Europe Cruises: Excursions

Koper is an ancient Mediterranean town that lies on the northern coast of the Istrian peninsula where the Adriatic Sea incises most deeply into the heart of Central Europe. Koper's rich Venetian Renaissance tradition is very well preserved and its many beautiful squares and burgher buildings bear witness to its long history as an important city of the 1,000 year old republic. Stroll around the hidden squares and feel the atmosphere that makes this city alive. The capital town of Istria had been founded on the maritime trade and today this pulse is provided by the port of Koper, founded 50 years ago. At Tito Square, you’ll find the Cathedral and the Praetor’s Palace, together with other important landmarks. Learn about the cultural heritage of this region during your visit to the Regional Museum and have a taste of some local products and wine at a local restaurant. Upon visiting the important sights of Koper, your tour ends on the Carpaccio Square, where the great Venetian master spent the last days of his life. Once the tour has completed, you may return to the port at your leisure. Note: Guests must be able to walk over various surfaces with approximately 80 steps. less

At the core of this sprawling cityscape is the palace that Emperor Diokletian built for his golden years at the turn of the 4th century. What began as an imperial residence and fortified camp is today an intriguing warren of narrow cobblestone streets, where pre-Romanesque churches live alongside Gothic chapels, history-filled museums alongside galleries of contemporary art and delicious-smelling restaurants compete with bustling cafes for the attention of passers-by. Your walking tour starts with a visit of Cathedral of St. Duje. The cathedral is built on the remains of an ancient shrine and is supposed to be the oldest in the world. A visit will also be made to the charming Temple of Jupiter and the Split City Museum. The City Split Museum occupies a set of Middle Age buildings in the north-east part of Diokletian's Palace, within which there are two yards, in which the most exhibition halls are situated. Other sights such as the Golden Gate, the Silver Gate and the Peristyle Square will be seen from the outside. Note: During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. We recommend that you dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses and bring bottled water. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties; there is approximately 1 mile of walking over cobblestone streets and approximately 40 steps in total on this tour. less

Located in the west part of Costa Rica’s Central Valley is the scenic town of Sarchi. It is considered the home of Costa Rica’s best craftsmanship. Here, more than a century ago, primitive local artists began painting and decorating their traditional oxcarts in intricate and colorful designs. These powerful vehicles, hauled by teams of oxen, soon became the primary means of transportation throughout the nation. You’ll see how the hand-painted Costa Rican oxcart art has evolved into a brilliantly executed form of native artistic expression. You can also find an immense variety of local wood products, ranging from elaborated hand-made furniture to hand-carved doors. Leather goods and all kinds of souvenirs will be available for purchase. Lastly, make a brief stop at the little town of Grecia, famous for its historical metal church, Cathedral de la Mercedes. The church is painted in a deep dark red color and has a gothic style; its metal pieces were imported from Belgium in the 1890’s. Note: Wear light clothing, walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen. less

Experience Puerto Vallarta in all its glory. Travel along the main highway to Old Town, along the city’s cobblestone streets for a stop at City Hall and the Cathedral of the Lady of Guadalupe. Pass the elegant area of Conchas Chinas on your way to the southern end of town. Finally, stop at a charming restaurant for a complimentary beverage before heading to Old Town for some shopping. You’ll be assigned a time to rejoin your coach for the return trip to your ship. You may choose to stay in town on your own or return to your ship. Note: Short pants are not permitted in the cathedral. less

As Monaco is one of the smallest independent states of the world, the highlights of Old Town and Monte Carlo are very easy to explore on foot. Your guide will walk you up and show you the Old Town with it's narrow alleys, the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly got married and where they are both now buried and the exteriors of the Prince's Palace with the changing of the guards. Then your guide will take you walking along the famous port up to Monte Carlo (using elevators to go up). Arriving at the Casino Square, you’ll have some time to explore the exclusive boutiques and chic cafes before walking back to the pier with your guide (if you wish to spend more time in Monte Carlo, you can walk back to the pier on your own). Note: During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. We recommend that you dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses and bring bottled water. Guests must be able to walk approximately 3 1/2 miles over various surfaces. Tour order may vary. Casino de Monte Carlo opens its Salles Americaines (free admission) at 2:00pm, with slot machines only. Salles Publiques (entrance fee of 10 Euros in cash) is open at 2:00pm for Roulette and slot machines. Visitors must be at least 18 years of age and show passport or ID Card. Morning tours to Monte Carlo will not be able to enter the Grand Casino. There is a free-admission, American-style casino at the Cafe de Paris, which opens at 10:00am. less

Take a drive along the coast passing the holiday resort of Fuengirola before arriving at the town of Marbella. Plunge into the past and visit the old quarter of the town with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and heavy-grilled windows, centered around the beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos "Orange Tree Square" filled with stately buildings, small shops, art galleries, bars and bistros; a hub of activity day and night. Once a small fishing village, Marbella today is a fashionable and sophisticated resort, frequented by the rich and famous. After your guided walk, enjoy some free time to explore on your own or shop before the return drive to your ship. less