ITINERARY
ITINERARY
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at sea...
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Kora La
You’ll feel like you’ve switched continents when you dine at this restaurant. It offers a pan-Asian selection of curries and noodle dishes, a separate sushi menu, plus bespoke dishes created by master chef Ian Pengelley exclusively for Marella Cruises. This is one of the ship's speciality restaurants, so there's a charge to dine here – plus, we recommend you make a reservation in advance.
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Tapas @ The Mediterranean
You’ll be whisked to sunny Spain when you dine in this section of The Mediterranean, which specialises in tapas dishes for dinner. Or you can take your taste buds over to Portugal and try espetadas – meat or veg skewers – for a little extra. It's open at lunchtime, too, for light bites, like sandwiches and jacket potatoes.
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Latitude 53
The main waiter service restaurant is a good-looking place, with a gold-and-grey colour scheme and floor-to-ceiling windows. Menu-wise, you can expect traditional dishes with a modern twist.
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Palermo & Monreale
This trip starts right in the heart of the Sicilian capital, Palermo, with a visit to the ancient cathedral. The huge, ornate building dates back to the 12th-century, and you’ll have time to snap a picture or two of the Norman, Gothic and Moorish architecture before the next stop. From here, your guide will lead you to Quattro Canti, one of the city’s prettiest and most famous squares, before you hop back on the coach for a trip to the mountain village of Monreale. Here, you’ll get to tour one of Sicily’s most popular attractions – the Cathedral of Monreale. Like its counterpart in Palermo, the first stones were also laid in the 12th-century, but this place comes with an even bigger reputation – as a national monument of Italy. Once you’ve finished your tour, there’s a slice of time to explore the winding streets and admire the views of the Conca d’Oro valley.
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Palermo and the Palatine Chapel
Three is the magic number on this tour, as you tick off a trio of Palermo’s biggest hitters. After meeting your guide at the port, you’ll drive into the centre of the city to see the Palatine Chapel. You’ll see gold-emblazoned columns and 12th-century mosaics inside, before making tracks for the grand Palazzao dei Normanni. There’s a regal feel to the palace, and your guide will tell you about its royal connections to the ancient Kings of Sicily. Before you head back to the port, there’s time to stroll around the corner to Palermo Cathedral – one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You won’t have time to head inside, but the arches and domes make for stunning pictures from the flagstone courtyard.
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Walking Tour of Palermo
You’ll be right in the thick of things on this trip, as you explore Sicily’s biggest city on foot. Starting at Palermo’s pretty pier, you’ll soon see the jumbled architectural influences as you weave a path through the city – a style described by locals as an Arabic-Norman mix. There are even tell-tale signs of Irish rule here, with the famous Quattro Canti crossroads designed to represent the four provinces of Ireland. As you get closer to the city centre, the colossal orange-hued Palermo Cathedral comes into view, and just around the corner is the Palazzo dei Normanni – filled with gold pillars and colourful mosaics. There’s no strict itinerary to stick to on this trip, so you’ve got carte blanche to do what you wan,t at your own pace.
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Pompeii
Explore the historical city of Pompeii, one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. This fascinating tour’s the perfect introduction to this ancient city, situated at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. It was destroyed in 79AD, following the famous volcanic eruption that smothered it in 6 to 7 metres of pumice and ash. You’ll walk with your guide around the remains of this impressive - and doomed – city to get a feel for what life was like in Roman times before the city’s destruction. A fascinating tour that is not to be missed!
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Pompeii & Vesuvius
A real history fest, this one ticks off two of Italy’s most impressive sights. First up is Pompeii, the city that was frozen in time, stopped in action and covered in ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79AD. And today, the remains of temples, villas and streets look more or less as they did 2,000 years ago. You’ll even get to see the people who were turned to stone trying to flee the city. From here, it’s on to Mount Vesuvius itself. The mighty fire mountain is up alongside Krakatoa in the notoriety stakes. And it’s the only active volcano on Europe’s mainland. You’ll get off the coach at the 1000m mark, and through national park to its summit. The leg work is well worth it – as you can imagine, the views from the here are phenomenal.
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Sorrento & Pompeii
Sorrento is such a beautiful summer resort, even the Italians can’t resist its charms. On arrival at this chic town, you’ll get some free time to browse around and enjoy lunch on your own. Then you’ll travel to one of the most important and famous archaeological sites in the world - Pompeii. Some 2000 years ago when Mount Vesuvius erupted, the city was covered by a layer of ash measuring 6 to 7 metres deep. Excavations only began in the 18th-century, making a tremendous impact all over Europe. This tour’s a great opportunity for you to discover two great cities in one day.
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Easy Pisa
If you want to see the fantastic sights of Pisa, but would prefer to sit back and relax while you take in the views, this tour is for you. You’ll get a ride on a trolley train, which will drop you right in the centre of the action at Campo dei Miracoli – Miracle Square. Here you’ll find the famous Leaning Tower, as well as the cathedral and the Baptistery. There’ll be plenty of time for you to capture pictures of these iconic sights, shop for souvenirs, and even grab a gelato before the train ride back to the coach.
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One day in Siena
Take a journey through the beautiful green landscape of southern Tuscany, and you’ll reach the Medieval city of Siena – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you arrive, you’ll get a walking tour through the historical centre. Your guide will lead the way and talk you through the history of the sights you pass, including the Piazza del Duomo, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which is one of the most important and most beautiful Gothic buildings in Italy. You’ll also see the museum of Santa Maria della Scala – it was once an ancient hospital that cared for orphans and pilgrims. Next on the agenda is the world-famous Piazza del Campo, which plays host to a number of impressive buildings and has been the centre of the city since the 12th century. Stroll past the Palazzo Pubblico, the Torre del Mangia tower and the square’s beautiful monumental fountain, the Fonte Gaia. You’ll then have some free time to explore Siena, do some shopping and tuck into some Tuscan food – the Italians never skip lunch!
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Leaning Tower of Pisa
Leave the port of Piombino behind and take in the views of the iconic Tuscan countryside on your drive to Pisa. When you get there, you’ll be escorted to the Miracle Square, where you’ll meet your walking tour guide. This square is also known as the Campo dei Miracoli, and it’s arguably one of the most beautiful squares in the world. It’s home to an impressive 13th-century cathedral, with a Tuscan-Romanesque façade and Muslim-inspired interior. You can also visit the Baptistery – it’s the largest of its kind in Italy. And last but not least, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This iconic tower is often referenced as one of the wonders of the world, and it’s where Galileo is said to have conducted his gravity experiments. After you’ve had your fun staging pictures that look like you’re holding the tower in place, you’ll have some free time to explore Pisa, before heading back to Piombino.
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Monaco & Monte Carlo
This one’s a great introduction to the world-renowned Principality of Monaco and Monte Carlo. Make your way along the famous coastal road, the Middle Corniche, passing the Medieval village of Eze, which towers above the sea. In Monaco, your coach will park at the foot of the peninsula and the escalators and elevators will whisk you to the top. Here, it’s time to begin your walking tour, passing the Oceanographic Museum and cathedral, up to the forecourt of the Prince’s Palace. With your tour complete, you’ll rejoin the coach for a drive along a section of the famous Grand Prix circuit. Then, in Monte Carlo, you’ll have some time to enjoy a coffee at the famous Café de Paris, take in the views, or photograph the world famous Monte Carlo Grand Casino from the outside.
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Nice, Monaco & Monte Carlo
This tour takes you from the sights and sounds of cosmopolitan Nice to the Grand Prix circuit of Monte Carlo. It begins with a drive along the promenade of Nice as your guide points out some of the city’s most famous sights. Then it’s time to make your way to Monaco. When you get here, take the escalators and elevators to the top and start your walking tour, passing by the Oceanographic Museum, the cathedral and the forecourt of the Prince’s Palace. After that, it’s time to drive along a section of the famous Grand Prix circuit before stopping at the Casino Square in Monte Carlo. Simply watch the world go by with a coffee at the famous Cafe De Paris or enjoy a little window shopping at the chic boutiques.
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Nice Trolley Train Tour
On this trip, you’ll get up close to some of Nice’s modern and Medieval landmarks. You’ll kick things off with a 75-minute journey to the city. You’ll take the scenic route to the old quarter, passing by the well-preened orchards of the 15th-century Cimiez Monastery and the pink-dome-topped Negresco Hotel on the way. When you arrive, you’ll swap the coach for an electric trolley train, which will chug through the winding cobbled streets. Keep your camera handy, because you’ll tick off a few of the city’s main attractions during the ride, including the 350-year-old Nice Cathedral and the yacht-filled Port of Nice – the biggest of its kind on the French Riviera. After a 45-minute tour, you’ll then head out on foot. You’ll stroll down a stretch of the Promenade des Anglais – the city’s seven-kilometre-long, beachfront walkway – and wander around an open-air market. The latter’s a good place to pick up a bottle of bellet wine – a type of red that’s produced in the nearby countryside. Afterwards, you’ll hop back on the coach for the return journey to the port.
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Barcelona City Highlights
Few cities have got the power to wow you like Barcelona. Since the end of the Spanish War, Barcelona has flourished into a cosmopolitan metropolis. On this extensive city tour, visit the city’s most recognised landmark – Gaudi’s unfinished Sagrada Familia, which looks like a giant sandcastle that’s been washed away by the tide. Afterwards, enjoy some free time, then carry on by coach through Montjuic Gardens, up to the lookout point of Miramar for great views of the city and harbour.
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Barcelona On Your Own
Been to Barcelona before? Like to take things at your own pace? Then why not join us on our transfer that lets you explore this majestic Catalan city under your own steam? Home to lots of famous monuments like Gaudi's incredible unfinished church, Sagarada Familia, this city brings you a new surprise at every turn. You could visit the world famous Nou Camp stadium, home of Barcelona FC. Get to know the real Barcelona in the Gothic Quarter. Or explore Ciutat Vella, the oldest part of the city. There's even a zoo, an aquarium and a cable car to entertain you. But remember, no trip to Barcelona is complete without a stroll down the most famous street in Europe, Las Ramblas. Watch as street entertainers make fun of the passers by. Have your portrait sketched by one of the talented artists. Or shop ‘til you drop in the chic boutiques. Don't miss this opportunity to explore one of the worlds most visited cities at your leisure.
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The Best of Costa Brava
Costa Brava’s famous for its great weather and top-notch resorts. On this relaxing tour, you’ll enjoy a panoramic tour of the pretty town of Lloret. Despite being a dynamic tourist town, it’s still managed to retain its customs, traditions and local character. You’ll also visit the Santa Clotilde Gardens - this magnificent garden offers breath-taking views over the sea. Take a walking tour with your guide before enjoying some free time here. After Lloret, make your way to Tossa de Mar in Catalonia. It’s a really pretty place, laced with cobbled streets and crowned with a magnificent old castle. The surrounding scenery’s impressive, too, with rugged mountains, emerald valleys and natural springs jostling for the attention of your camera lens. You’ll have some free time here to enjoy the sun or browse the shops.
