THESE EXCURSIONS ARE INCLUDED
Cadiz, Spain
Dotted with centuries-old wineries, the Sherry Triangle's buzzing capital, Jerez de la Frontera, makes a rewarding and delectable side trip from Cádiz. The first part of this four-and-a-half-hour excursion is a 30-minute transfer from the port through rolling countryside on a scenery-laden drive northeast. An hour-long walking tour awaits on arrival to the ancient city of Jerez, also known for its fiery flamenco, Moorish-era monuments, and elaborately decorated churches. Following the walking tour, gain fascinating insights from the world of sherry production on an approximately two-hour visit to a wine cellar. This is a unique opportunity to find out more about an ancient craft and will - of course - be accompanied by a tasting to fully set the scene. After the cellar visit ends, a 45-minute transfer returns to the port at Cádiz. Please note: as the tour involves walking on numerous steps and uneven ground in the cellars; it is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call.
Fatima, Portugal
You do not necessarily have to be driven by religion to visit the Fatima shrine. A visit to this town, which has grown from a small rural centre to a major destination for the Catholic faith, is undoubtedly a unique experience, beyond faith. The excursion begins with an approx. 1.5-hour coach drive across the Portuguese plains to reach this important religious destination. Millions of pilgrims have visited this site annually since 1917 when three little shepherds claimed to have seen Virgin Mary here. Once on the site, one cannot fail to be impressed by the size of the Sanctuary, its architecture and the symbols that lead back to the vision of the three little shepherds. You will have free time to visit the Shrine, the Chapel of the Apparitions - built on the site where the apparition took place - with a statue of the Virgin Mary dating to 1920 or have time to shop for souvenirs. A lunch in a local restaurant is also included. Please note: guides will give explanations from outside the site; guests will proceed to inside visits individually. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for religious visits. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call.
Alicante,
Spain
The Costa Blanca coastline is full of surprises. A world away from gorgeous beaches and stylish bars lie hilltop fortresses and ancient towns. Discover one of the best on this four-and-a-half-hour excursion, which begins with a 75-minute drive from the port at Alicante, up into the mountains. On the approach, soak up views over towering, rugged mountain ranges, which give the scene an almost-filmic quality. Charismatic Guadalest offers a mix of historic monuments and staggeringly beautiful scenery - discover both on a 90-minute walking tour of the town, the highlight of which is a 30-minute visit to San José Castle and Orduña House. The Moorish castle dates back to the 11th century and was used for defence purposes. Today, only remnants survive, including part of the main tower, but it's still an incredible sight, seemingly built-in to the rocks and partially encased by wild greenery. Next to the castle sits the Orduña House, built after an earthquake in the 17th century. Relive the history of the family through various atmospheric rooms, including the library, packed with over 1.000 volumes, and the bedrooms, filled with vintage furniture and photos of the family. After the walking tour, spend approximately 75 minutes of free time further exploring the village before the drive back to the port. This time could include grabbing photos of the unrivalled views or relaxing with a drink at a local bar. Please note: as the tour involves walking on uneven ground in the village and at the castle, guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part.
Mahon, Spain
On the western coast of Menorca lies the Carthaginian-founded city of Ciutadella, the former capital of the island. Until the British arrived in the early 18th century, it was the main hub of the island, evident from historic marvels that remain today. After a 50-minute drive from the port at Mahón, this four-hour excursion continues with a 75-minute walking tour of the walled old quarter, snaking along the city's medieval streets. Discover its key palaces, churches, and fortresses along the way, such as the Catalan Gothic-style Ciutadella Cathedral, dating back to the late-13th century and built on the site of a mosque. Its caramel-coloured facade makes it quite a sight. The nucleus of the Old Town is the Plaça des Born, housing a towering monument commemorating those who died trying to defend the city against Turkish invasion in 1558. Another notable sight is Castillo de San Nicolás, an octagonal defence tower jutting out on a headland near the port. After the guided tour, spend approximately one hour of free time exploring further or relaxing, before a 50-minute drive back to the ship. Please note: this tour is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties as it includes walking on uneven ground. Guests need to walk approx. 350 metres from the bus car parking to the Ciutadella.
Olbia, Italy
Encircled by the glimmering turquoise of the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia's coast is home to some of Italy's finest beaches. This four-hour excursion is a chance to relax on one of its best: La Cinta. Set a short distance north of popular San Teodoro, this glorious sweep stretches out for over five kilometres and is reminiscent of Caribbean beaches thanks to its soft, white sands and sparkling waters. After a 30-minute drive to La Cinta from the port at Olbia, make the most of approximately three hours of free time to soak up all that this brochure-worthy beach offers. Naturally, sunbathing and swimming are perhaps the most popular activities at this invaluable coastal hideaway, but the bay is also popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers, and its sheltered bay makes it a prime spot for paddleboarding. For those wanting to explore just a little, La Cinta is backed by the San Teodoro lagoon, another dreamy view in itself, but made even more appealing thanks to the many pink flamingos that can often be seen in and above its waters. For re-energising after all that beach relaxation, there are also beach-side restaurants and bars operating in the area during summer. A 30-minute coach journey back to the port concludes the excursion. Please note: this tour is available from June until the end of September and is subject to weather conditions. The possibility of seeing flamingos is likely but cannot be guaranteed
Genoa, Italy
A short ferry transfer takes you to "Piazza Caricamento" for a pleasant walk through Genoa's historic town centre. We will wander the charming narrow streets known as "carruggi" to reach "Piazza de Ferrari", the commercial heart of Genoa, where we will admire "Palazzo Ducale" (external visit only). You will visit the "Cisterne del Ducale" where a local tasting made of "bruschetta" and "focaccia", typical to Genoa, awaits you. Your tour will continue with external views of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Enjoy some free time in the old port before returning to the port. Please note: this tour is only for guests who do not embark/disembark in the port of Genoa. This tour includes extensive periods of walking (approx. 2.5 hours) and the boat has no ramps or lifts. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. This tour is not available for guests of MSC Grandiosa.