Itinerary: Cruise from Southampton – Cartagena (Spain), Tunis, Valletta, Athens (Piraeus), Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), Barcelona, Alicante, Cadiz, Lisbon – Return to Southampton.
Ports of Call
Cruise from Southampton
- Cartagena (Spain): Explore Cartagena’s Roman Theatre and its museum, which reveal the city’s ancient history. The Roman Forum archaeological site and the streets around the old town offer further insights into Cartagena’s past, while the waterfront provides a pleasant setting for a walk.
- Tunis: From La Goulette, travel into Tunis to discover its UNESCO-listed medina, where narrow streets, traditional markets and historic mosques reflect centuries of North African history. The archaeological remains of ancient Carthage provide another excursion option, while the city’s museums explore Tunisia’s cultural heritage.
- Valletta: Discover Malta’s fortified capital, with its grand historic buildings and narrow streets. St John’s Co-Cathedral contains elaborate Baroque decoration, while the Upper Barrakka Gardens provide panoramic views across the Grand Harbour. Excursions may also visit the historic inland city of Mdina.
- Athens (Piraeus): From the port of Piraeus, travel into Athens to explore the Acropolis and its ancient monuments overlooking the city. The nearby Acropolis Museum houses important archaeological collections, while the streets of Plaka contain traditional shops, cafés and historic buildings.
- Naples: Explore Naples’ historic centre, where narrow streets, churches and lively squares reflect the city’s long history. The National Archaeological Museum contains important Roman collections, while excursions may visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii or the dramatic coastline around the Bay of Naples.
- Rome (Civitavecchia): From Civitavecchia, travel into Rome to discover landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon. Vatican City contains St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Alternatively, explore Civitavecchia’s waterfront and historic fortifications, including Forte Michelangelo.
- Barcelona: Discover Barcelona’s distinctive architecture, including Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and other Modernist buildings. Wander through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, visit the lively markets around La Rambla or explore the waterfront and historic neighbourhoods.
- Alicante: Explore Alicante’s old town, with its narrow streets and traditional squares beneath Santa Bárbara Castle. The castle provides elevated views across the city and Mediterranean coast, while the palm-lined Explanada de España promenade is a popular place for a waterfront stroll.
- Cadiz: Wander through Cádiz’s atmospheric old town, where narrow streets lead to historic squares and the cathedral. Climb the Torre Tavira watchtower for views across the rooftops, or walk along the seafront towards the Castillo de San Sebastián. Longer excursions may visit Seville.
- Lisbon: Discover the steep streets and viewpoints of Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods, or explore Praça do Comércio beside the Tagus River. The Belém district contains the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, landmarks associated with Portugal’s maritime history.
Return to Southampton