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| 2nd02 | MayMay | 202424 | Barcelona, Spain, embark on the Scenic Eclipse | | |
| The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Famíliaand his other unique creations, are part of a visit to Spain's second-largest city. Modern art museums and chic shops call for attention, too. Barcelona's vibe stays lively well into the night, when you can linger over regional wine and cuisine at buzzing tapas bars. Flying into Barcelona, you will be immersed in a city of fabled architecture and rich culture, before being transferred to Scenic Eclipse to commence your Mediterranean cruise. Please book your flight to arrive into Barcelona prior to 02:00 PM. |
| 3rd03 | MayMay | 202424 | Collioure, France | | |
| Bedecked with small beaches, castles by the sea, and pink-domed bell towers, it is little wonder that this town is favourite of artists. Known as the pearl of the Vermillion coast, Collioure has azure waters lapping pebbled beaches and pastel houses surrounding sun dappled squares. Walk through the town and lose yourself on the streets lines with cafes and gelato shops. With a mix of French and Spanish influences, Collioure is famed for its wine and anchovies. Today choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery excursion. Freechoice: Discover Perpignan with your guide and enjoy the mixture of historical Gothic Art and colourful Art Deco, or enjoy a cooking class learning some regional specialties. Choose to visit the Le Musée d'Art Moderne, one of the best art museums in Europe, or join a walking tour of Collioure. Discovery: Join a local guide hiking along coast, before ending at a local winery for a tasting, or kayak along the rocky coast. |
| 4th04 | MayMay | 202424 | Saint-Tropez, France | | |
| At first glance, it really doesn't look all that impressive. There's a pretty port with cafés charging €5 for a coffee and a picturesque old town in sugared-almond hues, but there are many prettier in the hills nearby. There are sandy beaches, rare enough on the Riviera, and old-fashioned squares with plane trees and pétanque players, but these are a dime a dozen throughout Provence. So what made St-Tropez an internationally known locale? Two words: Brigitte Bardot. When this pulpeuse (voluptuous) teenager showed up in St-Tropez on the arm of Roger Vadim in 1956 to film And God Created Woman, the heads of the world snapped around. Neither the gentle descriptions of writer Guy de Maupassant (1850–93), nor the watercolor tones of Impressionist Paul Signac (1863–1935), nor the stream of painters who followed (including Matisse and Bonnard) could focus the world's attention on this seaside hamlet as did this one sensual woman in a scarf, Ray-Bans, and capris. Vanity Fair ran a big article, "Saint Tropez Babylon," detailing the over-the-top petrodollar parties, megayachts, and Beyoncé–d paparazzi. But don't be turned off: the next year, Stewart, Tabori & Chang released an elegant coffee-table book, Houses of St-Tropez, packed with photos of supremely tasteful and pretty residences, many occupied by fashion designers, artists, and writers. Once a hangout for Colette, Anaïs Nin, and Françoise Sagan, the town still earns its old moniker, the "Montparnasse of the Mediterranean." Yet you might be surprised to find that this byword for billionaires is so small and insulated. The lack of train service, casinos, and chain hotels keeps it that way. Yet fame, in a sense, came too fast for St-Trop. Unlike the chic resorts farther east, it didn't have the decades-old reputation of the sort that would attract visitors all year around. For a good reason: its location on the south side of the gulf puts it at the mercy of the terrible mistral winter winds. So, in summer the crowds descend and the prices rise into the stratosphere. In July and August, you must be carefree about the sordid matter of cash. After all, at the most Dionysian nightclub in town, a glass of tap water goes for $37 and when the mojo really gets going, billionaires think nothing of "champagne-spraying" the partying crowds—think World Series celebrations but with $1,000 bottles of Roederer Cristal instead of Gatorade. Complaining about summer crowds, overpricing, and lack of customer service has become a tourist sport and yet this is what makes St-Tropez—described by the French daily newspaper Le Figaro as the place you can see "the greatest number of faces per square meter"—as intriguing as it is seductive. Famous for its blue seas, stunning beaches, rich connection with a cool local art scene and Tarte Tropézienne, the French Riviera's favourite dessert, Saint-Tropez is a holidaymaker's paradise. Bridget Bardot transformed the thriving fishing village into the international jet set of the 1950 and 1960s. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the old fishing quarter of La Ponche and revel in the abstract architecture and sunlit landscapes used in cinematography. Today choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery excursion. Freechoice: Join a walking tour of Saint-Tropez, the most celebrated city on the French Riviera, or drive to the unique marina village Port Grimaud, known as the "Venice of Provence'. Enjoy a panoramic scenic drive along the coastal road and take in the stunning views of rugged shores, sandy beaches and lush vegetation, or visit Gassin and a family run winery for a tasting of the local wines. Discovery: Join an experienced guide for a coastal hike around Cap Camarat. |
| 5th05 | MayMay | 202424 | Monte-Carlo, Monaco | | |
| On one of the best stretches of the Mediterranean, this classic luxury destination is one of the most sought-after addresses in the world. With all the high-rise towers you have to look hard to find the Belle Époque grace of yesteryear. But if you head to the town's great 1864 landmark Hôtel de Paris—still a veritable crossroads of the buffed and befurred Euro-gentry—or enjoy a grand bouffe at its famous Louis XV restaurant, or attend the opera, or visit the ballrooms of the casino, you may still be able to conjure up Monaco's elegant past. Prince Albert II, a political science graduate from Amherst College, traces his ancestry to Otto Canella, who was born in 1070. The Grimaldi dynasty began with Otto's great-great-great-grandson, Francesco Grimaldi, also known as Frank the Rogue. Expelled from Genoa, Frank and his cronies disguised themselves as monks and in 1297 seized the fortified medieval town known today as Le Rocher (the Rock). Except for a short break under Napoléon, the Grimaldis have been here ever since, which makes them the oldest reigning family in Europe. In the 1850s a Grimaldi named Charles III made a decision that turned the Rock into a giant blue chip. Needing revenue but not wanting to impose additional taxes on his subjects, he contracted with a company to open a gambling facility. The first spin of the roulette wheel was on December 14, 1856. There was no easy way to reach Monaco then—no carriage roads or railroads—so no one came. Between March 15 and March 20, 1857, one person entered the casino—and won two francs. In 1868, however, the railroad reached Monaco, and it was filled with Englishmen who came to escape the London fog. The effects were immediate. Profits were so great that Charles eventually abolished all direct taxes. Almost overnight, a threadbare principality became an elegant watering hole for European society. Dukes (and their mistresses) and duchesses (and their gigolos) danced and dined their way through a world of spinning roulette wheels and bubbling champagne—preening themselves for nights at the opera, where such artists as Vaslav Nijinsky, Sarah Bernhardt, and Enrico Caruso came to perform. Along with the tax system, its sensational position on a broad, steep peninsula that bulges into the Mediterranean—its harbor sparkling with luxury cruisers, its posh mansions angling awnings toward the nearly perpetual sun—continues to draw the rich and famous. One of the latest French celebrities to declare himself "Monégasque," thus giving up his French passport, is superchef Alain Ducasse, who said that he made the choice out of affection for Monaco rather than tax reasons. Pleasure boats vie with luxury cruisers in their brash beauty and Titanic scale, and teams of handsome young men—themselves dyed blond and tanned to match—scour and polish every gleaming surface. As you might expect, all this glitz doesn't come cheap. Eating is expensive, and even the most modest hotels cost more here than in nearby Nice or Menton. As for taxis, they don't even have meters so you are completely at the driver's mercy (with prices skyrocketing during events such as the Grand Prix). For the frugal, Monaco is the ultimate day-trip, although parking is as coveted as a room with a view. At the very least you can afford a coffee at Starbucks. The harbor district, known as La Condamine, connects the new quarter, officially known as Monte Carlo with Monaco-Ville (or Le Rocher), a medieval town on the Rock, topped by the palace, the cathedral, and the Oceanography Museum. Have no fear that you'll need to climb countless steps to get to Monaco-Ville, as there are plenty of elevators and escalators climbing the steep cliffs. But shuttling between the lovely casino grounds of Monte Carlo and Old Monaco, separated by a vast port, is a daunting proposition for ordinary mortals without wings, so hop on the No. 1 bus from Saint Roman, or No. 2 from the Jardin Exotique - Both stop at Place du Casino and come up to Monaco Ville. Luxurious high-rise hotels, super yachts and beautiful people at every turn, Monte Carlo attracts high-rollers and prodigious wealth. From the old town of Monaco, to the Place du Casino designed by the famous architect Charles Garnier there is much on offer. Discover the history of the Grimaldis, forever transformed by Hollywood star Grace Kelly's marriage to Prince Rainier III. As the second smallest country in the world, Monaco makes up for its lack in size with its elegance, glamour and opulence. Today choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery excursion. Freechoice: Explore the old city of Monaco and Monte Carlo, or visit the medieval village of Eze. If you're a fan of Formula One, take the opportunity to follow your guide and walk the track, visiting the famous Rascasse Chicane and the Top Car museum. Discovery: Hike to Monaco Rock through the Old City. There is plenty of free time this afternoon to wander the elegant streets at your leisure. Enrich Savour an exclusive classical concert from The Harpsody Orchestra, performed in one of the historic halls of the Oceanographic Museum. |
| 6th06 | MayMay | 202424 | Antibes, France | | |
| Located in the southeast of the French Provence region, Antibes ranks among France’s oldest cities. Originally named ‘Antipolis’, Antibes was founded by Greek merchants in the 5th century. The Old City is a maze of small, flower-bedecked streets with Roman and Medieval sections. A portion of the impressive 16th-century ramparts overlooking the Mediterranean Sea still protect the heart of the Old City. Antibes is comprised of three distinct sections. The first is Antibes, which includes the Old City and ramparts. Next is Juan les Pins, a famous beach resort once praised by Francis Scott Fitzgerald and the site of the annual International Jazz Festival. Antibes’ third section is Cap d’Antibes, a wooden peninsula that has become a haunt for the rich and famous. Antibes is also home to Europe’s largest yacht harbor, Port Vauban, where the super-yachts of the wealthy are anchored. For cruise vessels, Antibes offers an opportunity to visit some of Provence’s prettiest areas. It also serves as a convenient starting point for trips to the walled-in hilltop village of St. Paul de Vence. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor in the bay and tender guests ashore. The town centre is within walking distance from the tender pier. Taxis are not easy to find; therefore, it is recommended that private travel arrangements be planned in advance. Shopping The Old City offers a wide range of souvenir shops, home decoration, antiques and Provencal artifacts. Postcards are easily found, and must be sent with French postage stamps. Most shops, however, do close between 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. The local currency is the euro. Cuisine The cuisine in the southeastern part of France is considered to be varied and healthy, thanks to the common use of quality fresh products and olive oil. Fresh local fish caught daily, excellent vegetable stew, or ratatouille , and great local wines highlight the wide range of gastronomical delights that can be found here. In addition, restaurants in the harbor area typically offer the chef’s daily special, or plat du jour , on their menus. Other Sites Antibes primarily serves as a starting point for trips into the surrounding areas, which are included in the organized excursions. An early-morning stroll through the local fruit and vegetable market may also be of interest. Private Arrangements For those guests interested in touring at their leisure, we are pleased to offer .Silver Shore Privato - both half-day and full-day private arrangements by private car or van. This program may be booked in advance at silversea.com or purchased on board the ship, subject to availability. Other private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board the ship. An ancient town with an iconic skyline, Antibes has stolen the hearts of many. The stunning old town of narrow cobbled streets calling out for you to explore. Learn the fascinating history and see why Antibes was the focus of many Pablo Picasso works. Today choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery excursion. Freechoice: Discover the scenic beauty of the French Riviera during a picturesque walking tour of the Medieval village of Antibes, or be immersed in the glitz and glamour of Cannes with your guide, escaping to the quiet town of Grasse, the world capital of perfume. Alternatively, discover historic Saint Paul de Vence and Nice, the capital of the Cote d'Azur. Discovery: Enjoy a coastal hiking tour of Cap d'Antibes. |
| 7th07 | MayMay | 202424 | Portovenere, Italy | | |
| The colorful facades and pedestrians-only calata (promenade) make Portovenere the quintessential Ligurian seaside village. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its harbor is lined with tall, thin "terratetto" houses that date from as far back as the 11th century and are connected in a wall-like formation to protect against attacks by the Pisans and local pirates. Its tiny, carruggi (alley-like passageways) lead to an array of charming shops, homes, and gardens and eventually to the village's impressive Castle Doria high on the olive tree covered hill. To the west standing guard over the Mediterranean is the picturesque medieval Chiesa di San Pietro, once the site of a temple to Venus (Venere in Italian), from which Portovenere gets its name. Nearby, in a rocky area leading to the sea, is Byron's Cave, a favorite spot that the poet loved to swim out into the sea from. Dubbed the 'sixth' Cinque Terre town, Porto Venere is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that has extraordinary rocky coastlines, narrows streets winding through a medieval town, and sweeping Mediterranean views. Porto Venere is a hidden gem that is less frequented, allowing you the space to relax and experience the town for all that it is. Previously used as a Roman naval station, there is a lot of history for you to explore along this jagged coastline. Popular poets and writers such as Byron, Shelley and Lawrence are known to have fallen in love with the picturesque harbour. Today choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery excursion. Freechoice: Take a walking tour to discover the port of Porto Venere or explore one of the Cinque Terre villages. Alternatively, enjoy exploring Pisa and the famous Leaning Tower. Discovery: Hike on Palmaria island. |
| 8th08 | MayMay | 202424 | Porto Santo Stefano, Italy | | |
| Dominated by the Spanish fortress, this town has an impressive seafaring tradition, being a stop along the Mediterranean for centuries. From a port that was often a target for pirates in the Middle Ages, to a town that suffered extensive bombings in World War II, the elegant seaside promenade has been rebuilt into a dream destination where you can experience glamour, while strolling through the picturesque alleyways, gelato in hand. Bustling with energy and colour, the stunning sandy beaches and lush countryside will captivate you. Today choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery excursion. Freechoice: Explore the Botanical Dry Garden, a garden that welcomes 1,500 Mediterranean species that need little or no rain in order to survive, or discover the sculptures at the impressive Tarot Garden before visiting the medieval village Capalbio. Choose to visit the Vulci archaeological site or taste some local food in the Marema region. Discovery: Enjoy a bike tour in the Feniglia Nature Reserve. |
| 9th09 | MayMay | 202424 | Bonifacio, Corsica, France | | |
| Located in the South of Corsica, Bonifacio is one of the island’s most beautiful destinations. From its breathtaking views and sandy white islands to its historic citadel, the city is a must visit for anyone travelling to the island. Perched high on white limestone cliffs, Bonifacio is an ancient fortress town with a maze of streets and romantic alleyways to meander. Take a stroll around its ancient citadels, colourful medieval houses, and chapels with faded pastel plasterwork, surrounded by cornflower-blue waters. You will also find are caves to inspect, cliff faces to admire, and clear waters dotted with shipwrecks to explore. Today choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery excursion. Freechoice: Discover Sartène, the archetypal Corsican village or explore the highlights of Bonifacio. Choose to board a local tender towards Lavezzi Island or learn about the heritage of Corsica and their olive oil history. Discovery: Hike along the limestone cliffs to the headland of Capo Pertusato. |
| 10th10 | MayMay | 202424 | Civitavecchia, Italy, disembark the Scenic Eclipse | | |
| Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza. Farewell your crew and take away memories of a truly unforgettable cruise. Please book your flight to depart out of Rome after 12:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. |
