Europe Cruises: Excursions

At first sight you’ll see that Barcelona is a city with charming streets, busy with people and full of life. The old town districts are famed for their historical monuments, narrow streets and Bohemian atmosphere, and are a perfect place for a stroll. The city also has the biggest selection of modernist architecture, making it a genuine open-air museum. Barcelona is the only European capital with almost three miles of beaches where you can enjoy the most modern amenities. From the pier, head to the Sagrada Familia, passing through the Barceloneta Quarter or Fisherman Area, and Calle Marina. Your guide will offer you an explanation of all the details related to the church. Continue with a panoramic drive along Passeig de Gracia, the best-known boulevard in town. See one of the masterpieces of Gaudi’s architecture: the Casa Mila, best known by Barcelonians as ‘La Pedrera’ and Casa Batllo. Reaching Diagonal Avenue, enter the upper Eixample Area where the Sagrada Familia church is. After this, continue to the Montjuic Hill, claimed by the city on the occasion of the 1929 International Exposition, when the mountain was developed and trade fair halls and sports installations were constructed, as well as the parks and gardens which are to be found all over the mountain. Today it is the most important recreational area in Barcelona. Drive by the Olympic Ring and make a brief stop at the Mirador del Alcalde for a panoramic view of the city. Finally, arrive at the Gothic Quarter for a walking visit. The facade of the cathedral and octagonal dome are Neo-Gothic structures of the 19th century, designed according to a 15th-century drawing. From here, you’ll be dropped off back at your ship. less

A drive to the southern part of the Lanzarote will take you past the picturesque villages of Macher and Uga and cross black lava streams before arriving at the southwest coast of the island, passing by Los Hervideros where the sea water seems to boil in a volcanic cave. After a brief photo stop and a short drive, you’ll reach the Timanfaya National Park, a natural museum of unique beauty. Bizarre craters, streams of lava, and fields of ashes are mixed here with a nearly unrealistic lunar landscape, all formed during the last eruption in the 18th century. Upon arrival to Islote de Hilario, a crater with the highest surface temperatures in the region, you’ll experience still-existing activity not far underground as you gather around for the fun demonstrations. The geothermal energy is so strong that water gushes up and dry weed catches fire within seconds. At the restaurant El Diablo, located at the top of the hill, food is cooked on a natural grill powered by the heat within the earth below. Board a coach to embark on a tour of the Fire Mountains called "Lunar Route" which goes deep inside the heart of the National Park and lasts approximately 45 minutes. Through a recorded narration, you’ll learn about the history of the volcanic eruptions and see how slowly life conquers the inhospitable landscape with very few endemic plants. From here you’ll drive to the wine-growing area of La Geria where the locals have modified grape-growing through the centuries in order to preserve the vines from the harsh natural elements and provide a special cultivation for the grapes that produce the famous Malvasia wine. These vines are grown inside dimple-like craters and surrounded by volcanic stone semi-circles (called Zocos), built for each individual vine to provide much needed protection from the fierce winds. After this photo stop you’ll return to your ship. Note: Because Fire Mountains is the most visited attraction, to avoid delays at the entrance, tour order may vary but all mentioned sites will be covered. No professional camera or video equipment is allowed at Timanfaya National Park, including the camel area. Comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended. less

Sit back in the comfort of your motorcoach while discovering Naples’s major landmarks. The route takes you past piazzas, monuments, churches and museums. Capture a panoramic view of the city and the Bay of Naples from the vantage point of Posillipo Hill and enjoy a complimentary refreshment or an ice cream at a local cafe. Note: Walking during the free time is at the guests' discretion. less

Drive through the lovely Tuscan countryside en route to the historic town of Pisa, located on the banks of the Arno River. Enjoy a short trolley ride that takes you directly to Miracle Square, next to the famous Leaning Tower. Your walking tour begins near Miracle Square. During World War II, much of Pisa was destroyed by German and Allied bombing, however the cathedral, baptistery and famous Leaning Tower escaped unharmed. There’ll be some free time to admire the exterior of the campanile, better known as the Leaning Tower and enjoy some coffee or browse for souvenirs in Pisa before returning to your ship. Note: This tour is ideal for guests that have difficulty with the extensive amount of walking involved in all other tours that visit this legendary city. Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. Your guide will join you in Pisa, however you’ll have an escort with you throughout the day. less

This touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that interest you most. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, driver/English speaking guide (other languages available on request) at your disposal. You set your pace and itinerary, just tell us where you want to go!

Note: Entrance, parking fees and meals are not included, in order to allow you complete freedom of choice. Bring local currency, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. Extra hours available at an additional cost. Guests, who are planning to visit the religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. The level of exertion on this tour is completely up to you. Prices are per vehicle and not per person, so only one person in the party needs to book this tour.