Western Mediterranean - MSC Fantasia

Day 1: Genoa, Italy

Embarkation on MSC Fantasia. The ship departs from Genoa port at 18:00

Day 2: 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 3: 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 4: Valencia, Spain

The ship arrives at Valencia port at 07.00 and departs at 18.00

We are in Valencia, and nobody can miss the chance to taste a real paella and then take a stroll in the beautiful city centre.
The port of Valencia is the fifth busiest in Europe. Observing the medieval architecture and futuristic buildings of the city, history buffs won’t have any problem in discerning Baroque, Gothic and Moorish influences along the city streets. Don't forget to visit the popular quarters: Mingle with the locals in Ruzafa at the market, to sample so many delights. Bars, restaurants and outdoor cafes will offer you the Mediterranean flavours of the area.

Not to be missed: The incredible Valencia Biopic, the Oceanographic Valencia Aquarium and the Albufera Natural Park
 

Day 5: At sea

Day at your leisure to enjoy the facilities and entertainment of the megaship MSC Fantasia. 

Day 6: Livorno, Italy

The ship arrives at Livorno port at 07:00 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 7: Civitavecchia, Italy

The ship arrives at Civitavecchia port at 07.00 and departs at 19.00

Civitavecchia, a former Etruscan port, is the seaport for Rome. And what about it? Everything here reflects the glorious power of a people who ruled the world. Located in cove, protected to the north by Mignone and south by the Marangone, the Civitavecchia port was built on the Tyrrhenian coast in Etruscan times and still preserves traces of this history. In particular, the Michelangelo fort and the old town with its 9th-century walls bear witness to the splendour of a medieval past. We have to take advantage of this stop to visit Rome, the grandiose capital with its world-famous monuments: the Forum, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Trajan's column, St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Piazza Venezia, the Spanish Steps and so much more.

Not to be missed: The majestic Cathedral of St Francis of Assisi and The Fort Michelangelo, The Rocca, an impenetrable fortress
 

Day 8: Genoa, Rome

MSC Fantasia ship arrives at Genoa port at 09.00