavatory, a public lavatory where people used to wash their clothes in the Middle Age and fully restored in 1991, a legacy of medieval times, carved into the rock. Enjoy a guided walk along the historical centre and some free time to explore the narrow, atmospheric streets. Quality local craft shops make Cefalù a great place for souvenir shopping.

Unbroken sunshine, golden sand and the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea make a perfect combination for spending half a day at the beach. After boarding your coach at the port, a brief unguided transfer will take you to a nearby beach for some quality "me time" off the ship. Whether you choose to go swimming in the azure blue of the sea or simply to chill out and watch the world go by, you are sure to have a great time. Your beach-based outing comes to a close with your return to Valencia and your ship.

Leave the port for a fascinating sightseeing tour of Valencia, a city particularly known for its large historical quarter and the Gothic architecture of its buildings. Next on the itinerary is a visit to the Oceanographic Museum, which forms part of Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences complex, in itself famed for its awe-inspiring architecture. With time to explore the fascinating museum without a guide, you can look forward to discovering the wildlife found in a broad range of specific aquatic environments, including a huge dolphinarium. There is also an incredible underwater glass tunnel that lets you feel at one with the surrounding marine ecosystem and enables unique encounters with the museum's many inhabitants, which represent around 500 different species.

While Valencia's best-known contribution to the culinary arts is perhaps the traditional paella, the city has plenty more flavours to discover, some of which are showcased on this tour. You'll first board a coach and head for Mercado Central to browse the sizeable market complex. As you leave en route to your first tapas bar, catch views of the La Lonja (old silk exchange), located opposite and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next up, you'll move on to a second local bar to enjoy Valencian tapas and pinchos - small bread-based bites with a topping secured with a toothpick - and last on the list of Valencian flavours is a visit to a horchateria. The frothy drink called horchata looks like a milkshake, but is actually made of ground tiger nuts, water and sugar. It is served chilled and is considered a treat in the region. To round off your outing, the return route will take you past the City of Arts and Sciences complex, which also includes Europe's largest aquarium, the so-called Oceanographic.

Choosing this excursion, you will have the opportunity not only to enjoy the city of Valencia, but also to discover its surroundings and its secrets, including one of the most famous caves in the region. Leave the port and and drive north; along the way, spot the landscapes of orange trees and you will understand why this fruit is part of the history of the region. North to Valencia lies the wonderful region known as the Nature Reserve of Sierra de Espadán, the second-largest protected area in the autonomous community of Valencia. The world's longest navigable underground river, the San José, flows through this huge cave complex and is also the point of access the small boat will take into the various chambers of these spectacular caves. After the cave visit, you will then continue on to Valencia for a sightseeing tour by coach along a route that will also take you past the Torres de Serrano towers, Plaza de la Virgen as well as Valencia Cathedral. You will also have a chance to stroll around the central market square before returning to the port.

Valencia's appealing cityscape comes into sharp focus on an appealing partly coach-based, partly walking, partly boat-based tour that begins with a panoramic coach ride over the river and down Gran Vía and Calle Játiva for views of the Bull Ring and central train station. Once in the city centre, you'll leave the coach and continue on a guided walk. You'll stroll past Gothic-style houses, Valencia's central market and the old La Lonja silk exchange opposite. Next up, you'll reach the shops at Plaza Redonda, followed by Valencia Cathedral for a photo stop. After taking in Plaza de la Virgen, you'll make your way to a spot close to Torres de Serrano to rejoin your coach. Enjoy the views as you travel towards the Carmen quarter, then past Torres de Quart, other key landmarks, and the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences complex en route to the L'Albufera Lagoon, a protected nature park. A leisurely boat ride follows, after which you'll have lunch in a local restaurant before the coach returns you to the ship.

If fine porcelain and dainty figurines are your personal passion, this outing dedicates half a day to visiting both the Lladró Factory and the National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts. You'll reach the Lladró Factory after a short coach ride, then be taken on a guided tour that includes a multimedia presentation of the company's history, a chance to watch various steps in the manufacturing process and observe artisans finessing the elegant pieces for which the company is known. After leaving Lladró, you'll then get to explore the equally fabulous National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts. Housed in the 15th-century Rococo Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, the museum's outstanding collection puts special emphasis on Valencian ceramics, but also includes textiles, paintings, porcelain, traditional costumes and furniture. After you've had time to explore, you'll rejoin the coach for the return ride to the ship.

First, go back in time and then time-warp straight to the future on this entertaining tour of Valencia, which begins by taking you directly to the city's lovely historical quarter for a look at some of its key buildings. Next to putting a roof over the heads of market traders selling fresh fish, meat, fruit, vegetables and produce from all over Spain, the beautiful Art Nouveau building of the Central Market - said to be one of the oldest in Europe - is also a joy to behold. And counting as a superb example of secular Gothic architecture, the façade of the old Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is no less impressive. Your walk through town will then take you to see Valencia Cathedral, a predominantly Gothic-style building that was consecrated in 1238, before the coach will then speed you straight to the Modern Valencia. Here you will enjoy some free time, maybe exploring the Agua Mall or el Cortes Ingles, some of the city's most modern shopping centres.

This tour is rich in scenery and offers a chance to enjoy this lush section of the Italian Riviera. The tour begins with a with a 45-minute coach ride to Santa Margherita Ligure before a 10-minute boat ride to Portofino. Here we will have time at leisure to explore this delightful seaside town, to take pictures or relax in the chic cafés. We will continue by boat to Santa Margherita, from where we will return to Genoa and to the ship.

A short ferry transfer takes you to "Piazza Caricamento" for a pleasant walk through Genoa's historic town centre. We will wander the charming narrow streets known as "carruggi" to reach "Piazza de Ferrari", the commercial heart of Genoa, where we will admire "Palazzo Ducale" (external visit only). You will visit the "Cisterne del Ducale" where a local tasting made of "bruschetta" and "focaccia", typical to Genoa, awaits you. Your tour will continue with external views of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Free time in the old port before returning to the port.

Situated on the banks of the old course of the River Turia and originally settled by the Romans, the beautiful Mediterranean city of Valencia is well worth a visit. The city is a clear example of a perfect combination of urbanism and engineering which have made Valencia one of the most impressive and modern cities in Europe. Your tour begins with a scenic coach trip through some of the city's many lovely avenues and squares. A guided walking tour then follows that will take you through the city centre for a chance to view and photograph the Gothic architecture of the buildings. A visit to Valencia's wonderful cathedral, the Our Lady of the Forsaken Basilica, is also included. Although predominantly built in Gothic style, the basilica also incorporates Baroque and Romanesque elements. Finally, a photo stop will be made outside the City of Arts and Science, a large museum and cinema complex that is celebrated for its futuristic architecture, before returning to the ship.

Cruisebound

7 Night Mediterranean - Western Cruise