Bonifacio (Corsica), France
Stroll down the narrow, twisting lanes of this lovely walled cliff-top medieval town past ancient buildings where native son Napoleon walked when he commanded the local garrison in 1793. Visit stunning churches like Ste. Marie-Majeure, a 12th-century structure with a fountain that collects rainwater, and the old market. Or explore the starkly beautiful countryside and Sart¸ne, a traditional Corsican town.
Porto Venere (Cinque Terre), Italy
Porto Venere clings to the rugged coast just south of Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera. The poets Byron and Shelley were smitten by the area two centuries ago, and it's just as striking today. Saint Peter Church sits on a rocky ancient site previously occupied by a pagan temple built to honor Venus, which gave rise to the name Portovenere. Byron's Cove, where the poet loved to swim, is nearby. Andria Doria Castle provides the best view of the church and sea. San Lorenzo Church, another landmark, has been rebuilt several times over the past eight centuries.
Provence (Marseille), France
See the sights and enjoy the views of historic old Marseille and visit the charming fishing port of Cassis. Or venture into the celebrated Proven¨al countryside and explore lovely Aix or stroll through Avignon and see the Papal palace, the famed bridge and the hilltop village of Les Baux.
Cannes, France
The quintessential Cote d'Azur resort city, Cannes has long been a playground for the rich and famous. Its epicenter is La Croisette, a boutique-lined boulevard with a legendary 7-mile beach. While it's easy to spend a day here people-watching, be sure to venture up Susquet Hill and wander the winding streets of the old town. The 12th-century Chapel of St. Anne and the eclectic collection of art in the Museum of the Castre may be of interest. The hilltop also affords phenomenal views of Cannes and the two islands of Lerins lying just offshore.
Portofino, Italy
Stroll through picturesque Portofino and Santa Margherita. Be awed by the stunning scenery as you explore the beautiful coastal resorts of Ravallo, Sestri Levante or San Fruttuoso by local boat and on foot.
Olbia/Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Italy
Wander through the lovely town of Olbia and visit its 11th-century cathedral with Roman artifacts and Punic burials. Or drive into the stunningly beautiful countryside of the Costa Smeralda with its towering cliffs, quiet grottoes and exquisite sandy beaches beside emerald green waters. Explore the enigmatic remnants of the ancient Nuraghic culture.
Saint-Tropez, France
Explore Saint-Tropez or journey beyond this resort and enjoy the exquisite hilly Proven¨al countryside and its charming villages with narrow stepped streets, lovely churches and stunning scenic views. Visit a local winery or travel along the coast and revel in the wonderful views.
Sanary-Sur-Mer, France
A delightful contrast to the larger destinations on the Cote d'Azur, Sanary-sur-Mer is a petite, carefree fishing village. Many streets are pedestrian-only and lined with boutiques and boulangeries. Points of interest include a 13th-century tower and the Church of Saint Nazaire, constructed in the Gothic Revival style. Still, the true charm of Sanary-sur-Mer is that you never feel compelled to do more than enjoy its relaxed atmosphere.
Sé¸te, France
Spend a glorious day in the Proven¨al countryside, seeing magnificent Carcassonne with its towers, turrets, half-timbered houses and superb nave of the 11th-century Basilica de Saint-Nazaire, beautiful hilltop Les Baux or Arles, where Van Gogh found so much inspiration. Or explore fortified Aigues Mortes, in the heart of the Petite Camargue, surrounded by ponds, marshes and saltpans. You will have the opportunity to select from a variety of optional shore excursions, for an additional charge, which have been designed to acquaint you with the highlights of each port of call.
All air, cruise and land accommodations, local transportation and optional shore excursions are arranged by Oceania Cruises, Inc. who may use other suppliers or providers to render the services. |
