MSC Western Mediterranean Cruise & Stay Sorrento

Set on a spectacular headland, Sorrento is located on one of the most magnificent coastlines in Italy, with breathtaking views sweeping across the Bay of Naples. It is both an ideal base from which to explore the main sights of the Neapolitan region and an enchanting town in its own right. You'll be struck by the beauty of its winding, cobblestoned streets giving way to elegant piazzas where pretty little pavement cafes invite you to sit awhile, sip a coffee, admire the spectacular views sweeping across the Bay of Naples, and enjoy a taste of la dolce vita, Sorrento style. In the evenings, life tends to centre round the main square, Piazza Tasso, where good value, high quality restaurants abound and there are lovely pavement cafes from where you can watch the town come alive.

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.