Europe Cruises: Excursions

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

Arguably the best known of all the Greek islands, Mykonos is renowned today for its nightlife and lively beaches. Following the Greek War of Independence, during which Mykonos played a significant role, life settled down for a while before it was 'rediscovered' as a beautiful location for filming, attracting actors, artists and jet setters. Today, both the lifestyle and true history of the island are showcased through this walking tour of unique Mykonos town. First you’ll visit the Mykonos Archaeological Museum, which houses pottery from Delos and some grave stelae and jewelry from the Island of Renia, the Delos necropolis. Among the museum's highlights is an exhibit of a pithos, or Minoan storage jug, which features a Trojan War scene in relief, and a statue of Hercules. Continue your walk with an exploration of the Mykonos that tourists seldom see, and discover her mysteries amid narrow winding streets lined with whitewashed houses and walled gardens. Discover the town's deliberately confusing layout, designed as a means to foil attacking pirates. The nearby windmills, an island trademark, once ground wheat that was used to bake bread for islanders and sailors alike. Now they stand as symbols of the island and afford a wonderful photo opportunity. Finally, do as the Mykonians and enjoy a refreshment of ouzo with some traditional mezedes before returning to your ship. Note: Tour is dependent on weather conditions and entails 2 1/2 hours of walking on cobblestone streets with slight inclines and a few steps. Even though tour has limited participation and is conducted in small groups; a minimum number of participants is required to operate. 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. The Mykonos Archeological Museum is closed on Mondays. The visit to the museum will not be possible for guests on the Norwegian Spirit sailings of June 4 & August 27, 2013. 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