Viking Oceans Cruises – NEW! Gems of the Mediterranean (Spain, Italy, Tunisia, Monaco, France) 15 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.

Valencia, Spain
Valencia is steeped in 2,000 years of history and culture. Its Old Town is one of Spain’s largest, a diverse medley of ancient buildings, wide-open plazas and cultural monuments. The Gothic Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bears witness to Valencia’s Renaissance trading power. A literal taste of Valencia’s past bubbles up in every skillet of paella. The centuries-old rice dish was invented here and perfected by farmers; barracasthroughout the city offer demonstrations and tastings of this famously rustic cuisine.

Shore Excursions – Valencia City Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Discover more than two millennia of history during a guided exploration of Valencia’s major sights. First founded by the Romans in 138 BC, the city now boasts an impressive collection of historic buildings. Begin with a panoramic drive, passing the Old River and Serrano Gate, before heading out to the more modern parts of Valencia to see the City of Arts & Sciences. Enjoy a stroll to the cathedral at Plaza de la Virgen, commonly known as the “Seu.” It was consecrated in 1238 by the first bishop of Valencia, Pere d’Albalat, and dedicated to Saint Mary by order of James I the Conqueror.  After a visit of its interior, embark on a guided exploration of the surrounding area, including the Generalitat Palace. View its late Gothic architecture and the Renaissance-style turrets added during the 16th and 20th centuries, before returning to your awaiting ship.

Sail the Mediterranean Sea
Sail the ocean stage on which civilizations have risen and fallen, where empires ventured forth in their great armadas to control these strategic waters. As you sail, take advantage of the array of delicious cuisine offered on board. You may visit Mamsen’s, our casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning to late at night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or, dine at Manfredi’s and savor an authentic Italian meal, with options ranging from Milanese risotto to Tuscan inspired classics.

Sardinia (Cagliari), Italy
About one-fifth of Sardinia’s land is used for agriculture, earning it a reputation as Italy’s other farmland. Tomatoes, artichokes, citrus fruits and olives are some of its primary crops. And because Sardinia cannot call itself Italian without producing wine, lush vineyards blanket its hillsides. Here, the Castello District is home to a Roman amphitheater and the subterranean Cathedral of St. Mary, a Pisan relic. Cagliari gleams in the Sardinian sun, inspiring D.H. Lawrence to call it the “white Jerusalem.”

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Cagliari
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Enjoy a walking tour of this charming Sardinian city set on the lovely Golfo degli Angeli, or Gulf of Angels. Several empires left their mark at this Mediterranean crossroads, and you will see evidence of their thriving cultures. Join your guide for a scenic drive past the city’s coastal lagoons that host a variety of birdlife. In Cagliari’s Castello District, or Old Town, you will see the magnificent Roman amphitheater carved into the bedrock; it is still a performance space today. Pass the imposing 14th-century Elephant Tower, named for the sculpted elephant by its gate, and the Tower of St. Pancras, both remnants of the Pisano period. These two towers once comprised the cityʹs fortifications, along with ramparts from the Aragonese and Spanish periods. Visit the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria del Castello before returning to your ship.

Tunis (La Goulette), Tunisia
Tunis is a vibrant mix of North African tradition and French influences. The modern city revolves around Avenue Habib Bourguiba, affectionately called the “Champs-Élysées” for its colonial buildings, shops and cafés. A drive along this lively tree-lined boulevard and a walk through the passageways of the city’s souks reveal contrasting views of ancient and modern Tunisia. The nearby ancient city of Carthage was the capital of the Carthaginian Republic, a powerhouse in the Mediterranean for centuries. A stroll around this UNESCO site opens a window to antiquity.

Shore Excursions – Tunis Highlights & Souk Visit
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Discover modern-day Tunis on this panoramic tour. Accompany your guide to Tunisia’s vibrant capital of Tunis, where you will drive along Avenue Habib Bourguiba, known as the “Tunisian Champs-Élysées” and the center of activity. Amid the bustling tree-lined promenade stand numerous world-class hotels, monuments and cafés where the locals gather to drink tea. Explore a living museum in the Tunis medina, an entrancing maze-like district of shops, mosques, palaces and residences. Enjoy a brief walking tour with your guide, then have free time to explore the variety of the souk’s handicraft stalls, selling everything from produce to brassware to carpets.

Sicily (Palermo), Italy
Palermo, the Sicilian capital, is noted for its culture and culinary scene. Bustling open markets can be found across the city offering seasonal fresh produce as well as traditional tasty morsels, such as arancini (fried rice balls) and sfincione (focaccia topped with sweet tomato sauce). The city is also filled with historic gems, such as the stunning Royal Palace of Palermo—a fine example of Norman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; this lavish palace is one of Europe’s oldest private residence.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Palermo & Surroundings
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
See Palermo and its surroundings; visit an important religious site. Embark by motor coach via elegant Libertà, a wide, tree-lined avenue full of high-end shops. See the neoclassical-styled Palermo Opera House, the Muslim-influenced Palermo Cathedral and the Quattro Canti with its statues symbolizing the four seasons, four historically important Spanish kings and the city’s four patron saints. Admire the Palazzo Reale, Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Piazza Marina on your way to Santa Rosalia Sanctuary. Enjoy a guided exploration of this sacred pilgrimage site and its precious relics before passing Mount Pellegrino, which provides a looming backdrop to Palermo. Continue to Mondello, a former fishing village that has been transformed into a beautiful seaside resort with opulent villas and quaint houses, for a guided tour of this charming locale.

Salerno, Italy
Best known as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Salerno boasts a rich history and its founding dates back more than 2,500 years. Its heyday came under Norman rule, when its medical school became the foremost institution of its kind in Europe. During World War II, the late summer of 1943 saw heavy fighting in Salerno during Operation Avalanche, the landing of Allied troops on Italian shores. Miraculously, much of the ancient city survived the heavy fighting. Today, its winding, narrow streets are an invitation for further exploration beyond the newly renovated shoreside boulevard.

Shore Excursions – Explore Amalfi
Duration: 4 hours
Sail along one of the world’s most magnificent coasts en route to exploring the stunning seaside village of Amalfi. Board a motorboat and meet your skipper, who will offer tips on how to spend your time in Amalfi as you cruise across the Gulf of Salerno. Surrounded by steep cliffs and overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a maritime trading power. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore at your leisure. Visit its historic center, strolling along the narrow lanes winding their way through the village. Or stop in the main square to admire the facade of the 11th-century Cathedral of St. Andrew, a beautiful mix of Italian Gothic and arabesque architectural elements. Alternatively, investigate the popular shops in search of the perfect memento, or sip on a refreshing beverage in a café. Cap your excursion by boarding your boat and returning to your ship.

Shore Excursions – Explore Sorrento
Duration: 5 hours
Set out to explore Sorrento, famed for its breathtaking views, quaint atmosphere and historic charm. Begin your excursion with a panoramic drive with views over the coastline. Upon arrival in Sorrento you will join a guided walk around the Villa Comunale di Sorrento, a serene park in the heart of the town. Perched on a cliffside, the park offers vistas over the Bay of Naples, Mt. Vesuvius and the islands of Capri and Ischia. Stroll amid the manicured gardens and centuries old olive trees, then visit the nearby Cloister of the Church of San Francesco D’Assisi; it was built during the 14th century on the ruins of a 7th-century monastery. After time for photos, return to the main square for a woodwork demonstration and enjoy free time to explore independently. Perhaps browse the stores or sip a refreshing limoncello at a local bar. After, 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.

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.

Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Tuscany is known for its scenic beauty and exudes a unique, rustic character. Vineyards, olive tree groves, wheat fields and endless expanses of farmland skirt the bases of medieval hill towns as they march across an undulating landscape of gentle hills. Fertile soils produce some of the world’s finest wines, including Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. More than this, many consider Tuscany the birthplace of the original farm-to-table movement. Simple, honest food graces the Tuscan table, from creamy cheeses to thick Florentine steak grilled over a wood fire.

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.

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.

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.

Sète, France
In a picturesque setting on France’s southern coast, Sète is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural charm. Known as the “Venice of Languedoc,” its network of canals offers an alluring ambience, with boats bobbing in the water and colorful buildings lining the banks. Due to its booming fishing industry, Sète features an array of delicious seafood, centered around the town’s bustling fish market, Les Halles de Sète. The best way to explore is on foot or by bicycle, where you can while away the time along the canals that link the Mediterranean to the Thau Lagoon.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Sète by Foot
Duration: 2 hours 
Set out on a guided walk to explore the historic port city of Sète, founded in 1666 by Louis XIV. Located on a thin strip of land, Sète received its name from the many canals that crisscross it, linking the Mediterranean to the enclosed saltwater lagoon of Ethang de Thau. A popular destination for seafood enthusiasts, Sète is home to the largest fishing port in the Mediterranean—it is famed for its fish auction, the first in Europe to be computerized in 1967.  The Old Port sits at the heart of the city, unique among others in the Mediterranean for its location within the town rather than on the open sea. Meet your guide and stroll along its streets, lined with colorful buildings and intersecting canals, gaining insight into Sète’s rich past as you explore. After, enjoy free time to experience more of the city at your leisure, before returning to your awaiting ship.

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.

Barcelona, Spain
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.