Western Mediterranean - MSC Magnifica

Day 1: Larnaca - Malta

Fly to Malta and overnight in hotel in Malta.

Day 2: Embarkation in MSC Magnifica

Embarkation on MSC Magnifica the ship departs from Valletta's port at 17:00.

Day 3: At Sea

Day at your leisure to explore the facilities and entertainment onboard MSC Magnifica.

Day 4: Barcelona, Spain

The ship arrives at Barchelona port at 08:00 and departs at 19:00.

Among the "Ramblas" you will discover great food and beer, but you are always under the watchful eye of Gaudi, who captured and expressed the soul of Barcelona in his architecture. The city is home to an innovative contemporary art museum, the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, and Camp Nou. Also, after visiting these popular destinations, you can discover the Catalan culture. During the stop in Barcelona, take a walk down La Rambla before visiting the Picasso Museum. In the city, you can see memorable architecture everywhere. Before leaving pay a visit to the neighborhood in the port of Barcelona. Completely renovated for the Olympic Games in 1992, it has become a place filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants. 

Not to be missed: Helicopter ride, The masterpieces of Gaudí or Sightseeing tour of Barcelona and Camp Nou stadium

Day 5: Marseille, France

The ship arrives at Marseille port at 08:00 and departs at 16.00

On the spectacular coastline of the French Riviera lies Marseille. This atmospheric port city is known for its unique mix of grit and glamour, seen in its labyrinth of streets and historical architecture. Only a few miles from Marseille’s charismatic cafes and bustling Vieux Port, stunning cities are to be found. Visit Aix-en-Provence, birthplace of Cézanne, or take in the ancient beauty of Avignon.

The seaport of Marseille remains a must-see destination for its culture, colour, and atmosphere. Explore the port and its primary landmark: the Neo-Byzantine basilica Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, constructed between 1853 and 1864. From the summit, you can take in incredible views over the city and the deep blue Mediterranean. Don’t miss a stroll along Marseille’s waterfront, past the aristocratic Borély Castle and Garden. See Longchamp Palace in the town centre before spending time in the old port.
 
Visit the southern French town of Aix-en-Provence. Explore the religious landmark of St. Saviour Cathedral, which was built over the remains of a Roman temple. Honouring the sun god Apollo, this richly decorated structure features Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque features. Next, enjoy a pleasant hike to the Four Dolphins Fountain and the Mazarin Quarter, home to honey-hued mansions from the 17th-century.
 
If you appreciate rich medieval history and sophisticated culture, visit ancient Avignon. This amazing city is home to the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting medieval Gothic architecture. A former residency to Popes of history, you’ll marvel at the building’s tapestries and frescoes. Afterwards, wander the mesmerising streets and have a spot of lunch in a French brasserie-restaurant.

Day 6: La Spezia (Cinque Terre) Italy

The ship arrives at La Spezia port at 08:00 and departs at 16:00.

Overlooking the 'Gulf of the Poets', lies the Italian naval city of La Spezia. Here, a maze of atmospheric streets lead to an impressive commercial harbour with glamorous yachts and pretty palm trees. This bustling Liguria port boasts historical churches, museums, and gardens. Nearby, Cinque Terre, Pisa, and Florence  are just waiting to be discovered.

Take the trip of a lifetime to Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park. This lively area comprises of five coastal villages: Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Monterosso al Mare, and Vernazza. View these multi-coloured towns from the sea, on a boat ride along the rocky coast. Then, dock in Monterosso al Mare for a leisurely walk through the old town centre before visiting San Giovanni Battista, a 14th-century church.
 
See the remarkable Leaning Tower of Pisa on an excursion where you’ll visit the architectural complex Piazza dei Miracoli. One of the world’s most iconic monuments, built between the 12th and 14th century, the Leaning Tower boasts a medieval Romanesque design carved from glorious white marble. Pause by the 13th-century cathedral and the baptistery with its splendid Gothic façade. Then, take advantage of your free time to explore this ancient city and its array of shops, cafés, and restaurants. 
 
Florence, capital city of the Tuscany region, is a star of the Italian Renaissance. There’s plenty to discover on a fabulous excursion including fine food, masterpiece artworks, and ancient architecture. Admire the city from the panoramic Piazzale Michelangelo before visiting the 15th-century cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. See Piazza Santa Croce  and its world-famous Basilica or take in works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and da Vinci and the prestigious Uffizi Gallery. Experience the atmosphere of Florence at your own pace, wandering around the artisan stores and chic boutiques. Or dine in one of the incredible restaurants for a bowl of pasta or authentic pizza.

Day 7: Naples (Pompeii), Italy

The ship arrives at Naples port at 13:00 and departs at 21:00

Cruise to Naples, located on Italy's stunning Amalfi coast, a city rich in history. A tour around Naples' grand piazzas, cathedrals and castles in the old centre will take you back centuries.

Pompeii is not too far either, a dashing city which boasts diverse cultural offerings and charming streets. Buildings, churches, streets, ancient fortresses and castles in the sea, as well as natural caves make Naples unforgettable. Pizza was invented in Naples, Italy. The margherita pizza, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella, was named after Queen Margherita. The Funicular in Naples is one of the longest funicular lines in the world. 

Day 8: Palermo, Italy

The ship arrives at Palermo port at 09:00 and departs at 17:00

Your stop in the port of Palermo will enable you to discover the ancient city founded in the 8th century AD by the Phoenicians, plus the refined cuisine: don’t leave without tasting the famous cannoli! Palermo will impress you with its beauty, inherited from the Middle Ages when it was dominated by the Arabs before being conquered by the Normans. The Norman Palace and its extraordinary Cappella Palatina, Palermo and Monreale Cathedral, are architectural gems that combine Roman, Arabic, Norman and Byzantine styles. But it’s also the Botanical Garden and the surprising banyan with its luxurious trunks that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the city.

Not to be missed: The Norman Palace, The Palatine Chapel and The Capuchin Catacombs.

Day 9: Disembarkation Day

MSC Magnifica ship arrives at Valletta's port at 09:00 and return flight to Larnaca.