Rome, Italy
A magical blend of art, architecture and one of the most cosmopolitan lifestyles in the world, Rome is a city that will keep your head on a swivel. Everywhere you look something splendid presents itself - whether a beautiful statue to admire, a wonderful bag to buy, a divine pasta to savour or any number of delicious and refreshing beverages to drink. A city of piazzas, squares, churches, museums, charming outdoor cafes and, of course incredible St. Peter's and Vatican City. Throw a coin in Trevi Fountain to ensure that you'll return!
Sightseeing in Rome is applicable to guests selecting MSC Splendida's Option 2 itinerary, or to Option 1 itinerary guests extending their stay in Italy (pre-or post cruise).
Genoa, Italy
The birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa was a great seaport as early as the 3rd century B.C., and once a jumping off point to the Crusades. Now a modern metropolis, whose culture and history have engrossed historians and visitors for centuries, Genoa stretches 12 miles along the coast.
Genoa tours
Portofino - 4 Hours
First, a coach to Santa Margherita Ligure followed by a 10-minute ferry trip to Portofino, one of the world's great jet-set havens, overflowing with chic bars, cafes and haute mode shops. Gorgeous, and all your time here is your own!
Aquarium - 3.5 Hours
A quick transfer by ferry brings you to the renowned Genoa Aquarium, a nature-friendly aquarium and one of the most important in Europe. Unique in its size and variety, it hosts tropical fish, sharks, corals, penguins and dolphins amongst other denizens of the deep.
Barcelona, Spain
In Europe, where magnificence is commonplace, few cities can rival Barcelona for spectacle. Extraordinary architecture (loads of Gaudi masterpieces including the stunning Sagrada Familia Cathedral); a beautiful harbourfront and awe-inspiring medieval quarter; and a restaurant bar scene which trims the city's world famous promenade, Las Ramblas.
Barcelona tours
City Tour - 3.5 Hours
You'll visit the spectacular 11th century cathedral in the medieval Gothic area of Barcelona, see the exterior of both Gaudi's stunning Sagrada Familia and his Casa Batio, and enjoy a brief stop at Montjuich Hill for a panoramic view of the city.
Gaudi's Experience - 3.5 Hours
A tour to view the finest works of Catalan architect, Antonio Gaudi; Casa Batlo, Casa Mija and Parque Guell, one of Barcelona's top tourist attractions. Tour includes an inside visit to Gaudi's masterpiece the Sagrada Familia Cathedral - a do not miss!
Tunis, Tunisia
Tunis takes you by surprise with all the hustle and bustle of a modern Mediterranean city. Steel and glass blend with the baroque, and palm trees look down on chic boutiques, gardens and cafes. As you enter the narrow streets of the Medina, centuries slip away. Small shops with treasures of brass, olive wood, leather, carpets, pottery and bright garments spill out onto the street - the very essence of exotic. Tunis is also the gateway to the Roman and Punic ruins of Carthage.
Tunis tours
Historical And Cultural Tour - 4 Hours
By coach to Carthage to see the Baths of Antonius, Byrsa Hill and the Museum. On to Sidi Bou Said, a fishing village of Andalusian architecture and brilliant white and blue houses. Free time.
Shopping Tour - 4 Hours
By coach to the Medina where you can shop for spice and local products. Additional shopping awaits in Sidi Bou Said, a typical fishing village of white and blue houses, founded by Andalusian Arabs.
La Valletta, Malta
Strategically situated midway between Sicily and North Africa, Malta is in every sense a Mediterranean crossroads - a tiny island with an epic and heroic history in which invasion and siege have seen the influences of Romans, Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, and the British. Each has left an enduring mark upon Malta's cultural heritage and the narrow cobblestone streets of its towns are crowded with Norman cathedrals and baroque palaces. Arrival into Malta is spectacular, be sure to be on deck with your camera ready!
La Valletta tours
Mosta, Medina & Shopping - 3.5 Hours
Visit the "silent town" of Medina and walk medieval roads to the city's old Bastion. Continue to Rabat and the handicraft centre for souvenirs, followed by a visit to the Cathedral at Mosta.
Hagar Qim & Marsaxlokk Bay - 3.5 Hours
By coach to the Hagar Qim Temples, built with immense calcareous stones, then to Marsaxlokk Bay to see typical "luzzus", boats with bows bearing mythological eyes.
Beach Transfer - 4 Hours
Transfer by coach (no guide) to a resort and enjoy free time relaxing and swimming. Includes a welcome drink and use of sun beds.
Messina (Sicily), Italy
Prominent for centuries, throughout the middle ages Messina was the most important port of departure for European knights on their way to the Crusades. Although today a modern city, much historical architecture is a testament to the key role Messina's legacy plays in defining its present. Medieval and Renaissance artworks are found in the Cathedral of Messina and the Annunziata dei Catalani Church.
Messina tours
Taormina - 4 Hours
An exquisite little town - one of Sicily's jewels. You'll see the ancient Greco-Roman theatre (with fabulous coastal views), the 15th century Corvaia Palace, the Odeon and the Cathedral. Free time for shopping - and there's plenty of it!
Mount Etna - 4 Hours
By coach to Etna, the highest volcano in Europe, via the town of Nicolosi. Includes a visit to the Silvestri Craters. Times shown for tours are approximate. Descriptions are those known at our publication date October 2011. All information is subject to change.
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