Mediterranean Cruise: Italy, Spain & the French Coast | MSC

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

9 AM – 5 PM: Alicante, Spain 

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

9 AM - 4 PM: Menorca (Mahón), Spain

Mahón, the capital of Menorca, offers a charming mix of British and Spanish influences and overlooks one of the largest natural harbors in the Mediterranean. Its compact old town can be explored in just minutes, revealing Georgian-style mansions, narrow lanes, and inviting squares. Climb the stone steps of Costa de Ses Voltes to reach the city center, where the 13th-century Church of Santa María stands proudly on Plaça de la Constitució.

Nearby, Ciutadella, the island’s former capital, invites discovery with its maze of cobbled streets, grand palaces, and Gothic and Baroque churches. Centered around Plaça d'es Born, marked by an obelisk commemorating the city’s historic defense, it offers a glimpse into Menorca's rich and layered past.

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

10 AM – 7 PM: Olbia, Italy

Overlooking the northeastern coast of Sardinia, Olbia is the gateway to the island's glamorous Costa Smeralda. Once a quiet town, it has become a lively hub thanks to the influx of visitors drawn to its turquoise coves and exclusive resorts. The city offers excellent restaurants, stylish cafés, and the renowned Archaeological Museum.

A short trip from Olbia takes you to Porto Cervo, the Costa Smeralda’s crown jewel, a picture-perfect seaside village with luxury yachts and elegant boutiques. You can also explore the islands of La Maddalena and Caprera, known for their unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters, or head to Santa Teresa di Gallura, Sardinia’s northernmost port, famous for its scenic granite cliffs and views across the sea to Corsica.

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

9 AM - 6 PM: Genoa, Italy

Genoa is an energetic and eclectic city, once known as La Superba for its power and wealth as a Mediterranean maritime republic. Its vibrant old town is a maze of narrow medieval alleys filled with magnificent 16th and 17th-century palaces, now transformed into museums and art galleries. Highlights include the San Lorenzo Cathedral, the Ducal Palace, and the elegant palaces along Via Garibaldi, home to some of Genoa's finest art collections.

Down by the waterfront, the Aquarium of Genoa, one of Europe’s largest, showcases marine life from across the globe, including a remarkable Caribbean coral reef exhibit. Just 35 km south lies Portofino, a postcard-perfect village nestled in a lush cove. With its pastel houses, luxury yachts, and chic cafés, it’s a timeless symbol of Riviera elegance.

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

9 AM – 7 PM: Marseille, France

Get ready to discover Marseille, one of Southern France’s most vibrant cities and a highlight of any MSC Mediterranean cruise. Just steps from the port, the cafés around the Vieux-Port invite you to soak up local life as fishermen sell their daily catch straight from their boats. Explore Le Panier, the city's oldest district, with its sunlit terraces, narrow streets, and colorful façades. For breathtaking views, head to Palais du Pharo or climb to Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched high above the harbor.

From Marseille, you can also join excursions to nearby gems like Aix-en-Provence, known for its elegant streets and artistic heritage, or Avignon, the medieval papal city surrounded by centuries-old walls along the Rhône River.

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

8 AM - 6 PM: Málaga, Spain

Elegant and full of life, Málaga is truly a highlight. Its refined city center is almost entirely pedestrian, centered around Calle Marqués de Larios — a stylish avenue lined with trendy shops and cafés. Nearby, Plaza de la Constitución offers a lively atmosphere with palm-lined terraces and restaurants perfect for a relaxing break.

Art and history blend seamlessly here: visit the Picasso Museum, housed in the artist’s birthplace, and explore the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro fortresses overlooking the city — remarkable reminders of Málaga’s Moorish past. For authentic local flavor, head to the seaside neighborhoods of El Palo and Pedregalejo, where beachside “chiringuitos” serve some of the region's best seafood.

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

7 AM - 5 PM: Cádiz, Spain

Cádiz, one of Spain’s oldest cities and most important ports, is a captivating stop. Its old town, perched on a narrow peninsula, retains much of its original charm with grand squares, narrow sailor’s lanes, and weathered limestone buildings crowned with watchtowers. Despite its age, the city exudes a unique, timeless atmosphere.

Don’t miss the Cádiz Museum on Plaza de Mina, home to remarkable archaeological treasures, or the 18th-century Cathedral Nueva, a striking Baroque masterpiece overlooking the sea. Explore the medieval Barrio del Pópulo with its restored Santa Cruz Church and Roman amphitheater, then climb the Torre Tavira for panoramic views of the city and coastline — a perfect way to experience the soul of Andalusia.

Overnight at the MSC Opera Cruise

9 AM: Disembark from your cruise in Lisbon, with a heart full of unforgettable island memories. Your transfer will be waiting for you at 09:30 AM to take you from the cruise terminal in Cascais to the hotel in Lisbon, for your last night in Portugal.

Suggestion for the day: Unveiling Belém's Maritime Marvels

Head to Belém, a UNESCO site showcasing Portugal's maritime past. See the iconic Torre de Belém and Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and savor Pastéis de Belém, a delicious custard tart.

Overnight in Lisbon

We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels, and until next time!