Μagic of the Western Mediterranean- MSC Splendida

Day 1: Larnaca - Rome

Flight Larnaca to Rome. Overnight in a hotel near Rome airport with breakfast. 

Day 2: Embarkation on MSC Splendida

Coach transfer from Rome airport to Civitavecchia port and embarkation on MSC Splendida.

Day 3: Genoa, Italy

The ship arrives at Genoa port at 09.00 and departs at 18.00

The second day of the cruise will find you in Genoa. Genoa has a long history as one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean. On the waterfront you will be able to visit an excellent museum and the aquarium. The city has the second largest medieval quarter in Europe, ideal for an afternoon tour, where you will admire excellent examples of Gothic architecture.

Day 4: Marseille, France

The ship arrives at Marseille port at 09.00 and departs at 18.00

On the spectacular coastline of the French Riviera lies Marseille. This atmospheric port city is known for its unique mix of grit and glamour, seen in its labyrinth of streets and historical architecture. Only a few miles from Marseille’s charismatic cafes and bustling Vieux Port, stunning cities are to be found. Visit Aix-en-Provence, birthplace of Cézanne, or take in the ancient beauty of Avignon.

The seaport of Marseille remains a must-see destination for its culture, colour, and atmosphere. Explore the port and its primary landmark: the Neo-Byzantine basilica Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, constructed between 1853 and 1864. From the summit, you can take in incredible views over the city and the deep blue Mediterranean. Don’t miss a stroll along Marseille’s waterfront, past the aristocratic Borély Castle and Garden. See Longchamp Palace in the town centre before spending time in the old port.
 
Visit the southern French town of Aix-en-Provence. Explore the religious landmark of St. Saviour Cathedral, which was built over the remains of a Roman temple. Honouring the sun god Apollo, this richly decorated structure features Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque features. Next, enjoy a pleasant hike to the Four Dolphins Fountain and the Mazarin Quarter, home to honey-hued mansions from the 17th-century.
 
If you appreciate rich medieval history and sophisticated culture, visit ancient Avignon. This amazing city is home to the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting medieval Gothic architecture. A former residency to Popes of history, you’ll marvel at the building’s tapestries and frescoes. Afterwards, wander the mesmerising streets and have a spot of lunch in a French brasserie-restaurant.

Day 5: Tarragona, Spain

The ship arrives at Tarragona port at 09:00 and departs at 18:00.

The Roman heritage is still part of the urban context in Tarragona. Here, you can watch the reenactments of the centurion parades and gladiatorial combat. During the stop in the port of Tarragona, proceed to the Praetorian Tower. On the first floor there is a model of the medieval town and its glory that was lost during a war that is still commemorated with solemn candles on the steps of the cathedral. If you have the time, watch the races of human pyramids that are organised in various districts of the city.

Not to be missed: The Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, the Ancient Roman city of Tarragona

Day 6: Valencia, Spain

The ship arrives at Valencia port at 07:00 and departs at 18:00.

Next stop Valencia! The historic Valencia, founded in 138 BC. as a Roman colony, it is the 3rd largest city in Spain and its largest port. Built on the banks of the Guadalquivir, it is characterized by great sights, reflecting the passage of Visigoths, Moors, Catalans and Aragonese, who left their traces in a cultural puzzle. In the historic center you will find many monuments of particular historical and architectural value, such as the Gothic Cathedral, the medieval Serrano gates and the Quart towers, the Llotja de la Seda (World Heritage Site since 1996) and the Marqués de Dos Aigües palace. Harmoniously marrying the past with the present, the modern image of the city is reflected in the futuristic and innovative complex of the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències).

Day 7: At sea

Day at your leisure to enjoy the facilities of MSC Splendida.

Day 8: Livorno (Florence), Italy

The ship arrives at Livorno port at 08.00 and departs at 20.00

One of Italy's oldest port cities, Livorno is a small but historically rich city. Check out the red-hued Fortezza Nuova, a 16th-century fortress, and the surrounding area known as Nuova Venezia ("New Venice"), and take a mini-sailboat ride through its charming canals. Cruise to Livorno and use the city as your jumping-off point to the beauty of Tuscany: Take the 30-minute drive to Pisa and snap a quintessential picture with the city's famous leaning tower. Or head to Florence — about an hour from Livorno by car or train — where you can see the unmistakable Duomo ("dome") and the Byzantine-style frescoes of Saint John's Baptistery.

Day 9: Civitavecchia

Dissembakation from MSC Splendida and return flight to Larnaca.