Pontevedra & Combarro

Cruise : MEDITERRANEAN France, Spain, Portugal, Italy Cruise Ship: MSC MERAVIGLIA Departing from: Le Havre, France Itineraries: Vigo, Lisbon, Barcelona, Marseille Departure Date: 04/06/2017

Duration: 8 Days, 7 Nights

Vigo Tue 6 June 2017

CITY TOUR

PONTEVEDRA & COMBARRO - VIG05

Duration 4:30 h Give yourself a taste of Galician culture and lifestyle on this introductory tour to two of the regions most popular destinations, the city of Pontevedra and the charming fishing village of Combarro. After leaving your ship and the port, a 30-minute coach ride will take you to your first stop: Pontevedra, whose name means old bridge after a Roman bridge that once spanned the River Lérez. A guided walking tour of the main sights will illustrate the citys rich history and let you soak up its appealing ambience. Free time is then scheduled for you to explore at your own pace, after which the tour continues by coach to the nearby Combarro, a picture-perfect fishing village on the shores of the Ría de Pontevedra with one of Galicias best preserved historical districts. After paying this quaint part of town a visit, youll begin your return journey to Vigo and your ship. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with mobility limitations for long periods of walking on uneven ground.

VIGO & BAYONA - VIG02

Duration 4 h After first making a brief stop at the Monte Castro vantage point to admire the beautiful view over the city, your tour then continues on to one of the most popular holiday destinations in Galicia, the pretty town of Baiona and its enchanting medieval centre, which is scenically situated by the outlet of Vigo Bay. You will have some free time to explore Baionas main sights, which include Monterreal Castle and the Monte Boi peninsula, the clock tower and the Princes Tower, the 13th-century Ex-collegiate Church and the 15-metre monument called the Virgin of the Rock. Your tour concludes with your return to the port of Vigo and your ship. Please note: this tour includes long transfers by coach. It is not suitable for guests in a wheelchair.

CULTURE AND HISTORY

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA - VIG01

Duration 4:30 h From the port of Vigo on the Atlantic coast, a pleasant 1.5-hour coach ride will take you to the historical city of Santiago de Compostela, one of Spains most important religious centres. The citys splendid cathedral and old quarter are both listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. You will have an opportunity to amble through the streets, narrow alleys and tiny squares before continuing on foot to the Plaza do Obradoiro, which is situated at the heart of the city and was named after the stonemasons workshop that was established there while the cathedral was being built. An external viewing of the cathedral, an eclectic blend of various architectural styles including Baroque, gives you an opportunity to take some photos before you proceed with an internal visit. Return to the port. Please note: this is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties, heart problems or using a wheelchair. Conservative attire recommended for visiting the religious sites.

THE GALICIAN VILLAGES - VIG03

Duration 4:30 h This tour offers a fascinating introduction to Galician culture. Leave the port for a guided trip northwards to the Rande Strait, past Pontevedra. Your guide will talk about the history of the region and point out the different locations of the Ria Vigo, which is shaped like a great mouth devouring a stretch of sea. Our first stop will be Cambados, famous for its production of the white wine, Albariño. We will continue to the Agro de Bazan Winery for a cheese and wine tasting session. These renowned cellars produce high quality wines made purely from the Albariño grape. Return to the ship. Please note: this tour includes periods of walking on uneven ground with steps; it is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

THE WALLED CITY OF VALENÇA DO MINHO, PORTUGAL - VIG04

Duration 4 h With Portugal within such easy reach of Vigo, why not venture out and cross just over the border to visit the gorgeous walled town of Valença do Minho on this enjoyable half-day tour? A 45-minute coach ride will first see you reach the ancient town, which dates right back to Roman times. A guided tour then follows that will take you to the fortress, an example of Gothic and Baroque military architecture of which parts date back to the 13th century. A break is then scheduled for you to do some shopping, after which you will begin your return journey to Vigo. Along the way, a brief photo stop will be made at the 17th-century El Castro fort, situated high above the city, for the stupendous views of Vigo and the sea beyond. Your last stop on the tour will then be a look around the citys oyster market before heading back to your ship. Please note: guests using a wheelchair are advised that they must be accompanied by a paying helper to provide assistance with getting on and off the coach and that wheelchairs must be collapsible/foldable since the coach has neither a ramp nor a lift. Guests using a wheelchair who would like to participate in this tour are requested to contact the Shore Excursions Desk promptly once they are on board so that arrangements can be made. Wheelchair and disabled-friendly tour Wheelchair guests must be accompanied by their own helper to get on/off the coach. Wheelchairs must be foldable as the coach is not provided with ramps or lifts. Once onboard, please contact Excursions Desk staff promptly so they can help make arrangements.

CITY TOUR

CITY TOUR - LIS01

Duration 4 h Leave the port and drive to the Belém district where we will admire two masterpieces built in the decorative Portuguese style known as Manueline. These are Jeronimos Church and Belém Tower, both built in the beginning of the XVI century, just after Vasco da Gamas exploratory voyage to India. We will visit the monastery church that holds the tomb of Vasco da Gama and have time to explore the cloisters. The excursion continues with a scenic tour through Lisbons new city centre built after the devastating earthquake of 1755 : we will pass the Parliament and Prime Ministers House, the Marquis of Pombal Square, Liberdade Avenue and Rossio Square the heart of Lisbons downtown. Free time before returning to the ship. Please note: on Monday calls, a visit to Ajuda Palace will replace the visit to the Monastery. Only cameras without flash allowed inside Jeronimos Monastery. Conservative attire recommended for visiting places of religious importance. Although long periods of walking, wheelchair guests can take part, but they must be accompanied by a paying helper to provide assistance with getting on and off the coach and their wheelchairs must be collapsible/foldable since the coach has neither a ramp nor a lift. Guests using a wheelchair who would like to participate in this tour are requested to contact the Shore Excursions Desk promptly once they are on board so that arrangements can be made.

LISBON BY TRAM - LIS15

Duration 4 h This tour offers a great opportunity to explore Lisbon, Portugals capital city, from a unique perspective: on board one of its wonderful, old-fashioned trams, which are not only used by scores of commuters on a daily basis, but have also become a real tourist attraction. After leaving your ship, a short coach ride will first take you from the pier to Estrela Square, from where you will catch your tram. Once on board, you will be served a local speciality known as pastel de nata (a succulent little custard tart) along with a glass of porto wine to further sweeten your ride up to the hills of Lisbon, passing the elegant Baixa district on your way to Alfama where you will have a glimpse of this old part of Lisbon. You will see the Cathedral, and continuing you will reach the Portas do Sol Belvedere with enchanting views of the metropolis and the Tagus River. Continue to Graça quarter and ride towards downtown of Lisbon. Enjoy a brief walk from Conceição Street to Commerce Square, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe and proceed to Rossio where you will have free time to explore Lisbon downtown. Look forward to an exterior viewing of Jerónimos Monastery, a 15th-century building, as well as the early 16th-century Belém Tower on the banks of the River Tagus, both of which are fine examples of Manueline architectural style (also called late Portuguese Gothic) and both of which were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your tour comes to a close with your return to the port and your ship. Please note: the tour has a lot of walking involved on uneven ground; it is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or in a wheelchair.

SINTRA & CASCAIS - LIS05

Duration 5 h Sintra is famous for its mountain range, its temperate climate and country palaces and cottages. Drive to this lovely UNESCO World Heritage Site village to visit the historic National Royal Palace that houses the oldest collection glazed tiles in Portugal and features fine examples of the large conical medieval chimneys. Our next stop will be Cascais, a fishing village and favourite summer retreat of the royal family. Free time to explore the village before returning to Lisbon where a short panoramic coach tour passing Belém area is included on your way to the port. Please note: only cameras without flash allowed inside Sintra Palace. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair, as there are approx. 100 steps inside Sintra Palace.

CULTURE AND HISTORY

FATIMA - LIS06

Duration 5 h Those interested in theology and religious mysteries can look forward to a special day out in Fatima. We will leave the port of Lisbon for a 1.5-hour coach drive to cross the Portuguese plains and reach this important religious destination. Millions of pilgrims have visited this site annually since 1917 when three shepherds saw a vision of the Virgin Mary here. Visit the Shrine and the chapel where the Holy Virgin appeared before enjoying some free time in Fatima to stroll around or to shop for souvenirs. Please note: this tour is available only during half day calls. Guides will give explanations from outside the site; guests will proceed to inside visits individually. Conservative attire recommended for visiting places of religious importance. Guests using a wheelchair are advised that they must be accompanied by a paying helper to provide assistance with getting on and off the coach and that wheelchairs must be collapsible/foldable since the coach has neither a ramp nor a lift. Guests using a wheelchair who would like to participate in this tour are requested to contact the Shore Excursions Desk promptly once they are on board so that arrangements can be made. Wheelchair and disabled-friendly tour Wheelchair guests must be accompanied by their own helper to get on/off the coach. Wheelchairs must be foldable as the coach is not provided with ramps or lifts. Once onboard, please contact Excursions Desk staff promptly so they can help make arrangements.

THE MAIN SIGHTS OF LISBON & PASTRY TASTING - LIS08

Duration 4:30 h Excursion to Lisbon on a tour around the oldest part of the city, the atmospheric Alfama district. Meander through its labyrinth of narrow alleys, honeycombed with steps and archways, and admire the houses with their painted façades, decorated with panels of tiles and embellished with wrought iron balconies. We will visit the Cathedral of Lisbon noted for its interior that takes the form of a Latin cross, with three naves. Our walk continues downtown to the Baixa quarter that was completely rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755. You will have free time in Rossio square before proceeding to Belém Tower for pictures followed by a short visit to the legendary Confeitaria de Belém bakery where you will enjoy the typical custard cream cake, pasties de Belém. Our tour will also include a visit to one of the two masterpieces built in the decorative Portuguese style known as Manueline: the Jeronimos Church, built in the beginning of the XVI century, just after Vasco da Gamas exploratory voyage to India. We will visit the monastery church that holds the tomb of Vasco da Gama before returning to the port. Please note: the tour is mainly by walking on uneven and sometimes uphill streets; tour not is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties. Only cameras without flash allowed inside Jeronimos Monastery and Cathedral. Conservative attire recommended for visiting places of religious importance. This tour is not available on Saturday and Sunday calls.

SOMETHING SPECIAL

ARRABIDA WINERY TOUR - LIS07

Duration 4:30 h Depart from the pier and, passing over 25th April Bridge, sister bridge of the Golden Gate, you will drive to the base of the Statue of Christ the King, from where magnificent views of Lisbon can be seen. Our excursion continues in the town of Azeitao, renowned for its famous pastries and for the Moscatel de Setubal wine. We will visit a local wine lodge for wine tasting session and to learn more about how this sweet aperitif wine is produced. Next, we will proceed towards the Parque Natural da Arrabida National Park that was established to protect the wild, beautiful landscape and rich variety of birds and wildlife found here. The road winds across the mountain ridge and offers stunning views of Setúbal and Tróia. Return to Lisbon to enjoy a sightseeing tour and then reach Rossio where we will stop for a little time at leisure. Return to the port. Please note: this tour includes long transfers by coach. Guests using a wheelchair are advised that they must be accompanied by a paying helper to provide assistance with getting on and off the coach and that wheelchairs must be collapsible/foldable since the coach has neither a ramp nor a lift. Guests using a wheelchair who would like to participate in this tour are requested to contact the Shore Excursions Desk promptly once they are on board so that arrangements can be made. Wheelchair and disabled-friendly tour Wheelchair guests must be accompanied by their own helper to get on/off the coach. Wheelchairs must be foldable as the coach is not provided with ramps or lifts. Once onboard, please contact Excursions Desk staff promptly so they can help make arrangements.

THE AMAZING QUINTA DA REGALEIRA - LIS20

Duration 4:30 h Prepare to enter a world of arcane symbols on a tour to the Quinta da Regaleira, a large estate and Gothic mansion on the outskirts of Sintra. After boarding a coach, you will first travel alongside the Atlantic coast and then through the Sintra National Protected Forest, an unforgettable area of natural beauty, en route to the Quinta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally constructed in the early 20th century, the complex was then substantially enlarged and ornamented with a plethora of stone- rendered symbolism by the millionaire António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro. The enigmatic structures within the grounds include an inverted tower, which is actually a deep well whose walls house a galleried spiral staircase that can be walked down and up again. Also called the Initiation Well, the unusual structure is meant to facilitate a journey of contemplation and rebirth. Moving on, you will then head for the picture-perfect old town of Sintra, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, for some time to explore on your own. The National Palace is certainly one of Sintras most iconic landmarks. Your tour then draws to a close with your coach transfer back to your ship. Please note: the tour is mainly by walking on uneven and sometimes narrow path; it is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

WALKING IN LISBON & WINE TASTING - LIS09

Duration 4 h Leave the port for a bus transfer to the most authentic and vibrant part of the city - Lisbons Baixa district, a historic area that was completely rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755. Your walk will take you from Comercio Square, across Augusta Street to Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon. Here you will have free time to explore the area and to soak up the atmosphere of Portugals lively capital city. The excursion will pick up again at the Elevador da Gloria, a funicular lift, which transports you to the upper levels of the city; we will stop at Sao Pedro de Alcantara Belvedere, with views over the tiled rooftops. The excursion also allows time to sample a glass of typical porto wine and a visit to Sao Roque church, noted for its beautiful painted wood ceiling and for the wonderful Chapel of Saint John the Baptist. In the annexe building you will also have the opportunity to admire a small collection of treasure and the model statue of the Saint. Please note: the tour is mainly by walking on uneven and sometimes uphill streets; it is not suitable for guests with mobility problems or in a wheelchair. Conservative attire recommended for visiting places of religious importance. This tour is not available on Monday mornings.

ACTIVE & ADVENTURE

ELECTRIC BIKE TOUR OF BARCELONA - BCN27

Duration 4:30 h E stands for easy-going, entertaining and electrically assisted three terms that also describe the nature of this half-day tour, which sets out to present the very best of Barcelona from a variety of perspectives. The first of your electrically assisted exploration aids will come in the form of a Mercedes-Benz eBike, which you will pick up in the historical Barri Gòtic quarter and then use to ride through the city and up to the cable car station at the top of Montjuïc Hill, the best vantage point for views of the city. You will also get to have an outside look at the 17th-century Montjuïc Castle before heading back down the hill by cable car to reach the seaside to taste tapas with a drink in a local restaurant. You will then pass through Ciutadella Park and the magnificent Arc de Triomf en route to one of Antoni Gaudís most celebrated architectural designs: the Sagrada Família. You will have some free time to explore before moving on to the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelonas most notable boulevards. Once you have returned to the Barri Gòtic, you will enjoy a short walk (10 min.) to Plaza Cataluña where the coach will be waiting to take you back to the pier and your ship. Please note: limited number of guides in German.

CITY TOUR

CITY TOUR - BCN01

Duration 4 h Take some time to discover beautiful Barcelona on this enjoyable sightseeing tour of the city. Your Barcelona experience begins at the spectacular Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia, the construction of which began at the end of the 13th and continued into the 15th century. The Cathedral is situated in Barcelonas Barri Gòtic quarter, the citys largely intact medieval centre. The coach will also drive past two of the famous works by the architect Gaudí for external viewings of the Sagrada Família and the Casa Batlló. Your tour will be rounded off by a stroll around the tranquil Poble Espanyol, a village purpose-built to display Spains many different architectural styles, and a brief stop at Montjuich Hill for the fabulous views of the city from the Belvedere del Alcalde. Your tour concludes with your return to the ship. Please note: the Cathedral visit may be cancelled on public holidays or if special events are being held. Conservative attire recommended for visiting places of religious importance.

CULTURE AND HISTORY

HIGHLIGHTS OF BARCELONA, MONTSERRAT & WINE TASTING - BCN21

Duration 7:30 h Celebrated the world over for its fabulous architecture, Barcelona is yours to enjoy as your coach first takes you around the citys main sights on this all-day Catalan experience. The route will take you down Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelonas main boulevards, passing by Gaudís unfinished masterpiece, the incredible Sagrada Família. Leaving the breathtaking basilica behind, a location of equally awe-inspiring proportions is next: the jagged sandstone columns of the Montserrat Mountains and the abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat, an impressive complex of buildings that affords glorious views of the countryside below. A key Catholic pilgrimage site and popular as a religious retreat, the abbey not only hosts a statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, aka the Black Madonna, but also a basilica with an ornately decorated interior. Some time to soak up the beguiling surroundings and have lunch (not included in the price of the tour) then follows, after which your travels continue by coach to the village of Sant Sadurni and the Cavas Vilarnau wine cellars. Apart from a chance to see how wine, sparkling wine and the bottle-fermented Spanish cava are made, you will also be able to please your palate during the tasting session that concludes your visit. The relaxing return drive to your ship brings your Catalonian outing to a close. Please note: the guide will give explanation only outside the Monastery; guests will visit the site individually. Conservative attire recommended for visiting the religious site. This excursion is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

SCENIC ROUTE

BARCELONA SIGHTSEEING ENDING AT THE AIRPORT - BCN41D

Duration 4 h If you disembark in Barcelona but wants to have an introduction of the city before reaching the airport for your flight home, join us on this sightseeing coach tour. You will have the opportunity to admire some of Barcelonas highlights on an itinerary including the Passeig de Gràcia boulevard, the Sagrada Família and Plaça de Catalunya. You will reach Montjuïc Hill and will stop at Mirador del Alcalde for views of the city. After leaving your coach, your guide will take you through the streets of the Gothic Quarter where you will have some little free time. Your tour concludes with a coach drive to El Prat Airport. Please note: the tour is only for debark guests and ends at the airport for guests booked on flights after 17:00 hours from El Prat Airport.The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. You can book this tour only during your cruise; it is not recommended for guests using a wheelchair or with walking difficulties.

Duration 4 h The fabulous city of Barcelona is well worth a visit and this whistle-stop tour will take you to see the key sights during an enjoyable half day off the ship. Upon leaving the port, your tour begins with a drive through Barcelona's main streets and squares. A short stop will be made at Montjuich Hill to take in the superb view over the city before moving on for a brief external viewing of the Sagrada Família, Gaudís striking yet unfinished neo-Gothic masterpiece. There will also be time to pass by the impressive Barcelona Cathedral, which was built from the end of the 13th until into the 15th century, before taking you to go shopping in the Plaça de Catalunya, a large square in central Barcelona that is ideal for a little retail therapy. Please note: on public holidays or on Sunday afternoon, the shopping stop will be at the La Rambla. Guests using a wheelchair are advised that they must be accompanied by a paying helper to provide assistance with getting on and off the coach and that wheelchairs must be collapsible/foldable since the coach has neither a ramp nor a lift. Guests using a wheelchair who would like to participate in this tour are requested to contact the Shore Excursions Desk promptly once they are on board so that arrangements can be made. Wheelchair and disabled-friendly tour Wheelchair guests must be accompanied by their own helper to get on/off the coach. Wheelchairs must be foldable as the coach is not provided with ramps or lifts. Once onboard, please contact Excursions Desk staff promptly so they can help make arrangements.

SOMETHING SPECIAL

BARCELONA SIGHTS, AQUARIUM & SHOPPING - BCN36

Duration 4 h This family-friendly tour offers half a day of seeing the best city sights, but without putting the usual strain on your feet since youll mostly be comfortably seated on a modern coach. The tour begins at Barcelonas Columbus monument, situated at one end of La Rambla avenue. Youll then head down the equally magnificent Passeig de Gràcia boulevard, with your guide calling attention to key landmarks such as the Sagrada Família, Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, all designed by Antoni Gaudí. After passing through the Olympic ring, splendid views of the city follow from Montjuïc hill, where a short photo stop is scheduled at the Mirador del Alcalde. Youll then move on to the Port Vell district to visit Barcelona Aquarium, a huge facility that supports around 11,000 animals representing 450 species of marine wildlife. Be sure to check out the shark tunnel and tanks with rays and other large fish during your unguided visit, after which youll still have time to do some shopping at the co-located Maremàgnum shopping mall. The tour then wraps up with your return to the ship. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. This tour is partly guided; the entrance ticket to the Aquarium is included but guests will explore the site on their own. Wheelchair and disabled-friendly tour Wheelchair guests must be accompanied by their own helper to get on/off the coach. Wheelchairs must be foldable as the coach is not provided with ramps or lifts. Once onboard, please contact Excursions Desk staff promptly so they can help make arrangements.

MODERNIST BARCELONA AND JAMÓN TASTING - BCN43

Duration 4 h This tour is an introduction to some of the best Modernist masterpieces in Barcelona. Leave the ship, board a coach and commence a sightseeing coach drive passing the Passeig de Gràcia boulevard and two of Antoni Gaudí masterpieces: Casa Milà and Casa Batlló. Next on your itinerary is a visit to Hospital Sant Pau, one the citys modernist jewels and opened to visitors only in 2004. You will have an introduction to Lluís Domènech I Montaners most important work and journey through the evolution of one of the oldest medical institutions in Europe, showing how the Art Nouveau complex was designed and built. The tour concludes with a visit to Jamón Museum with an audio-visual visit and a tasting of three different jamón. Please note: this tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. This tour is available only for guests on MSC Poesia.

PANORAMIC CITY TOUR & NOU CAMP STADIUM - BCN05

Duration 3:30 h Thanks to the sheer scale of its impressive architecture, Barcelonas Camp Nou Stadium one of the worlds most famous football temples and the largest stadium in all of Europe with a capacity to seat nearly 100,000 people is a fascinating destination, whether you are a soccer fan or not. Apart from hosting numerous key UEFA matches throughout the years, the stadium has also been used to stage other events, including concerts given by such major pop artists as Sting, Bruce Springsteen, Peter Gabriel, Tracy Chapman or U2. In 1982, Pope John Paul II even celebrated mass at the stadium, on which occasion he was made an honorary citizen of Barcelona. Your tour begins with a drive-by sightseeing tour past Gaudis Sagrada Família, a minor basilica, and up Montjuich Hill before arriving at Camp Nou Stadium. Please note: the feasibility of the tour is subject to the schedule of the football club and then the stadium could be closed with very short notice; for this reason the tour could be cancelled even the day before our call for reasons beyond MSCs control. The visit to the stadium includes walking upstairs and downstairs and is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. This excursion is not available on calls falling on a Sunday afternoon. This tour is not available on MSC Armonia call on 13.04.2016.

CITY TOUR

AIX-EN-PROVENCE - MRS02

Duration 4 h We will leave Marseille port for a 40-minute drive to the lovely town of Aix-en-Provence. The excursion starts with a visit to the famous XII century St. Saviours Cathedral and gardens. The Cathedral was built on the site of a Roman Temple and dates from a period that spans the XI and XIII centuries. Fronted by a richly decorated Gothic- style portal with elaborately carved doors, the Cathedral is flanked on the north by an unfinished tower. Enjoy a pleasant walk (1,5 hours) through the historic town centre before reaching the famous Mazarino Quarter, a residential district created by Cardinal Mazarins brother in the last half of the XVII century for the gentry of Aix en Provence. Free time for shopping. Please note: this tour includes long periods of walking on uneven ground and is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties. Conservative attire recommended for visiting sites of religious importance. Conservative attire recommended for visiting places of religious importance.

CASSIS - MRS03

Duration 4:30 h Formerly a quiet fishing village on the southern coastline of France near Marseille, Cassis has grown into a charming small town and popular international tourist resort. The town is particularly famed for its cliffs, calanques steep-walled inlets and the local white and rosé wines. On leaving the port of Marseille, your tour begins with a 1- hour coach transfer, followed by a local train to the town. Once there, you will have plenty of time to stroll around Cassis charming streets, lined with the brightly coloured homes of the locals, and beautiful port as well as enjoy splendid views afforded from the waterfront. Your tour ends with your return trip back to the ship. Please note: the starting place of the local train may be crowded so please expect some queues. On holidays shops may be closed. The little tourist train is available from 01.05.2016; for any call before this date, guests will reach the centre of the town from the coach parking lot (approx. 500 mt.). This tour is available only until middle September.

CHARMING ARLES - MRS19

Duration 5 h Board a comfortable modern coach for an enjoyable 1.5-hour drive to the historical city of Arles located in the Camargue region in the south of France. The city was once the main Roman colony of ancient Gallia Narbonensis. UNESCO listed the citys Roman and Romanesque monuments as World Heritage Sites in 1981. The Dutch post- impressionist painter, Vincent van Gogh, lived in Arles for a year between 1888 and 1889, during which time he produced more than 300 paintings and drawings. Your panoramic walking tour includes the main sights such as the Church of St. Trophime, which once held cathedral status, the Place du Forum that inspired van Goghs famous painting and the Roman amphitheatre, whose 120 arches date back to the 1st century. The amphitheatre was capable of seating more than 20,000 spectators and was built for providing entertainment for the masses in the form of chariot races and gladiators engaged in bloody hand-to-hand combat. You will have time to explore on your own before returning to the ship. Please note: as the tour involves walking on uneven and rough ground, it is not suitable guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. Comfortable shoes and a hat (in summer months) recommended as well as conservative attire for visiting places of religious importance.

MARSEILLES CITY TOUR - MRS06

Duration 4:30 h Join us on a visit around this important maritime town. We will begin at the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde which stands majestically on top of a hill. The Cathedral is made up of a lower and an upper church and was built on the site of an ancient chapel. Continue along the Corniche (coast road) where we will admire Borely Castle and garden (no inside visit). The excursion includes sightseeing in the centre of Marseilles and photos at Longchamps Palace before enjoying some free time in the Vieux Port (old port). Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair due to many steps and uphill path around the Basilica. Conservative attire recommended for visiting sites of religious importance.

AVIGNON AND MARSEILLES - MRS07

Duration 7 h Our starting point for this day-long tour begins in Marseilles, at the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde. This Neo-Byzantine church stands on top of a hill and was designed by the French architect Esperandiu between 1853 and 1864. The site was formerly a XIII century chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Guard and features several votive offerings from safely returned sailors. Stop for an inside visit before continuing on a 1.5-hour coach ride to the medieval city of Avignon. Here we will visit the Palace of the Popes, an ancient fortress rich in galleries and chapels. The frescoes and hand-painted tapestries in the Popes bedrooms and private rooms bear witness to the former opulence of this residence. Make the most of your free time to stroll around and have lunch (non-inclusive) in one of the typical French brasserie- restaurants. Return to Marseilles for embarkation.Please note: walking on uneven ground and steps. This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair due to many steps and uphill path around the Basilica in Marseilles. Conservative attire recommended for visiting sites of religious importance.

MONTE CRISTO TOUR - MRS08

Duration 4 h A boat transfer will take you to the island of Château dIf for a guided visit of this fortified prison built between 1524-28 and which became a state prison in the XVII century. The popular XIX century French author, Alexandre Dumas, brought literary fame to the castle who used it as a setting for his adventure novel, the Count of Monte Cristo. The tour will continue to the Frioul island, not far from the historic port, where we will enjoy free time on the beach. Return to the ship. Please note: this tour operates from middle June until middle of September and is subject to weather conditions. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

Excursions package

WAVE PACKAGE 1 (MLT03 - GOA03T - NAP01) - MRLPCKG3

Duration 00 m Wave package 1 (MLT03 - GOA03T - NAP01)

OUR EXCURSIONS CATEGORIES

Head ashore in search of adventure! Opportunities for sport and fun range from trekking and ACTIVE & ADVENTURE snorkelling to kayak tours and 4x4 vehicle adventures. The active choice.

Explore the city centre with a guided tour and soak up the local scenery with a comfortable coach ride. CITY TOUR The easy way to get to know your destination.

CULTURE AND Learn all about the history and culture of your destination, with visits to must-see locations and guided HISTORY tours of key sites. The ideal route to local knowledge.

Excursions package

Admire your destination in total comfort, with a scenic coach tour taking in the best views and the main SCENIC ROUTE places of interest. The relaxing road to discovery.

Pursue your interests in new places! From gastronomic tours and guided shopping trips to religious SOMETHING SPECIAL visits, there's a world of pastimes and passions to explore.

The excursions in the programme are intended to provide MSC Guests with an idea of the different tours that can be arranged in each port of call; this programme is merely a guide and confirmation of each excursion and its description and prices will be made during your cruise. Shore excursions programs and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events in relation to the timing on the day of the tour.

Some excursions are very popular and therefore availability cannot always be guaranteed, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment. The guides are guaranteed in English. Only for South America cruises, the guides are guaranteed in Brazilian Portuguese. Narration in other languages depends on the availability of guides. Please note that the final language of the tour will be confirmed on board during the cruise.