Cruise EXPLORA II: Italy, Malta, Spain 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.

The port:

The port of La Spezia, located in northwestern Italy, is an important stopover in Liguria. Adjacent to the city center, the port is easily accessible on foot or by public transport. Surrounded by hills and facing the sea, the port is an excellent starting point for exploring the picturesque Cinque Terre region and the Gulf of Poets.

What to visit in La Spezia

La Spezia, a dynamic port city, offers a blend of maritime culture and history. The Naval Museum, located near the waterfront, presents the region's naval history. The historic center, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, is ideal for a charming stroll. La Spezia's central market, with its local produce, is a must for gourmets. La Spezia is a great starting point for exploring the Cinque Terre National Park, famous for its colorful villages perched on cliffs and hiking trails offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.

What to visit in the area

Cinque Terre, around 15 kilometers away, can be reached by train or boat, offering a picturesque experience with its colorful houses and terraced vineyards. Portovenere, around 11 kilometers away, is another gem of the region, with its St. Peter's church perched on the seafront and its charming alleyways. Lerici, 9 kilometers away, is famous for its medieval castle and sandy beaches. For history buffs, the archaeological site of Luni, around 15 kilometers away, offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman times.

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 Syracuse, located on Sicily's eastern Mediterranean coast, is directly adjacent to the city's historic center, offering exceptional ease of access for exploring the historical and architectural riches of Syracuse, a city thousands of years old.

What to visit in Syracuse

Syracuse is a city with an exceptional cultural and historical heritage. The island of Ortygia, the heart of the old town, is a labyrinth of charming alleyways and lively squares. Don't miss Syracuse Cathedral, a unique edifice that incorporates the columns of an ancient Greek temple. The Neapolis archaeological park, about 3 kilometers from the port, is home to an impressive Greek theater and the Roman amphitheater. For history buffs, the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, one of the most important in Sicily, is a must.

What to see in the surrounding area

There are many sites to discover around Syracuse. The Cavagrande del Cassibile nature reserve, around 15 kilometers away, is famous for its lakes and canyons, offering spectacular scenery and hiking opportunities. Noto, around 30 kilometers away, is a jewel of Sicilian Baroque, with its sumptuous churches and palaces. For a coastal experience, Fontane Bianche beach, around 15 kilometers away, offers crystal-clear waters and fine sand. These destinations around Syracuse allow you to immerse yourself in the diversity and beauty of Sicily.

The port :

The port of Valletta, located in the heart of the Mediterranean, is a real gem for cruisers. Iconic and steeped in history, the port is just a stone's throw from Valletta's historic center. Its immediate proximity to the city, less than a kilometer away, offers visitors quick and easy access to the treasures of the Maltese capital.

What to visit in Valletta

Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a city of art and history. Start your visit with St. John's Co-Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque art, and don't miss the Palace of the Grand Masters, bearing witness to the island's chivalric history. Stroll through the gardens of Upper Barrakka for a breathtaking view of the Grand Port. Valletta also offers a rich cultural scene, with museums such as the National Museum of Archaeology and the Maison de la Valette, dedicated to the city's history.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The island of Malta around Valletta is full of sites to explore. Mdina, the ancient capital, with its medieval streets, is around 14 kilometers away. Don't miss the megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, fascinating testimonies to the island's ancient history. For a more natural experience, the blue cave and cliffs of Dingli offer a striking natural spectacle. Finally, for beach lovers, Mellieħa Bay offers crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches less than 25 kilometers from Valletta.