Clara KohHave you ever wanted to explore the exotic Mediterranean regions of the world, but found it too expensive to do so? Right now, you can indulge yourself in a spontaneous luxurious Mediterranean cruise and visit some of the most amazing places in Europe by land and sea in 7 days and all! Spend the week taking short day-trips away from the port before returning to relax on the cruise at the end of each day.
And while you’re at it, here’s some of the fun things you can do at each stopover!
Day 1-2: Barcelona, Spain
This epic cruise begins in Barcelona, Spain – a beautiful quaint city that has awed countless travellers with its timeless beauty. Lose yourself wandering through the capital city of the Catalonia region, and take in the magnificence of Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia’s church. As you stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Gothic quarter, stop by a bar to indulge in a variety of delicious tapas and inexpensive wine. Barcelona will never fail to delight your senses!
Day 3: Naples, Italy
Cruise into Italy’s Amalfi coast and discover one of the country’s oldest and biggest cities, Naples. Its geographical location has blessed the city with rich volcanic soils and a beautiful seaside, with a stunning view of Mount Vesuvius in the distance. Pay a visit to Naples’ centro storico, a renowned UNESCO heritage site, where you will be surrounded by the city’s impressive architectural structures. For pizza lovers out there, do not miss out on Naples’ famous thin-crust pizza!
Day 4: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Image credits: Daniele Liberati
Civitavecchia is a provincial seaside town located in the central region of the Lazio. Learn the history behind the Fort Michelangelo built by Renaissance artist Bramante, and do not miss a visit to Piazza Leandra – the medieval centre of Civitavecchia. As people say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. You can take a bath at La Ficoncella Thermal springs near the ancient ruins of Taurine Baths like the Romans once did, and enjoy a fine plate of pasta in an alfresco setting. Civitavecchia’s beauty will captivate you and take your breath away.
Day 5: Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Nearby in the Tuscan region, Livorno is another port city located within Italy. It is known to have the best seafood on the Tyrrhenian coast, so treat yourself to a good meal when you get hungry.
Afterwards, you can take a day trip out to Florence and Pisa – where you can visit many historic attractions on foot such as the Santa’s Croce, Piazza del Duomo and Michelangelo’s David. Before you go, remember to have some fun and snap a funky picture with the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
Day 6: Cannes, France
Experience Cannes, an enchanting resort town on the French Riviera. Be seduced by its wealth and glamour, as you spot the rich and the famous, and watch luxurious cars cruise by. Get an amazing view of the city and the sea by taking a drive up Suquet Hill, or bask in the sun along the sandy beaches. Cannes is home to the Palais des Festivals, where it holds an annual film festival that draws crowds from all over the world.
Day 7: Provence (Marseille), France > Barcelona, Spain
Founded in 600 BC by the Phoenicians, Marseille is the oldest city in France infused with history and multiculturalism. The city has been named the European Capital of Culture in 2013 and centers around the Vieux Port, where you can watch the locals buy and sell fish. Visit contemporary monuments such as Cathedrale de la Major, or cafe-hop along La Canebiere. For some retail therapy, head towards the Republique quarter where you can find upscale boutiques and admire Haussmann-designed buildings. Soak in the splendid grandeur of these stunning landscapes as the ship routes back to Barcelona for your return to shore.
