Europe Cruises: Excursions

Board your air-conditioned transportation for the approximately 45-minute drive to the infamous mud volcano. On the way to the volcano, pass by the imposing San Felipe de Barajas Fortress situated outside the walled city. Here, you’ll have the opportunity enjoy a panoramic view of the old city. Upon arrival at the mud volcano an orientation to the rustic facilities will be provided. A mud volcano is created by natural gases emitted by decaying organic matter underground. As the mud is pushed upwards by the gas, it deposits and hardens above ground and forms what appears to be a huge anthill. As more mud oozes out and spills over the edge it grows in size, gradually forming what you can see today: a miniature 50-foot volcano with a rich, creamy, mud crater at the top. If you have never been in a mud volcano before, then the initial feeling of mud on your skin is unusual to say the least. When you feel like you are about to become one with the earth, just climb back down the staircase and stroll down to the nearby freshwater lake where you can wash the mud off. Note: The temperature of the mud is very warm to hot, therefore those who are susceptible to heat must not participate on this tour. It's said that the mud has healing properties; however the truth to this statement is not proven. To reach the top of the mud volcano where the pool of mud is located, requires the negotiation of numerous, steep steps. Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and adequate sun protection. less

Depart the Port of Dubrovnik on foot to the newly opened cable car station situated in the vicinity of the Old Town. Arriving at the station, proceed by cable car to Srd Hill. From here you’ll enjoy a bird’s eye view of the greatness of the city and surroundings. You’ll never forget the centuries-old Dubrovnik rooftops. After returning by cable car to the main station, your guide will lead you on a walking tour of the Old Town. At the end of the walking tour, you’ll have free time to enjoy the Old Town on your own and return to your ship at leisure. Note: Tour participation is limited, but a minimum needs to be reached in order to operate. This tour is not suitable for passengers who have difficulties walking due to the uneven cobblestone streets and approximately 1 mile of walking. When tendering into Dubrovnik Old Town tour duration will be shorter. less

Your coach will take you from the pier to start your walking tour from Senate Square, with its neo-classical atmosphere. It is surrounded by the Main Lutheran Church, the Senate Building, and the University. Walk by the central railway station of Eliel Saarinen and see the National Theater and Sanoma Talo. Enjoy a flavorful cup of fresh coffee and pastry served in one of the many coffee venues in downtown. Continue your tour by walking to Mannerheim Street, Helsinki’s main thoroughfare where you’ll see Helsinki’s museum of Contemporary Art, National Museum, the new Music Hall and the House of Parliament. Then, visit the world famous Rock Church built of bedrock and quarried stone. Continue your walk towards Sibelius Park, in which the name was given to the park honoring Finland’s greatest composer, Jean Sibelius. Note: Guests must be in good physical conditions to walk approximately 4 miles uneven and cobblestone surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Order of sights may vary. less

Mainly a fishing village, Herculaneum was most appreciated for its position overlooking the Bay of Naples. It became very rich as it was chosen as a summer resort by wealthy Romans who built wonderful villas adorned with frescoes, mosaics and great sculptures. There’s a feeling about Herculaneum that’s quite different from what one feels in other ancient world centers brought to light so far, including Pompeii. The torrent of mud flooding down from the volcano served for centuries as the best possible defense against atmospheric agents and illegal excavators. See the houses, shops, and baths, including wooden elements, foodstuffs and fabrics that are preserved intact, thus offering a unique vision of their lives long ago. En route, visit a cameo factory nearby to see how the famous jewelry is made and then have some time to browse the store. Note: Participants must be able to walk 1 mile over uneven, cobblestone terrain and be able to manage approximately 30 steps. less

Commissioned by Pericles and built by Pheidias, the perfectly proportioned Parthenon crowns the Acropolis, representing the Golden Age of Classical Greece. Follow the winding path to 'the upper city' entrance through the Propylaea gateway. Beyond, on the highest part of the hill, stands the crowning glory of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, looking out over the graceful Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and the Old City below. After the Acropolis, you’ll drive to both the old and new sections of Athens, separated by Hadrian’s Arch. You’ll pass the statue of Lord Byron, the Corinthian Temple of Olympian Zeus and Constitution Square to the former Royal Palace. Here you’ll have a chance to take a photo of the Presidential Guard or Evzones in traditional uniform, as they stand watch over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Other sights on the drive include the Academy, National Gardens and the Old Marble Olympic Stadium, built in 1895 for the first modern Olympic Games. Note: The Acropolis is explored on foot and requires approximately two hours of walking. There are some 75 steps at the entrance and in certain locations the marble is uneven and slippery. During summer months and when there are many ships at the port of Piraeus, expect extreme overcrowding at the sites with possible waiting time to enter, especially at the Acropolis. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water and use suitable sun protection. less

Seek an active adventure in Dragonja, an attractive valley in any season. Your guide will provide you with instructions and information before you start your hike through this ever changing valley. Hike through deep green pools, red bushes, purple foliage or flowing seeping water through stones depending on the season. Discover the beautiful natural scenery and ecosystem along your way.