Europe Cruises: Excursions

Get to know the city of Marseille and the charming old town of Aix en Provence, two iconic cities rich in history and culture. You’ll drive to Marseille to enjoy the sites, arriving by the Corniche J.F. Kennedy, which follows the natural coast and offers a lovely view of the islands dominated by the Marseilleveyre Summit. The Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica was built in the mid-19th century in the Romano-Byzantine style. Those able to climb the 170 steps to the top will be rewarded with a 360° panoramic view of Marseilles and the surrounding area. And if not, you’ll still have a great view from the lookout point. Discover the medieval charm of Aix en Provence on a walking tour to see some of its main sites. You’ll visit Cours Mirabeau one of the most popular and lively areas in town. This wide avenue decorated with fountains and shaded by rows of trees is the central hub of Aix. You'll see the Saint Sauveur Cathedral and its unique combination of architectural styles that date from the 5th to the 17th century. Following the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to shop, have lunch on your own at one of the lively cafes or to explore further. You’ll meet your guide at a designated time and place for the return to Toulon. Note: There is approximately 2 miles of extensive walking on relatively flat terrain and approximately 170 steps to reach Notre Dame de la Garde. less

This combination excursion gives you the opportunity to ride a historical train that has been in service for more than 50 years and participate on a scenic ride through rural countryside and tropical fields. Afterwards, board your motorcoach en route to the Tarcoles River where you’ll go on a boat and explore the spectacular natural scenery this river has to offer. The river and mangroves attract many types of bird wildlife such as toucans, spoonbills, herons, egrets, jacanas, pelicans, scarlet macaws, iguanas and crocodiles. Upon your return enjoy some live marimba melodies and enjoy a delicious buffet of seasonal fruits and tropical refreshments. Enough time will be provided to select crafts made by local artisans before returning to your ship. Note: This excursion might operate in reverse order. Please wear casual clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring a camera and raingear. Wildlife sightings while common cannot be guaranteed. Advance notice is needed for guests in wheelchairs; motorized scooters cannot be handled, only foldable wheelchairs. The type of walking required is along even roads and compact gravel trails. A free bird guide will be provided at the beginning of the river cruise, which will allow participants to identify any feathered creatures seen along the way. less

Although a quick pace and substantial amount of walking is required, your day will be extremely rewarding. Your tour starts with an orientation drive through the Eternal City, passing through Piazza Venezia, the Roman Forum, the Arch of Constantine and the famed Colosseum. After lunch, visit the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel, boasting Michelangelo’s magnificent ceiling. You’ll gaze in awe at Piazza San Pietro, one of the world’s most beautiful squares that faces the largest church in the world, St. Peter’s. Some of its fabulous treasures will be shown to you by your guide during a brief visit. You’ll then rejoin your motorcoach for the return to Civitavecchia. Note: Guests who are planning to visit religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately. No bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. Your guide will join you in Rome, however you’ll have an escort with you throughout the day. Order of sights may vary. Tour does include an extensive amount of walking over cobblestone terrain and several steps to negotiate. Expect very large crowds at the Vatican and Sistine Chapel, especially during summer months. The Vatican will be closed on August 14th, 2013, August 18th, 2013 and September 29th, 2013; this tour is not available for the Norwegian Epic August 11th, 2013 sailings nor for the Norwegian Spirit August 15th, 2013 and September 20th, 2013 sailings. AVAILABLE FOR ALL NORWEGIAN SPIRIT SAILINGS AND ON BARCELONA TO BARCELONA NORWEGIAN EPIC SAILINGS ONLY. less

This one-day visit gives you a sampling of the city's treasures, including a visit to the beautiful Basilica of Santa Croce, and an up-close look at the statue of David, magnificently carved by Michelangelo. As you approach Florence, you'll stop at the Piazza Michelangelo for an overview of the city's tiled roofs, steeples and domes. All the main attractions in Florence are centrally located and perfect for a walking tour. First, you'll visit the Galleria Dell'Accademia where you can see Michelangelo's famous Statue of David, and best of all, you’ll have a reserved time for entering so you won't have to stand in long lines! You'll visit Piazza del Duomo, the religious center of Florence in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Continue on to the Piazza della Signoria, the Basilica of Santa Croce and then walk to the Ponte Vecchio for a photo opportunity. After lunch, some free time for shopping is allowed before returning to Livorno. Note: Your guide will join you in Florence, however you’ll have an escort with you throughout the day. 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 walking tour in Florence will cover approximately 2 miles. Most museums are closed on holidays. The Galleria Dell’Accademia is closed on Mondays; this tour will not be available for guests on the Norwegian Spirit May 11th, 2013 and September 20th, 2013 sailings. less

It began as a Viking settlement, followed by a market, later became a thriving town, and today it is one of the smallest and most pleasant capital cities in the world. Thorshavn today blends the historical and picturesque with all the features of a modern city. You’ll discover quality restaurants and hotels, conference facilities, interesting museums, discotheques, cinema, live theater, exhibitions, sports facilities, parks, and of course excellent shopping. The town and the surrounding areas are ideal for window shopping and pleasant strolls. As Thorshavn is located in the center of the country, the well-developed bus and ferry service can whisk you away to almost every corner of the Faroes and back again the same day. Your tour will visit Tinganes, which is the historic part of Thorshavn. Enjoy a short stop at Skansin to explore the old fort before driving up to the beautiful Nordic House Cultural Centre. When returning to your ship you’ll pass through the modern sections of the city and stop briefly at a viewpoint overlooking the capital. Note: Approximately 1 1/2 miles of walking on uneven cobblestones will take place on this tour less

Spend your time experiencing Corfu’s most beautiful and renowned landmarks. Drive through the countryside dotted with lemon and olive trees, to reach the charming village of Gastouri where the Achilleion Palace stands. It was built by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria in 1891 and was recently renovated. Its beautiful gardens, full of exotic flowers and the imposing figure of Achilles dominating the center, offer magnificent views of the Ionian Sea. Continue driving along the coastal road of Perama, where you’ll stop to take photographs of the famous views of Mouse Island before returning to Corfu town. Leave your coach in the Esplanade, the main square of the town, for a walk through the picturesque streets of the Old town. Here you’ll view historical sights such as the residence of the British High Commissioner, the Venetian quarters of Cambiello and Corfu’s historical center, the Town Hall and the Church of Saint Spyridon, Patron Saint of Corfu. At the end of the tour you can either board your coach to return to your ship, or remain in the city a bit longer and return to your ship later on your own. Note: During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; 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