MSC Lirica from Limassol 12 Days - Winter Wonders Offer

Day 1: Limassol

The ship MSC Lirica sails from Limassol port at 18:00

Day 2: Haifa

The ship arrives at Haifa port at 07:00 and departs at 21:00

Haifa is beautifully set on the slopes of Mount Carmel facing the Mediterranean Sea, likened by some as ‘Israel’s San Francisco’.  Although traditionally a working city, there are a number of great things to do in Haifa that you must cross off your Haifa bucket list, including the Bahai Gardens, German Colony, as well as a number of top museums. 

From the top of Mount Carmel, take in the view from the Louis Promenade across the Port of Haifa heading north right across into the Western Galilee. Hop on the Carmelit, Israel’s only subway system which travels up and down the mountain, and at the bottom check out Hof Hacarmel, Haifa’s beaches.

The city’s crown jewel when it comes to tourism is undoubtedly the Bah’ai Gardens which form part of the Bah’ai World Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These beautiful gardens are a place of pilgrimage for members of the Bah’ai faith and are set across terraces sloping down Mount Carmel towards the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. At the bottom of the gardens is Haifa’s German Colony, with its pretty streets of restored templar-era buildings. The main street of the German Colony runs direct from the bottom of the gardens towards the coast and is lined with restaurants and cafes.

Day 3: At Sea

Day at sea to enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard the ship MSC Lirica. 

Day 4: Heraklion, Crete

The ship arrives at Heraklion port at 08.00 and departs at 18.00

Admire majestic Mount Yioúhtas as you dock in the harbour and ancient Koules Fortress on the port’s western pier. Discover the mythical Palace of Knossos or visit historical monasteries and churches. Crete is a fascinating slice of Greek island life just waiting to be explored!

Visit the rural village of Fodele on an MSC Cruises excursion. Birthplace of the Spanish Renaissance painter El Greco, the village is nestled in a pretty valley rich with orange groves. Enjoy a relaxing wander through the town before travelling to the city of Rethymno. There, you’ll admire Byzantine and Hellenic-Roman remains and a 16th-century fortress. Use some free time to browse the local shops or stroll the enchanting alleys. Take in Rethymno’s stunning architecture with its Turkish and Venetian influences.

Day 5: At sea

Day at sea to enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard the ship MSC Lirica. 

Day 6: At sea

Day at sea to enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard the ship MSC Lirica. 

Day 7: Genoa, Italy

The ship arrives at Genoa port at 08.00 and departs at 18.00

The port city of Genoa is the gateway to Italy’s glamorous riviera. Wander down its winding medieval alleyways, take in historical, Piazza Matteotti, and admire a magnificent cluster of 16th and 17th-century buildings. Genoa’s heritage as a naval power is evident in La Lanterna, a historical lighthouse built in 1543. Beyond the city, romantic towns can be found nestled along the coastline, including the gelati-coloured Portofino.

Delight in an MSC Cruises excursion to picturesque Portfino, a famous fishing village on the Italian Riviera. Starting at Santa Margherita Ligure, you’ll take a short and leisurely boat cruise to Portfino’s shoreline where you’ll admire spectacular sea views and a glamorous yacht-filled harbour. Surrounded by verdant hills, Portofino is a fashionable playground for A-list celebrities and international VIPs. Stroll along the harbour, admire the gelato-hued houses, or enjoy a drink in a waterfront café.
 
Genoa makes for an unforgettable experience, and there is no better way to explore it than on a MSC Cruises Excursion. Wander the charming narrow streets of the old town known as 'carruggi' to reach the imposing Piazza de Ferrari area with the Palazzo Ducale. Discover the rich history of Genoa's aristocracy showcased in the elegant district of Via Garibaldi dating back to the Renaissance era with resplendent edifices that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Palazzo Bianco or Palazzo Rosso with remarkable art collections inside. On your way back to the port, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the 16th-century Palazzo del Principe, the superb Admiral Andrea Doria’s residence.
 
The old town of Genoa is an ideal MSC Excursion if you are looking to explore the city on foot. This pleasant walk through Genoa’s historic town center will take you around the city that once was a major commercial hub for all overseas traders. After a stroll through the carruggi, reach the main square named Piazza de Ferrari and marvel at Palazzo Ducale. Take a little break and taste some local Ligurian cuisine such as focaccia and bruschetta at the “Cisterne del Ducale”. Before returning to the ship, the tour also includes an external tour of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. 

Day 8: Civitavecchia, Rome

The ship arrives at Civitavecchia port at 07.00 and departs at 17.00

Discover the culture and colour of Civitavecchia. This Italian gem is an enjoyable flight from many European and non-European cities. Celebrated for its 16th-century Michelangelo Fort, ancient Taurine Baths, and marble Vanvitelli fountain, the port is a convenient starting point for visiting Rome, Italy’s regal and romantic capital.

Not far from Civitavecchia lies Rome, one of the world’s most distinguished cities. Be entranced by its many architectural wonders including the famous Colosseum. An ancient amphitheatre in the centre of the capital, built between 70 and 80 AD, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was commissioned by Roman Emperor Vespasian to entertain more than 50,000 people! 
 
The Trevi Fountain is an icon of Rome, a Baroque beauty uniting architecture, sculpture, rocks, and water. Admire the spectacle on an excursion and see this 18th-cenury landmark close-up.  Showcasing mythological figures, including Triton on a shell-shaped chariot, the Trevi Fountain is an Italian masterwork. This landmark structure has featured in films such as La Dolce Vita and Roman Holiday. 
 
A journey to Rome isn’t complete without a visit to Vatican City, located in the heart of the Italian Capital. Visit the St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.

Day 9: Taormina, Messina

The ship arrives at Taormina port at 12.00 and departs at 18.00

Marvellous Messina, sitting pretty on Sicily’s Ionian Coast, is the ultimate Italian treat. This destination is noted for its natural beauty and historical sites, including cathedrals, monuments, and museums. Travel south to see stunning sea towns and villages, such as Taormina or visit the famed Mount Etna, an active volcano and a focal point in Greek Mythology.

Overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea and set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Etna, Taormina is Sicily's sparkling crown jewel. Visit this historical hilltop town on an excursion and enjoy a day of extraordinary architecture and breathtaking views. Stop by the classical Greek-Roman theatre, the Medieval Corvaia Palace, and the ancient Odeon Roman theatre. Then, wander the beautiful streets of the town and indulge in a spot of shopping.
 
Explore the lunar landscapes of Mount Etna on a once-in-a-lifetime tour. Book an excursion to Sicily’s active volcano, a legendary site in Greek Mythology. Ascend 1,900 metres to the cable-car terminal of Rifugio Sapienza before walking the volcanic landscapes around the inactive Silvestri Craters. Next, board an off-road 'super truck' for a drive up to the 2,920-metre high Torre del Filosofo (the amazing Philosopher’s Tower). 
 
One of the main cities of Sicily is most certainly Messina, a destination that can be visited with an Excursion. Messina is a city located in the north-eastern part of Sicily, right next to the strait that separates Sicily from Calabria. Take a glimpse at its main touristic sites such as the Fountain of Neptune, the Court House and University. Messina is also home to a traditional Italian Duomo built in the 1800s where the Bell Tower and Cathedral can be admired directly from the main square.

Day 10: At sea

Day at sea to enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard the ship MSC Lirica. 

Day 11: Rhodes

The ship arrives at Rhodes port at 09:00 and departs at 16:00

This Greek island exudes beauty and history. Take a walking tour of the old fortified city and stand in awe of the impressive Grand Master's Palace. See where the Colossus of Rhodes, a onetime Wonder of the World, once stood and savour the charm of this remarkable walled town. Along the scenic coast lies the whitewashed town of Lindos with its ancient acropolis and stunning views.

Famous For the Old Town, one of the best-preserved and most carefully restored medieval towns in Europe, is still surrounded by the walls built by the Knights of St. John. 

Fun Fact #1: North of Old Town stood the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, in a harbour that has been in use for 2,500-plus years.

Fun Fact #1: Foodies: Greeks like to share mezedes, appetizers set at the middle of the table. Try a seafood-themed set of appetizers with fresh shrimp, octopus, squid and more.

Day 12: Limassol

The ship arrives at Limassol port at 09:00