Sun-kissed beaches, undeniable history, superb food and wine and spectacular scenery is everyday Mediterranean. And now, the future of cruising is here aboard MSC World Europa, to enhance your at sea experience even further. Step aboard this revolutionary design with breakthrough green technologies and the first ship in the trailblazing MSC world-class fleet.
Starting in Barcelona, Spain, enjoy eight days and seven nights of not only futuristic details onboard, but must-see Italian coast, scenic Malta and classic France cruising and port calls, roundtrip back to Barcelona. One of the most famous and busiest Med ports, Barcelona, begs you to take in all that this wonderful city has to offer, from vibrant culture, iconic architecture and history plus amazing cuisine with the must try tapas! Here you can join an excursion to Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, the Montserrat Mountain and the Abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat, or Camp Nou Stadium. Travel to Sagrada Família to visit Antoni Gaudí’s ingenious Roman Catholic Basilica with the option to visit the nearby town of Santa Coloma de Cervelló, home to more of Gaudi’s works. Or, travel through picturesque Spanish countryside to the majestic Montserrat Mountains, home to the still functioning 11th century Abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat. Europe’s largest stadium, Camp Nuo, seats nearly 100,000 people. Here you can enter the dressing rooms, visit the museum and imagine the atmosphere of the numerous sporting events and concerts it holds every year.
Next up, Marseilles, France. This French Rivieran city encapsulates a perfect French blend of history, style, culture, food and scenery. Explore the Neo-Byzantine Basilica Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, Aix-en-Provence or Avignon on one of the offered off-shore excursions. Notre-Dame de la Garde remains on many visitors’ must-see lists, overlooking beautiful Marseille’s sparkling waterfront and full of charm town centre below. Visit the birthplace of Cezanne, Aix-en-Provence, and view its beautiful Gothic and Baroque architecture and religious landmark, St. Saviour Cathedral. Experience the medieval and gothic history of ancient town Avignon, including the World Heritage site of Palais des Papes, and wander the meandering streets and French brasseries.
Cruise towards Italy’s gateway to the glamourous Italian Riviera, Genoa. Wander the charming medieval streets, marvel at the 16th and 17th century architecture and take in those famous pastel-coloured houses as you explore the port city of Genoa. Stop and savour the foodie delights of Ligurian cuisine and wander the Palazzos, Piazzas and cathedrals before setting sail for Naples. Or travel to renowned Portofino in the Italian Riviera, famous for its stunning hillside scenery, beautiful waterfront dining and VIP visitors year upon year.
Arrive into another bucket-list Mediterranean destination, Naples, for a day exploring this striking harbour city, brimming with architectural landmarks, more incredible food and picture-perfect views. Here you will have the choice of three different off-shore excursions to Pompeii, Capri or Sorrento. Discover Pompeii’s ancient and archaeological remains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as you learn of the city’s history and artefacts on a guided tour. Or take a ferry across to one of Italy’s most beautiful islands, Capri, as you explore the charming town of Anacapri and its iconic landscape of coloured houses, lush gardens and dramatic clifftops. If Sorrento is on your list, a coach transfer brings you to this stunning coastal town, right into Piazza Tasso, to explore the narrow streets and historic landmarks such as the 11th-century Sorrento Cathedral.
Cruising towards Sicily’s Ionian Coast, you will dock in beautiful Messina, loved for its historical monuments, cathedrals and pristine natural beauty. Here you can choose an off-shore excursion to Taormina’s Greco-Roman Theatre, Mount Etna or explore Messina further on a guided tour. The town of Taormina is famous in Sicily thanks to its extraordinary architecture and breathtaking scenery with Mount Etna as the backdrop. Or you may wish to just concentrate on the volcanic wonder of still active Mount Etna as you ascend the mountain via cable car and ‘super truck’ to the Torre del Filosofo. Explore the town of Messina further as you visit its main tourist sites including the Fountain of Neptune, the Court House and University and a traditional Italian Duomo.
Next up, the island of Malta. Explore its picturesque city of Valetta, home to Baroque and Neoclassical buildings, beautiful Barrakka Gardens and its fitting centrepiece – the Grand Harbour. Continue to the medieval city of Mdina for more incredible historical landmarks and striking scenery. Or visit the second largest island in Malta, Gozo Island, to discover this idyllic destination’s sparkling waters, beaches and lagoons. History enthusiasts may choose the excursion to the Megalithic Temples of Malta, another UNESCO World Heritage site, where some monuments pre-date ancient Egypt. Continue to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, drive through the Cottonera region and finish in the old, fortified city of Vittoriosa.
Enjoy some time aboard MSC World Europa and experience all new ‘districts’ plus the ship’s impressive half open promenade and 13 dining venues including 2 new outlets: Chef’s Garden Kitchen and seafood grill La Pescaderia, before arriving back in Barcelona.
Click here for our Mediterranean cruising aboard MSC World Europa or contact one of the Holidays of Australia & the World team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
Image credit: MSC
