Italy & France
Allure

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.

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.

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.

To the very west of the idyllic Italian Riviera is the enchanting town of San Remo, known worldwide for its music festival and blooms. It’s often referred to as the City of Flowers for its cultivation and export of long-stemmed roses, carnations and camellias, as well as olives and lemons. At the heart of town, explore the 17th-century Santa Tecla Fort. Contrasting the military architecture is an alluring Art Nouveau building that houses the San Remo casino. Spend time at Piazza Cassini and pop in the church of Saint Stephen, where Jesuit brothers devoted themselves to embellish it with incredible frescoes and gold accents.

The magic of the French Riviera comes alive in Menton. Bordering close to Italy, this village encompasses both cultures beautifully. Famous for its lemons, the groves dot Menton’s parks, hillsides and some streets. Stop in any of the local shops for lemon-scented and infused products. Take a stroll through the Old Quarter, where medieval structures remind you the city was founded by pirates. Steep steps lead up to Baroque architecture and grand villas, showcasing its rich history. With pebbly beaches closer to the French side and sandy shores closer to the Italian border, there are various waterfronts, such as Plage des Sablettes, Rondelli or Fossan.

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.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

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.