Italy, Malta, Spain & France - MSC World Europa

Day 1: Larnaca - Milan - Genoa

Fly to Milan and embarkation on MSC World Europa from Genoa port. The ship departs at 16:00.

Day 2: Naples, Italy

The ship arrives at Naples port at 13:00 and departs at 20:00.

Cruise to Naples, located on Italy's stunning Amalfi coast, a city rich in history. A tour around Naples' grand piazzas, cathedrals and castles in the old centre will take you back centuries.

Pompeii is not too far either, a dashing city which boasts diverse cultural offerings and charming streets. Buildings, churches, streets, ancient fortresses and castles in the sea, as well as natural caves make Naples unforgettable. Pizza was invented in Naples, Italy. The margherita pizza, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella, was named after Queen Margherita. The Funicular in Naples is one of the longest funicular lines in the world. 

Day 3: Messina, Italy

The ship arrives at Messina port at 09:00 and departs at 19:00.

The third largest city on the island of Sicily, Messina welcomes cruise ship visitors with its lovely harbor, extraordinary architecture (much of which miraculously survived a horrendous earthquake and tidal wave in 1908) and wonderful food. Stroll through Messina's Piazza Cairoli taking in magnificent fountains and cathedrals, or sip Marsala wine at a sidewalk cafe. 

Messina, the third biggest city in Sicily, includes sights such as the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, Fontana di Nettuno and the Fort of San Salvatore.

The city was recently ranked by Forbes amongst the top five cities in the world with great street food. It was also elected the European Capital of Street Food.

Day 4: Valletta, Malta

The ship arrives at Malta port at 08.00 and departs 17.00.

Explore the city of Valetta on a scenic excursion. Visit beautiful Barrakka Gardens, a landscaped public park, before taking in views of the Grand Harbour. Next, glimpse stunning Baroque and Neoclassical buildings which are cast across the city. Admire the ornate interior of St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio’s world-renowned painting. Finally, explore the medieval walled city of Mdina, a maze of narrow streets and historical landmarks such as the Baroque St. Paul’s Cathedral. This incredible structure, which dates back to the 12th-century, features a wide array of striking frescoes.

Discover Gozo, the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago. Discover the Rotunda of Xewkija, the dramatic cliffs at Sanap, and the idyllic Xlendi Bay and its famous saltwater lagoon. Weather permitting, take a swim in Hondoq Bay, celebrated for its pristine beach and aquamarine waters. Then, on your way back to port, enjoy a shopping break at the artisan Gozo Crafts’ Centre.
 
If you’re an archaeology buff, book an exciting excursion to the Megalithic Temples of Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both Malta and nearby Gozo are home to an impressive set of prehistoric monuments, some which pre-date the Egyptian pyramids! Explore these mysterious places of worship before travelling to the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, where you’ll see brightly coloured ‘luzzu’ boats dancing on the water. Finish the day with a scenic drive through the Cottonera region, before taking a walking tour of Vittoriosa, an old fortified city. 

Day 5: At sea

Day at your leisure to explore and enjoy the megaship MSC World Europa. 

Day 6: Barcelona, Spain

The ship arrives at Barcelona port at 08:00 and departs at 18:00.

Among the "Ramblas" you will discover great food and beer, but you are always under the watchful eye of Gaudi, who captured and expressed the soul of Barcelona in his architecture. The city is home to an innovative contemporary art museum, the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, and Camp Nou. Also, after visiting these popular destinations, you can discover the Catalan culture. During the stop in Barcelona, take a walk down La Rambla before visiting the Picasso Museum. In the city, you can see memorable architecture everywhere. Before leaving pay a visit to the neighborhood in the port of Barcelona. Completely renovated for the Olympic Games in 1992, it has become a place filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants. 

Not to be missed: Helicopter ride, The masterpieces of Gaudí or Sightseeing tour of Barcelona and Camp Nou stadium

Day 7: Marseille, France

The ship arrives at Marseille port at 07.00 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 8: Genoa - Milan - Larnaca

MSC World Europa ship arrives at Genoa port at 08.00. Flight from Milan to Larnaca.