Italy, Algeria & Spain Cruise: Trapani, Algiers & Granada

The ancient capital of the Western World and the centre of Christianity for nearly 2,000 years, Rome provides an inexhaustible feast of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. Visit the ruins of the Forum and the Colosseum, view the splendours of the Sistine Chapel, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter.

Don't forget to treat your taste buds to the delights of authentic Roman cuisine, which is as captivating as the city's ancient wonders. Indulge in creamy gelato, savour the perfection of al dente pasta, and relish the thin, crispy crust of Roman-style pizza. Buon Appetito!

Serving as Rome’s seaport since the 13th century, Civitavecchia is located about an hour (80km/50mi) from the centre of Rome. For guests arriving and departing from the airport in Rome, a transfer to Civitavecchia port should be organised ahead of time with your cruise line. Details will be provided in your travel documentation after booking. The port area itself offers diverse dining options, and inside, facilities include accessible bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and a spacious waiting area. The port also offers complimentary shuttle buses to transfer guests between the ship and the port terminal.

Perched on a low-lying, palazzi-dotted promontory on Sicily's west coast, Trapani reveals a hint of its medieval past in its historic core's maze of narrow streets. Surrounded by glowing turquoise waters and rugged coastline, it is the gateway to western Sicily's ruins. Ships will dock at Porto di Trapani.

Top Things to Do in Trapani:

• explore the ancient ruins of Selinunte
• take a cable car ride to enchanting Erice
• visit the Archeological Museum in Marsala
• drive the 'via del sale' (the salt road)
• explore the Segesta Archaeological Site

Discover Tunis, a city rich with cultural and historical experiences. Wander the UNESCO-listed Medina, a maze of alleyways, souks, mausoleums, and palaces, showcasing the city's storied past. Don't miss the Bardo Museum, home to one of the world's greatest collections of Roman mosaics, for a glimpse into ancient artistry.

For a change of pace, explore Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque village with cobbled streets, vibrant courtyards, and iconic blue-and-white architecture, offering serene views over the Mediterranean.

Transport options from La Goulette port to Tunis are plentiful, with services providing efficient and affordable means to explore the capital's treasures. The connection from the port to the city is approximately 20 minutes (14.5km/9 miles).

Your boutique hotel at sea, the Azamara Onward® is a mid-sized ship with a deck plan that’s intimate but never crowded, and offers everything modern voyagers are looking for - plus some unexpected extras. Seven restaurants, cafes, and lounges, a refreshing pool, sun-drenched decks, a revitalizing spa…the list goes on.

Algiers, the capital of Algeria, stands as a beacon of Mediterranean charm and historical depth. The city's Casbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers winding alleys and Ottoman palaces, telling tales of centuries past. Meanwhile, the modern side of Algiers gleams along the seafront, where the grand Martyrs' Memorial pays homage to the country's struggle for independence.

Visitors can explore the Jardin d'Essai, a splendid botanical garden that serves as an oasis amidst the urban landscape, or admire the neo-Byzantine architecture of the Notre Dame d'Afrique. The blend of cultural influences – from Berber to French – enriches the culinary scene, making Algiers a delightful exploration of flavours and traditions. Its welcoming atmosphere and rich history provide a unique glimpse into the heart of North Africa.

The ancient Mediterranean port of Cartagena has more then 2,500 years of history, each corner, street and square offers monumental examples of its splendorous past. Its manicured promenades lined with palm trees lead you to ancient ruins surviving marvellously between modern-day buildings. Ships will dock at the Alfonso XII Pier.

Top Things to Do in Cartagena:

• visit the Roman Theatre and museum
• explore the 18th-century Concepcion Castle
• travel to nearby Murcia
• watch an Andalusian horse performance

Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is a mesmerising Spanish city renowned for the stunning Alhambra, an exquisite Moorish palace complex.

Walk through the fragrant Generalife gardens and admire the intricacies of Nasrid Palaces. Wander in the winding streets of Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter, known for its whitewashed houses and panoramic views. Delve into Flamenco culture in the Sacromonte caves and enjoy traditional tapas, an integral part of Granada's culinary scene. This captivating Andalusian city is a harmonious blend of history, art, and gastronomy, offering a sensory feast to every traveller.

In Motril you'll dock at the Puerto de Motril, about 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Granada - a journey of around an hour. Known for its sugar cane heritage, the city is home to the unique Sugar Cane Museum, showcasing the region's sweet history. The bustling market, Mercado Municipal, is perfect for tasting local produce and delicacies, offering an authentic Spanish experience.

Málaga is the lively capital of the Costa del Sol, famed for its beaches and mild climate. It is a city of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, churches and sunny plazas. Málaga also serves as a popular starting point for excursions to splendid Granada and the famed Alhambra. Ships will dock at the Málaga cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Málaga:

• take in the views from The Alcazaba fortress
• see Picasso's paintings at Museo Picasso
• visit the Alhambra in Granada
• relax on a Costa del Sol beach
• visit the scenic village of Mijas