Cruise EXPLORA V: Egypt, Italy, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Jordan departing from Barcelona

The port:

Barcelona's port, one of the most important in the Mediterranean, is perfectly integrated into the city, just a few minutes' walk from the famous Las Ramblas district. This cosmopolitan port is an ideal starting point for exploring the Catalan capital.

What to visit in Barcelona

Barcelona is a canvas for Gaudí's architectural masterpieces. Admire the Sagrada Família, stroll through Park Güell, and explore the Gothic Quarter for its historic ambience. Don't miss the Boqueria market for a taste of local life and Catalan flavors.

What to visit in the surrounding area

On the outskirts of Barcelona, Montserrat offers spectacular scenery with its perched monastery and panoramic views. The town of Sitges, with its beaches and film festival, is also a popular getaway for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Port :

The port of Civitavecchia, the main cruise port for Rome, is around 80 kilometers from the Italian capital. To get to Rome, options include the train, with a journey time of around 1h20, and shuttle services from the port of Civitavecchia to the main Termini and Vatican stations. To explore downtown Civitavecchia, local shuttles are available, providing easy access to attractions close to the port. This Mediterranean stopover is an ideal starting point for discovering the treasures of the Eternal City.

What to visit in Civitavecchia?

Civitavecchia, a historic port city, offers many interesting sites close to the port. Explore the Michelangelo Fortress, a Renaissance bastion with panoramic sea views. Stroll along the Lungomare, the lively waterfront, for an authentic local experience. Civitavecchia's National Archaeological Museum, housed in a former spa building, showcases local archaeological finds, reflecting the region's rich history.

What to visit in the area?

Rome, within easy reach of Civitavecchia, is a must, with its historic monuments and artistic treasures. Visit the Colosseum, symbol of the Roman Empire, and the Vatican, with St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, home to the famous Sistine Chapel. Stroll through the picturesque alleys of Trastevere and explore the ruins of the Roman Forum. In addition to Rome, Civitavecchia's surroundings offer other attractive destinations. Tarquinia, famous for its Etruscan tombs and archaeological museum, is a fascinating cultural getaway. The gardens of Villa Farnese in Caprarola, a Renaissance masterpiece, offer a glimpse of Italian garden art.

The port:

The port of Naples, one of Italy's largest, is located in the heart of the city, just one kilometer from the historic center. This proximity makes for a quick and easy transition for cruisers wishing to explore Naples. Transportation options include cabs, buses, or even a pleasant walk, offering immediate access to the city's bustle and cultural richness.

What to visit in Naples

Naples, a city with a rich and complex history, is famous for its impressive architecture and delicious cuisine. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Baroque churches, ancient palaces and picturesque alleyways. Visit the Duomo di San Gennaro, Naples' famous cathedral, and the Palazzo Reale. Don't miss the chance to taste authentic Neapolitan pizza in one of the many traditional pizzerias. For a touch of culture, the National Archaeological Museum of Naples houses one of the most important collections of art and artifacts from Greco-Roman antiquity.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The area around Naples offers sites of exceptional beauty and historical importance. The ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, offer a fascinating insight into life in Roman antiquity. Vesuvius itself, accessible by a winding road, offers spectacular views over the Bay of Naples. The Amalfi Coast, with picturesque villages such as Positano and Amalfi, is a paradise for lovers of spectacular coastal scenery. For an island experience, the island of Capri, a short ferry ride away, is a must, with its breathtaking scenery and famous Grotta Azzurra.

Port :

The port of Messina in Sicily, located on the eponymous strait separating the island from the Italian mainland, is a key passageway in the Mediterranean. Just 1.5 kilometers from Messina's historic center, it's easily accessible by bus or streetcar, allowing visitors to quickly immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of this historic city.

What to visit in Messina

Messina, a city steeped in history, offers many treasures to discover. Messina Cathedral, with its astronomical clock, is a must-see for lovers of art and architecture. The Montalto Sanctuary and Christ the King offer breathtaking views of the city and the Strait. For painting enthusiasts, the Regional Museum boasts a remarkable collection of works of art, notably by Caravaggio. The Fountain of Neptune, in the center of town, is a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque not to be missed.

What to see and do in the area

The area around Messina is rich in natural and historical sites. Taormina, with its ancient theater and spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, is just a short train or bus ride away. The hilltop village of Castelmola offers breathtaking panoramic views and picturesque streets. For nature lovers, an excursion to Etna Park, Europe's largest active volcano, is an unforgettable experience.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

The port :

The port of Port Said is located at the northern end of Egypt's Suez Canal. Just 3 kilometers from the city center, the port is easily accessible by cab or local public transport, offering a direct immersion in the Egyptian atmosphere as soon as you step off the ship.

What to visit in Port Said

Port Said is a city rich in history and culture. Visit the National Museum of Port Said, home to ancient Egyptian artifacts and a fascinating collection on the history of the Suez Canal. Stroll the bustling streets to discover Ottoman architecture and charming colonial buildings. Don't miss the El Nasr Mosque, an architectural gem, and the famous Port Said Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the world still in operation. For an authentic local experience, the Souk El Tawfikeya market is a must.

What to visit in the area

A number of excursions are possible in the vicinity of Port Said. Ismailia, another city on the Suez Canal, is famous for its gardens and peaceful atmosphere. Discover the Ras El Bar National Park, a magnificent natural area offering a wealth of flora and fauna, as well as a breathtaking view of the junction of the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean. Finally, the beaches of Port Fouad, on the other side of the canal, are perfect for a relaxing day on the Mediterranean.

Sharm El Sheikh, on the tip of the Sinai in Egypt, is a diver's paradise. The coral reefs of the Red Sea offer an exceptional diving experience, with a rich marine biodiversity. Visit Ras Mohammed National Park for breathtaking underwater scenery. Away from the water, discover the Sinai Desert on a quad or camel tour. The city also offers a lively nightlife, with a variety of restaurants and bars.

The port :

The port of Aqaba, Jordan's only port, is located around 3 kilometers from the city center. Accessible by cab or bus, this port on the Red Sea offers a gateway to Jordan's treasures.

What to visit in Aqaba

Aqaba, famous for its coral reefs and historic sites, invites you to discover the Aqaba Fort, a testimony to Ottoman history, and the Archaeological Museum. Diving enthusiasts will appreciate the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, ideal for observing marine life.

What to visit in the area

Take advantage of your stopover in Aqaba to explore the surrounding wonders, such as the famous city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, or the Wadi Rum desert, offering breathtaking scenery and a unique experience under the stars.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Jeddah, the gateway to Mecca, will amaze you with its blend of ancient and modern. Stroll along the Corniche, with its breathtaking views of the Red Sea. Don't miss the old town of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire traditional Saudi architecture. The Al-Alawi market offers an immersion in local commerce. For diving enthusiasts, the coral reefs of the Red Sea are a must. Enjoy local cuisine, especially fresh seafood.