Explore Frances Riviera & TuscanyFrances famed southern coast and Italys Renaissance treasures take center stage on this 8-day Mediterranean sojourn between Barcelona and Rome. Immerse yourself in Catalonian and Tuscan art, architecture and history during overnights in Barcelona and Tuscany. In the South of France, call on historic Montpellier, picturesque Marseille and Monte Carlo, Monacos glamorous city by the sea. Itinerary:Day 1 Barcelona, SpainStep on board your ship to begin your journey. Columbus Monument. Port Vell. Arc de Triomf. These are just a few of the monumental sights you will see in Barcelona. Other scenic highlights include the Olympic Port, built for the 1992 Olympic Games, and the Passeig de Grcia, a boulevard renowned for its architecture including works by Antoni Gaud. Your overnight stay allows time to discover Barcelona on your own, or opt for a tour such as an evening performance of flamenco. Watch this vibrant dance while savoring a menu of traditional tapas. Day 2 Barcelona, SpainAwake in Barcelona and further explore the Catalonian capital. Start on Las Ramblas, the mile-long leafy pedestrian boulevard. Or take a turn through the myriad side streets of the Gothic Quarter, where the ancient and the modern sit side by side, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Or head to the Passeig de Grcia, a boulevard renowned for its architecture including works by Antoni Gaud. You may also choose from one of the many optional tours. Day 3 Montpellier (Ste), FranceExplore Montpellier today, a center of learning for centuries. Its namesake university, founded in 1160, is one of the worlds oldest, predating the Renaissance. The social and cultural center of Montpellier is the Place de la Comdie, anchored by the elegant Three Graces fountain and the stunning, neoclassical Opra Comdie. Other sites pay tribute to a rich heritage, from the art-filled Muse Fabre and impressive St. Clement Aqueduct to the St. Pierre Cathedral with its floating porch supported by a pair of towers. Day 4 Marseille, FranceVisit Marseille, Frances oldest city, rich in timeless treasures. Discover its atmospheric Old Port, overseen by two 17th-century fortresses. The picturesque quay was built on the order of Louis XII and Louis XIII and is one of the worlds most romantic walks. As you explore, take in the beauty of its natural harbor, dotted with elegant yachts. Marvel at the church of Notre Dame de la Garde and Palais Longchamp, or venture to Aix-en-Provence with its tree-shaded squares and wide boulevards. Day 5 Monte Carlo, MonacoEnjoy a full day in Monaco, the playground for the rich and famous, as well as the gateway to the beautiful South of France. Visit medieval Monaco, stopping at the Princes Palace and St. Nicholas Cathedral, the burial site of the royal family, including American actress Grace Kelly. You will have time to step inside the Casino de Monte-Carlo, the most prestigious and celebrated gambling mecca on Earth. As an option, venture out of town to the legendary perfumeries in Grasse, or stroll along the English promenade in glamorous Nice. Day 6 Florence/Pisa, ItalyImmerse yourself in the beauty of Tuscany with an included, well-curated tour of Pisa. Alternatively, enjoy a full-day tour that combines Pisa and Florence. Begin with a scenic drive through the countryside to Florence, where you will stroll by the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. Then on to the medieval Ponte Vecchio and the attractive Basilica di Santa Croce, resting place of Michelangelo. In Pisa, you will have time to explore the Square of Miracles, including the famous Leaning Tower, the Cathedral and Baptistery. Day 7 Florence/Pisa, ItalyImmerse yourself in the beauty of Tuscany with an included, well-curated tour of Pisa. Alternatively, enjoy a full-day tour that combines Pisa and Florence. Begin with a scenic drive through the countryside to Florence, where you will stroll by the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. Then on to the medieval Ponte Vecchio, and the attractive Basilica di Santa Croce, resting place of Michelangelo. In Pisa, you will have time to explore the Square of Miracles, including the famous Leaning Tower, the Cathedral and Baptistery. Day 8 Rome, ItalyAwake in Civitavecchia, the port of Rome, where you will be departing your ship. From here, you can easily spend a few extra days to further explore this magical city on a post cruise extension. |
