MSC Western Mediterranean Cruise & Stay Amalfi Coast

The jewel in the crown of the Amalfi Coast, Amalfi is set on a sand and shingle beach overlooking the glistening Bay of Salerno. The beautiful waterfront is a great place to soak up the sun, and as you enjoy la dolce vita for which Amalfi is famous, you can also admire its proud maritime history evident in the architecture of the resort. In the town centre, the Duomo stands atop a long flight of steps with a lively piazza branching off into narrow streets with brightly coloured buildings housing trattorias and designer boutiques. Both in the main square and on the seafront you will find lovely restaurants and streetside cafes with mesmerising views.

Cruise to Naples, located on Italy's stunning Amalfi coast, a city rich in history. There are plenty of things to do in Naples for the adventurous and not so adventurous wanderer. If you feel like staying close, Naples grand piazzas, cathedrals and castles will keep you thoroughly entertained. It is also highly recommended to hop on the train at Napoli Centrale station, and take the 30-minute trip to the historical wonder that is the ancient city of Pompeii! This huge archaeological site, once a sophisticated Roman city, was preserved under ash and pumice after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Visitors can explore and walk the streets just as the romans did.

Livorno is a one of the most important ports in Italy. Discover its colourful history and seafood that is famed to be the best on the Tyrrhenian coast. While away the hours discovering the historic quarter, laced with extravagant architecture and Venetian style canals. Or take a bus to Florence, just over an hour from Livorno, but well worth it to explore the entire city by foot and discover its mind blowing Renaissance art and architecture. Pisa and Rome are also a short distance by train from this port, so you'll be spoilt for choice on this part of your exciting journey.

As Italy's largest sea port, Genoa has a buzzing and lively atmosphere. Explore its rich history, fascinating culture and contemporary architecture. Stroll through the narrow laneways in its old city – located only a short stroll from the port – which has been rejuvenated with modern shops, restaurants and bars. If you haven't had enough of sea life just yet, Topflight recommends taking the 15 minute walk to the aquarium, which is the largest in Europe!

Founded in 600 BC, Marseille is the oldest city in France and today you are free to explore this bustling port city in whatever way you choose! Le Vieux Port is a great spot to sit down and watch the hustle bustle of Marseille life, or indeed, watch the fishermen sell their fare at the morning fish market. Have a wander around Le Panier, Marseille's old town, which is filled with magical, meandering cobblestoned streets lined with dainty cafés, eateries and shops. For those preferring a more historical experience, Topflight recommends visiting the Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, the Romano-Byzantine basilica perched on the city's highest hill, La Garde.

Today, you arrive in the Catalan capital of Spain. The enchanting seaside city of Barcelona is packed full of culture, brimming with exquisite architecture and laden with superb dining spots. Hop off your ship and stroll towards La Rambla – Barcelona's most famous street – located a 15 minute walk away from the port. From here, you will find a wealth of sights, shops and restaurants to explore. Topflight recommends visiting El Barrio Gótico aka the Gothic Quarter, one of the oldest and most beautiful neighbourhoods in the city. A magical labyrinth of cobblestoned streets, lined with quaint shops, bustling bars and boutique shops, you will find no shortage of things to do here!

For those who have visited Majorca but never ventured beyond Palma Nova or Magaluf, a visit to Palma de Mallorca will be a real eye opener. The place is rich in culture and history with the stunning "Catedral de Mallorca" providing an astonishing backdrop to your days adventure. There are boundless amounts of galleries, restaurants, and bars speckled along the vibrant bohemian streets, all ready to be discovered.

Today you will have time to spend as you wish on board your cruise ship, discovering all of its fantastic facilities. With so much to do, so many places to eat and drink and so many ways to unwind, you'll find that on your cruise holiday, the journey is just as enjoyable as exploring the destination.