ITINERARY FOR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE
DAY 1 – Palma, Majorca
Arrive in Palma, a mix of historic charm and modern style, with busy streets, tapas bars, and a striking cathedral overlooking the sea. Wander through the old town, visit Bellver Castle for great views, and enjoy shopping or tasting local food in small backstreet cafés.
Outside the city, the Tramuntana mountains lead to Valldemossa, a quiet village with stone streets and a famous monastery once visited by Chopin. Before sailing away, Palma Cathedral is a must-see, especially as it lights up beautifully at sunset from the sea.
DAY 2 – At Sea
DAY 3 – Ajaccio, Corsica
Discover Ajaccio, which sits on a beautiful bay with mountains behind it and a relaxed, sunny atmosphere. Explore the countryside around the town, with a coach or train ride through the green maquis hills, or just enjoy the coastal views and small villages nearby. See the statue of Napoleon Bonaparte or visit his childhood home, which is now a museum. Alternatively, Cupulatta Park offers a chance to see many types of tortoises and turtles in a peaceful setting.
DAY 4 – Civitavecchia (for Rome), Italy
Travel into Rome, a city packed with history, grand squares, and lively streets full of cafés and shops. Spend the day exploring famous sights like the Spanish Steps, wandering through piazzas, and taking in the atmosphere of the historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights include the Colosseum, where gladiators once fought, and the Trevi Fountain, where throwing a coin is said to guarantee a return to Rome. Also have the opportunity to visit Vatican City to see St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s famous ceiling.
DAY 5 – Livorno (for Florence and Pisa), Italy
Head inland to Florence, a city full of Renaissance art, grand buildings, and beautiful squares. Highlights include Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia, Botticelli’s works in the Uffizi Gallery, and a walk across the Ponte Vecchio lined with jewellery shops. Visit Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower in the Campo dei Miracoli, along with the cathedral and baptistery. Back in Livorno, the canals of the “New Venice” area offer a scenic boat ride through a network of waterways, bridges, and colourful buildings.
DAY 6 – Sanremo, Italy
Sanremo is a stylish seaside town on the Italian Riviera, known for its palm-lined streets, marina full of yachts, and a long history as a glamorous holiday spot. Enjoy the relaxed harbour area or explore the older part of town with its narrow streets and hillside views.
A short trip takes you to Monaco, where you can visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino and walk around the elegant harbour filled with luxury yachts. In Sanremo itself, climb up to the old town to reach the Queen Elena gardens and the Madonna della Costa Sanctuary, with great views over the coast.
DAY 7 – Barcelona, Spain
Explore Barcelona a mixture of sea views, modern design, and historic streets. Stroll along Las Ramblas, a busy boulevard full of cafés, street performers, and small shops, or explore the Gothic Quarter with its narrow lanes and hidden tapas bars, including places once visited by Picasso.
Visit the famous Nou Camp stadium to see FC Barcelona’s history and trophies, even while it’s being renovated. The city blends old and new perfectly, from traditional food spots to bold architecture all across the skyline.
DAY 8 – Palma, Majorca
Back in Palma, you can soak up the mix of elegant streets, hidden tapas bars, and historic architecture, all centred around the impressive cathedral that overlooks the city. It’s a great final chance to wander the old town, browse boutique shops, and enjoy local food in relaxed backstreet cafés.
Visit Bellver Castle for panoramic views or take a short trip into the Tramuntana mountains to see Valldemossa, a peaceful village of stone streets and cafés. End your cruise with a final memorable sight of Palma Cathedral.
