Europe Cruises: Excursions

Driving along the scenic Lower Corniche you’ll reach the dazzling city of Nice that enjoys a privileged setting on the hill-framed curve of the Baie de Anges on this shore excursion. Travel along the Promenade de Anglais, see the Russian Orthodox Church and take a walk around the fascinating old town with its narrow streets teeming with life. Reboard your coach for the drive to the Medieval village of Eze. You’ll be dropped off at the general parking area in Eze and will have the choice to visit the perfume factory or to walk up the steep cobblestone streets of Eze where the alluring Medieval atmosphere will enchant you. Don’t miss the magnificent views of the coast from the top before rejoining your coach to continue to the diamond, Monaco. Your coach will park at the foot of the rock, where you'll be carried to the top by escalators and elevators. On the upper level, enjoy a guided walking tour, passing by the main sights. After a short drive along the F1 circuit, you’ll reach Monte Carlo where you’ll start another walking tour that will bring you up (80 steps) to the square where you’ll discover the well-known Grand Casino. Here you’ll have some free time to take in the attractions of your choice around the Place du Casino before returning by motorcoach to your ship. Note: During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. We recommend that you dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses and bring bottled water. Guests must be able to walk over various surfaces with approximately 80 steps. Tour order may vary. The return from Monaco Rock to your ship will be approximately 10 minutes of walking. . less

On your visit to Marseille, you’ll see the entrance of the old port guarded by the two fortresses: Saint John and Saint Nicolas. Drive to the Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde for a very interesting visit where you’ll discover the city of Marseille. In Avignon, city of art and culture, the metropolis of the Vaucluse region which spreads along the banks of the Rhone River, see the famous Pont d’Avignon with only four of its arches remaining. Avignon was a small but prosperous town when its destiny changed in the early 14th century with the exile of the Popes to France, leading to a century of brilliance. It is surrounded by ramparts and dominated by the Doms Rock which is crowned by the magnificent Cathedral and Palace of the Popes. Enjoy some free time for lunch and shopping on your own. Note: Tour involves walking for approximately 3 hours on uneven ground and cobblestone, with a few steps in Avignon. Driving time between Marseille and Avignon is approximately 1 1/2 hours long. This tour is not recommended for guests who are wheelchair confined. Public restrooms are available in Avignon. less

Avignon, a city rich in culture and art, spreading along the banks of the Rhone River was a small but prosperous town when its destiny changed in the early 14th century with the exile of the Popes to France, leading to a century of brilliance. It is surrounded by ramparts and dominated by the Doms Rock, on which stand majestically the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes. The Palace of the Popes was one of the largest buildings of its time. It was fortress and palace, covering over 2 1/2 acres in a luxurious, sumptuously decorated maze of galleries, chambers, chapels and passages. Most of its original furnishings were lost or burned over centuries, but the rooms are still impressive. Visit the Palace of the Popes, followed by free time for lunch, shopping or further exploration on your own. Drive to the amazing eagle’s nest village of Les Baux de Provence built on a rocky spur in the Alpilles range and offering great views of the countryside and vineyards. In the village of Les Baux, you’ll see a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the 12th century Church of St. Vincent and the 17th century Chapel of the White Penitents. You’ll also have some free time to walk along the narrow and winding streets lined with local artisans who display and sell their works. Note: Tour involves walking for approximately 3 hours on uneven ground and cobblestone, with a few steps in Avignon and about 20 steps in Les Baux. Not recommended for guests who are wheelchair confined. Public restrooms are available at both Avignon and Les Baux. Please dress appropriately. No bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. less

Your walk will start at Victoria Pier in the heart of Lerwick, opposite the Market Cross. A leisurely stroll takes in the award winning, recently restored Tolbooth. This is now the headquarters of Lerwick's lifeboat station. You’ll see the unique "lodberries", once used by the town merchants for the landing and storage of goods. Climbing uphill you’ll observe a traditional method of recycling in the Shetlands, where an upturned former ferry is now the roof of a garage. You’ll pass various churches on the way to the steep, narrow, intricate web of lanes to the Town Hall, built in 1882. On the first floor, you’ll find the Shetlands' history depicted in pictorial narrative through stained glass windows. Proceed to Fort Charlotte, named after Queen Charlotte, wife of George III. The fort never saw action, but it housed a garrison throughout the Napoleonic Wars; it was later a base for the Royal Naval Reserve. It also served as the town jail and courthouse from 1837-75, and later a customs house and a coastguard station. At the end of your walking tour you may wish to stay in town to explore Lerwick's variety of small independent shops, browsing for local crafts and knitwear. less