Europe Cruises: Excursions

Although quick paced with a substantial amount of walking and climbing, your day will be extremely rewarding. See the highlights of Florence, including Michelangelo’s David and climb to the top of Pisa’s famous leaning tower. You’ll arrive at Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy the wonderful panorama of Florence from this unique terrace. In the historical center of Florence you will begin your walking tour. Visit the Galleria Dell'Accademia, where you’ll see Michelangelo’s masterpiece: the original statue of David. Visit Piazza del Duomo, the religious center of Florence in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Piazza della Signoria and walk to the Ponte Vecchio for a photo opportunity. You’ll have free time for lunch on your own and shopping. Meet back at your bus and head to Pisa where you'll join your guide for a climb up the 294 steps of the world-famous Leaning Tower. In Miracle Square you will view the Cathedral and Baptistery from the outside and enjoy some free time for photo opportunities or shopping. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age to climb the Tower. No bags are allowed for the Tower visit for security reasons. Even though the tower has reopened to the public, Italian authorities have strict limitations on the amount of persons allowed in per hour/day. The walking distance between the Field of Miracles in Pisa, and the bus parking area is approximately 15 minutes each way. Please note that on public holidays, most major stores will be closed; however, most leather and souvenir shops will be open. 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 3 miles. Due to the intensity of this tour, we do not recommend this excursion for guests with walking difficulties. 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

This exclusive tour is an opportunity to travel in a small group by minibus to see the magnificent ruins of Ephesus which is one of the best preserved Greek/Roman cities in Asia Minor. You’ll experience other historical and natural values around it such as at your first stop, the House of Virgin Mary. This was declared a place of pilgrimage in 1892, and has since been visited by many Christian pilgrims. From here you’ll continue to Ephesus, one of the most interesting and extensive ancient cities in the world. Built in the 3rd century B.C., this is the center of attraction in the Aegean Region. The remains from the Roman period are a grand amphitheater, the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Scholastic Baths, the Odeon, the Lower Agora, and the State Agora. The tour will end with a stop at a local handicraft center designed as a typical Turkish village to see how the famous Turkish carpets are made before driving to Izmir. Note: This tour is similar to IZM_01 Ephesus & the Virgin Mary tour but is conducted in small groups and requires a minimum number of passengers to operate. Expect crowded venues and long lines. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water and use suitable sun protection. There is approximately 1 3/4 miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone surfaces with inclines and steps. less

Discover the ultimate dolphin adventure by spending an exciting day (approximately 6 hours) working beside the trainers. You’ll gain an insight and understanding of the basic skills needed to care for and train dolphins and sea lions through practical hands-on experience, while being an active member of the team of marine mammal experts. You’ll be in close contact with the dolphins and sea lions throughout the day – both in the pool and poolside - while assisting trainers in every aspect of their work. This is a fun-filled, one-of-a-kind adventure. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age. A light lunch from the snack bar is included. Do not wear jewelry or sunscreen lotion as it may be harmful to the animals. Please bring your swimsuit and a towel. less

A 30-minute scenic drive from Piraeus will bring you into the heart of Athens. Along the way, your narrated drive will pass a host of major sites including Hadrian's Arch, the statue of Lord Byron, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square, the former Royal Palace, the National Gardens and the Old Olympic Stadium where a brief photo stop will take place. 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. A delicious lunch complimented by wine will be enjoyed at the most famous Greek restaurant 'Dionysos' with breathtaking views of the Acropolis. Considered one of the great museums of the world, the New Acropolis Museum, located at the foot of the Acropolis, displays a dramatic collection of artifacts and statues from the Pantheon, the Porch of the Caryatids and surrounding sites. After visiting the museum, you’ll enter the old part of the city called the Plaka and explore its predominately pedestrian streets with the picturesque houses, shops and numerous cafes. After some free time in this area you’ll return to your ship by coach. Note: Tour involves walking for approximately 1/2 mile on uneven terrain, gravel and cobblestone. The Acropolis site and the Plaka area are not wheelchair accessible. The New Acropolis Museum is closed on Mondays. Guests on May 11 and September 20, 2013 sailings will visit the National Archaeological Museum instead. 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. less

This touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that interest you most. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, driver and English speaking guide (other languages available on request) at your disposal. You set your pace and itinerary, just tell us where you want to go! Note: Entrance, parking fees and meals are not included, in order to allow you complete freedom of choice. Bring local currency, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. Extra hours available at an additional cost. Guests who are planning to visit the religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed in churches. The level of exertion on this tour is completely up to you. Prices are per vehicle and not per person, so only one person in the party needs to book this tour. less

Discover one of the best kept secrets in the world of photography – Iceland! Whether you consider yourself a keen amateur or a dedicated professional, there is no doubt that Iceland’s fascinating photographic terrain will set your pulse racing. If you are an enthusiastic nature and landscape photographer, you know that there are precious few places left in the world that offer a dramatic and accessible landscape that has not been over exposed. Iceland is a visually exciting place for those photographers seeking inspiration for a new and challenging location to explore. You’ll be able to take in some of the best photographic locations in the region. Through your photo lens, discover wonderful panoramic views over vast lava fields, hot springs, mountain ranges, lakes, unspoiled nature, bird life and picturesque fishing villages. Enjoy a buffet lunch at the famous Blue Lagoon complex. Note: Participants must be 16 years of age and be in good health. Most venues are not wheelchair accessible. Guests must be able to step in and out of the vehicle rather quickly to take advantage of the photographic opportunities. This is a special interest tour for photography enthusiasts - no equipment is provided. less