Riviera
Marvels

Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past. From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for an evening sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.

From the grandeur of the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the charming canals of La Venezia Nuova (New Venice), which date back to the Medici era, the Italian city of Florence contains much to explore. The port city of Livorno’s colorful building facades rises above the canal waters as a sight to behold. The long and storied history of Lucca call out to curious explorers seeking a mentally stimulating adventure. Cathedrals, art, culture, food, these iconic Italian cities have it all, and Livorno acts as the hub to make your way to each.

The sea along the Italian Riviera is particularly peaceful, as it gently laps the shore. Snuggled in the Ligurian Coast is the village of Portofino, named after dolphins, Portus Delphini, that frolicked in these waters. The Piazza Martiri Dell’Olivetta is the main square of Portofino at the town’s center. Take a stroll along the row of beautiful multicolored buildings and a number of chic cafes and restaurants. Along the way, grab yourself an Italian gelato or sit down and enjoy a pesto dish before continuing your leisure walk toward the harbor. Not far from the coast, you will find beautiful hidden islands, such as San Fruttuoso and Santa Margherita.

Nice rises from the pebbled coast to lush hills, yet the heart of the city is located between the old port city and the Aeroport de Côte d’Azur. To take it all in, enjoy a jaunt on the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean Sea. The Old Port, located in Vieux Nice (Old Nice), is a colorful and busy place, with various markets. There discover an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas. Stretch out on Nice’s recognizable blue lounge chairs on one of its iconic beaches. Some of these private beaches, like the Blue Beach or the Castel Beach, are among the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera.

The jewel in the heart of the spectacular Côte d’Azur, Saint-Tropez was a sleepy seaside village with a rich maritime history that achieved celebrity beginning in the 1960s. Explore the hexagon shaped Citadelle that once served as the defender of the gulf. The castle contains a maritime museum, and the grounds provide breathtaking views of the Côte d’Azur. La Musée de l’Annonciade is a real treat for art lovers and located just beyond the Quai de l’Epi pier. This 16th-century chapel features a small but powerful collection of paintings by Derain, Signac, and other artists.

The small fishing village of Cassis, near Marseille, traces its roots back over 2,500 years. The town is well known for its inlets, small beaches, seafood, and white wine. Relax and drink in the amazing scenery of pastel-colored houses, limestone cliffs, vineyards, and fig and olive trees. Traditional sailboats line the water’s edge and cafe terraces spill out onto the wide pavement. On sunny days, it’s a hub of activity and the perfect place to park up, enjoy a glass of wine and people-watch. Your experience in this picturesque region would not be complete without a swim in Plage de la Grande Mer.

Port-Vendres is a charming seaside town on the Côte Vermeille. From the moment you arrive in its kaleidoscopic port, you are enveloped in French history. Mere steps from the promenade you can witness Fort Fanal, one of the 12 UNESCO-listed Fortifications of Vauban. Explore another World Heritage Site in Carcassonne. Seen from the hilltop it is straight out of a fairy-tale with breathtaking turrets, churches and fortifications. Up close, the medieval city is even more impressive, with foundations dating to the late Roman period and its cathedral from the 11th century.

As you step onto the cobblestone streets of Ciutadella on the island of Menorca, you are entering a world where culinary traditions and vibrant culture come together in a symphony of flavors and history. Delight in traditional dishes like caldereta de langosta, a sumptuous lobster stew that embodies the island’s maritime heritage. The local markets brim with fresh produce, from the sun-kissed seafood to the aromatic herbs that find their way into every dish. Explore local wineries, where passionate vintners introduce you to wines that capture the island’s essence. Discover the rich tapestry of Menorca’s past, woven through its impressive architecture. The elegant palaces and ornate churches narrate the island’s journey through time. Venture beyond Ciutadella to explore the wonders of Menorca’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Visit prehistoric sites such as the Taulas and Navetas, where ancient stones stand as silent witnesses to the island’s mysteries. Ciutadella invites you to dive deep into its soul, where every meal is a celebration, every street a living museum, and every moment a chance to connect with the island’s enchanting spirit.

Dalt Vila, also known as Ibiza Town, is one of the Balearic’s most picturesque cities and a fabulous place to wander around. It’s home to an old port and historic city ramparts and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island of Ibiza has some of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the Mediterranean, including Ses Figueretes and Playa D’en Bossa. Wherever you choose to swim or sunbathe, you will find inviting clear blue waters and golden sands lined with beach bars. For a more relaxing excursion, head toward S’Espalmador, a small, uninhabited island between Ibiza and Formentera.

Dalt Vila, also known as Ibiza Town, is one of the Balearic’s most picturesque cities and a fabulous place to wander around. It’s home to an old port and historic city ramparts and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island of Ibiza has some of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the Mediterranean, including Ses Figueretes and Playa D’en Bossa. Wherever you choose to swim or sunbathe, you will find inviting clear blue waters and golden sands lined with beach bars. For a more relaxing excursion, head toward S’Espalmador, a small, uninhabited island between Ibiza and Formentera.

The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona, lives up to its reputation as a center of grand architecture and inspiring art. Antoni Gaudi’s Park Guell displays architecture as art, making for a whimsical and colorful stroll through Barcelona. Stretching from La Rambla to Via Laietana you will find the Gothic Quarter, the city’s historic center with intricate medieval buildings and streets turned into modern bars, clubs, and restaurants. A short way up La Rambla you’ll come across La Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets, filled with fruits, pastries, and many tasty samples of local fare.