La Spezia (Cinque Terre)
Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life
Explorer package Palma PMI01 Barcelon BCN02 Marseil MRS02
Explorer package Civitave CIV09 Marsei MRS02 Tarrag TAR01
THE LEANING TOWER OF PISA AND THE SQUARE OF MIRACLES
Important Information: Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the religious visit. Participants will be given an informative briefing by the guide outside the Cathedral, after which they can explore it independently. Please note that the tour does not include access to the interiors of any of the monuments in Piazza dei Miracoli, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, participants are welcome to visit these attractions during their free time, paying the entrance fees on site, though they should consider the limited duration of the available free time.<-p>
A DAY TRIP TO FLORENCE
Important Information: The tour does not include visits to the landmarks- participants may explore them during their free time, considering any queues and the time available for independent sightseeing. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the religious visit. The cost of lunch (optional) is not included in the tour price. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. As there are long periods on foot, the tour can be physically demanding, especially in hot weather and on exposed routes. The walk down from Piazzale Michelangelo to the city centre involves several flights of stairs with 25 wide steps.<-p>
UNGUIDED BOAT TRANSFER TO CINQUE TERRE VILLAGES
Excursion details<-strong><-p> View some of the most enchanting spots in the bewitching Cinque Terre National Park (a cluster of centuries-old coastal villages) on this excursion, beginning with a boat ride to Vernazza, lasting one hour and fifteen minutes. Then spend 65 minutes here, exploring twisting medieval alleyways, the pretty harbour, a 13th-century church and terraced vineyards cut into the side of the cliffs.<-p> Next, a 10-minute boat ride moves the excursion to Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the Cinque Terre¿s five villages, where there will be two hours and 45 minutes to discover its wide sandy beach, labyrinthine Old Town and famous bakeries.<-p> Hop back on the boat and enjoy a scenic 50-minute ride to the last stop, Porto Venere. Savour one hour and 20 minutes in this Riviera gem, known informally as the ¿sixth¿ Cinque Terre town. View the historic Palazzata built into the rocky cliffs, admiring its ancient Gothic castle and walking past the multicoloured harbourfront houses. A final 25-minute boat journey takes you back to the ship, concluding the excursion.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>the tour is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties. Guests are recommended to take a hat and wear sunscreen during the summer months. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the boat journey will be replaced by a coach and train transfer. The final tour itinerary will be reconfirmed during the cruise, as its duration also depends on the train schedules, which are public and not exclusive to MSC guests. Furthermore, during peak season or at rush hours, queues and waiting times may occur. The boat can dock in the various locations at fixed slot- guests are invited to respect the meeting times at each town and avoid delays. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour. The boat is reserved for MSC Guests only.<-p>
MEDIEVAL MARVELS AND WINE TASTING IN LUCCA
KICK BACK AT A VIAREGGIO BEACH CLUB
Important Information: the price of the tour includes 1 sun umbrella, 2 deckchairs and 1 beach lounger for each 3 guests or family. Guests will have access to beach tennis, the ping-pong area, the volley area and changing areas. We suggest bringing a towel and high-factor sunscreen. The tour is available only from mid-June until mid-September and depends on weather conditions.<-p>
WHEN GLAMOUR MEETS BEAUTY: SOPHIA LOREN IN LOVE WITH FLORENC
A TOUR OF CINQUE TERRE VILLAGES AND LUNCH
Important Information: Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. The excursion does not operate from November to middle March.<-p>
IN AND AROUND THE CINQUE TERRE: PORTOVENERE AND MONTEROSSO
Important Information: the tour is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour. We suggest taking a hat and wearing sunscreen during the summer months. Should adverse weather conditions prevail, a train and a coach ride may replace the boat trip- have the final tour itinerary reconfirmed during your cruise. The total duration of the tour depends on transport timings. The excursion does not operate from November to March (inclusive).<-p>
EXPLORING THE "SIXTH VILLAGE" OF THE CINQUE TERRE: PORTOVENERE
Important Information: Guests will be required to return their audio guide equipment to their tour guide in perfect condition at the end of the tour. Guests will be charged for any damage to or loss of audio guide equipment. Participants will have to walk uphill to reach St. Peter s Church. This tour is subject to weather and sea conditions and is unsuitable for wheelchair users.<-p>
A BUCKET LIST DAY TRIP TO FLORENCE AND PISA
Important Information: Guides will meet the guides in Florence- the visit of Pisa will be unguided. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. As there are long periods on foot, the tour can be physically demanding, especially in hot weather and on exposed routes. The walk down from Piazzale Michelangelo to the city centre involves several flights of stairs with 25 wide steps.<-p>
COASTAL BIKE TOUR TO LOVELY LERICI
FROM LA SPEZIA TO LERICI BY E-BIKE
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Begin your e-bike journey in La Spezia, where you set out along the Gulf¿s dramatic coastline. Your electrically assisted bicycle makes the climb to the tranquil mountain village of Pitelli both accessible and enjoyable, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Ligurian landscape. The ascent rewards you with panoramic views, and from Pitelli you continue to Pugliola, a small village enveloped by lush forests. Pugliola is renowned for its breathtaking vistas across the bay¿an ideal spot to pause and take in the scenery. The route then leads you to Tellaro, a seaside gem which is known for its literary connections, having inspired poets such as Mario Soldati and Eugenio Montale. After your break, cycle on to Lerici, perched above the sea and famous for its colourful houses and historic churches. The town¿s castle, which dates from the 12th century, stands as a testament to Lerici¿s strategic importance over the centuries, particularly during the times of the maritime republics. Take a short walk up to Lerici Castle for sweeping views over the Gulf of Poets, so named for its association with writers like Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley. Explore Lerici at your own pace, perhaps indulging in local cuisine at one of the pizzerias in the lively main square. Your return to La Spezia follows a scenic coastal road dotted with charming villages, each with its own unique character. This excursion offers a balance of discovery, indulgence, and sustainable travel, making it ideal for those who value enriching experiences and environmental awareness.<-p> Important Information:<-strong> Minimum age for participation is 9 years old. The distance covered on this biking tour totals approx. 38 km with a 550 m gain in elevation. Before joining this excursion, you¿ll need to fill out and sign a safety waiver form, which our bike leaders will provide. You won¿t be able to take part in the tour without completing the waiver. Children who are at least 155 cm tall are welcome to take part in this tour with the parent s-guardian s written consent. Comfortable sports attire and closed shoes are recommended. Sun protection and a reusable water bottle are useful. The tour is suitable for guests with moderate fitness. Please respect the local environmentally conscious ethos by minimizing waste and avoiding single-use plastics. The itinerary may vary depending on weather and local conditions.<-p>
EASY & ACCESSIBLE: AMAZING FLORENCE
Please note: This tour is designed to be accessible for all guests. This tour uses wheelchair-accessible routes wherever possible. It includes step-free routes, shorter distances, and no stairs along the tour route. Accessible restrooms with wide doors for wheelchairs are present along the tour route. The vehicle used on this excursion is fitted with an access ramp (or lift where available) to accommodate a limited number of wheelchairs and-or mobility scooters: 6 guests (5 able-bodied + 1 wheelchair users). 2 foldable wheelchairs can be stored in the back. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs. Guests needing special assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion. The number of accessible vehicles is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to make their accessible shore excursion reservations as far in advance as possible. Guests wishing to use a wheelchair (manual or electric) or scooter on this excursion must provide its total dimensions (height, length, and width) and weight to MSC at the time of booking. If you decide to cancel the excursion after booking it, please contact MSC immediately. Vehicle capacity: Combined weight (guest seated on mobility device): Max weight: 340 kg. Max width: 145 cm. Max length: 100 cm. Max height inside vehicle: 180 cm. Mobility scooter users must transfer to a seat during the drive. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour. This excursion is a private service.<-p>
EASY & ACCESSIBLE: PISA AND LUCCA
Please note: This tour is designed to be accessible for all guests. This tour uses wheelchair-accessible routes wherever possible. It includes step-free routes, shorter distances, and no stairs along the tour route. Accessible restrooms with wide doors for wheelchairs are present along the tour route. The vehicle used on this excursion is fitted with an access ramp (or lift where available) to accommodate a limited number of wheelchairs and-or mobility scooters: 6 guests (5 able-bodied + 1 wheelchair users). 2 foldable wheelchairs can be stored in the back. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs. Guests needing special assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion. The number of accessible vehicles is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to make their accessible shore excursion reservations as far in advance as possible. Guests wishing to use a wheelchair (manual or electric) or scooter on this excursion must provide its total dimensions (height, length, and width) and weight to MSC at the time of booking. If you decide to cancel the excursion after booking it, please contact MSC immediately. Vehicle capacity: Combined weight (guest seated on mobility device): Max weight: 340 kg. Max width: 145 cm. Max length: 100 cm. Max height inside vehicle: 180 cm. Mobility scooter users must transfer to a seat during the drive. This excursion is a private service. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour.<-p>
UNGUIDED TRANSFER TO FLORENCE
Excursion details<-strong><-p> After a scenic two hours and 15 minutes coach ride through the stunning Tuscan countryside, you will arrive in Florence, ready to explore its splendour. The city is a treasure trove of magnificent architecture, impressive churches, and world-famous landmarks. A short 15-minute stop at Piazzale Michelangelo is a good chance for to have an introduction of the city with great views from above.<-p> After a 20-minute walk down to the city centre, enjoy two-and-a-half-hour free time in the city centre. There are plenty of options. You might choose to begin your adventure at Piazza del Duomo, home to the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. If you re feeling energetic, why not climb to the top of the Duomo or the nearby Giotto¿s Campanile for a panoramic view of the city?<-p> A short walk away is the Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge famous for its quaint shops selling jewellery and souvenirs. It¿s a perfect spot to take in the views of the River Arno and capture a few photos. If you re interested in art and history, a visit to Piazza della Signoria is a must. Here, you ll find Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of Florence¿s government, as well as the stunning outdoor sculptures in the Loggia dei Lanzi. For art lovers, the Uffizi Gallery is an unmissable stop. Housing masterpieces by Botticelli, da Vinci, and Michelangelo, it¿s one of the world¿s most renowned art museums.<-p> Whatever your interests, be sure to return to the point to meet your assistant who will take you on a pleasant 30-minute walk to Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Here you¿ll find your coach to begin the two hours and 15 minutes coach ride back to La Spezia and your ship.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>The bus stops at Piazza Vittorio Veneto- this is the point to reach at the end of your tour. The cost of the lunch (optional) is not included in the price of the tour. Although the excursion includes only transfers to and from Florence along with ample free time in the city for participants, it is not recommended for guests with mobility issues or those using a wheelchair. The walk down from Piazzale Michelangelo to the city centre involves several flights of stairs which, despite having 25 wide steps, would make the tour particularly challenging for wheelchair users.<-p>
YC SMALL GROUP: THE LEANING TOWER OF PISA AND THE SQUARE OF MIRACLES
Excursion details<-strong><-p> After an hour-long minibus transfer from La Spezia, arrive in Pisa and take a 15-minute walk to Piazza dei Miracoli (the Square of Miracles). This extraordinary hotbed of architecture houses a number of different buildings, each incredible in its own way.<-p> This includes the radiant Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and one of Italy s largest baptistries, Battistero di San Giovanni, constructed in gleaming marble. The headline attraction, of course, is the Tower of Pisa and its wonderfully surreal tilt.<-p> Uncover the reasons for the tower s lean and find out more about the area s other buildings on a one-hour guided tour of Piazza dei Miracoli, followed by approximately 50 minutes of free time for exploration. Next, take a 15-minute walk to reach the minibus for a one-hour transfer back to the pier in La Spezia.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>this excursion is available for MSC Yacht Club Guests only. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the religious visit. Participants will be given an informative briefing by the guide outside the Cathedral, after which they can explore it independently. Please note that the tour does not include access to the interiors of any of the monuments in Piazza dei Miracoli, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, participants are welcome to visit these attractions during their free time, paying the entrance fees on site, though they should consider the limited duration of the available free time.<-p>
YC SMALL GROUP: A DAY TRIP TO FLORENCE
Excursion Details<-strong><-p> Travel back to the heyday of Italian art and culture on this day trip which explores Florence s historical highlights up-close. After a journey from the port at La Spezia lasting two hours and 15 minutes, enjoy a first short photo stop (15 minutes) at Piazzale Michelangelo. Providing panoramic views, this is a good chance to have an introduction of the city from above.<-p> The next 20 minutes will take you to the city centre and to spend approximately 75 minutes of free time around Santa Croce Square or the Cathedral areas. You might like to find a cosy restaurant for lunch, as there are plenty of options available. Be sure to try local dishes such as ribollita, a comforting stew made with vegetables, beans, and leftover bread.<-p> Then, the guided walking tour begins, packing some of Florence s embarrassment of architectural riches into informed 90 minutes. Sights visited include the 13th-century Basilica of Santa Croce - which stands gleaming in white and gold - and the smart, spacious public square (Piazza Santa Croce) it overlooks, and other major landmarks including external views of the Cathedral, with Giotto s Bell Tower, Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of Florence¿s government, as well as the stunning outdoor sculptures in the Loggia dei Lanzi.<-p> After a guided walk back to the minibus (30 minutes), the return journey to La Spezia s port lasts two hours.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>this excursion is available for MSC Yacht Club Guests only. The tour does not include visits to the landmarks- participants may explore them during their free time, considering any queues and the time available for independent sightseeing. Guests are requested to wear appropriate attire for the religious visit. The cost of lunch (optional) is not included in the tour price. This tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems or using a wheelchair. As there are long periods on foot, the tour can be physically demanding, especially in hot weather and on exposed routes. The walk down from Piazzale Michelangelo to the city centre involves several flights of stairs with 25 wide steps.<-p>
UNGUIDED TRANSFER TO PISA
Excursion details<-strong><-p> Your journey begins with a scenic coach ride of approximately one hour through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, delivering you to the historic heart of the city.<-p> Upon arrival, take a 15-minute walk to the breathtaking Piazza dei Miracoli ¿ the Square of Miracles ¿ a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the pride of Pisa. Here, with the help of a map, you will spend two hours and a half of free time. You may decide to visit the world-famous Leaning Tower, the freestanding bell tower of the Pisa Cathedral, with its distinctive Romanesque façade. If time allows, consider visiting the interior of the Cathedral or the magnificent Baptistery, the largest in Italy and known for its remarkable acoustics and Gothic detailing.<-p> At the agreed time, reach your coach with a 15-minute walk and enjoy the one-hour journey back to the La Spezia, once again passing through the serene and rolling Tuscan landscape.<-p>
YC SMALL GROUP: EXPLORE PORTOVENERE, THE "SIXTH VILLAGE" OF THE CINQUE TERRE
Excursion Details<-strong><-p> Spend time getting to know Portovenere on this excursion and find out why the town is regarded as the "sixth town" of the Cinque Terre, despite sitting just outside the region. A 15-minute transfer by shuttle bus begins the excursion reaching the port exit gate. Here, a 15-minute walk will take you to an awaiting boat for a 30-minute cruise to Portovenere.<-p> Upon your arrival, a 75-minute walking tour will commence, visiting sights that will include the locally famous St Peter s Church. Set on a rocky outcrop jutting into the sea, the church affords unrivalled panoramic views across the sea and to surrounding areas. A photo here is almost mandatory.<-p> After the tour, enjoy approximately 45 minutes of free time, which could be spent discovering that Portovenere is just as idyllic and colourful as the Cinque Terre villages, but often with fewer visitors. After a short walk back to the boat, a 30-minute navigation returns you to the port at La Spezia. The 15-minute walk to the port gate and the 15-minute transfer by shuttle boat inside the port to the ship concludes your experience in Portovenere.<-p> Important Information:<-strong>this excursion is available for MSC Yacht Club Guests only. Guests will be required to return their audio guide equipment to their tour guide in perfect condition at the end of the tour. Guests will be charged for any damage to or loss of audio guide equipment. Participants will have to walk uphill to reach St. Peter s Church. This tour is subject to weather and sea conditions and is unsuitable for wheelchair users.<-p>
PANORAMIC CINQUE TERRE & WINE TASTING
UNGUIDED TRANSFER TO FLORENCE & PISA
Savona
Civitavecchia
Catania
Genoa (Portofino)
Trieste (Venice)
Messina
Venice (Marghera)
Corigliano-Rossano
Marsala
Alghero
Ancona (Urbino)
Bari
Cagliari (Sardinia)
Capri
Gallipoli
Ischia
Aeolian Islands
Tremiti
Lipari
Livorno (Florence)
Lampedusa
La Spezia
Naples (Pompeii)
Olbia
Porto Cervo
Porto Empedocle
Portoferraio
Palermo (Monreale)
Pantelleria
Porto Ercole
Porto Torres
Porto Torres
Poltu Quatu
Ravenna (Italy)
Salerno
Syracuse
S.NICOLA(IS.TREMITI)
Sorrento
Saint-Tropez
Stromboli
Taranto (Alberobello)
Trapani
Venice - Marghera
VULCANO
Reggio Calabria
Marina di Carrara
Milazzo
Brindisi (Lecce)
Oristano
Crotone
Monfalcone
Piombino
Augusta
GAETA
San Remo
GOLFO ARANCI
Civitavecchia (Rome)
Portofino
Messina (Taormina)
Porto Cervo
Taormina (Naxos)
Capri bay
Venice lagoon
Etna skyline
Sanremo Bay
Aranci gulf
Stromboli Bay