Europe Cruises: Excursions

Board your coach for an approximate 30 minute transfer to Kourouta Beach. This is a public beach area where you’ll have free time (approximately 3.5 hours) to relax under the sun and swim. Sun beds and umbrellas are available for rent at the beach on a first-come, first served-basis. There is a beach taverna nearby for refreshments or a light snack at your own expense. Credit cards and foreign currencies are not accepted. You’ll need Euros for purchases at the beach.

Your scenic drive by night will first take you through the historical area of Istanbul. Travel to the heart of the Old City, as you drive over the Galata Bridge and view the Old City’s Sea Walls as well as the Sea of Marmara. As you reach the heart of Old City, take in the breathtaking photo opportunity of the Blue Mosque’s magnificence. Also known as the ‘Sultan Ahmet Mosque’, it was built by his order over a seven year period in 1609. You’ll see the German Fountain and Obelisks at the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once at the heart of Constantinople’s political and sporting life. It is now a tranquil city park. Nearby, from outside, you’ll see the 6th century St. Sophia Museum, considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture. Continue your journey back to the new city as you drive over the Ataturk Bridge reaching Taksim Square, where the city life is bustling 24 hours a day. Enjoy some free time to explore Taksim independently before your journey back to the pier. Note: This evening tour is designed for guests with limited mobility and who do not wish to walk long distances and is only available for the first night in Istanbul on the Norwegian Jade winter sailings. Please expect differences in tour duration due to traffic conditions. less

Discover the highlights of Tenerife's capital by foot. Join your guide and see places most tourists miss. Not far from the harbor, you’ll find a fusion of modernity and tradition in the Plaza de España, next to the Cabildo (municipal council). Head towards the Guimera Theater, built in 1849 in classical romantic style. Nearby is Noria Street with its many pubs and restaurants where locals enjoy nightlife and where you’ll learn about the ‘murgas’, the satiric singing groups which perform songs during the carnival. You’ll notice that each 'murga' has its own colonial-style house where they rehearse their songs in strict secrecy so other 'murgas' don't find out what their lyrics are. Your journey continues with a visit to the municipal market ‘Nuestra Señora de Africa’ where you’ll find traditional foods, local fruits and vegetables and everything the locals buy every day in this popular market. Continue over the Serrador Bridge towards Calle Castillo (Castle Street) where most of the city center shops are located. Your walk leads you to Weyler Square. See the beautiful Carrara marble fountain and the palace of the Captaincy General. Head to Garcia Sanabria Park; an idyllic urban park in the heart of the city. Its large garden area where the vegetation blends with walkways, fountains, sculptures and gazebos, invites to leisurely walks and relaxation. You next destination is Pilar Street, lined with high-end shops. Before heading back to the port, you’ll have an opportunity to admire Principe Square and the San Francisco church. You may opt to stay in town a little longer to shop or explore more of this lovely city on your own or instead follow your guide back to the ship. Note: This tour involves a considerable amount of walking, participants should be fit. It’s not suitable for those on wheelchairs or with walking difficulties. We recommend you bring a bottle of water, wear a cap and sunglasses. Included in your tour is a visit to religious sites, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed in churches.The market is closed on Easter, Christmas Eve and New Years Eve, so tour itinerary will vary during holidays. less

Your tour begins as you board a van or motorcoach at the pier and travel to Gringo Gulch, where you'll begin this invigorating walking tour of the picturesque town of Puerto Vallarta. Walk by the former home of Elizabeth Taylor, enjoy a magnificent view from high above the city and stroll through the market and along the famed boardwalk known as the Malecon, with the various sculptures of famous Mexican artists. At the end of the tour, you'll enjoy a complimentary drink and some free time to spend at the Olas Altas shopping district and watch the spectacular sunset. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. We suggest you wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is only available for guests on the Norwegian Star. less

Set out for an interesting walking tour which starts alongside the main pier of the traditional fishing harbor. Admire the facade of the 17th century City Hall built by local architect Pierre Puget. Walk around the old quarter of the city of Toulon with its Cathedral Sainte Marie de la Seds, founded in the 5th century. See small shady Provencal squares with their moss-covered fountains. Admire elegant monuments from the eclectic 19th century including the high-flying opera building and the majestic Fountain of Liberty, a tribute to the French Revolution and built over the medieval walls. All the sites are within walking distance. Take some free time to stroll around the streets and the morning market. At the end of the tour, you might follow your guide back to your ship or stay in town and return on your own. Note: Tour participation is limited. There are approximately 1 1/2 miles of walking over relatively flat terrain and 10-20 steps to negotiate. less

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