Europe Cruises: Excursions

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

This touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that really interest you. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, driver and 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 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. Half day private touring is designed for guests who wish to visit the surrounding areas around Livorno and cannot provide a complete tour to Florence. Please see the Shore Excursion Desk onboard to plan your itinerary as guides are specialized per area. 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 touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that really interest you. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, driver and 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 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. Half day private touring is designed for guests who wish to visit the surrounding areas around Livorno and cannot provide a complete tour to Florence. Please see the Shore Excursion Desk onboard to plan your itinerary as guides are specialized per area. less

This tour does not visit the Ephesus Open-Air Museum or archaeological site which requires an extensive amount of walking. After an approximate one hour drive from the pier, you’ll arrive at the Upper Gate of Ephesus where your guide will provide you with some information about the site from the outside. You’ll have some free time for pictures and shopping outside the Upper Gate, from where you can see the Odeon in the distance. There is another photo stop on the road, at the Statue of Virgin Mary en route to the Interior Gate of Ephesus where you can find souvenirs and facilities, as well as more information about Ephesus from the outside, while seeing the Great Theatre. You’ll visit the remains of the Basilica of St. John, built on the site where the apostle is believed to have been buried. It is said that John wrote his gospel while living in Ephesus. During the 4th century, a church was built on the site of his grave, but during the 6th century, the Emperor Justinian replaced it with a church of magnificent proportions, with the central dome right above the tomb. Thousands of faithful pilgrims visited the sacred site throughout the middle ages. You'll also stop at the site where the Temple of Artemis once stood. One of the Seven Wonders, the temple welcomed visitors coming to Ephesus from the sea. Continue to Kusadasi downtown for a panoramic ride and a stop for a shopping opportunity and refreshments before returning to your ship. Note: This tour does not include a visit to the Ephesus Open-Air Museum or the House of Virgin Mary. During summer months, expect crowded enues and long lines as well as temperatures that can reach extreme highs. We recommend that you drink a lot of water, use suitable sun protection and dress in layers. Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. less