Mediterranean

The port city of Genoa is the gateway to Italy’s glamorous riviera. Delight in a shore excursion to picturesque Portofino, starting with a boat cruise from Santa Margherita Ligure. Admire sea views and a yacht-filled harbor. Stroll along the harbor, enjoy the colorful houses, or relax in a waterfront café.

Portofino, surrounded by verdant hills, is a playground for celebrities and VIPs.Explore Genoa on foot with MSC Cruises. Wander narrow streets to Piazza de Ferrari, visit Palazzo Ducale, and admire UNESCO sites like Palazzo Bianco. Enjoy Ligurian cuisine and see the Cathedral of San Lorenzo before returning to the ship.

Several thousand years of activity, both human and natural, have helped shape Marseille, France, into the city it is today. Marseille’s terracotta rooftops, turquoise sea, limestone rocks and vivid street art form a landscape like no other in France.

MSC shore excursions let you discover tucked-away treasures like the model boats that hang from the ceiling of Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. Snap photos of the Cathedral of Marseille that sits overlooking the ocean. Amble around Le Vieux-Port, admiring the sea views and lingering over a drink at a cafe terrace. Behold the Palais Longchamp, built to commemorate the arrival of water to Marseille. View the limestone cliffs that beckon nature-lovers to Calanques National Park. On your Marseille holiday, MSC make it easy to experience Provence heritage. Marvel at medieval ramparts in Avignon. Plunge into the port of Cassis. Admire the honey-coloured stone facades in Aix-en-Provence.

Onboard MSC you'll experience a welcoming atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Enjoy a wide array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries and experience live performances, themed parties, and engaging activities for all ages, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Málaga is the lively capital of the Costa del Sol, famed for its beaches and mild climate. It is a city of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, churches and sunny plazas. Málaga also serves as a popular starting point for excursions to splendid Granada and the famed Alhambra. Ships will dock at the Málaga cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Málaga:

• take in the views from The Alcazaba fortress
• see Picasso's paintings at Museo Picasso
• visit the Alhambra in Granada
• relax on a Costa del Sol beach
• visit the scenic village of Mijas

The Port of Cádiz is located directly adjacent to the city center, so you'll be able to explore the historic heart of Cádiz with a short 10-minute walk. The city is renowned for its ancient maritime heritage, beautiful beaches, and well-preserved landmarks such as the Cádiz Cathedral and the Torre Tavira, offering panoramic views of the city. If your plan is to visit Seville, it's about 120 kilometers (75 miles) away - roughly a 90-minute drive. Consider arranging a guided excursion to make the most of your time in this historic city.

Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is known for its strategic significance and natural beauty. Start your visit with a trip to the Rock of Gibraltar, where you can take a cable car to the top for stunning views of the Mediterranean and Atlantic. While there, explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, home to the famous Barbary macaques and the impressive St. Michael's Cave.

In the afternoon, visit the Great Siege Tunnels, a fascinating network of passages dug during the 18th century. Stroll through Casemates Square, the lively hub of Gibraltar, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t forget to see the iconic Europa Point Lighthouse, marking the gateway between the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Ceuta, positioned at the tip of the Maghreb on the Strait of Gibraltar, is a melting pot of Spanish and Moroccan cultures with a rich history that spans millennia. This small Spanish exclave is known for its fortified walls and diverse architectural landscape, from medieval fortifications to modernist buildings. The Royal Walls of Ceuta and the Basilica Tardorromana underscore the city’s historical significance.

A stroll through Parque Marítimo del Mediterráneo offers a refreshing break, with lush gardens and saltwater lagoons. The city’s unique location allows for breathtaking views across the strait towards the Iberian Peninsula. Ceuta’s blend of cultures is also evident in its cuisine, offering a fusion of Spanish and Moroccan flavors that delight the palate.

Located on the Costa Blanca, Alicante exudes a rare beauty. Lovely Baroque buildings cluster around the historic central district, while marble plazas grace its broad waterfront boulevard and pristine beaches like San Juan hug the shoreline. Ships will dock at the Port of Alicante cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Alicante:

• visit the Castle of Santa Barbara
• shop at the Mercado Central
• snorkel at the Islet of Tabarca
• stroll down the Explanada De Espana
• visit the UNESCO listed Palmeral of Elche
  

Start your day at Cala Mitjana, a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters, ideal for a morning swim or relaxation. For history enthusiasts, the Naveta d'Es Tudons, a prehistoric burial site, offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past. Explore the charming town of Ciutadella, with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively markets. Enjoy local delicacies such as Mahón cheese and fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Monte Toro, the highest point on the island, providing panoramic views and a serene setting for reflection.

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Mahón, located about 2 km (1.2 miles) from the city center, a quick 5-minute drive. The port area offers a charming waterfront with restaurants, shops, and historical buildings. Once in Mahón, explore the old town's narrow streets, the impressive Santa Maria Church, and the bustling Fish Market. A visit to the Museo de Menorca provides insights into the island's history. For a scenic view, take a walk along the port's promenade or enjoy a boat tour around Mahón's natural harbor.

Olbia, a charming coastal city on Sardinia's northeast coast, is a gateway to the island's stunning beaches and rich history. Cruise travelers can explore the historic city center, where the Romanesque San Simplicio Basilica stands as a testament to the region's ancient past. The bustling Corso Umberto I offers a delightful mix of shops, cafes, and local markets, perfect for a leisurely stroll and a taste of Sardinian culture.

Nearby, the archaeological museum provides insights into the island's Nuragic civilization, while a short drive takes you to the pristine beaches of Costa Smeralda.

Discover the history and beautiful architecture of this ancient seaport in the lovely pink stone Palazzo Tursi where letters of Christopher Columbus and Paganini's famed Guarnieri violin are on display. Visit the magnificent Palazzo Bianco and stroll past old master paintings.

For a taste of the surrounding beauty, Genoa offers easy access to nearby gems. Marvel at Milan’s iconic Duomo and high-end shops. Discover Cinque Terre’s colorful cliffside villages, perfect for breathtaking photos. Or, enjoy the upscale charm of Portofino, with its picturesque harbor and boutique-lined streets. Each nearby locale enhances your Genoa visit with distinctive experiences.