Experience premium luxury cruising to The Med’s most beautiful and romantic locations across Italy, the Greek Islands, Spain, France, Croatia and Malta. These 10 incredible ports-of-call and an enchanting stay in the historic heart of Venice will live with you forever: Mykonos, Barcelona, Split (Croatia), Marseille (Provence), Athens, Naples, Amalfi Coast, Brindisi (southern Italy) and Malta. Brand-new futuristic MSC World Europa, revolutionises luxury cruising with it’s trailblazing design. Ancient cultures, glamorous towns, dramatic islands, idyllic beaches, incredible flavours. Experience the floating masterpiece of Venice in true style. Sail through the sparkling Greek Islands to discover the dramatic whitewashed villages and azure seas of iconic Mykonos. Wander the medieval streets of remarkable Split, shimmering on Croatia’s specular Dalmatian Coast. Indulge in the cultured Spanish good-life of Barcelona. Immerse yourself in the visual and culinary delights of France’s famous Provence region. Fall in love with Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Experience alluring Athens and the spine-tingling Acropolis. Enjoy a seductive Sicilian adventure. Marvel at the sheer beauty of Malta. Experience authentic Mediterranean hospitality onboard this luxury ship. Everything is included in this amazing value package, premium luxury cruise, flights, Venice hotel, Venice tour and personalised speedboat transfers. Themes include: Europe, Europe Cruise, Mediterranean, Greek Islands, Catalonia, Salerno, Veneto, Departs from Barcelona, Ocean Cruise, Returns from Split. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights (premium airline)
Premium modern ships (stylish Italian design)
8 Day East Mediterranean Cruise (5 ports of call)
8 Day West Mediterranean Cruise (6 ports of call)
3 Nights Venice hotel (superior 4 Star, on historic canals)
Venice walking tour & gondola ride
Speedboat water transfers in Venice (port, hotel and airport)
Genoa transfers (port, airport)
Sophisticated cosmopolitan cruising (elegant Mediterranean vibe)
Brand new futuristic ship for west Med (MSC World Europa Europa revolutionises luxury cruising with trailblazing futuristic design)
Relaxed mid-sized ship for east Med (MSC Armonia is perfect for Greek Islands)
All meals onboard aboard MSC World Europa & MSC Armonia
Includes daytime activities, evening entertainment, Broadway style big shows, unlimited snacks

Highlights

Venice (Italy) Barcelona (Spain) Athens (Greece) Portofino (Genoa, Italy) Split (Croatia) Mykonos (Greek Islands) Marseille (Provence, France) Amalfi Coast (Italy) Sicily (Messina, Italy) Malta (Valletta) Brindisi (Southern Italy)

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Stay in the historic heart of Venice, walking tour, gondola ride

• Sail through the sparkling Greek Islands

• Dramatic whitewashed villages of iconic Mykonos

• Medieval Split (Dalmatian Coast, Croatia)

• Delights of France’s famous Provençe region (Marseille)

• Cultured Spanish good-life of Barcelona

• Alluring Athens and the Acropolis (Greece)

• Dazzling Naples, Amalfi Coast, Sorrento & Capri

• Italy’s alluring Sicily

• Sheer beauty of Malta

• Spirited and ancient city of Brindisi (southern Italy)

• Dreamy Italian Riviera (Genoa)
• Brand-new futuristic MSC World Europa

DAY 1 Depart Australia for Italy

Today we depart for Venice, Italy. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in Venice, Speedboat Transfer

You’re staying in the heart of historic Venice right on the central canals. Experience an incredible water transfer by a classic speedboat from Venice’s Marco Polo International Airport to your magnificent Venice hotel. Admire the vibrant canal life and grand Venetian buildings on this truly memorable cruise through the centre of Venice’s historic canal system. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city admiring the canals and bridges.

Venice is built on more than 100 small islands that are lined with splendid Renaissance and Gothic palaces. It has no roads, just canals like the famous Grand Canal. The central square, St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s famous red roofs. The Islands are interconnected with splendid ornate bridges.

Speedboat arrival transfer, overnight Venice hotel.

DAY 3 Venice Walking Tour & Gondola

Relax into Venetian time with plenty of free time this morning to wander around Venice before joining our local guide on an enchanting walking tour of this unique city, setting off from famous St. Mark's Square. Experience stately Gothic palaces, whitewashed churches, remarkable art and of course the instantly recognisable Rialto Bridge. See La Fenice Opera House, St. Luca Square, Campo San Beneto, Palazzo Fortuny, Campo San Fantin, Manin Square, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, Mariano Fortuny art and the historic Rialto district.

Then board an historic gondola, gliding gently through the narrow canals for a water tour.

Guided tour, gondola ride, overnight Venice Hotel

DAY 4 Explore Venice

Venice is a truly magical city, a fairy-tail patchwork of beautiful canals and laneways that are thoroughly joyful to explore. You’re staying in the heart of Venice, right amongst all of the grand historic buildings, marble palaces, bustling canals and the things that make Venice such a rewarding place to spend time.

Today enjoy a free day to experience Venetian life at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. The main city is small and compact, so you can easily wander from end to end. Explore the canals, sit and relax in the vibrant small squares, browse the chic shops and high-end boutiques, go cafe-hopping, indulge in a gastronomic extravagance or spend time immersing yourself into the fascinating Venetian history, art and culture. With over 400 bridges and endless laneways, one of the best things to do is to just wander… and get lost in Venice.

Perhaps spend the day discovering somewhere in detail, like Gallerie dell’Accademia, Tintoretto's Heaven on Earth, Basilica di San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Opera at Teatro La Fenice, La Biennale di Venezia, Punta della Dogana or Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Maybe explore one of the other Venetian islands, like Murano, Lido, San Giorgio Maggiore or Torcello, each with their own character but distinctly Venice. Try to find Venice’s best Tiramisu (the decadent Italian cake dessert). It was invented in Venice in the 1960s and its secret recipe has been preserved by local restaurants and bakeries, with over 25 different kinds.

Discover the Venetian pleasures of la bea vita (the beautiful life): the wake-up call of the gondoliers' ‘Ooooeeeee!’, a morning spritz in a sunny campo (square), lunch in a vibrant bacaro (bar) and the fuschia-pink sunsets that have inspired centuries of artists.

Overnight Venice Hotel

DAY 5 Board the MSC Armonia

This morning experience another incredible water transfer onboard a classic speedboat from your central Venice hotel to the port to board the beautiful cruise liner MSC Armonia. Experience premium cruising on this laid-back luxurious mid-sized ship perfectly designed for cruising amongst the spectacular Greek Islands.

Relax into the sophisticated Mediterranean vibe surrounded by stylish Italian design, savouring the indulgent European hospitality. Enjoy fine food designed by highly acclaimed Michelin star chefs. Experience world-class entertainment and Broadway style shows. This magnificent vessel has incredible features that marry traditional craftsmanship with modern design. The elegant atrium features a three-tier waterfall with a piano floating suspended on a crystal floor above a pool of shimmering water. MSC Armonia boasts a cosmopolitan, warm and friendly laid-back atmosphere that perfectly complements her incredible eastern Mediterranean ports of call.

Later today we set sail from Venice south along the Italian coast through the intoxicatingly blue Adriatic Sea.

Meet and greet personalised port transfer, dinner, overnight MSC Armonia

DAY 6 Brindisi (Southern Italy)

Our first port-of-call is ancient, soulful and sensual southern Italy, where the ruins are older, the lunches longer, and the landscapes wilder. Lose yourself in Brindisi’s charming old town. Nestled along the sparkling Adriatic Sea, this atmospheric port city is young at heart, yet boasts a fascinating history with an ancient centre and is home to a vast array of treasures. The highlights of this glistening coast include Lecce ('Florence of the South'), Ostuni (‘whitewashed town’) and Alberobello.

Lecce’s reputation as the 'the Florence of the South' is earned from it’s incredible Baroque architecture, with it’s own distinctive, more expressive and hugely decorative version, replete with gargoyles, asparagus columns and cavorting gremlins. There is much to experience in this lively university town with it’s upmarket boutiques, delicious Pugliese restaurants and a strong tradition of papier-mâché making. Wander the vibrant Piazza St. Oronzo, see the ancient Roman Amphitheatre, the richly decorated Church of the Holy Cross and the ornate Celestine Convent.

The popular whitewashed town of Ostuni extends across three hills with the magnificent gem of a cathedral as its sparkling centrepiece. Its spectacular medieval centre overlooks an endless expanse of olive trees. Discover pearly white houses along winding pebbled paths, perhaps buy some DOC 'Collina di Brindisi' olive oil direct from producers.

Arrive into Brindisi at 4pm for a memorable day before setting sail again at 10pm. You can spend a wonderful day exploring the town or perhaps take one of the optional tours.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Armonia

DAY 7 Mediterranean Sea

Enjoy a memorable day relaxing aboard this premium cruise-liner. Take advantage of MSC Armonia’s delicious dining options, great facilities, comprehensive activities and exciting entertainment as we sail through the Ionian Sea on to the Aegean Sea and through the Greek Islands.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Armonia

DAY 8 Mykonos (Greek Islands)

The Greek islands ignite the imagination and satisfy the soul with picture-perfect hillside villages that hug glistening azure waters and are laced in history and mythical tales. Today will be a highlight of your incredible trip, as you explore the most glamourous of the Greek Islands adorned with incredible beauty. Mykonos boasts brilliant beaches, dazzling whitewashed villages and it’s instantly recognisable 16th century Venetian windmills. It’s chic bars and fashionable restaurants in the south attract an upscale, stylish, globe-trotting crowd. Discover the quieter charm of this iconic and historic Greek Island, with it’s myriad of breathtakingly photogenic towns and coastal landscapes where sparkling cerulean waters lap at the island’s secluded coves and striking white beaches.

Make the most of your time on Mykonos. Explore classic whitewashed houses built on a labyrinth of narrow streets (designed to thwart pirate attacks). Wander through Matoyianni Street - where it all happens, Alefkandra (little Venice) with it’s gorgeous web of little alleys, experience the colours of the Old Harbour, see the brilliant white Church of Panagia Paraportiani, check-out the more contemporary art at Rarity Gallery and Dio Horia. The world-famous Venetian windmills keep watch over the village from the hills above, built to mill wheat. Check-out the Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folklore Museum. Relax at one of the quiet beaches, like picture-perfect Agios Sostis. Treat yourself to souvlaki or gyro, maybe relax in one of the many traditional tavernas sipping ouzo (anise-flavoured spirt) or indulge in some of the most cosmopolitan and sophisticated restaurants and bars.

Perhaps visit the nearby Greek island of Delos - the mythological birthplace of the sun god Apollo. This remarkable archaeological adventure will leave you in awe. Soak up the glory of this ancient Greek civilisation, discover the Avenue of Lions (incredible row of 7th-century marble-sculptures), the Doric Temple of the Delians, the Minoan Fountain, a series of market squares, the Theatre Quarter (with splendid mosaics) – then wander the trail to Mount Cynthus to marvel at the views of the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Arrive into Mykonos at 9am for a full day and evening before setting sail again at 8pm. You can spend a wonderful day exploring this Greek Island or perhaps take one of the optional tours.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Armonia

DAY 9 Athens (Piraeus, Greece)

Athens is an alluring mix of ancient history and contemporary cool. A blend of grandeur and grunge, where some of Europe’s coolest street art sits side by side the ancient 5th-century BC landmarks. Athens is a vibrant and fascinating city, the birth place of democracy and home to mythology, drama and philosophy At its centre, a mesmerizing ancient Acropolis rises up amidst the surrounding layers of modernity; serving as an ever-present reminder of the city’s momentous legacy.

The magnificent Acropolis, visible from almost every part of the city, is the hub around which Athens still revolves. All over the city, rooftops and balconies angle toward the landmark - pull up your own chair, settle in and allow time to appreciate the Acropolis' many moods. A visit to the Acropolis is also a must - climb to the top of Acropolis Hill to the magnificent Parthenon, explore the Temples of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion, then visit the outstanding Acropolis Museum with its display of jaw-dropping archaeological finds. Explore the historical quarter of Pláka, (‘neighbourhood of the Gods’) wandering through its captivating maze of old streets, nestled around foothills of the Acropolis.

Creative energy abounds in the city, through it’s renowned street art, art shows and music where creative surprises lie around nearly every corner. There is so much to tempt you, from the Monastiraki area (packed with rooftop bars, ancient sights and huge markets), the bustling market of Varvakios Agora, the 40 acres at Tropical Gardens, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Cycladic Art, Erechtheion, National Archaeological Museum, Temple of Hephaestus, Museum of Cycladic Art, Temple of Athena Nike, Plaka, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Benaki Museum, Ancient Agora of Athens, Museum of the Ancient Agora, Mount Lycabettus, Odeon of Herodes Atticus and Philopappos Monument. Squeeze in a local meal between attractions, like the famous souvlaki, tiropita (cheese and egg) or spanakopita (spinach, feta and onions).

Perhaps visit the astounding 6km long Corinth Canal, with it’s narrow sheer cliff walls through which modern ships carefully pass from the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea. Completed in 1893, this navigational waterway is a grand engineering feat with a series of bridges crossing the ships’ route.

Arrive into Athens at 7am for a full day before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend a wonderful day exploring this ancient city or perhaps take one of the optional tours.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Armonia

DAY 10 Mediterranean Sea

Relax with a treasured day aboard this premium cruise-liner. Take advantage of MSC Armonia’s delicious dining options, great facilities, comprehensive activities and exciting entertainment as we sail through The Med and through the Dalmatian Coast to Croatia.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Armonia

DAY 11 Explore Split (Dalmatian Coast, Croatia)

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is regarded as the most beautiful shoreline in Europe. It’s medieval walled towns are right out of Game of Thrones, set against clear blue waters, backed by high mountains and surrounded strings of mysterious islands. Split is an exuberant city with a dramatic coastal setting and just the right blend of ancient and modernity. Lose yourself amidst the ancient stone walls of Split’s famed old town, set right on the dramatic Dalmatian Coast. The ancient 4th Century remains of Diocletian’s Palace are a magnificent Roman monument, now home to a bustling collection of bars, restaurants, tenements and churches. Split’s dramatic coastal mountains act as the perfect backdrop to the bright turquoise waters of the Adriatic.

Today you’ll experience Dalmatian life in this captivating vibrant city, one of Croatia’s star-attractions. Wander through the medieval old town with it’s intoxicating atmosphere and maze of ancient cobblestoned lanes, experience the spectacular waterfront, indulge in some Croatian delicacies or visit Diocletian's Palace, Klis Fortress, St. Duje's Cathedral, Peristil Square, Marjan, Campanile, Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments, Ivan Meštrovic Gallery, Salona or Trogir.

Croatia is breathtaking. Poised between the Balkans and central Europe, it has been passed between competing kingdoms, empires and republics for millennia leaving behind a rich cultural legacy. Perhaps discover more of Croatia and the surrounding countryside, like magnificent Krka National Park with it’s alluring series of 7 waterfalls cascading into a green-blue natural pool. The charming small town of Omis enjoys one of the most dramatic locations of any town on the Dalmatian coast - at the end of a picturesque canyon, backed by sheer walls of mottled grey rock and where the river flows into the Adriatic. Wander the leafy oak-lined main street of this legendary pirates' lair.

Arrive into Split at 8am for a full day before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend a wonderful day exploring the city or perhaps take an optional tour like: Sightseeing Tour of Split ($95), Explore the Ancient Cities of Trogir and Solin ($100), Split & Omis ($116), Medjugorje ($132), Krka National Park Walking Tour ($111), Split Panoramic Tuk-tuk ($100), Nature & Fun at the Mill ($132).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Armonia

DAY 12 Arrive in Venice, Transfer to Genoa, Board MSC World Europa

This morning we arrive back into beautiful Venice. Enjoy a transfer overland to Genoa on the Italian Riviera – the famed crescent of the Mediterranean coast, where the Alps and the Apennines cascade into the sea. Genoa is home to the largest medieval city in Europe - a fascinating maze of winding alleyways, Renaissance palaces and historic architecture. Southeast of the city, the picture-perfect exclusive fishing village of Portofino is etched into the mountainside; a stunning collection of pastel-coloured buildings hiding the affluent by day and overlooking the crystal clear aqua-marine harbour below. Today board the brand new upscale cruise liner MSC World Europa.

MSC World Europa - Futuristic Luxury Cruising

The brand-new MSC World Europa revolutionises luxury cruising with it’s trailblazing design. She strikes a futuristic silhouette cutting through the water with ease and grace while her innovative shape provides immense functionality benefits, setting a set a new standard. Explore the completely distinct onboard ‘neighbourhoods’, each with its own atmosphere, from the adults only tranquil zen zone to the vibrant indoor-outdoor promenade dotted with bars, shops & boutiques. The future of cruising has been reimagined. Be amongst the first to experience this next generation cruise experience with HolidayMax.

Relax into the sophisticated Mediterranean vibe surrounded by stylish ultra-modern Italian design, savouring the indulgent European hospitality. Enjoy fine food designed by highly acclaimed Michelin star chefs. Experience world-class entertainment and Broadway-style shows.

Later today we set sail from Genoa south along the Italian coast through the Ligurian Sea past the island of Corsica to Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

Meet and greet personalised transfer, Dinner, overnight MSC World Europa

DAY 13 Explore Naples, Amalfi Coast & Pompeii (Italy)

Our first port-of-call aboard MSC World Europa is Naples, where the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Pompeii and Capri awaits – it doesn’t get any more Italian.

Naples is authentic, high-octane energy, a place of soul-stirring art and unimaginable panoramas. This alluring city abounds in creativity, architecture, history, legends, shopping and glorious food. It’s a heady mix of modern vitality and a palpable 2nd millennium B.C. history that permeates every edgy alleyway with the dormant Mount Vesuvius volcano providing a picture-postcard backdrop. Explore the vibrant historical centre set around an incredible harbour bay, discover architectural landmarks, masterpiece artworks, and sumptuous food.

The Amalfi Coast dazzles with its iridescent coloured grottos where mountains plunge into the sea in a nail-biting vertical scene of precipitous crags. Seemingly endless picture-perfect turquoise seas and cinematic piazzas with pastel-coloured cascades of villages abound. The stunning coastal town of Sorrento is at the western gateway to the Amalfi. This truly romantic and handsome clifftop destination was a compulsory stop on the 19th-century 'Grand Tour'. Still today it’s renowned for it’s high-pedigree hotels amid plunging cliffs that cut through the heart of the historical core.

Pompeii is Europe's most compelling archaeological site. This ancient Roman city was buried under pumice and ash during the Mount Vesuvius volcanic eruption of 79 AD. Today, Pompeii looks frozen in time, offering glimpses of fossilised communities, preserved baths, crumbling columns and fabulous frescoes. Pompeii, set against the majestic (and now dormant) Mount Vesuvius, is the only archaeological site in the world that provides a complete picture of an ancient Roman city.

Capri is beautiful – seriously beautiful. You’ll find Capri’s glamorous culture with just short boat trip across the Bay of Naples. Steep cliffs rise majestically from an impossibly blue sea; elegant villas drip with wisteria and bougainvillea; even the trees seem to be carefully manicured.

Arrive into Naples at 1pm for an afternoon and evening of discovery before setting sail again at 8.00pm. You can spend a memorable day exploring incredible Naples – or perhaps take one of the optional tours to discover more of the spectacular region.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC World Europa

DAY 14 Explore Sicily (Messina, Italy)

Today embark on your Sicilian adventure and be seduced by this gorgeous island. Acclaimed by poets and prized by ancient civilisations, the island of Sicily and its dazzling diversity is remarkably beautiful; golden sand beaches, towering mountains and ancient cultural treasures stand watch over some of the Mediterranean’s most pristine waters.

Messina greets you with true Sicilian hues glowing golden against the glistening Ionian Sea and it’s sweeping boulevards of ornate turn-of-the-century buildings. Explore the nearby stunning coastal towns and villages, like trendy Taormina, and the famed active volcano of Mount Etna. Immerse yourself in the Sicilian culture, natural beauty and ancient historical sites.

Founded by the Greeks, this thriving town also exudes the influences of Roman, Byzantine and Arab empires. See the typical local felucas boats going up and down the Strait catching massive swordfish. Messina’s specialties of swordfish, cannolo with ricotta and granita are celebrated by connoisseurs across Italy, experience their famous lemon granita (shaved ice) or mezza con panna al caffè. Local seafood delicacies don’t get any fresher than at Ganzirri.

Taormina is spectacularly perched on the side of a mountain. It’s one of Sicily's most popular summer destinations, a chic town popular with affluent travellers and those wanting a taste of Sicilian dolce vita. It’s magical, mythical atmosphere has enchanted famous visitors from all over the world for a century. See its Greek-Roman theatre, wander along the perfectly preserved Mediaeval streets, admire its dramatic views of Mount Etna and live the Sicilian dream.

Sicily is presided over by Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano and a focal point of Greek Mythology. It’s an incredible place to visit, with an impressive cable-car. At 3326m, it dominates Sicily’s landscape with a massive brooding presence.

Arrive into Messina at 9am for a full day of discovery before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend a fascinating day exploring incredible Sicily – or perhaps take one of the optional tours to discover more of the beautiful region.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC World Europa

DAY 15 Explore Malta (Valletta)

This small island country packs glorious variety into its small archipelago. The capital Valletta is so remarkably beautiful it’s a World Heritage site. Retaining its 16th-century elegance and set on translucent blue waters, it’s described as 'one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world' – yet oozes 21st-century sophistication. Glowing golden atop its sparkling Grand Harbour, Valletta’s epic Baroque cityscape rises up in an irresistible panorama of winding cobbled laneways, towering cathedrals and enchanting 16th century elegance. In Malta you'll find prehistoric temples, fossil-studded cliffs, epic hidden coves and a history of remarkable intensity.

Maltese people are warm and welcoming, representing a beguiling blend of Italian, Arabic and British cultures. Traditional Maltese food mixes Sicilian and Middle Eastern flavours. Malta's landscape contrasts dizzying limestone cliffs with sheltered bays that hide gin-clear water and red-gold beaches. The islands' many marinas jostle with boats, with many sky-blue traditional craft.

Gozo is one of 21 islands that make up the captivatingly beautiful Maltese archipelago. This slower-paced Gozo features the Dwejra inland sea, the Citadel in the main town of Victoria (a small bastion city built atop one of the historic hills) and the Ggantija Megalithic temples.

Arrive into Valletta at 7am for a full day of adventure before setting sail again at 5:00pm. You can spend a relaxing day exploring the beautiful island of Malta – or perhaps take one of the optional tours to discover more of this sparkling island.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC World Europa

DAY 16 Mediterranean Sea

Enjoy a special day aboard this world-first premium modern cruise-liner. Take advantage of MSC World Europa’s delicious dining options, luxurious facilities, comprehensive activities and exciting entertainment as we sail through the magnificent Mediterranean Sea on your journey to Spain.

Take time-out to reflect on your remarkable journey and unforgettable experiences so far whilst enjoying the attentive Mediterranean hospitality, as you gaze out across the sparkling azure sea.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC World Europa

DAY 17 Explore Barcelona (Spain)

It’s easy to see why visitors fall in love with this enchanting beach city filled with remarkable architecture and a boundless cultural scene. Recognised as one of the most attractive cities in Europe, the Catalan capital has a cosmopolitan international vibe. There is so much to do and see - museums, the 'Old Town', art galleries, sun-drenched beaches, incredible cafes and some of the best shopping in Europe. The renewed Park Guell features the spectacular quirky design typical of Anton Gaudi all with panoramic city views.

Barcelona's architectural treasures span 2000-plus years, but many of its more modern additions are it’s most famous. The Modernisme movement and Antoni Gaudí’s has greatly influenced the face of Barcelona architecture. Barcelona’s bright light and mood has also long inspired artists, including Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró (with major museums here devoted to their works).

You’ll savour mealtime. The Catalan region has a long and celebrated tradition of cooking with simple, flavourful ingredients like seafood and jamón (cured ham) which are transformed into remarkable delicacies often served in spectacular settings. Maybe learn how to prepare the perfect paella and mix the tastiest sangria in a cooking class.

Make the most of this exciting city. Perhaps relax at the famous city beaches, shop at La Boqueria market (still bustling since medieval times), ride the cable car to the castle, experience FC Barcelona soccer at Camp Nou or maybe eat Tapas and dance Flamenco!

Arrive into Barcelona at 8am before setting sail again at 5pm. You can spend a wonderful day exploring Barcelona or perhaps take an optional tour.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC World Europa

DAY 18 Explore Marseille (Provence, France)

Today experience the quintessential French region of Provençe, and the country’s beautiful second city, Marseille. Provence and the Côte d'Azur (French Riviera) coast are alluring, sun-drenched and seductive.

Founded by the Greeks over two and a half millennia ago, Marseille is a unique port city set amidst the lyrical landscapes of France’s Provençal region. Exuberantly multicultural, this is a city of vibrant and colourful culture, history, seaside castles and neo-Byzantine churches, where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay of the Vieux-Port; the spectacular hilltop basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde towering overhead.

Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, hilltop villages, legendary wines, bustling markets and a balmy climate. Provence is renowned for it’s stunning variety of landscapes from fields of lavender, ancient olive groves, clifftop roads, maquis-cloaked hills to snow-tipped mountains. The flavours of Provence are irresistible, where cuisine has truly become an all-consuming passion.

Avignon - 'The City of Popes' on the beautiful Rhône River - has a long history, stunning architecture and great religious significance as the home of the Pope, and centre of the Roman Catholic world, for 70 years during the early 1300s. Avignon has an impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture, most notably the Palais des Papes.

Arrive into Marseille at 8.00am for a full day of exploring, setting sail again at 5pm. You can spend an exciting day seeing the sites of Marseille or perhaps take one of the optional tours like: Aix-en-Provence ($84), Marseilles City Tour ($79), Avignon and Panoramic of Marseilles ($137), Charming Arles ($79).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC World Europa

DAY 19 Arrive in Genoa

Time to say goodbye your fellow voyagers and friendly cruise hosts as your epic cruise traversing east and west Mediterranean draws to an end. You will be personally met at the port by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Breakfast, meet and greet personalised port to airport departure transfer

DAY 20 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

MSC Cruises in detail

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Overview

Experience premium luxury cruising aboard one of the youngest fleets afloat. Relax into the sophisticated Mediterranean vibe surrounded by stylish Italian design, savouring the indulgent European hospitality.

- Premium Modern Ships (stylish Italian design)

- Sophisticated Cosmopolitan Cruising

- Elegant Mediterranean Vibe

- Contemporary Stylish Cabins

- Incredible Facilities

- Comprehensive Daytime Activities

- All Meals Included (restaurants plus 20 Hour Buffet)

- Optional Speciality Restaurants

- Mediterranean Hospitality (Michelin Star chefs)

- Cutting-edge Leisure Facilities & Gym

- Indulgent Spa & Wellness Options

- World Class Entertainment (including Big Shows)

Fine food prepared by highly acclaimed Michelin star chefs is at the heart of every MSC voyage, with an incredible choice of cuisines across various restaurants. Meet fellow voyagers in the many lounges and bars featuring breathtaking views.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with incredible night-time entertainment from world-class Broadway style big shows and themed parties to team games and contests. Engage in a comprehensive range of indoor and outdoor daytime activities, from sports tournaments and waterslides to arts workshops and ballroom dancing classes. MSC boasts several generations of ship, from brand new upscale ships to classical boutique sized, check the ship tabs here.

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Grand Mediterranean Cruise with Venice Stay

20 Day Cruise Package

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$ 6499 *

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* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp458