MSC MUSICA: Genoa (Portofino), Italy - Genoa (Portofino), Italy - 18.08.2026. - 8 days

Marseille, the second largest city in France and one of the oldest cities in Europe, boasts a rich history and vibrant atmosphere, situated along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Founded by the Greeks over 2,600 years ago, the city has been influenced by many civilizations throughout the centuries, leaving a lasting mark on its architecture and identity.

Among its main attractions is the Old Port (Vieux Port) – the heart of city life, recognizable by its boats, cafés, and restaurants. The impressive Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the city, the islands, and Château d’If, the famous fortress from The Count of Monte Cristo. Also notable are the historic Le Panier district and MuCEM, a modern museum dedicated to Mediterranean culture.

Marseille’s cuisine includes specialties such as bouillabaisse – a traditional fish soup, and panisse – chickpea cakes. The city is full of authentic restaurants offering local flavors.

Nearby, the Calanques National Park is famous for its spectacular cliffs and clear waters, while charming towns like Aix-en-Provence and the fishing village of Cassis make perfect day trips. Wine lovers can explore the Provencal vineyards and enjoy tastings.

Colorful streets and historic buildings tell stories of the past, while sunsets over the sea create a special, warm atmosphere worth experiencing. Marseille is a place where tradition meets modern energy, ideal for pleasant moments and discovering authentic Mediterranean culture.

Valencia, the third largest city in Spain, is a place rich in history and culture that stretches back more than 2,000 years. Founded by the Romans, it was ruled over the centuries by the Visigoths, Moors, and Christian kings, each leaving a significant mark on its architecture and identity. A particularly important moment came in 1238, when King James I of Aragon reconquered the city, beginning a new era of prosperity as a commercial and cultural center.

Today, Valencia offers a unique blend of history, art, and modern architecture. Among its most famous landmarks are the Gothic Valencia Cathedral, which houses the Holy Grail, the UNESCO-listed Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), and the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex. Plaza de la Virgen and Plaza de la Reina are surrounded by historic buildings, while Bioparc Valencia provides a modern zoological experience. The city is also full of hidden gems like the Central Market and the Turia Gardens, a lush urban green space.

Valencian cuisine is rooted in local ingredients and a rich culinary tradition. The city is best known for paella, and also offers a wide variety of seafood dishes and the refreshing drink horchata with fartons. Tapas bars and vibrant markets provide insight into the authentic local lifestyle.

Valencia is also famous for its festivals, especially Las Fallas, the spectacular March celebration known for fireworks and the burning of large papier-mâché figures. The event reflects the creativity and community spirit of the city's residents. Valencia masterfully blends past and present, making it one of the most fascinating cities in Spain.

Ibiza, one of the Balearic Islands in Spain, is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and world-famous nightlife. Inhabited since the 7th century BC, the island has been shaped by various civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors, whose influences are still visible today in its culture and architecture. The island has a strong bohemian and artistic scene and is known for its local crafts such as pottery and weaving. A standout highlight is the old town of Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Renaissance-era walls, medieval buildings, and the 13th-century Santa Maria d’Eivissa Cathedral. The walls were originally built to defend against pirate attacks and today stand as a symbol of the island’s rich history.

Ibiza also holds fascinating archaeological mysteries, such as the Cova de les Mans (“Cave of the Hands”), where prehistoric finger markings on the cave walls point to a human presence on the island stretching back thousands of years.

Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, is rich in historical and cultural heritage spanning thousands of years, beginning with the Phoenicians, whose trade routes passed through this strategically located city. Throughout history, Cagliari has been shaped by numerous civilizations — Romans, Byzantines, Arabs — whose traces are clearly visible in the architecture and city landmarks. Among these are the 2nd-century Roman amphitheater, the medieval fortress Castello, the imposing Bastione di Saint Remy, and the towered Torre dell’Elefante. The National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari offers insight into Sardinia’s rich past through collections of artifacts from various periods, including the Nuragic culture.

Besides cultural attractions, Cagliari also offers natural beauties that delight visitors. Poetto Beach, stretching eight kilometers, is ideal for swimming and water sports, while the quieter Calamosca provides a relaxing atmosphere. Molentargius-Saline Park is known for its flamingo population and other wetland birds, and it also offers beautiful trails for walking and cycling.

Cagliari’s gastronomic scene reflects a blend of sea and land flavors typical of southern Italy, offering traditional dishes such as pecorino cheese, rich and aromatic fregola pasta, and local wines. These delicacies, together with fresh seafood and locally grown vegetables, create a culinary experience visitors will remember for a long time.

Civitavecchia is a charming Italian port city located on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast, ideal as a starting point for exploring Italy’s capital, as well as for enjoying an authentic Mediterranean atmosphere.

The city offers a blend of rich history and beautiful natural landscapes. Its history dates back to ancient Rome, evident in the impressive Fortezza Michelangelo, a massive 16th-century fortress that dominates the harbor and provides spectacular views of the sea. Enjoy a stroll through the picturesque historic center with its narrow streets, shopping boutiques, traditional restaurants, and cafés where you can taste fresh fish and local specialties. For beach lovers, Civitavecchia offers sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing under the Italian sun.

Let your road take you to Rome — the city of eternal history and culture, known as the heart of the Roman Empire. Must-see landmarks include the Colosseum, a symbol of ancient power and spectacle, and the Roman Forum, the center of political and social life in ancient Rome. The Pantheon, with its impressive dome, stands as a testament to Roman architecture and engineering, while the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica represent the center of the Catholic world and the pinnacle of artistic beauty. The Trevi Fountain, famous for the legend of returning to Rome, and the Spanish Steps, a popular gathering place, add charm to this eternal city. Villa Borghese offers an oasis of peace and nature amid the urban bustle.

Roman cuisine in the Trastevere district, along with the famous gelato, completes the experience of a city that never ceases to captivate its visitors.

Genoa, located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea, is one of the most historically significant cities in Italy and truly the “Jewel of Liguria.” Over the centuries, it has been an important commercial and maritime center, reaching its peak during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance as one of the most powerful naval forces in the Mediterranean. Genoa is also the birthplace of the famous explorer Christopher Columbus, who set out on his journey to the New World with the support of Genoese merchants. The city also gave the world the renowned violinist Niccolò Paganini, one of the greatest virtuosos in the history of music.

Today, Genoa offers a rich cultural and historical heritage. Among its main attractions are the Porto Antico (Old Port), the impressive Genoa Aquarium, and the Old Town, known for its narrow alleys, churches, and UNESCO-protected palaces. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the historic Palazzi dei Rolli are enduring symbols of the city's wealth and influence through the centuries.

Genoese cuisine is a true delight for food lovers — the most famous dish is Pesto alla Genovese, while focaccia is another staple, along with a variety of fresh seafood dishes. For those with a sweet tooth, traditional desserts like pandolce and canestrelle perfectly round off the culinary experience.

Genoa is a city where history, art, the sea, and gastronomy come together — an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic Italian experience.