7 Nights Mediterranean- MSC Musica

Day 1 - Civitavecchia, Italy

There are so many reasons to embark on a Rome cruise. A lifetime would not be enough to explore everything that the Eternal City has to offer. All roads lead to Rome, the saying goes, and it certainly felt that way through the centuries as Emperors and Popes used their vast wealth to build monuments worthy of this great city.

This living history has withstood the test of time - and a number of sackings. It is still possible stand in the Colosseum and imagine you are watching a gladiatorial battle, to picture horses racing across the Circus Maximus or to feel divinely inspired in the Pantheon.The entire city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site overflowing with history and art, from the curve of the Spanish Steps to the echoing halls of the Vatican Museums. Take your fill of cobbled streets and Baroque masterpieces with a cruise to Rome.Beyond the city itself, this region of Italy has so much to offer. Sip wine and soak in the green of the Castelli Romani hillside towns. Take time on your Rome cruise to explore the beautifully preserved Roman complex of the Taurine Baths close to Civitavecchia cruise port.

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Day 2 - Palermo, Italy

The port of Palermo, a buzzing MSC Mediterranean Cruises destination, is the regional capital of the island of Sicily. This cosmopolitan city is known for its heavenly architecture, serious street food, and outrageously beautiful beaches. MSC Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including: · Palermo and the Palatine Chapel· Archaeological Site of Segesta and the Town of Erice

• Cefalù An MSC Cruises excursion to Palermo will have you marvelling at the city's wealth of landmarks. See Politeama and Quattro Canti squares, the Palazzo d'Orléans and the remarkable Palatine Chapel.

A fusion of Norman, Byzantine, and Fatimid styles, this 12th-century masterpiece features shimmering mosaics, Arabic arches, and a magnificent Muqarnas ceiling. Next, see the Norman Palace and Casa Professa, a breathtaking Baroque church. Finally, wander the Capo, the most frenzied of fish markets, before glimpsing he exterior of the Teatro Massimo opera house. Immerse yourself in Italy's rich history on an MSC Cruises excursion to Segesta, one of Sicily's revered archaeological sites. Visit the unfinished Doric Temple and the 3rd-century Greek amphitheatre before stopping at the medieval mountain township of Erice. Discover charming houses on cobblestone streets, a Norman castle, and the 14th-century Mother Church. Heading back to Palermo, marvel at the impressive defensive wall protecting this historical town. Tour the charming coastal town of Cefalù, on an MSC Cruises excursion. You'll begin with a visit to Duomo di Cefalù, an astounding Arab-Norman cathedral. Dominating the surrounding old town and adorned inside with impressive mosaics, this religious location is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 12th-century. Enjoy a guided tour of the medieval washhouse, masterfully carved out of rock. Finally, explore the atmospheric streets of Cefalù where you can shop local wares at the craft shops.

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  Day 3 - At Sea

A day at sea gives you the opportunity to recharge before docking at your next port. Enjoy the many amenities your ship has to offer by pampering yourself with a relaxing spa day, catching an entertaining show with talented performers, or savouring an evening of fine dining at one of our many restaurants. Stick to your fitness goals by heading to the gym or hitting the mat for a mindful yoga session. Peruse a variety of shops to discover fashionable outfits, accessories, and jewellery. With endless attractions and activities, your sea day experience will be one for the books.

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Day 4 - Ibiza, Spain 

Though primarily known for its party scene, Ibiza, an MSC Mediterranean Cruises destination, aims to impress with its fortified old town, rich archaeological sites, and brilliant array of beaches. Sail a few miles south, and another incredible Balearic jewel emerges from the sea: the island of Formentera. MSC Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including: · Ibiza's Island· Formentera Island and Beach· Catamaran Tour Ibiza, the island of entertainment, overflows with activities, sights, and seductively sandy beaches.

On this MSC Cruises excursion you'll visit some of the islands most beautiful hotspots including the salt flats: 'Las Salinas'. Take in this series of beautiful lagoons before heading to the tranquil municipality of San José. There, you'll view the 18th century whitewashed church known for its decorative simplicity. Next, visit San Antonio, a buzzing town with a beautiful harbour. Enjoy a scenic tour of this popular village before taking in the gorgeous waterfront.   Enjoy a Mediterranean experience on an MSC Cruises excursion to the island of Formentera. A short ferry trip from Ibiza will reward you with pristine beaches, crystal waters, and an ultra-relaxed atmosphere. Next, see the coastal resort of Es Pujols, lauded for its turquoise sea and powder-soft sand. Explore the town, take a dip, or relax in an al fresco restaurant, drink in hand! Finally, visit Migjorn beach where you can throw your cares to the wind. Wander wooden footpaths, explore the dunes, or gaze at the idyllic sea. Book an exciting MSC Cruises excursion to the island of Formentera. You'll get a gorgeous glimpse of the Balearic coastline from the luxurious comfort of a catamaran. Sail past Playa d'en Bossa with its palm-fringed promenade before dropping anchor near Illetas beach. Here, you'll enjoy plenty of time in the sparkling sunshine, taking in the magnificent views or swimming in the crystalline sea. Back on board, enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch and a glass of Spanish sangria. Then, take in the spectacular vista of the Balearic Islands as the catamaran heads back to Ibiza.

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Day 5 - Valencia, Spain

Valencia is Spain's third largest city, and in recent years has blossomed into somewhere truly special. MSC cruises to Valencia will give you the chance to discover authentic local experiences, as will cruises from Valencia, meaning all bases are covered.  A few highlights include world-famous Valencian paella and the vast Oceanogràfic Valencia. The latter is part of the fabulous avant-garde complex known as the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències (City of Arts and Sciences), a group of futuristic architectural delights designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava, which have featured in sci-fi productions from Doctor Who to Westworld and the Star Wars franchise. 

 Just near the port to north and south are various Valencia beaches, totalling almost 20 kilometres and fringed with paella restaurants and chiringuitos (beach bars serving cocktails with an Ibiza vibe and chilled tunes)  A short way south is Albufera, a lagoon among rice fields used for the local dish, paella. A Valencia cruise brings all this within your reach.

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Day 6 - Marseille, France

Marseille is where Provence comes crashing into the sea: bustling city and beautiful coastline, Belle Époque facades and bold street art, Provençal and multicultural traditions. France's oldest city is also its most original, appealing to both first-time and seasoned visitors, as you'll discover on a Marseille cruise.

Snap photos of wooden boats lining Le Vieux-Port harbour and hop between cafes, restaurants and bars - grab an outside table to watch the world go by and appreciate the gentle hubbub. Marvel at limestone fjords in Calanques National Park, home to Château d'If. This 16th-century island prison was made famous in The Count of Monte Cristo, and sits one of the Frioul Islands, an archipelago offering coastal walks and quiet beaches. Soak up views from Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, before getting lost in Le Panier's cobblestone streets.

Charming Aix-en-Provence and Avignon are nearby on cruises to Marseille. These picturesque locations are the perfect pairing to Marseille's cosmopolitan flair. On a Marseille cruise, discover the best of Provence, France and the Mediterranean all at once.

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Day 7 - Genoa, Italy

Gateway to the Italian Riviera, the Port of Genoa is one of the most important (and one of the largest) in Italy, a strategic harbour since ancient times.

Cruises to Genoa offer the chance to explore its many sights, including Genoa Aquarium, designed by architect Renzo Piano, and the city’s picturesque Boccadasse district, a lakeside fishing village. Genoa excursions also offer the opportunity to taste signature dishes made from fresh ingredients, such as pesto Genovese and focaccia. On a Genoa cruise, guests can also admire one of Italy’s most beautiful stretches of coastline or an excursion to the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre. Its five fishing villages, perched on steep cliffs, offer superb sea views, small seafood restaurants, and a tableau of townhouses.A short trip away from Genoa, Portofino beckons with colourful facades, boutiques and surrounding lush hills. Explore the Cinque Terre, Portofino and much more on a Genoa cruise with MSC Cruises.

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Day 8 -   Civitavecchia, Italy

There are so many reasons to embark on a Rome cruise. A lifetime would not be enough to explore everything that the Eternal City has to offer. All roads lead to Rome, the saying goes, and it certainly felt that way through the centuries as Emperors and Popes used their vast wealth to build monuments worthy of this great city.

This living history has withstood the test of time - and a number of sackings. It is still possible stand in the Colosseum and imagine you are watching a gladiatorial battle, to picture horses racing across the Circus Maximus or to feel divinely inspired in the Pantheon.The entire city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site overflowing with history and art, from the curve of the Spanish Steps to the echoing halls of the Vatican Museums. Take your fill of cobbled streets and Baroque masterpieces with a cruise to Rome.Beyond the city itself, this region of Italy has so much to offer. Sip wine and soak in the green of the Castelli Romani hillside towns. Take time on your Rome cruise to explore the beautifully preserved Roman complex of the Taurine Baths close to Civitavecchia cruise port.