I hope our first time to Europe will be as pleasurable as...well so many firsts in our lives can be that we never forget. Flying to Barcelona then cruising to Monaco, Livorno, Rome, Naples, Messina, then across the sea to Palma De Majorca, Marsailles, and back to Barcelona. Limited time and want to make the most of that time by putting together the perfect itinerary for each port of call. Would appreciate your experiences. Thanks!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23622 posts
The best itinerary requires a lot of homework. There are a variety of sources available. Join cruisecritic for your ship and cruise date. We tried to id for each port the TI - 'cause that is generally our first stop. Are there local guides through the TI that give local tours - especially walking tours. Then the transportation options - all day tickets, hop on/off buses, etc. Id the major sites we wish to visit - ticketing, reservations. The ship will always have a shore briefing the day before. Determine where the ship is docking and if the ship is providing transportation to city center - generally do if docking some distance away. Be prepared to get off ship as early as you can but plan to back an hour or so before departure. The ship will not wait one minute. We have been to most of those ports but you need to review them for yourself.
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
Carlo, as Frank has said. go to cruisecritic.com. Click onto "ports" on the orange band at the top of the screen, then find all the ports of interest to you. You will find info on what to do & see and how to do & see in each port of call. There is also a message board so you can ask questions of experienced cruisers.