Cruise EXPLORA VI: Spain, Italy, Tunisia, Ibiza 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.

The port:

The port of Mahon, located on the Balearic island of Menorca, is the ideal starting point for discovering the unique culture and history of this Mediterranean island. Renowned as one of the world's largest natural harbors, it is located just a few minutes from Mahon town center, offering passengers quick and easy access.

What to visit in Mahon

Mahon, the capital of Menorca, offers a captivating blend of history and culture. Discover the old town with its unique Georgian architecture, an influence of the short-lived British rule. Visit the majestic church of Santa Maria, with its impressive organ. Don't miss the local market in the Carme cloister, where you can sample local produce. For history buffs, the Menorca Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's past, from prehistory to the modern era.

What to visit in the area

Menorca, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is a paradise for nature and culture lovers. Explore ancient megalithic structures such as the talayots, testimony to the island's prehistory. Menorca's beaches and coves, such as Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana, offer crystal-clear waters for swimming and relaxation. For a wilder adventure, the S'Albufera des Grau nature park is a must for hikers and birdwatchers. Finally, a visit to the charming village of Fornells, renowned for its local cuisine, particularly caldereta de langosta, is a real treat for the taste buds.

Ibiza, famous for its festive atmosphere, offers much more than just parties. Explore the old town, a World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets and citadel. Relax on the sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and lounging. Discover hidden coves and turquoise waters for diving and snorkeling. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine in the beach restaurants. Ibiza, a blend of culture, nature and nightlife, is an unforgettable stopover.

Ibiza, famous for its festive atmosphere, offers much more than just parties. Explore the old town, a World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets and citadel. Relax on the sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and lounging. Discover hidden coves and turquoise waters for diving and snorkeling. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine in the beach restaurants. Ibiza, a blend of culture, nature and nightlife, is an unforgettable stopover.

La Goulette, the gateway to Tunis, immerses you in a captivating mix of cultures. Stroll through its narrow streets to feel the Mediterranean atmosphere. Visit the Fort de La Goulette, a witness to Ottoman history. Nearby, Tunis awaits you with its Medina, a fascinating labyrinth of souks and ancient architecture. The Zitouna Mosque and the Bardo Museum, rich in Roman mosaics, are not to be missed. For gourmets, La Goulette's restaurants offer a tasty mix of Tunisian and Italian cuisine, especially seafood. It's only a short distance to the sandy beaches for a relaxing break on the shores of the Mediterranean.

The port:

The port of Trapani, located on the west coast of Sicily in Italy, is just a few steps from the city's historic center. With its Baroque facades and narrow streets, Trapani offers an authentic Sicilian experience, between sea and historic monuments.

What to visit in Trapani

Trapani is packed with historical and cultural sites. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo, a jewel of Baroque architecture, is a must-see. Stroll through the historic center to discover the city's unique atmosphere, with its ancient buildings and charming squares. The Museo Regionale Pepoli, home to historic works of art and artifacts, is an enriching visit. Don't miss a visit to the sanctuary of the Madonna di Trapani, an important place of pilgrimage. For a natural experience, the Trapani and Paceco salt flats, with their picturesque windmills, offer a unique landscape and an opportunity to discover traditional salt production.

What to visit in the surrounding area

Around Trapani, excursion options are varied. The island of Favignana, part of the Aegadian Islands, is accessible by ferry and offers magnificent beaches and crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. The medieval town of Erice, perched on a mountain, offers spectacular views and a fascinating insight into Sicilian history. The archaeological site of Segesta, with its well-preserved Doric temple, is an impressive testimony to Sicily's ancient Greek civilization. Finally, the Zingaro nature reserve, with its hiking trails and secluded coves, is a paradise for nature and hiking enthusiasts.

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 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.