Viking Oceans Cruises – Mediterranean Odyssey (Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Greece, Croatia ) 13 Days

Barcelona, Spain
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. The vibrant city of Barcelona, with its lively culture and inviting outdoor spaces, preserves a rich history. Picturesque medieval lanes wind through the oldest part of the city, the Gothic Quarter, where remnants of the city’s Roman wall were uncovered. Its treasures include the neo-Gothic Barcelona Cathedral, the medieval Jewish district of El Call and the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria del Pi. In the evenings, diners relax in the Royal Plaza at restaurants along the elegant square’s perimeter.

Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is steeped in history, with stunning architecture and a rich culture. Mediterranean breezes grace the shore and Catalonia’s capital is a feast for the senses. Long strolls on wide boulevards—such as Las Ramblas, the mile-long leafy pedestrian way, and the Passeig de Gràcia, lined with some of Europe’s most elegant buildings—set the tone for a city that moves to its own tempo. Native son and famed architect Antoni Gaudí adorned his city with whimsy, whether along fantastical city blocks or with his colossal masterpiece, the towering La Sagrada Família cathedral.

Shore Excursions – Iconic Barcelona
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Discover Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks during a relaxing drive and a walk around this impressive city. Begin with a journey by motor coach, which takes you past the Columbus Monument and Port Vell. See the Arc de Triomf, a stately remnant from the 1888 World’s Fair, and take in the views of the Parc de la Ciutadella, once home to the garrison that protected the city. After, head to the Sagrada Família, Antonio Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. Gain insight into Gaudí’s work during a guided viewing of its intricate exterior, composed of three facades and soaring spires that have become enduring symbols of the city. After a short drive, continue on foot to the Gothic Quarter, built upon the remains of Barcino, a Roman colony established in 15 BC. Explore on foot—sections of Barcino’s walls and towers are still visible here, as well as the remains of an aqueduct and a necropolis.

Marseille, France
Marseille is rich in historic treasures, nestled between the Mediterranean and rocky hills of limestone. Two 17th-century fortresses dominate the charming Vieux Port, or Old Port, the natural harbor that hosts all manner of watercraft, from sleek elegant yachts to old style fishing vessels. Its picturesque quay is one of the world’s most romantic walks, lined with dozens of cafés and shops. Also worth exploring is the city center, graced by La Canebière boulevard. Linger in a café and sample the city’s signature bouillabaisse made from freshly caught fish.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Marseille
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 
Embark on a panoramic drive through Marseille and soak up the atmosphere of this historic port city. Board your motor coach and set out to view the Palais Longchamp—built during the mid-19th century to celebrate the construction of the Canal de Marseille, this monument is adorned with grand staircases, ornate sculptures and fountains. Your guide will share its history and you will have time for photos of its facade before continuing along the Corniche du Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy. From the comfort of your coach, glimpse the splendid Notre Dame de la Garde, the most magnificent building of its kind in southern France. Back in downtown Marseille, disembark your coach and enjoy free time to explore more on your own, perhaps calling at one of its lively cafés or restaurants, or taking a stroll along the quaint streets of this bustling port. After, return to your ship.

Shore Excursions – Panier District on Foot
Duration: 3 hours
Discover Marseille’s historic quarter during a guided walk through Le Panier, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Begin with a short stroll to La Major Cathedral, a 19th-century Neo-Byzantine masterpiece overlooking the Old Port. See its two bell towers, each rising almost 200 feet tall, and step inside to view its ornate mosaics and marble columns. Continue through narrow streets to see La Vieille Charité, a 17th-century almshouse built around a Baroque chapel, and pass the Hôtel-Dieu, once Marseille’s main hospital for over 800 years. Your route spans 1.5 miles and ends at the 17th-century city hall—built on the former site of La Maison de Ville, a meeting place for merchants and consuls, it was almost destroyed during the French revolution and World War II. After viewing this historic building, set out to explore more on your own or visit a local café before returning to your ship.

Monte Carlo, Monaco
The chic city of Monte Carlo in the petite kingdom of Monaco boasts some of the world’s most exclusive shopping and a beautiful old port. A fairy-tale aura has settled on this glittering city of the Grimaldi family, perhaps nowhere more elegantly than at the Prince’s Palace, where the late American actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly presided with Prince Rainier III. Monte Carlo’s medieval quarter perches on “The Rock,” an escarpment at the foot of the Maritime Alps, and offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the harbor lined with mega-yachts.

Shore Excursions – Walking Tour of Monaco
Duration: 3 hours
Set out on a walking tour through the heart of the medieval quarter of Monaco, known as The Rock. The Mediterranean will make a spectacular backdrop as you stroll to the foot of The Rock, then head uphill with your guide. In Monaco’s main square, the Place du Palais, see the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, home to the House of Grimaldi since 1297. Then pass St. Nicholas Cathedral. A young church by European standards, it was consecrated in 1875. This is the burial site of the royal family, including American actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly. Also admire the majestic Oceanographic Museum, soaring above the sea on a cliffside. Returning to the Place du Palais, depending on the time of your tour, you may have the opportunity to watch the daily changing of the guard outside the palace walls. Remain in town to shop or have lunch on your own before returning to your ship.

Shore Excursions – Leisurely Walking Tour of Monaco
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 
Take a relaxed, easy walking tour through The Rock, the heart of the medieval quarter of Monaco. The Mediterranean will make a spectacular backdrop as you walk to the foot of The Rock, then make your way uphill with your guide. In Monaco’s main square, the Place du Palais, see the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, home to the House of Grimaldi, before passing St. Nicholas Cathedral. This is the burial site of the royal family, including American actress-turned-princess Grace Kelly. Admire the majestic Oceanographic Museum, soaring above the sea on a cliff side. Upon returning to the Place du Palais, depending on the time of day, you may be able to watch the daily changing of the guard outside the palace walls. Remain in town to shop or have lunch on your own before returning to your ship. Note: This tour will progress at a speed suited to those who may experience difficulty walking.

Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Tuscany is known equally as the cradle of the Renaissance and a center of culinary delights and astounding wines. Throughout this emerald-green countryside dotted with cypress trees, endless delights unfold. Among them is Florence, a living museum of the Renaissance. Brunelleschi’s famous Duomo dominates the medieval cityscape—an architectural achievement. Another Tuscan treasure, the Square of Miracles, unfolds in Pisa. Here, a trinity of masterpieces—the Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery—comprise some of Europe’s finest art and architecture.

Shore Excursions – From Tuscany to Pisa
Duration: 4 hours
See the famous Leaning Tower and its magnificent Square of Miracles on this included tour. You will join your guide for a scenic drive through Tuscany to Pisa. The origins of this ancient city are unclear, but the presence of an Etruscan necropolis points to a long history. Upon arrival, walk to the Piazza dei Miracoli, or the Square of Miracles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the Pisa Cathedral, its marble-clad Romanesque facade decorated with Byzantine-inspired mosaics. It is said that Galileo formulated his theory of pendulums here by observing an incense burner swinging from the ceiling. Also in the square, you will see the grand circular Baptistery, the Leaning Tower, which took 177 years to build, and the walled Camposanto Monumentale, said to be the most beautiful cemetery in the world. After your tour, you will return to your ship.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.

Shore Excursions – Snapshots of Rome
Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes
Relax and take in the sights of Rome, admiring historic monuments and glorious architecture on a leisurely drive. Travel along some of the city’s most scenic routes. See ancient Roman sites, including the Aurelian Walls, Baths of Caracalla, Pyramid of Cestius, Colosseum and the Circus Maximus. Admire the Arch of Constantine, the best triumphal arch in the city, built in 315 AD to celebrate Constantine’s victory at the battle of the Milvian Bridge. Drive along the elegant Via Veneto, enjoying views of Villa Borghese Park. At Piazza della Repubblica, admire the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and Fountain of the Naiads. Afterward, you will head to central Rome where you will enjoy free time to explore on your own, before returning to your motor coach for the scenic drive back to your ship, with the great facade of iconic St. Peter’s Basilica in view.

Shore Excursions – The Etruscan Necropolises of Tarquinia
Duration: 4 hours
Seek a deeper understanding of Italy’s history on this outing, ideal for lovers of archaeology. Journey with a local guide to the ancient city of Tarquinia, founded in 449 BC. This was the principal metropolis of the 12 cities of the Etruscan League that thrived here long before the rise of the Roman Empire. Explore the fascinating Etruscan Necropolises, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating from the 7th to the 2nd centuries BC, the numerous tombs, with their decorative frescoes, chronicle the development of Etruscan culture. Outside the city’s ancient quarters, visit the 15th-century Palazzo Vitelleschi, whose galleries and cloistered courtyard display an extensive collection recovered from the tombs, including fine examples of Etruscan sarcophagi. Its golden terra-cotta horses hint at the high degree of artistry that was prevalent in Etruscan society.

Naples, Italy
Naples boasts a long history in a stunning seaside setting and has long been a major center of Italian culture. The city was the seat of a powerful independent kingdom for 500 years. So great was its sway that it lured the region’s finest architects and artists. In the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, the grand and sweeping public square, the San Francesco di Paola Church flaunts a colonnaded facade reminiscent of the Pantheon in Rome, and the Royal Palace overlooks Neapolitans with statues of all the kings of Naples peering out from alcoves.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Naples
Duration: 3 hours
Discover the highlights of Naples, a major center of Italian culture, during a scenic drive. Naples was the location of a powerful independent kingdom for 500 years, luring the region’s finest architects and artists, yet its history stretches back thousands of years. See evidence of its rich past, from Greek and Roman monuments to Renaissance splendors. Embark on a coastal drive to Mergellina, a residential area that has long offered Neapolitans a respite from city life. Admire the many beautiful villas and enjoy photo stops that offer stunning views of the gulf and the city. Return to the city center to explore Piazza del Plebiscito on your own, perhaps the grandest public square in the city with the former Royal Palace of Naples overlooking its bustling square. You will also see the imposing medieval fortresses of Egg Castle and New Castle, before returning to your ship.

Shore Excursions – Naples on Foot
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Discover the history of one of the world’s oldest cities during a guided walk. Set off on foot, passing historic monuments and through bustling squares. View Castel Nuovo, an imposing fortress that served as a residence for the kings of Anjou and Aragon, and the Spanish Viceroys of Naples. Step inside the 19th-century Galleria Umberto, a popular stop for Neapolitans to while away an afternoon as they linger over coffee. Head toward the Piazza Trieste and Trento and see the San Carlo Theater. Stroll through the pedestrian Piazza del Plebiscito, flanked by the Royal Palace of Naples and the Church of St. Francis. Along the way, pause for refreshments at a sidewalk café, so you can enjoy a Neapolitan pastry and espresso while soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant city. Cap your tour with free time to explore on your own, before returning to your ship.

Sail the Ionian Sea
Sail the gateway to the Adriatic, marked by the sole of Italy’s boot and the western coasts of Albania and Greece. As you sail, explore our well-curated Library, tucked in a private alcove of the Living Room, and select from a broad range of titles. Read a book by the Main Pool, a calming oasis in any weather with its retractable roof, allowing for year-round swimming.

Corfu (Kérkyra), Greece
Corfu has a rich history shaped by conquerors and by royalty seeking tranquility. Corfu’s Old Town and Fortress—fashioned by the once powerful Venetian Republic—constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow warrens lead to one of Europe’s largest public squares and a lovely promenade once exclusively reserved for the local aristocracy. Everywhere, magnificent coastal views unfold and scenic byways lead to history-rich enclaves, from the archaeological site of Paleopolis and the stunning Vlacherna Monastery to a former Greek royal villa.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Corfu & Old Town Walking Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Take in the highlights of Corfu during a scenic drive and a guided walk of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board your motor coach and set out for Kanoni with your guide—this historic peninsula offers sweeping views of tiny Pontikonisi Island, or Mouse Island, and the Vlacherna Monastery. Pause for photographs before continuing past the archaeological site of Paleopolis and the gates of the late Georgian Mon Repos Villa, once a residence of the Greek Royal Family and the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Past Garitsa Bay, you will reach Corfu’s Old Town. Enjoy a guided stroll down the famous Esplanade, one of Europe’s largest public squares; elegant Liston promenade, once reserved for aristocracy; the Old Fortress; Durrell Gardens; and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, former residence of the British High Commissioner. Later, return to your awaiting ship.

Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a historic jewel, with its spectacular Adriatic setting, 12th-century medieval streets and incredibly preserved structures. So stunning is its Old Town, the playwright George Bernard Shaw famously called it “paradise on Earth.” It is all spectacularly surrounded by a towering medieval wall. Inside, the ancient city’s Stradun is lined with authentic stone houses. The peaceful 14th-century Franciscan Monastery and Apothecary, housing the world’s oldest working pharmacy and a fine collection of Renaissance paintings, provide insight into the ages.

Shore Excursions – Dubrovnik on Foot
Duration: 3 hours
Explore one of the world’s most beautifully preserved medieval cities during a guided walk through Dubrovnik. Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik was once a major maritime republic and trading power. Meet your guide and transfer by motor coach to the heart of the city to begin your exploration; see its beauty up close as you enter the cobblestoned Old Town on foot through the historic Pile Gate. Follow the Stradun—the marbled main pedestrian way that gleams from centuries of footsteps—to the Dominican Monastery, where you can view a fine collection of Renaissance paintings. You will also pass the Sponza Palace, the Baroque Church of St. Blaise and the 15th-century Onofrio’s Fountain, a marvel of medieval engineering that transports water from the Rijeka Dubrovačka spring to the city. After, enjoy free time to explore more on your own before returning to your awaiting ship.

Split, Croatia
Built around the Roman Palace of Emperor Diocletian, Split is one of Croatia’s oldest cities. Its promenade commands majestic views over a bay and the Adriatic Sea. Despite evidence of Split’s origins in the 6th century BC, the city is traditionally considered over 1,700 years old—counting from the construction of the palace. Its well-preserved remains have been seamlessly assimilated into the modern city. An Ethnographic Museum is found at the palace’s heart and shops line the passageways of its ancient basement. Diocletian’s ancient mausoleum is now a stunning cathedral.

Shore Excursions – Split Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Walk through Split’s 17 centuries of architecture on this included walking tour. Because we are berthed close to the historic city center, you will stroll with your guide to the old quarter. Split is one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic, built around the 4th-century palace erected for Roman Emperor Diocletian as a retirement haven. What is left of his sprawling home has been seamlessly incorporated into modern Split. Explore the city center around the palace and make your way along its charming cobblestone streets, passing beautiful pre-Romanesque churches and Gothic chapels. In the palace complex, you will descend into the well-preserved cellars. Stop to admire the stunning bell tower at the Cathedral of St. Domnius, the patron saint of Split. At the end of the tour, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Venice (Chioggia), Italy
Chioggia is a charming fishing community located at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon and steeped in age-old seafaring traditions. Its combination of canals, bridges and fishing boats have lent it the nickname “Little Venice.” Lined with shops, bars and restaurants, the main pedestrian street of Corso del Popolo exudes a lively atmosphere amid the aroma of delicious fresh seafood dishes. Chioggia shares a long history of cultural and economic ties with Venice, dating back to the Middle Ages, and is a scenic journey by water taxi from the capital of the Veneto region.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Chioggia by Foot
Duration: 1 hour
Explore lively Chioggia, set at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon, during a brief walking excursion. One of Italy’s largest fishing communities and known as “Little Venice,” Chioggia exudes Italian charm, from its intriguing layout to its elegant palaces and colorful houses overlooking the canals. Transfer by boat to the Ponte di Vigo, where you will begin your tour admiring the views overlooking the lagoon. Set out with your guide through the narrow, cobblestone calli (“streets”) and learn about Chioggia’s history. See the 14th-century church of Saint Domenico and the fishing boats that line the nearby canal; the Gothic-style Palazzo Grassi, the Goldoni Palace and the St. Andrew Tower Clock—the second-oldest clock in the world. Cap your journey at the impressive Chioggia Cathedral, the most sacred building in the village, before returning to your ship at your leisure.

Shore Excursions – At a Glance: St. Mark’s Square
Duration: 6 hours 15 minutes
View this fabled city from the Venice Lagoon’s languid, stunning waters and explore legendary St. Mark’s Square. First, explore “La Serenissima” (The Most Serene) via a leisurely cruise, passing magnificent waterside palazzos and piazzas and peering down the lapping, narrow canals that weave their way into the city’s medieval corridors. Disembark at the landing pontoon next to Palazzo Cornoldi, meet your guide and take a short walk to beautiful St. Mark’s Square, crossing the four elegant bridges that link the waterfront. After a short orientation tour, enjoy free time to visit the splendid Gothic-Byzantine St. Mark’s Basilica and its grand Campanile bell tower and admire the Doge’s Palace and other nearby attractions. Enjoy a gelato here, sip an espresso—at your own expense—or just soak in the medieval ambience. From Cornoldi Pier, board a boat for the return trip to your ship.

Venice (Chioggia), Italy
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.