Europe Cruises: Excursions

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. During World War II, much of Pisa was destroyed by German and Allied bombing, however the cathedral, baptistery and famous leaning tower escaped unharmed. Arriving at the Field of Miracles, you’ll join your guide for a climb up the 294 steps to discover the world-famous Leaning Tower. Built to display the wealth of Pisa, the bell tower began leaning during construction because of the foundation settling unevenly as builders reached the fourth story. The builders compensated for the angle but the tower continued its tilt. Today, the tower leans 14 degrees from perpendicular. Continue down to the open-air square for a brief explanation of the Cathedral and the Baptistery. You’ll have some free time to browse for souvenirs and gifts at the many stalls lining the walk to the Field of Miracles. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age to climb the Tower. No bags are allowed for the Tower visit for security reasons. Even though the tower has reopened to the public, Italian authorities have strict limitations on the amount of persons allowed in per hour/day, and time limitations make it impossible to offer the visit to all the guests at the same time. The walking distance between the Field of Miracles in Pisa, and the bus parking area is approximately 15 minutes each way. Please note that on public holidays, most major stores will be closed; however, most leather and souvenir shops will be open. Since you’ll be visiting religious venues, please dress respectfully; no bare shoulders or shorts allowed. less

After a short orientation drive through the busy streets of the city, you arrive at one of the most popular tourist night clubs in Istanbul. During dinner you’ll have the opportunity to see belly dancers, folk dance groups from different regions of Turkey and a finale performance by an international singer. Note: Tour is only available for the first night in Istanbul on the Norwegian Jade winter sailings. Guests interested in this tour must present themselves to the Shore Excursions Desk on board the vessel to review availability and departure times. Guests wishing to utilize a wheelchair on this excursion must provide the Shore Excursions desk with the total dimensions (height, length and width) and weight of the electric scooter or wheelchair at the time of booking. Use of a motorized scooter is not guaranteed on this excursion. Please note that this information is subject to change and availability is not guaranteed. less

This excursion takes you on a wonderful scenic drive along the coastal road from Cannes to Nice. Drive past the luxurious hotels and elegant shops which border the famous Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes. Beyond La Pointe de La Croisette, you’ll see the popular resort of Golf Juan and Cap d'Antibes, the most southerly tip of land. You’ll then reach the district of Villeneuve Loubet, famous as a summer resort and situated on the banks of the River Loup. Next, pass the fishing village of Cagnes sur Mer before reaching the capital and main attraction of the French Riviera, Nice. Continue the drive along the Promenade des Anglais, a splendid palm-lined boulevard stretching three miles along the Baie des Anges. Go by landmarks such as the legendary and imposing Hotel Negresco with its Rococo facade, the Russian Orthodox cathedral built with pink bricks, light gray marble and vividly colored ceramics beneath six onion domes which give an exotic touch to the Nice scene. Your drive continues past the Regina Hotel to Cimiez Hill, a sophisticated part of Nice with many large villas. You’ll also pass the Franciscan Monastery, gardens and Roman arenas, before joining the highway for your return to Cannes. less

Take a look at Bergen and its surrounding scenery from the water and by land. Bergen has a beautiful setting between seven mountains and the sea, sheltered by a myriad of islands from the North Sea. The Norwegian Kings resided here, and many historical events took place in this busy port, which in those days had no less than 27 churches and abbeys. Board your boat and continue between the scenic archipelagos of islands to Lysefjord. Here, travel by bus through the suburbs to Bryggen. Next, take a guided walk through the alleyways among the picturesque warehouses and waterfront before returning to your ship. Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and a windproof jacket. This tour may operate in reverse order. At Bryggen, guests may choose to remain in the bus instead of taking the guided walk. less

First, you will pass Perlan or 'The Pearl', a glass dome on the top of the hot-water tanks in Reykjavik. Then, you’ll continue through Reykjavik’s suburbs, towards Hafnarfjordur. From here, you’ll drive through the rugged lava fields of the Reykjanes peninsula towards the Blue Lagoon, where you will stop for approximately two hours to indulge in the waters of the lagoon itself. The Blue Lagoon owes its existence to the nearby geothermal power plant. A new facility was opened in 1999 offering a tax-free shop, café and very good changing-room facilities. The water of the Lagoon is 98° F warm, mineral-rich and reputed for its healing properties. The blue color of the water, the steam and the 13-foot high lava wall surrounding the Lagoon succeed in creating a unique atmosphere. This natural and very popular health spa is now a major attraction in the region and considered to be one of the most visited places on the island. This is not a swimming-pool for regular swimming, rather a unique relaxing bathing experience. Drive back to Reykjavik, over the barren Reykjanes peninsula dominated by old lava-flows. From the Blue Lagoon, you’ll head back to Hafnarfjordur and continue on to Reykjavik. Note: This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems. For hygienic purposes, you will have to take a shower without swimwear before entering the lagoon. less