Europe Cruises: Excursions

Drive to Sanary sur Mer, a lovely 16th century port in the heart of Provence. This village of light and contrast will welcome you with its colorful façades, shaded walkways, vineyards and hundred year old olive trees. The waterfront is lined with fishing and recreational boats of all sizes and colors. The "Roman" tower, still guarding the fishing port dates from the 13th and 14th centuries and was used for the defense of the region. Climb to the top during your free time for a fantastic panoramic view of this charming village.

The 16th century church bell of Notre Dame de Pitie was rung by the resident hermit to warn of enemy ships on the horizon. The small Frederic Dumas diving museum is another little gem you can explore; it houses historic diving equipment and other unique objects. Enjoy some free time to relax while having a refreshing drink in one of the inviting cafés, or stroll in the village at your own leisure.

Take a stroll through Cannes on this walking tour as you learn about its history. Accompanied by your guide, admire the old town of La Sequet and the famous Boulevard of La Croisette. You’ll begin with a walk to the old part of the city built on the site of the former Canois Castrum, a Roman town dominated by a castle, on the slopes of Mont Chevalier. As you take Rue Perissol, the road ascends to Place de La Castre, surrounded by a defensive wall and dominated by the 16th-17th century Provencal Gothic style church, Notre Dame de L’Experance. The old bell tower leads you to a long tree lined terrace, offering a fine view of the town, harbor and Ile Ste. Marguerite. Continue on Rue Meynardier, formerly the main street linking the new town with Le Suquet. It is lined with a variety of shops and some fine 18th century doorways. Pass by the old covered market on your way to the famous Rue d’Antibes, the main shopping street. As you return to the maritime terminal along the famous Boulevard de La Croisette, see where locals stroll in the winter, and how the elegant promenade is bordered by palm trees and gardens overlooking a fine sandy beach. Luxury hotels and elegant shops line the front and side streets along with galleries, antique shops, cinemas and night clubs. At the top end of La Croisette, east of the port, is the new Festival and Conference center; the last stop before heading back to your ship. Note: Tour participation is limited. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. There are approximately 4 miles of walking over flat, uphill and cobblestoned terrain, with 25 steps to negotiate. less

Marseille, one of the oldest ports in the Mediterranean, is a vibrant mix of old and new, ideal for exploring on foot. Here in Marseille, France’s second largest commercial port, is where the ancient Phoenicians and Greeks used to trade. The Greeks used to bring grapes to Marseille, making it the start of the French wine industry. Take a short coach ride along the commercial port with a hostess onboard. Meet your guide at the Old Port to begin your walking tour through the oldest neighborhood in Marseille. As you stroll, hear about the rich history of the city while taking in the great views of the Panier Area, the forts at the entrance of the harbor, the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, and the Abbey of St. Victor, along with many other interesting sites. At the Town Hall on the Old Port you’ll have free time before heading back to your ship, either with your group or at leisure, if you prefer to stay in town a bit longer. Note: Tour participation is limited. There are approximately 2 miles of walking over relatively flat terrain. less

Start your walk in the city center. Visit several local culinary shops and restaurants for samples of pastry, locally produced coffee, chocolate and a taste of Scanian tapas - a tribute to our Swedish smorgasbord! You’ll have the opportunity to buy products in the shops visited. Between the visits, learn more about the history of this 900-year-old city. St. Mary's Church, Bruksgatan, small cozy streets, numerous boutiques and a myriad of restaurants are located in these old-town quarters. Next, walk by Sweden's first pedestrian street - Kullagatan, which celebrated 50 years in 2011. Here, you can also see the Concert Hall, City Theatre and the Dunkers Culture house. Helsingborg is situated right by the sea with a boardwalk and shopping within easy reach. Watching over Helsingborg is the 34 meter-high tower core, which is all that remains of the stately Helsingborg Castle. From the top there is a stunning view of the Sound and Denmark. On clear days one can see all the way to Copenhagen and the Oresund Bridge. Note: This is a walking tour. All food samples and drinks are included; additional purchases are optional. Different tasting stops will be made for samples of food, chocolate and coffee; please be aware that these will be samples only. The venues where tasting stops are made may have narrow doorways and steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. You will walk to the venues and back to the pier. less

Start with a guided walk through old parts of Bergen. Make your way past the University Library and Botanical Gardens. See the Grieg Hall, built in the shape of a Grand piano and the park where many of the city’s Art Museums are located. Cross the Bergen’s main square, Torgalmenningen, with the Seamen’s statue. Soon after, pass the Fish Market on your way to Bryggen Hanseatic Quarters. Here, is where nowadays many artists and businessmen have settled, you can also find a great variety of restaurants and pubs in the area. Before reaching Bergen’s oldest street, Øvregaten Street, pass by St. Mary’s church, one of the outstanding Romanesque churches in the country. Bergen has seven mountains, and on this tour you’ll take the funicular to the top of Mt. Floien, 1,000 feet above the city. The ride takes about five minutes and travels at a 26-degree incline, stopping for commuters along the way. At the summit, be prepared for magnificent views of the city, harbor, and countryside, weather permitting. There’ll be time for shopping or a short walk on one of the forest trails before you return to the city center by funicular and before heading back to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age and in good health. Wear comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen. This tour may operate in reverse order. less