Explore and book MSC Cruises 10 Night Grand Voyage Cruise on the MSC Poesia departing from Funchal, Madeira, Portugal on Apr 19, 2025 and ending in Southampton, England on Apr 29, 2025 Sail to Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, La Coruna, Spain, Copenhagen, Denmark, Leixoes (Oporto), Portugal, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Le Havre (Paris), France, Bilbao, Spain, Southampton, England

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

The capital of Portugal's Madeira archipelago, Funchal boasts a pleasant climate, terraced gardens, and historic charm. Its botanical gardens, cable car rides, and local Madeira wine tasting make it a unique European stop.

Leixoes (Oporto), Portugal

As the gateway to Porto, Leixoes offers access to the charm of Portugal's second-largest city. Delve into the world of Port wine, stroll along the Douro River, or explore Porto's UNESCO-listed Ribeira District. Cruising to Leixoes provides a taste of Portugal's rich history and gastronomy.

La Coruna, Spain

Located in Spain's Galicia region, La Coruna boasts a historic lighthouse, medieval old town, and Atlantic beaches. It’s a gateway to Santiago de Compostela and a coastal gem in its own right.

Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao, with its futuristic architecture and the iconic Guggenheim Museum, promises a unique blend of Basque culture and modern art. As you cruise to this Spanish city, prepare for a journey of culinary delights, historic alleys, and contemporary wonders.

Southampton, England

Southampton, UK, is a bustling port city steeped in maritime history, serving as a gateway to the scenic South of England. Renowned for its association with the Titanic and as a departure point for cruise ships, the city also offers cultural gems such as the SeaCity Museum and Southampton City Art Gallery. With its extensive shopping facilities, historic Old Town, and beautiful parks, Southampton blends modernity with rich heritage.

Le Havre (Paris), France

Le Havre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, combines modernist architecture with a rich maritime heritage. Discover the innovative designs of architect Auguste Perret in the rebuilt city center, and visit the impressive Musée d'Art Moderne André Malraux (MuMa) for its extensive collection of Impressionist works. Enjoy a stroll along the seafront promenade or relax on the expansive beach. Le Havre offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and coastal leisure.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Rotterdam is a bustling port city renowned for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can marvel at the innovative design of the Cube Houses, explore the extensive art collections at the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum, and take in panoramic views from the Euromast Tower. The city's dynamic waterfront, bustling markets, and diverse culinary offerings make it a lively and exciting destination. Rotterdam showcases the cutting-edge side of Dutch urban life.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Dive into Copenhagen, Denmark's vibrant capital. With its historic palaces, modern design, and canal-front charm, cruising to Copenhagen ensures cultural experiences, architectural wonders, and the heart of Danish "hygge".

10 Night Grand Voyage Cruise

Mediterranean

Africa

Baltic

Europe

Iberian Peninsula

Scandinavia

United Kingdom

While away a few enjoyable hours of game play at the Arcade on board the ship. Pit your wits and skill against those of your friends in any number of typical arcade options, including video games, pinball and more. Great fun guaranteed.

Arcade

You’ll need to combine hand-to-eye coordination with a deft, light touch to get around our entertaining open-air mini golf course on board the ship. Get together with your friends and family to see who has what it takes to be crowned the Mini Golf King or Queen.

Mini Golf

Our casinos are elegantly designed, featuring games for all types of players. You’ll be able to try your hand at Roulette or Blackjack, challenge yourself at one of our Poker tables, or choose among a variety of slot machines.

Casino Royal

Tennis Tournament - if you've got a killer backhand then why not enter our onboard tennis tournament? It might not be Wimbledon but it'll serve up a great workout and possibly a taste of glory, tooSoccer Tournament - can you kick it? Yes you can! Sign up for the onboard soccer tournament and show off your skills. Your team needs you, so get involved. Volleyball Tournament - unleash your competitive side in our very own onboard volleyball tournament. Quick reactions and impressive reach could lead you and your team to glory! Basketball Tournament - ready to shoot some hoops? Then enter our onboard basketball tournament. Get involved and prepare for glory! Ping Pong Tournament - pick up a paddle and prepare for battle! The ping pong tournament is on and you're invited. Ready for the challenge? See you there! Table Soccer Tournament - if you're a fan of football in the miniaturized form known as foosball why not enter today's tournament? Just remember the golden rule - no spinning!

Sports Tournaments

Casino Royal Bar

Bar Smeraldo

II Grappolo d'Oro

Giada Bar

Bar dei Poeti

Aurea SPA Bar

Mojito Bar

Unwind in the refined atmosphere of this Lounge Bar—a haven for leisurely moments with friends. Revel in comfort and style as you savor your favorite drink in this elegant space.

Lounges

Le Rendez Vous Bar

Whether you’re a night owl or simply fancy a tantalizing night cap before turning in, our night bars are there to cater to your needs. Choose from a range of innovative alchemist cocktails, created to suit those moments when only the extraordinary will do.

Night Bars

Sip on a glass of something refreshing – a cocktail, wine, beer or soft drink – in ultimate style at one of our Outdoor Bars, located both poolside and on the highest decks of the ships. Teaming glorious ocean views with enjoying a delicious drink has never been easier.

Outdoor Bars

Pigalle Lounge

S32 Disco

Piranha Bar

The Hitchcock Lounge Cigar Room

The Zebra Bar

Villa Pompeiana Cafeteria

L'Obelisco Buffet Restaurant

Kids' Corner features a dedicated buffet line exclusively for kids and their families, offering a playful and relaxed dining experience. With a menu that changes daily, young cruisers can enjoy healthy and fun meals designed to excite their taste buds. This family-focused space ensures mealtime is as enjoyable as the adventures onboard.

Kids Area

Le Fontane Ristorante

Indulge your sweet tooth at the Dessert Corner, a cornucopia of deliciously sweet treats that will have your mouth watering. Enter the magical world of fine patisserie, crafted with love by our team of talented bakers and pastry chefs with meticulous attention to detail.

Dessert Corner

Get set to be wowed by the creativity of our talented chefs at the Daily Special Corner. Wrap your taste buds around a different specialty every day of your cruise for an unforgettable culinary surprise.

Daily Special Corner

Enticing aromas and mouth-watering flavors are served up at our Ethnic Corner. Choose your personal favorite from a range of delectable dishes, hand-selected from every corner of the world, from Asian to Indian – and everything in between.

Ethnic Corner

Tradition and modernity go hand in hand in this stylish sushi restaurant. This charming venue offers deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with only the freshest, highest quality ingredients.

Kaito Sushi Bar

Check out the Pasta Station for authentic Italian pasta just like mama used to make. Discover a new selection of delicious flavor combinations every single day to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Pasta Station

Villa Pompeiana Buffet Retaurant

For those unexpected hunger pangs, the Take-Away Station is your go-to spot for quick and casual dining, offering popular fast foods. Enjoy a convenient snack whenever you need it during your cruise adventure.







Take Away Station

Wellness Corner

We believe everyone’s special on an MSC cruise ship which is why we provide tailored menus and solutions to meet everyone’s dining requirements

Special Diets and Menus

As one of the healthiest diets on the planet, Mediterranean food takes center stage at our main restaurants, tempting you with French, Italian and Spanish cuisine. Don’t miss the Elegant Dinner with a signature dish our Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa

Mediterranean Dining

Come to the Carvery for deliciously tender, juicy and flavorful roast meat specialties that will please your palate any day of the week. Enjoy the theater of watching your personal favorites being carved right in front of your eyes especially for you.

Meat Carvery

Our main restaurants invite you on a journey around the world’s cuisines, offering exceptional international dishes every day of your cruise. Check out the Elegant Dinner to try a signature dish by two Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa.

International Dining

II Palladio Ristorante

It’s all white for a night with dazzling décor and costumes to suit the theme, plus a special performance starring our theater cast.

White Party

A start-of-the-cruise event celebrating the ship's departure, led by the Entertainment Team and dancers in a spectacular Costume Parade.

Sailaway Party

Immerse yourself in world-class entertainment at sea, with the glamorous theaters and an international lineup of artists, bringing top-rated shows to your cruise experience without the need to travel to New York or Las Vegas.

Broadway Theatre

Set sail for a day of creativity with the LEGO® Experience On Board. Your family can enjoy a full day of LEGO-themed activities, providing endless hours of building and creating for the kids while fostering family fun.

Lego Experience

Every MSC Cruise is full of fun and discovery for kids of every age, starting with all the activities organised just for them and included in your fare. With a packed program of sports, games, competitions, parties and more, your children will enjoy endless discoveries with their new friends.Children can discover a world of their own thanks to 5 dedicated clubs for ages ranging from 0 to 17 years old, where they are looked after by our trained, multilingual personnel, certified for safeguarding children.

Kids Clubs

With the Young Club, kids from 12 to 14 years old can dive into a world of discovery, involvement and interaction.Each day holds the promise of new experiences, with a dedicated programme of sport tournaments, hi-tech games and lots of other fun activities. And of course, every day also brings opportunities to make new friends.

Young Club 12-14

Teens aged 15-17 are in for an unforgettable cruise experience. Dive into the Teen Club's action-packed world, featuring sports, dance-offs, social games, and thrilling Wii, Xbox, and PS4 tournaments.



Teen Club 15-17

Dinosauri Children Playroom

For parents of toddlers under 3 years old, this partnership with Chicco ensures a safe and enjoyable play area. Leave your little ones with the MSC Babycare staff or join in the fun with special Chicco toys and rhythmic activities designed to spark curiosity.



Baby Club 0-3

The Junior Club inspires connection and cooperation among 7 to 11-year-olds, through a wide variety of activities. Highlights range from Masterchef at Sea Juniors and Dorebro Sport competitions to our Fire & Ice live video game. Do you like acting, dancing or singing? Enjoy the thrill of filming with the Kelly & Kloe On Board Green Screen Experience!

Junior Club 7-11

The Mini Club, designed for children aged 3 to 6 and in partnership with LEGO®, is a hub of creativity and fun. With a wide range of activities and the exciting Doremi Family Disco, it’s a place where young imaginations soar and families create lasting memories together.

Mini Club 3-6

Come to the outdoor Basketball court at the Sport Center for a chance to hang out with friends, have fun shooting hoops and enjoy a full-body workout at the same time. You may not make the latest line-up of the Harlem Globetrotters, but you’re sure to have a great time.

Basketball

Anyone for tennis? Play to your heart’s content at the outdoor tennis court of our onboard Sport Center. Tennis is ideal for getting some healthy activity, honing your hand-to-eye coordination and having loads of fun. Game, set and match to you.

Tennis Court

Fitted with authentic TechnoGym® equipment and featuring panoramic ocean views, the onboard gym is the place to be for all those who take their fitness regime seriously. Hone your physique with a full set of TechnoGym® apparatus every day of your cruise to look better than ever before.

Gym by Technogym

Enjoying time off on your cruise doesn’t need to mean letting your fitness routine slide, so gear up and rendezvous with the power walking and jogging track on deck to get your daily exercise fix while also savoring outstanding ocean views.

Power Walking Track

Join in the fast-paced fun on board with a game of volleyball at the outdoor court. Get a cardio workout, land that kill shot, and enjoy the thrill of friendly competition!


Volleyball

Indulge in the ultimate relaxation at the MSC Aurea Spa, a sanctuary of Balinese tranquility. Offering a variety of signature treatments, a thermal area, and beauty services, it’s your escape to rejuvenation and luxury.

MSC Aurea Spa

Grant your wish for a game of football at the outdoor five-a-side pitch in the Sport Center. Team up with friends or family, engage in a friendly match, and turn strangers into friends as you have a blast and stay active.

Five-A-Side Football

Relaxing on one of our ships will do wonders for you, but we also have a few secrets on board to help you look and feel even better. Make the most of our range of safe and effective Anti-Ageing treatments and return from your cruise visibly rejuvenated.

Medi Spa Center

Get a lasting sensation of absolute well being that will accompany you well beyond your cruise. All our ships are equipped with a Thermal Area where you can enjoy a soothing sauna, a relaxing steam or an invigorating whirlpool bath.

Thermal Area

You can enjoy the expertise of highly specialized staff in aesthetic treatments to offer you excellent results and improve the relaxing effects of your cruise. Customize your cruise with the best treatments for your body. Unwind and feel fantastic!

Beauty Salon

Refresh your look with a new hairstyle! There are different packages which include a personalized shampoo & conditioning mask, a haircut and a single process color treatment. Leave the salon styled and ready for a great evening onboard.

Hair Salon

MSC Poesia is an innovative cruise ship with an elegant style that brings traditional craftsmanship to creative designs. Step aboard and you’ll enter a refined world of comfort. Whether your reason for being on board is a family vacation, a luxury treat or a romantic escape, MSC Poesia is a ship that offers a truly inspiring cruise experience.

Our elegant Lounge Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy leisurely hours in the company of friends. Let the special ambiance work its magic on you while you relax in comfort and style with your favorite tipple in hand.

The Take-Away Station is just the place to be when you’re feeling peckish for a snack on the go. A wide range of the most popular fast foods awaits you, the perfect casual dining fix for those moments when hunger suddenly strikes.

A selection of light and tasty dishes awaits you at our Wellness Corner. Made with your health in mind, these dishes will boost your well being without putting a strain on your waistline. Stock up on your five-a-day with dishes that are delicious, nutritious and packed with flavor.

You’d normally have to travel to New York to see the top-rated shows, but thanks to our Broadway-style theaters you can enjoy entertainment with an international line-up of artists without having to leave the ship. Take your pick, there’s sure to be a show you love.                                      

Broadway Theatre 

Once during every cruise we hold a special entertainment event called the LEGO® Experience On Board: an entire day dedicated to fun LEGO activities for the whole family to enjoy. Thanks to this special activity your kids can spend hours building and creating  whatever they want!

Teenagers aged from 15 to 17 years old can look forward to having the time of their lives on board. Teen Club activities range from sports and competitions, dance contests and social network games to Wii, Xbox and PS4 tournaments.

Our partnership with leading baby care brand Chicco provides a dedicated play area with facilities for babies and toddlers under 3 years old. You can leave your toddlers with our MSC Babycare staff*, or stay with them and enjoy the special Chicco toys and games. They'll love our music and rhythm activities, designed to awaken their curiosity.

The Mini Club welcomes children aged between 3 and 6 years old, bringing them new friends and lots of fun, enriched by the stimulating toys of our partnership with LEGO®. The club offers games, events and activities like Arts & Crafts to free their imagination and make every day special. And the whole family is invited to the Doremi Family Disco!

Fast-paced, energetic and a ton of fun to play, volleyball is one of the world’s most popular team sports and one you can enjoy at the outdoor volleyball court at the onboard Sport Center. Burn some calories and get a thorough cardio-vascular workout while you land a kill and beat the opposing team.

MSC Aurea Spa boasts an exotic interior of natural stone, precious woods and rich mosaics, and is equipped with specific and massage treatment suites. Being pampered by a traditional Balinese Massage is a truly unique experience. Thanks to a blend of scented essences and aromatic oils, your body is enveloped in an endlessly peaceful and relaxing aura.

Fancy a game of footy? Your wish can be granted at the outdoor five-a-side football pitch at the Sport Center. Team up with some friends or family and play a match against another on-board team. A great way to have fun, get active and turn strangers into friends.

Five-a-side Football

MSC Cruises

MSC Poesia

The historical city of Funchal has been Madeira's capital for more than 500 years and its greater municipal area is also home to a panoply of untouched natural beauty that this exciting road trip in a 4x4 will give you a chance to experience at first hand. Once settled in your modern jeep, you will make your way inland through one of Madeira's most enchanting forest regions, whose abundance of wild fennel also gave Funchal its name. As you travel along a pleasantly meandering and undulating route, you can sit back and savour amazing views of mountain peaks and verdant valleys - and capture some fabulous vistas for posterity during numerous photo stops. Largely hidden by the mountainous topology of this volcanic island, these secluded areas and protected natural habitats promise to give you an authentic taste of the island in its purest form, "essence of Madeira", if you will. Your essential exploration of Madeira's scenic interior and celebration of off-road driving ends with your return to the ship, richer in experiences and memories.

Starting out from the port of Funchal, the capital of the verdant island of Madeira, the tour first takes you to Terreiro de Luta, Poiso and Pico de Areeiro for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The excursion continues with a visit to a local trout farm in Ribeiro Frio - which means cold river in Portuguese - and a scenic drive through sugar cane plantations up to Faial, a pretty village located along Madeira's northern coastline. There will also be time to relax over a delicious lunch. The tour then heads to Portela in the north of the island, near Porto da Cruz. An enjoyable poncha-tasting awaits you here, one of the certain highlights of the tour. Continue on to Machico, a historical fishing village before returning to Funchal to have some free time before returning to the port.

Leave the vessel and get ready to fall in love with the lush landscape of Madeira. A coach drive will take you to Pico dos Barcelos from where we can admire breathtaking views over the island of Madeira. Continue to Monte and visit to "Nossa Senora da Monte" church. We will indulge in the fun local past-time of toboggan riding as we take ride in a wicker chariot through the streets! The pace changes at Livramento point where we will visit an embroidery factory. During the tour, you will have the chance to sample some of the local Madeira wines.

Take yourself off on a leisurely half-day jaunt around lovely Madeira and also spend some time in the city of Funchal on a tour that begins with a coach ride across the island to reach your first destination: the belvedere of Pico dos Barcelos. You'll have a bit of time to soak up amazing views of the island during a photo stop before you move on to Cabo Girão, the world's second highest cliff. You can choose whether to venture right up to the safety railings or enjoy the view from a little farther back, either way this is a great spot to take photos. Last up on the tour is the vantage point of Pico da Torre, which affords all-round vistas of the parish of Câmara de Lobos from about 205 m/670 ft. above mean sea level. On your return to Funchal, time will be yours to spend in town on your own before you return to the ship.

Channel your inner Cousteau and set sail for a thoroughly immersive  yet dry  exploration of the thrilling marine wildlife found in the offshore waters of Madeiras south coast. Once briefed and safely on the boat, you can begin to look forward to the thrilling moment when you spot your first dolphin or whale at close quarters, a memory simply made to be cherished. Your marine biologist guide will keep you infotained with fascinating facts about the various species that call this part of the Atlantic Ocean home. The roughly 2-hour turn on the boat will give you plenty of time to take in your surrounding and watch out for pods of whales and dolphins before you begin to head back to the shore and leave the delightful company of these endearing aquatic mammals. Please note: guests must be in good health and at least 11 years of age to take part. The tour is considered to be unsuitable both for guests suffering from neck or back problems and for pregnant women. Information available in English only during the tour, which will also run in the event of rain, provided the water is calm. While sightings of whales and dolphins cannot be guaranteed, they are very likely (more than 90% success rate).

Great art and architecture converge on this tour that takes in the Guggenheim Museum and the historic sights of Bilbao. The fabulous Guggenheim collection is distributed across three museums managed by the Foundation: the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Guggenheim Museum SoHo, both in New York, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, in Venice. The permanent collection of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao includes works by the most prominent artists of the last forty years and is supplemented by works from the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation. Exhibited are significant examples of Pop Art, Minimalism, Arte Povera, Conceptual Art and Abstract Expressionism among others, together with special exhibitions sponsored by the Foundation. After the Museum visit, we will head to El Arenal, Bilbao's old town for an hour walking tour; you will see the famous Cathedral of Santiago, reputedly the oldest building in Bilbao. The cathedral was formerly the center of Bilbao, and all the city's main streets converged here. Today, the cathedral is dedicated to the city's patron saint and features a beautiful Neo-Gothic tower.

After boarding a coach at the port, your scenic all-day tour begins with a 1-hour drive through the Basque countryside to San Sebastián, a relatively small town situated on the coast of the Bay of Biscay that is the capital of the Gipuzkoa province. Your tour of this lovely city will take you to see all the main sights, such as the late-19th-century Miramar Palace, which was built as a summer residence for Queen Maria Cristina, as well as the Gothic Revival Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, whose construction was completed in 1897. Also, on the drive-by itinerary are the Victoria Eugenia Theatre and the elegant Hotel Maria Cristina, both of which were inaugurated in 1912. San Sebastián's glorious old quarter, the so-called Parte Vieja, and port will then be explored on foot  the best way to soak up the special atmosphere of these history-laden streets. Time permitting, you can also do some shopping or have a bite to eat (not included in the price of the tour). Your return journey to Bilbao will also take you to visit Mount Igueldo for superb views of the city and a chance to take some memorable photos to show your friends and family at home.

Our tour kicks off with an approx. 30-minute drive to the architecturally stunning Guggenheim Museum where we'll have time for a photo stop before boarding the bus to Bilbao's Old Quarter. We will access the city and admire the Calatrava bridge, a pedestrian bridge that spans the Nervión River and which is part of an enterprising plan to reinvigorate the city and the riverside district around the Guggenheim Museum. If you wish to take photos, note that there is a great view of the museum from this bridge. Once in the city, we will enjoy a walking tour through El Arenal, the old town. We will pass the famous Cathedral of Santiago, reputedly the oldest building in Bilbao. In former times, the Cathedral was the centre of Bilbao, and all the city's main streets converged here. Today the cathedral is dedicated to the city's patron saint, St James, and boasts a beautiful Neo-Gothic tower. We will then take the bus to Moyúa Square populated with exclusive boutiques and from there, return to the pier.

See the best of Copenhagen on two wheels with a little help from a pedelec, an electrically powered bicycle that assists you up to 25 km/h while you pedal. The city boasts a superb network of cycle paths, making it easy to get around to all the main sights. Your route first takes you through the park of the old citadel, Kastellet, and the Rosenborg garden en route to Sortedams Lake. From there, cycle to the zoological garden, where you can enjoy a short break to look around. Then it's back to the city centre, passing the Planetarium, the famous Tivoli Amusement Park, and the Town Hall Square. Enjoy another break independently exploring Copenhagen's historic inner city ("Indre By" in Danish). Your cycling ruote then proceeds past the Round Tower and Christiansborg Palace, then on to the new Nyhavn Harbor and the Amalienborg Palace. On your way back to the ship, you'll have time for a final photo stop in front of the world-famous statue of the Little Mermaid.

What better way to discover Copenhagen than by bicycle, the city's number 1 means of transport! The excellent cycle path network invites you to explore the sights by bike  and they come thick and fast. The tour begins with a cycle through the mighty Kastellet fortifications and the Rosenborg Castle garden to Sortedams Lake. You'll continue past the Planetarium, the famous Tivoli Amusement Park, and the Town Hall Square. Then enjoy a break in the medieval Indre By ("inner city") district, exploring Copenhagen's historic centre by yourself. After your break, cycle past the Round Tower, Christiansborg Palace, the new Nyhavn Harbor and Amalienborg Palace. Finally, before returning to your vessel, you will of course pass the most famous symbol of Copenhagen: Lille Havfrue, the Little Mermaid.

Embark yourself in this lovely exploration while enjoying at your leisure three of the main sightseeing spots in Copenhagen. Leave the pier by coach and drive directly to the Little Mermaid where you will have approx. 30 minutes to admire the beauty of Denmark's most iconic landmark, followed by a short drive to Amalienborg, current residence of the Danish Royal Family with another approx. 30 minutes to explore this exclusive quarter. To top off this experience, you will reach Nyhavn, a beautiful picturesque canal district filled with history and a wide variety of cafés, bars, and restaurants. Enjoy some more 30 minutes' strolling this area, an absolute favorite of both tourists and locals. Next, you may opt to return to the pier or to stay in town on your own, taking the shuttle service for a later return to the port; a stop is located only 7 minutes walk from Nyhavn. This canal district is situated at the heart of Copenhagen from where you can reach within 5 minutes' walk Strøget, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Europe, crossing the entire city center and leading you all the way to other main spots of the city such as the Nørreport quarter and the City Town Hall Square.

This short, but informative city tour starts with a drive to one of Copenhagen's symbols, the statue of Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid. It was commissioned in honour of the fairytale by the founder of a Danish beer brand in 1909. Although only small in stature, the mermaid is beautifully sculpted and well worth a snapshot or two. Copenhagen's stunning waterfront and the canal district in Nyhavn comes next, home to a plethora of fashionable cafés, bars, and restaurants. Next to the harbour's many historical ships, the quarter is also known for its brightly coloured 17th- and early 18th-century buildings. Enjoy a guided walk through this lively quarter before boarding the coach again and continue your sightseeing tour of the city passing by the Christiansborg Palace, the Old Stock Exchange, Tivoli Gardens and the City Hall Square where a photo stop is scheduled. Located at the southwestern end of the pedestrian street Strøget, it is one of the large squares of the city flanked by notable buildings including the City Hall, the Politikens Hus - the headquarters of the national daily newspapers Politiken - and Industriens Hus, the headquarters of the Confederation of Danish Industry. After taking a look around the square and taking some photographs of the many sculptures, board the coach again and pass by Nørreport Station and Rosenborg Castle en route to Amalienborg Palace. A final stop outside the Royal Family's winter residence concludes your tour.

This eco-adventure begins with a visit to an urban rooftop gym in the newly developed Nordhavn area, before moving to Saint Kjled's Square for an introduction to Copenhagen's Climate-Resilient Neighbourhood, a beacon for how Denmark creates the climate-change-adapted urban spaces of the future. Next up is a guided visit to ØsterGRO, the first rooftop farm in Denmark, established in 2014 on top of an old car-auction house in the heart of the Climate-Resilient Neighbourhood. The farm covers 600 m² with fields of organic vegetables, herbs and edible flowers, a greenhouse, a henhouse and 3 beehives, selling its produce to 40 members who each pay for a share of the harvest. Your tour continues to The Wave - an urban hangout at the former industrial harbour, where you can enjoy a guided walk along the capital's waterfront, all the way to the sustainable Royal Playhouse with its new drainage system. Finally, enjoy some free time around the Nyhavn area before your transfer back to the pier.

Discover Copenhagen and the neighbouring town of Dragør on this enjoyable sightseeing tour, which begins with the main attractions of lovely Copenhagen, the Danish capital, with a first stop at the Little Mermaid, Copenhagen's most iconic landmark. Other places of interest include the stock exchange building and the vibrant canal-side Nyhavn district. After leaving the city, a coach will then take you on an approx. 30-minute drive to Dragør, giving you a chance to get a look at the bridge that connects Denmark with Sweden. Known for its many preserved historical buildings, the old part of Dragør town forms a labyrinth of picturesque alleyways, cobbled streets and traditional brightly painted Danish houses. A drink and a delicious Danish pastry round off your trip to this charming old seafaring town.

Inhabited for thousands of years, A Coruna has so much to explore - from prehistoric Celtic ruins and a Roman lighthouse, to prestigious modern shops. And a cycle tour really lets you immerse yourself in its vibrant history. Leaving the port, you'll ride along the promenade - the longest in Europe - past the Castle of San Antón to the Parque de la Torre. There you can admire the Roman lighthouse known as the Tower of Hercules, one of the city's most famous landmarks. On the way to the popular city beaches, you'll pass the Casa Del Hombre Museum. A short climb will then take you to the top of the hill called Monte San Pedro, where you will have a break to enjoy fine views of La Coruna. Continuing back down through the Santa Margherita Park and along Avenida de la Marina, you'll come to the city centre. At the elegant Plaza de María Pita and City Hall, you'll have the opportunity to explore on your own before returning to your ship through the old town.

The busy Galician port and city of La Coruña is situated on a promontory at the entrance of an estuary on the Atlantic Ocean, affording the visitor gorgeous views of the bay and the ocean. This tour gives you a chance to explore this lovely Spanish town and take in its main sights of historical interest, such as the typical 18th-century buildings with glazed window balconies that were designed as a solution to the weather. After passing Mendez Nuñoz Gardens, a photo stop will be made at Hercules Tower, an old lighthouse that has been in continuous operation since Roman times, before reaching the centre of the town for a walking tour. You will have some free time to see the sights on your own, some of which could include the city's gorgeously preserved historical quarter, before returning to your ship.

The appealing sights of La Coruña are on the itinerary of this half-day outing, which begins when you board a coach and first head for the coastal promenade, Europe's longest. Watch out for buildings with glass-fronted balconies - called galerías and the reason La Coruña is also called the "Crystal City" - and then views of the 16th-century Castle of San Anton in its island location. Once charged with protecting the city, the castle now hosts an archaeological museum and boasts a causeway link to the city. Next up is a photo stop at the Roman-built Tower of Hercules lighthouse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Moving on, you'll then follow the coastline to pass estuaries and the Galician forest, typical Galician villages, and some of the region's best beaches. As a final highlight, you'll take a break at a local restaurant to enjoy Spanish tapas and a wine tasting.

On leaving the port, an enjoyable 45-minute drive first takes you to the town of Betanzos for a walking tour through the meticulously preserved medieval town centre. The old district's lovely fountains, splendid palaces, and magnificent churches, such as the 14th-century Igrexa de San Francisco and the 16th-century Igrexa de Santiago, are sights for which you may want to bring a camera. After some free time to explore on your own, you will return to La Coruña for a panoramic city tour of the city's main attractions. A short photo stop will also be made at Hercules Tower, a famous Roman lighthouse that is said to be the oldest of its kind in the world that is still in operation. Your tour ends with the return to the port and your ship.

A pleasant 1.5-hour coach ride will take you to the historical city of Santiago de Compostela, one of Spain's most important religious centres. The city's splendid cathedral and old quarter are both listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. You will have an opportunity to amble through the streets, narrow alleys and tiny squares before continuing on foot to the Plaza do Obradoiro, which is situated at the heart of the city and was named after the stonemason's workshop that was established there while the cathedral was being built. An external viewing of the cathedral, an eclectic blend of various architectural styles including Baroque, gives you an opportunity to take some photos before proceeding with an inside visit of the site. Return to the port.

Le Havre's mix of modern architecture and ancient sites has placed it on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and this tour lets you admire the city's "best of" collection from the unique vantage point of an electrically assisted bicycle. As you tour Le Havre, you'll realise how much of the city was destroyed during the Second World War, but you'll also see some surviving older buildings, like the 16th century Notre Dame Cathedral. First, leave the port and pedal past the Musée Malraux, the impressive Espace Oscar Niemeyer theatre complex, and the city's tallest building: the church of St Joseph. Then, climb to the Sainte Adresse Fortress and enjoy a break to admire its walled gardens and the great views over the city. Your next destination is the strategic outpost of Cap de la Hève, from where can admire the dramatic cliff-lined coast. Your tour then draws to a gentle close with the ride down a winding road to a beachside promenade for a café break before the easy ride back to the ship.

Your Paris experience begins with a 3-hour coach drive on a modern motorway to the French capital city. Upon arriving in Paris, you will reach port de la Bourdonnais, right behind the Eiffel Tower to start an amazing cruise along the Seine River aboard an entirely glass encased boat. The Bateaux-Mouches is the best way to discover Paris and live again the stories of generations of passengers as you slowly slide along the famous river in France. On a 1-hour cruise sailing, you will have a glimpse of romantic Paris from a completely different perspective, passing under its famous bridges, admiring the imposing palaces built on the river banks and explore the majestic heart of Paris. Your eyes will sparkle as never before... This is a must-do, a cultural and very Parisian experience that is unique and must be shared. During your cruise trip, you will have the opportunity to admire about 13 famous monuments including the Eiffel Tower, Cathedral Notre Dame Once back on the ground, you will reach the famous Fragonard Museum to have the secrets of perfume trade revealed. Immersed in the atmosphere of a late nineteenth century perfume factory, you will also admire a magnificent collection of precious objects tracing the history of perfume from antiquity to the present day. Venture into this world of fragrance through a design that combines ancient artefacts, archives and videos of modern production. This is a unique olfactory journey in Paris! Before returning to the port, you will have free time around Opera Garnier, the perfect place to also reach the famous Galleries Lafayette.

On leaving the port, the coach will pass the centre of Le Havre, which was rebuilt in classic style with large avenues and open spaces to offset the sea front. The second part of your tour will then see you visit the town of Étretat, which is a major French national site. Whatever the season, the grandeur of the high cliffs and crashing waves is certainly unforgettable. Look forward to viewing the three natural arches and the formation known as "The Needle". Furthermore, Étretat has inspired writers and artists alike, with the painters Monet and Courbet being just two examples. You will have time to explore this natural beauty spot on your own, walking by past timber-framed houses, the town's medieval church and the covered marketplace before returning to Le Havre and your ship.

An enjoyable drive will take you to the tiny town of Honfleur, a sleepy settlement known for its picturesque harbour and beautifully preserved old buildings with slate-covered frontages. A favourite motif of many painters, Honfleur is known to have particularly inspired Gustave Courbet, Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin and Johan Jongkind, collectively referred to as the Honfleur school. You will have enough time to spend in this delightful village on your own. Enjoy the old-fashioned feel of the narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses and be sure to visit Sainte-Catherine Church, France's largest church made entirely of wood. The church also features bell tower that is separate from the main building. Choose one of the many harbour-front restaurants for a delicious and scenic lunchtime experience. The afternoon leg of the tour will take you to the stylish resort of Deauville, which is famed as the venue of an annual international film festival to promote American cinematography and is generally regarded as the "queen of the Norman beaches". It is certainly one of the most prestigious seaside destinations in the whole of France and you will have plenty of time to explore the old-fashioned streets of this lovely place and savour its special ambience at your leisure. Apart from a racecourse, harbour, marina and grand casino, Deauville also has sandy beaches for you to enjoy. The tour concludes with your return to the ship.

This all-day excursion will give you an opportunity to see some of the major sights of France's magnificent capital city and find out why Paris is known worldwide for its elegance and grandeur. On leaving the port of Le Havre, a leisurely three-hour drive will take you to Paris for a chance to discover this eternally romantic city and its boundless culture. The special splendour of the Champs-Élysées  proudly referred to as "the most beautiful avenue in the world" by the French  awaits you just as the modernity of the Eiffel Tower, which was considered to be a marvel of modern engineering when it was built in 1889. At a height of 324 metres, it is the tallest building in Paris and the second tallest in the whole of France. You will have approx. 2 hours free time to explore the area around Place de la Concorde and an opportunity to have lunch on your own. Before returning to Le Havre, your tour will take you through other lovely parts of Paris, with a short photo stop at the Eiffel Tower if time permits.

This tour will take you through on a 2.5/3-hour drive across the attractive Normandy countryside to the wonderful Mont Saint Michel, known as "the wonder of the west" due to its unique island setting, rich history and beautiful architecture. As the bay is partially silted up, the mount is usually viewed surrounded by huge sand banks, which shift with the tides. The abbey's origins date back to the early VIII century when Archangel Michael appeared to the bishop of Avranches and this vision led to the construction of a series of beautiful buildings dedicated to the archangel. After visiting the Abbey and the church, you can walk along the ramparts that offer a fine view of the bay and the abbey gardens. Time allowed for exploring and purchasing souvenirs before returning to Le Havre.

This is certainly a day when you should have your camera at the ready as we will set off for an unforgettable trip around one of the most beautiful cities in the Baltic. Our first stop will be in Pushkin, a town founded in the 18th century as summer residence of the Russian tsars. Here we will visit Catherine's Palace, which dates back to 1717 when Catherine I of Russia asked the German architect Braunstein to build a summer palace. Over the years, the plans for the Palace were expanded and then, founded to be outdated by Empress Elizabeth, were replaced by a much grander edifice in a lavish Rococo style. We will spend time visiting this sumptuous residence and its glorious park. More sights are in store in St. Petersburg as we visit St. Isaac's Cathedral, which, when it was built in 1818-1858 was the largest church in the Russian Empire. Break from sightseeing with a delicious typical Russian lunch. Art lovers will be in their element during the afternoon, which includes nearly 1,5 hours in some of the halls of the world-class Hermitage Museum, home to three million works of art. The final attraction of the day is the Peter and Paul Fortress; built in 1703, this former citadel of the town sits on a small island in the Neva River. Round off the day with a little time for shopping before returning to the ship.Please note: as it involves walking on uneven ground, it is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. A fee is requested to take photos or shoot videos inside Hermitage Museum and Catherine's Palace. Conservative attire is recommended for visiting sites of religious importance. On MSC Opera 2-day calls, this excursion always takes places on the first day. The visit to Peter and Paul Fortress will not be foreseen on 29.05.2014 + 10.07.2014 (MSC Orchestra).

Depart Rotterdam for a scenic drive to Keukenhof, Holland's world-famous spring garden to experience the overwhelming explosion of colour from more than 7 million varieties of tulips and flowers. Keukenhof means "kitchen garden" and was originally a small noble's herb garden. Today, the garden has bloomed to include 80 acres of paved footpaths that traverse lawns, streams, lakes and pavilions featuring various exhibitions. The Keukenhof is Holland's best-known bulb display garden and is inspirational to the avid gardener, photographer and anyone who would enjoy a day out in a beautiful park setting. An hour guided tour of the park will be followed by time to explore on your own and purchase some bulbs to take home.

Our journey will take us to the beautiful city of Delft, famous for the painter Johannes Vermeer and its Delft Blue Pottery. We will start our excursion with a nice walking tour, a view of the static town hall and the "Grote kerk" where all the Dutch Royals have their last resting place. After we will continue to the famous city of The Hague where the Dutch government is residing. Stroll through the "Binnenhof" and see where our Prime Minister's office is located, wonder back in time and enjoy the atmosphere of the middle ages. Continue the city tour and pass by the Peace Palace, the home of the International Court of Justice. It is one of the most photographed landmarks of The Hague so of course we will make a brief stop here to make sure you have that photograph as well. Drive by the world famous Kurhaus hotel, located along the boulevard of the beach of Scheveningen where you will have some free time. Taste one of the famous Dutch herrings, eat a "patatje met" or simply enjoy the Dutch coastline.

Join us on a tour to the land of windmills. Although windmills are vanishing from the Dutch landscape, Kinderdijk boasts the largest collection of windmills in the Netherlands with 19, many in working order. Built around 1740, the windmills of Kinderdijk are now on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The name of this charming village comes from the time of the St. Elisabeth flood in 1421, when the villagers found a baby (kind) on the dike (dijk). The remaining 19 windmills are lined up along the water to pump the extra water to the canal to keep the village dry. After a short walk to the entrance you will enter the Kinderdijk Theatre, located in the Wisboom Pump house. On four surrounding screens public figures explain the story of Kinderdijk. You'll walk over uneven ground to explore the windmills, and then take a tour of the interior of a working mill. The Museum-windmill exhibits life and work on the windmills in the last century. The windmills will operate with ample wind, and visitors can watch and experience the works of the windmill. Raging sails pass, a scoop-wheel turns, and water is pumped up. The miller on the scene provides explanation. Next, you will have a photo stop at the famous cube houses before returning to your cruise ship.

A 1-hour coach drive will take you to Amsterdam for an interesting exploration of this important city. Upon your arrival your first encounter with the city will be on the water, enjoying an hour-long canal cruise through the historic centre, admiring the gabled historic buildings such as Anne Frank's house, Westerchurch, the Twin Houses and Amsterdam's historic bridges from the water. The second part of your tour will be a sightseeing coach drive of the city passing the Java island and the museum districts with Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, just to mention a few. 1-hour free time for independent exploration will follow before boarding your coach again and driving back to Rotterdam.

See Rotterdam from another angle and in another light on this illuminating city bee conservation trail. Here's a tour to bring you up to speed on the plight of the bees, our greatest helpers in providing food, with approximately one third of everything we eat a direct result of their hard work. Sadly, the World's bees are disappearing at a rapid rate, but there are things that can be done to stop it. Rotterdam's in the forefront, with its history of re-building and architectural innovation, turning areas of the urban landscape into unique green spaces. Your guide, a local environmentalist and expert beekeeper, will take you on a journey through the city to experience the future of urban farming & beekeeping in the city. You'll visit an old railway station turned into a park, the water square which provides water to the city's trees and wild flowers, and Europe's largest roof-top bee and honey farm. Inspired by everything you've seen, you can be sure to return to your ship with a buzz!

The elegant city of Bath with its stately, honey-coloured Georgian architecture and which nestles amid quintessentially English rolling countryside, features among England's most beautiful places to visit. The Romans transformed Bath into England's first spa resort and it was revived as a chic spa town in the XVIII century. After leaving Southampton, a 2-hour scenic coach drive will take you to Bath where you will have a short panoramic drive and a brief orientation walk to admire the charming Pulteney Bridge, built 1769-74, the only bridge in England with shops on both sides and which features three arches and a central Venetian window. Your guide will point out key sights and provide an historic overview during the sightseeing tour. Then plenty of time will be yours to spend in the town. Do not miss the sweeping Royal Crescent, perhaps one of the most beautiful streets in England, plan individual visits or have lunch in the many restaurants of Bath. The coach drive to Southampton ends your English day.

Take yourself off the ship for half a day, hop on an electric bike and prepare to pedal your way around the best bits of Southampton, famed as Europe's cruise capital. Following your guide from the port, you'll first cycle along the shopping promenade to reach the East and West Parks, where you'll also find the Titanic Engineers' Memorial. Pedalling on, the route then takes you past the City Art Gallery and out of town to Southampton Commons, the largest park in the area with extensive meadows, natural lakes, and diverse fauna. After passing the Highfield and Avenue Campuses of Southampton University, you'll be able to enjoy a break in one of the nearby pubs. The tour then continues through small parks close to the River Itchen, then past the Southampton Hall of Aviation and the Ocean Village Marina to the centre of the old city. Among the landmarks to be found here are Old Bargate, the old city walls and Tudor House, to name but a few. Last up, you'll return to the city for a final break before you head back to the ship. Please note: the distance covered on this biking tour totals approx. 25 km. Children who are at least 155 cm tall are welcome to take part in this tour with the parent's/guardian's written consent.

Leave the pier and prepare to immerse yourself in a day of mystery and antiquity. We are heading to the circle of Stonehenge, one of the most intriguing and ancient sites in the U.K. Situated on a vast plain, the site is truly impressive; shrouded in magic and mystery, many believe this sacred site emanates a special atmosphere. Radiocarbon dating reveals this incredible monument was built around 5.000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. The question of who built Stonehenge remains largely unanswered although many attribute the monument to the Druids. Our guide will escort us around the circle, providing explanations and enabling us to view the impressive stones close up. You can remain steeped in the spell of ancient times as we continue our historic tour and journey to the medieval town of Salisbury whose lofty Cathedral spire can be seen from many miles around. Salisbury Cathedral is one of the finest medieval churches in Britain and dates back to the XIII century. After a guided walk around the town, you will have time on your own, perhaps to visit the Cathedral or to taste some food in the many assorted eateries before returning to the port.

Get off the ship, leave the port and prepare to spend a day in one of the most iconic and important cities of the world: London, "The Big Smoke". An enjoyable 2.5-hour coach drive will take you to the British capital city where you will meet your guide. Next, you will start on an itinerary covering the main attractions and giving you the opportunity to see some of the most iconic symbols of London: the friendly "bobbies" and the red buses, only to mention a few. Take your camera ready to catch snapshots of Westminster Parliament with the landmark clock tower of Big Ben. During your sightseeing tour, you will admire most of London key attractions before having some free time for individual exploration or for independent lunch in Covent Garden area with shopping opportunities. Your day in London will conclude with a relaxed unguided coach drive to the port of Southampton.

The fortunes of the Berkshire town of Windsor have been closely linked to its castle for more than 900 years and it is to this famous stronghold - built by order of William the Conqueror in the late 11th-century - that this all-day excursion will take you. A relaxing 1.5-hour coach ride from the port will first see you reach Windsor Castle, which dominates the landscape and can already be seen from afar. Your visit will focus on two of the castle's most outstanding features: the State Apartments, still used to entertain heads of state by Queen Elizabeth II, and the late 15th-century St. George's Chapel, one of the most beautiful in the UK. Highlights at the State Apartments include painted ceilings, classic furniture, and priceless artwork, while the chapel boasts Gothic architecture and is the burial ground of no less than 10 monarchs. Following the visit, you'll move on to Windsor town, where time will be yours to go shopping or explore the quaint Georgian streets on your own before you return to the ship.

Two iconic London locations are on the itinerary of this all-day outing, which begins with a 2.5-hour coach ride up to the British capital. Your first call will be the Tower of London, a fort and palace whose earliest parts date back to 1078 and were founded by William the Conqueror. Your guide will take you through the 13th-century gateway  still guarded by Yeoman Warders in their characteristic uniforms  and relate the towers' history. At Waterloo Barracks, you'll then view the priceless Crown Jewels, which consist of 141 items of rare ceremonial regalia beset with nothing but the finest gems. During the short coach ride that follows, keep an eye out for Westminster, Whitehall, Big Ben, St. Margaret's Church and Westminster Abbey en route to Covent Garden, where free time will be yours. Not only is Covent Garden the perfect spot to have some lunch but is also one of London's prime shopping areas with everything from beauty, fashion, and traditional stalls. Time to relive freshly minted London memories then follows on the coach ride back to Southampton.

Discover Southampton's historic buildings and its links with the legendary RMS Titanic on this fascinating walking tour. The Titanic pulled away from the White Star dock in Southampton for the start of her maiden voyage on 10th April 1912. Five days later in the early hours of 15th April she sank after striking an iceberg. The disaster made headlines across the world and had a devastating effect on the people of Southampton. Of the 724 crew which lived within in the area - only 175 returned home. Your interesting walking tour commences from the pier. A leisurely stroll will take you through Queen's Park and past the luxury flats which used to be the old South Western Hotel. This hotel was the accommodation for First-Class passengers before embarking on the majestic liner. Close by are the old White Star offices where Southampton residents gathered in the hundreds, waiting day after day for news of loved ones. A walk along Oxford Street will take you past some of the drinking establishments enjoyed by the ill-fated crew including The Grapes pub, which is where filming took place for the famous "Titanic" movie. At the end of the street are the ruins of Holyrood Church where a memorial to the Titanic crew stands. As you wander past the ancient Southampton walls and through the main shopping precinct, with its eclectic mix of shops, you'll hear poignant tales of the Titanic heroes and survivors. The highlight of the tour is a visit to SeaCity Museum. This interactive Museum is filled with information and interesting memorabilia of the fateful disaster and illustrates the impact the liner has had on the city.