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Spain

We embark and disembark in Barcelona, Spain. Located on the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is a vibrant city full of historical art and architecture, including the legacies of Gaudi and Picasso. The sunny beaches, renowned art museums, traditional craft shops, and lively tapas bars offer a variety of experiences. Barcelona is our trip’s starting point; sunny beaches, famous art museums, traditional craft shops, and lively tapas bars provide a rich experience before we set sail.

France

Saint-Tropez may not be great, with less than 6,000 residents, but the fame of this city on the French Riviera more than makes up for it’s small size. The town’s history as a Mediterranean playground goes back more than a century. It became a popular summer destination for the rich and famous when the actress Brigitte Bardot steered the spotlight on Saint-Tropez in the 1960s. Bardot Saint-Tropez made synonymous with sun-kissed jet-set decadence. This world still exists today, and only a few medieval towns have so many designer boutiques per square meter. In the old harbor, both yachts and fishing boats are lined up. Even if the charm of Saint-Tropez is world-famous, it is no less attractive, whether you enjoy a rosé at the harbor or shop for lavender pool, olive oil, or a Chanel outfit in one of the annual summer pop-ups. The city is also an excellent base from which to explore the lesser-known excursion destinations of the Riviera. There are quiet beaches and mountain villages in the country’s interior once you have experienced enough glitter and stardust.

Italy

A cruise to Rome with Holland America Line takes you to a vibrant modern city with a rich history. Walk in the footsteps of the emperors, enjoy a coffee in the Renaissance squares, and experience modern art – all in one afternoon. Your time for sightseeing in Rome begins at the nearby port of Civitavecchia, a coastal town with roots dating back to the Etruscan era. Admire Forte Michelangelo (which was involved in both Bramante and Michelangelo) and the Lungomare, a vibrant coastal promenade with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants.
Take advantage of your day in the Eternal City for visits to museums, churches, and archaeological sites and enjoy the offer of traditional trattorias, handicraft shops, and, of course, the gelato! The Colosseum and the Vatican’s museums are the absolute top attractions of Rome, but there are plenty of not-so-renowned sights to discover. For guests who want good food, there are the Campo de’ Fiori or the Testaccio district markets, which are only a little further away. The trendy Monti district next to the Colosseum has a magnificent piazza scene and boutiques for shopping. In contrast, Villa Borghese, a green oasis, offers a beautiful view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Borghese Gallery, filled with masterpieces. Although Rome was not built in one day, you will undoubtedly be able to experience the city’s highlights and most important sights on our cruise to Rome.

Italy

There are a few towns more picturesque than Portofino. This small and intimate haven on the Italian Riviera offers visitors the quintessential Italian experience.

Visit Villa San Martino, the summer residence of Emperor Napoleon; wander Portofino’s centuries-old labyrinth of alleys, monuments, and churches; or visit a winery on the Etruscan wine road. Portofino is clustered around its small harbor and is known for its colorfully painted buildings that line the shore.  Portofino is now known as a resort for the world’s jet set.

France

A cruise to Villefranche-sur-Mer (Nice) takes passengers to a dreamy French city winding around an azure bay. Just ten minutes from Nice, cruise passengers can explore two ports of the French Riviera in one day.  It is obvious why Villefranche was chosen as the location for the Villa Leopolda, the most grammatical house in the world. Immerse yourself in the crystal clear water or relax in the sun at the Plage de la Mariniére. Stroll along winding stairs to postcard panoramas with colorful buildings from past centuries. Walk to the walls of the Citadel Saint-Elme, a fortress overlooking the shimmering sea. Visit nearby Nice, which has long inspired numerous painters and sculptors. It has three renowned art museums: Musée Matisse, Musée Marc Chagall, and d’Art Moderne. Crown your cruise to Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer with Nice’s gastronomy, known for its fresh, artfully arranged ingredients. You could also visit magnificent Monaco, which is a short 25-minute train journey away.