Sailings
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InsideOceanviewBalconySuite
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$3,509 USD $152.57 USD per day$3,978 USD $172.96 USD per day$7,009 USD $304.74 USD per day$7,609 USD $330.83 USD per day
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Date Date Location Location Arrival Arrival Departure Departure
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Tue, Apr 29, 2025 CIVITAVECCHIA (FOR ROME), ITALY (CHECK IN STARTS AT 0100P) -- 6:00 pmWed, Apr 30, 2025 LIVORNO (FOR FLORENCE/PISA), ITALY 7:00 am 7:00 pmThu, May 01, 2025 TOULON/PROVENCE (LA SEYNE), FRANCE 8:00 am 6:00 pmFri, May 02, 2025 BARCELONA, SPAIN 8:00 am 10:00 pmSat, May 03, 2025 AT SEA -- --Sun, May 04, 2025 GIBRALTAR 8:00 am 5:00 pmMon, May 05, 2025 LISBON, PORTUGAL 12:00 pm 10:00 pmTue, May 06, 2025 AT SEA -- --Wed, May 07, 2025 AT SEA -- --Thu, May 08, 2025 SOUTHAMPTON (FOR LONDON), ENGLAND 7:00 am 4:00 pmFri, May 09, 2025 AT SEA -- --Sat, May 10, 2025 SKAGEN, DENMARK 9:00 am 6:00 pmSun, May 11, 2025 COPENHAGEN, DENMARK 7:00 am 5:00 pmMon, May 12, 2025 WARNEMUNDE (FOR BERLIN), GERMANY 8:00 am 10:00 pmTue, May 13, 2025 AT SEA -- --Wed, May 14, 2025 STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN (OVERNIGHT) 8:00 am --Thu, May 15, 2025 STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN -- 2:00 pmFri, May 16, 2025 HELSINKI, FINLAND 9:00 am 10:00 pmSat, May 17, 2025 TALLINN, ESTONIA 8:00 am 5:00 pmSun, May 18, 2025 VISBY, SWEDEN 8:00 am 5:00 pmMon, May 19, 2025 AT SEA -- --Tue, May 20, 2025 KRISTIANSAND, NORWAY 8:00 am 6:00 pmWed, May 21, 2025 AT SEA -- --Thu, May 22, 2025 SOUTHAMPTON (FOR LONDON), ENGLAND 7:00 am --
Port
Arrival Port
One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises first set sail in 1965 with a single ship cruising to Mexico. Today, the line has grown to become the third largest cruise line in the world, renowned for innovative ships, an array of onboard options, and an environment of exceptional customer service. A recognized leader in worldwide cruising, Princess carries 1.7 million guests each year to destinations around the globe ranging in length from three to 114 days, allowing them to see the world and come back new.
Princess Cruises was catapulted to stardom in 1977 when one of its ships, Pacific Princess, was cast in a starring role on a new television show called "The Love Boat." The weekly series, which introduced millions of viewers to the concept of a sea-going vacation, was an instant hit and both the company name and its "seawitch" logo have remained synonymous with cruising ever since. The show, which can still seen around the world, has been widely credited with fueling the dramatic expansion of the industry.
Your culinary journey at sea reaches new heights with an abundance of fresh restaurant choices and dining options aboard Emerald Princess. From revitalized top deck venues like Salty Dog Grill, Slice Pizzeria and Coffee & Cones to brand new casual restaurants Steamers Seafood and Planks BBQ there’s something for every palate. Let the kids play, explore, huddle and create at the newly re-imagined Camp Discovery Youth & Teen Centers and unwind at the refreshed Sanctuary, a tranquil haven reserved for adults.
Included Dining
Dine My Way
With this new offering, you can customize every aspect of mealtime. Make reservations for the main dining room or specialty restaurants at your preferred time each day. Fit in a formal dinner before a show, or order food and drinks to your poolside perch with OceanNow. The choice really is up to you.
World Fresh Market Place
Whenever you visit, you'll find plenty of well-balanced options to choose from. Stop by for breakfast and visit our designer pancake station, or enjoy one of our unique hot cereal offerings. At lunch, look for handcrafted sandwiches, regionally inspired dishes and soups, as well as our carvery selections. For dinner, there's everything from breakfast at night, family kitchen comfort foods, stir-fry or customized pasta, plus a multitude of fresh fruit and salad choices.
The Salty Dog Grill
While you're enjoying the fresh air on the top deck, treat yourself to one of our 100% handmade gourmet burgers, including our Princess Burger or Triple Smoked Burger.
Chocolate Journeys
There are few foods that inspire as much passion as chocolate. Our pastry chefs channeled their love of chocolate into handcrafted treats designed exclusively for our Chocolate Journeys program. These sweet creations combine premium quality chocolate with unique flavors and artful designs and can be found throughout the ship.
Slice Pizzeria
Our top-deck pizzeria features a bold new look that sets the stage for tempting toppings and classic favorites. Try a slice of our award-winning signature Neapolitan-style pizza. Go simple and delicious with just cheese, or mix it up with a variety of toppings that change daily.
More Choices
- 24-hr Room Service
- International Cafe
- Coffee & Cones
Specialty Dining
Crown Grill
With a rich wood decor and a theater-style kitchen, it’s no wonder Crown Grill was named among the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses” by USA TODAY. Featuring premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, this specialty restaurant offers an intimate dining experience in a classically elegant setting and an open kitchen where chefs prepare and cook to order top-quality cuts of beef, chops and seafood.
*additional charge applies.
Sabatini's Italian Trattoria
Unique, handmade pasta courses, prepared fresh daily and treasured family recipes curated by our Italian chefs across the fleet inspire the menu at our acclaimed Italian specialty restaurant.
The Salty Dog Gastropub
A warm, inviting gastropub experience. Try one of our innovative gourmet creations inspired by pub favorites or devour a savory rib eye burger named “Best Burger at Sea” by Cruise Critic. Offering a unique variety of beer, whiskey and cocktail selections, plus live music, there’s something for everyone at this hip, friendly twist on traditional pub fare.
*Additional charges apply. Menu items may vary by ship and are subject to change.
Ultimate Balcony Dining
A luxurious breakfast experience at sea all served right on the privacy of your own balcony by our dedicated waitstaff. Treat yourself to this unparalleled indulgence and savor food, views, and memories that will never be forgotten.
Vines Wine Bar
Voted one of the “Best Wine Bars at Sea,” by USA TODAY and located in a charming corner of the Atrium, Vines boasts an extensive collection of wines, fine Champagne and sparkling wines and regional offerings for purchase. The menu also includes wine flights and a selection of unique wines by the glass. Gourmet delicacies, such as antipasti and tapas, are complimentary with any wine purchase.
*Charges apply. Menu items may vary by ship and are subject to change.
Chef's Table Experience
An extraordinary treat for both gastronomes and gourmet novices. The Chef’s Table is a perfect culinary journey for any special occasion. Indulge in an extravagant multi-course dinner created and hosted by the ship’s executive chef. Perfect for celebrating an anniversary or milestone, or just making your cruise vacation even more amazing. To remember the occasion a photo with the executive chef and a handwritten copy of the special menu is included.
*Limited capacity, reservations required. Additional charge applies.
Just For Kids 3-7
Explore the Treehouse: Even the littlest guests will delight in this whimsical, forest-themed world that inspires playtime and invites exploration. Kids, ages 3 to 7, can dance, enjoy pajama movie nights, create art projects like Animal Planet puppets and masks or compete in a Lego boat-building contest.
Just For Kids 8-12
Step into the Lodge: Inspired by the great outdoors, this cozy center keeps kids busy with games, dancing and kid-sized Olympic competitions. Their minds stay busy, too, with California Science Center programs like rocket building, or they can explore outer space with Stargazing and learning how to build a model roller coaster. Exciting events like talent shows, theme nights, and treasure hunts encourage new friendships and family togetherness.
Just For Teens 13-17
Hang out in the Beach House: This contemporary lounge is "the place" for teens - perfect for hanging out and socializing with late-night movie viewing, hip hop dance classes, video game tournaments and sports competitions like dodgeball and basketball. But that's just the beginning. They'll dazzle on the red carpet with our Rock the Boat teens-only party, complete with awards and "mocktails."
Family
Quality time Together: Princess makes it easy to sail together in comfort. There is a wide selection of staterooms accommodating up to four guests, and you'll enjoy substantial savings on your third and fourth guests. There are also connecting stateroom options, as well as Two Bedroom Family Suites, with room for up to eight guests, which offer more living space, a balcony and two bathrooms, including a full bath tub.
Discovery at SEA Programs
Our exclusive partnership with Discovery lets you come back captivated with Stargazing on our top deck; activities featuring Discovery hit shows such as Shark Week and Finding Bigfoot; plus our new Encounters with Discovery at SEA speaker series. Get more out of your travels with shore excursions recommended by two of the most trusted names in world travel-Discovery and Animal Planet.
Good Spirits At Sea
Good Spirits takes viewers around the globe in search of extraordinary everyday people, sharing stories of spirits and collecting farm-fresh, local ingredients to inspire one-of-a-kind cocktail creations. Immerse yourself in the region as skilled bartenders lead you through an immersive cocktail experience.
Original Musical Productions
Crafted by some of the world's top directors and choreographers, our remarkable and dynamic Princess productions transport you to realms as exotic as the destinations we visit. Imaginative shows created in-house feature dazzling stage sets, Broadway classics, popular hits and original numbers performed by some of the largest and most talented casts at sea.
Festivals of the World
There's nothing like a Princess party to bring people together. Our Festivals of the World hosts onboard events that celebrate timeless traditions from nearly every corner of the globe.* Parties and dancing, lively music and folkloric performances, enriching activities, themed movies and specialty shopping are just some of the ways our Festivals of the World come to life! From Oktoberfest to Rio's Carnival, Festivals of the World is a gala event you won't want to miss.
*On select sailings.
Princess Theater
With dazzling stage sets, artists from around the globe, modern hits and timeless classics, the Princess Theater, our largest theater yet, showcases lavish, original productions with dynamic cast members in sumptuous surroundings. In this ultramodern theater, relax in a plush seat with unobstructed sight lines as the velvet curtain goes up, a state-of-the-art lighting system illuminates the stage, and it's on with the show!
Club Fusion
When the sun goes down and the moon comes up, it's time to get your feet movin' and your heart pumpin' at Club Fusion. A little eclectic and a whole lot of fun, the dance floor lights and booming sound system invite you to get up and show off your moves and grooves. Karaoke contests, live performances and theme-parties like "60s British Invasion" are just a few of the nightly events that will have you on your feet.
More Choices- Movies Under the Stars
- Music & Dancing
- Featured Guest Entertainers
- Skywalkers Nightclub
The Sanctuary
Take a break and indulge in a private getaway at The Sanctuary, our exclusive adults-only retreat offering a relaxing alternative to the myriad outdoor activities and entertainment available elsewhere on the ship. With signature beverages, light meals, and al fresco massages, Serenity Stewards attend to your every need, whether it's to be on hand to provide chilled face towels or Evian water atomizers.
Lotus Spa
Named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365, the Lotus Spa offers a variety of relaxing treatments, such as facials, aroma stone therapy massages, detoxifying ocean wraps and an aromatherapy thermal suite. Or get ready for a night on the town at the salon which features women's styling color, men's haircuts and shaves, manicure and pedicure choices and teeth whitening.
Lotus Spa Fitness Center
The Lotus Spa Fitness Center offers fitness programs designed to help you maximize your wellness with Tour de Cycle, personal training and classes such as Pilates, Yoga, Body Sculpt Boot Camp, Results Based Training and TRX suspension training. The Lotus Spa Fitness Center also features state-of-the-art equipment so you can tone on your own.
Sports Court
Feel the court under your feet and the thrill of victory as you sink the ball in for two points. No matter your athletic ability, there's nothing like shooting a few hoops out in the middle of the ocean as you watch the sun set and the stars come out. Our Sports Court is not only set up for basketball but also for volleyball. Pick up a game, compete against fellow passengers for bragging rights, or start your own dream team.
Princess Links
Imagine playing on the green while surrounded by a beautiful blue ocean. Whether you’re a dabbler or a devoted disciple of the game, our nine-hole miniature putting course will put your finer golfing skills to the test. After you play a round, step inside to try your hand at our golf simulator, which recreates some of the world’s greatest golf courses like St. Andrews and Pebble Beach so you can play and practice like a pro.
*Venues vary by ship and are subject to change.
Photo & Video Gallery
Our staff of digital photographers and videographers helps capture the highlights of your cruise including onboard events, ports and scenery for lasting memories of your trip. Our studio locations are set up in the Atrium each evening and all formal and casual portraits are on display in the gallery the following day. Please ask our staff about portrait packages, reprints and canvas reproductions of your favorite photos!
Vegas Style Casino
For Novices, Casual Players, or High Rollers: From gaming lessons to the latest slot machines to prize tournaments, our Casinos offer fun and excitement. If you enjoy blackjack, or "21," and Texas Hold 'Em, our tables play by Vegas rules and if you relish the challenge of roulette, we offer the American version.
The Piazza
Take a Stroll into the European-style Piazza: Discover Old World charm as you stroll through our breathtaking Piazza-a hub of activity, inspired by the vibrant squares of Europe. Roving street performers, quaint boutiques, a spiral staircase and several glass-walled lifts provide panoramic views. Visit the International Cafe for gourmet coffees, or marvel at the wine selection at Vines, voted one of the "Best Wine Bars at Sea," by USA Today.
The Shops of Princess
Tax and Duty-free Shopping: It's no surprise The Shops are awarded "Best Onboard Shopping" from Porthole magazine year after year. On board, you'll find a fabulous range of fine merchandise from brands like Swarovski, Chanel, Estee Lauder, Clinique, Lancome, Calvin Klein, Citizen and Tissot, plus local crafts, keepsakes and souvenirs. And everyday tax- and duty-free savings can add up to as much as 30% off suggested U.S. retail prices.
Freshwater Pools & Hot Tubs
Soak in a World of Relaxation: Take a dip in our sparkling freshwater pools and leave your everyday world behind. Unwind on a padded lounger and soak up the sun, catch up on reading, listen to music or dream of your next adventure on board or ashore. And what better way to relax and revitalize after a day exploring the world than a long soak in one of our whirling hot tubs. And don't forget, there is always a server nearby to bring you a refreshing cocktail or favorite beverage.
Art Gallery & Auctions
Great art, like the destinations we visit, can be awe-inspiring. Peruse our extensive art gallery, or attend an art history lecture highlighting some of the world's greatest masters. And don't miss our exciting Champagne Art Auctions, which give you the chance to view and bid on a wide range of fine art, including pieces by famous artists like Thomas Kinkade, Peter Max, and Michael Godard. There is no charge to attend these lively events.
More Choices- Sports Court
- Discovery at SEA Program
- Princess Links
- Internet Cafe & Library
- Afternoon Tea
- Guests: 3,080
- Crew: 1,200
- Refurbished: April 2019
- Inaugural Cruise: April 2007
- Tonnage: 113,561
- Length: 951 feet
- Height: 195 feet
The spacious 240 to 298-square-foot Premium Balcony stateroom is appointed with the same amenities as our Balcony stateroom but also features a large balcony of 54 to 109 square feet. Select Premium Balcony staterooms have a rear-facing balcony from which to enjoy dramatic wake views. Some staterooms also have pullman beds to accommodate 3rd and 4th passengers.
These features and amenities are standard in the Premium Balcony stateroom: Balcony with patio furniture, Twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed*, Private bathroom with shower, Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Satellite TV, mini-fridge, hair dryer, safe, closet, phone and desk, 110V, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service, Evening bed turn-down, chocolates on your pillow. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
The spacious approximately 231-square-foot Balcony stateroom is appointed with amenities and outstanding views from an approximately 45-square-foot private balcony. Some staterooms also have pullman beds to accommodate 3rd and 4th passengers.
These features and amenities are standard in the Balcony stateroom: Balcony with patio furniture, Twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed*, Private bathroom with shower, Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Satellite TV, mini-fridge, hair dryer, safe, closet, phone and desk, 110V, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service, Evening bed turn-down, chocolates on your pillow. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
The Interior stateroom is approximately 162 to 182 square feet and appointed with amenities. Some also have pullman beds to accommodate 3rd and 4th passengers.
These features and amenities are standard in the Interior stateroom: Twin beds convertible to a queen-size bed*, Private bathroom with shower, Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Satellite TV, mini-fridge, hair dryer, safe, closet, phone and desk, 110V AC electrical outlet with U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service, Nightly turn-down service. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
The Club Class Mini-Suite is a premium stateroom category featuring our very best Mini-Suite staterooms, as well as the great amenities found in all Mini-Suites -- plus premier dining benefits and luxurious perks. Mini-Suites include a separate sitting area with sofa bed, premium bathroom amenities and two flat-panel televisions. These features and fine amenities are enhanced in a Club Class Mini-Suite stateroom:
Club Class Dining:* Exclusive area of the Main Dining Room, Expedited seating with no wait, Expanded menu options, Dedicated wait staff, Uniquely styled decor, Table-side preparations
Upgraded Amenities & Services: Priority embarkation and disembarkation at the beginning and end of your cruise, One-time complimentary wine setup^, Evening canapes, upon request, Upgraded terry shawl bathrobes
*Open for breakfast and dinner daily as well as lunch on sea days. ^Includes half bottle of red wine and half bottle of white wine on embarkation day.
The luxurious Mini-Suite offers approximately 323 square feet of comfort and a separate seating area with a sofa bed for lounging or sleeping a third passenger. The spacious balcony is approximately 57 square feet and the bathroom offers a combination tub and shower. Some Mini-Suites also have a pullman bed to accommodate a 4th passenger.
These features and amenities are standard in a Mini-Suite stateroom: Welcome glass of champagne Separate seating area with a sofabed, Balcony with patio furniture, Twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed*, Evening bed turn-down, chocolates on your pillow, Two flat-panel televisions, Private bathroom with combination tub and shower, Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Satellite TV, mini-fridge, hair dryer, safe, closet, phone and desk, 110-volt, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
The Oceanview stateroom is approximately 179 square feet and features a picture window for memorable views. The Oceanview stateroom is appointed with amenities. Some also have pullman beds to accommodate 3rd and 4th passengers.
These features and amenities are standard in the Oceanview stateroom: Picture window, Twin beds convertible to a queen-size bed*, Private bathroom with shower, Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Satellite TV, mini-fridge, hair dryer, safe, closet, phone and desk, 110V AC electrical outlet with U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service, Nightly turn-down service. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
The Obstructed Oceanview stateroom is approximately 158 to 179 square feet and features the same amenities as our Oceanview stateroom, but the view from the picture window is either fully or partially obstructed. Some also have pullman beds to accommodate 3rd and 4th passengers.
These features and amenities are standard in the Obstructed Oceanview stateroom: Picture window (fully or partially obstructed), Twin beds convertible to a queen-size bed*, Private bathroom with shower, Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Satellite TV, mini-fridge, hair dryer, safe, closet, phone and desk, 110V AC electrical outlet with U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping , service, Nightly turn-down service. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
Premium accommodations and luxurious appointments are the signature of our expansive 319 to 730-square-foot Suites. Suite staterooms include a spacious cabin and large 114 to 181-square-foot balcony, along with special suite-only benefits. All Suites include a separate seating area with a sofabed, walk-in closet, full bathroom and deluxe amenities.
These features and deluxe amenities are standard in a Suite stateroom: Separate seating area with a sofa bed, Upgraded balcony furniture with room for four: two comfortable loungers, a table and two chairs, Complimentary mini-bar set-up, Walk-in closet with personal safe, Comfortable luxury pillow-top mattress, Twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed*, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Upgraded bathroom amenities and hair dryer, Two flat-panel satellite TVs, Evening bed turn-down, chocolates on your pillow, Refrigerator, Writing desk and phone, 110V, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service, Enhanced nightly turn-down service, A host of other benefits and amenities. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
Premium accommodations and luxurious appointments are the signature of our expansive 319 to 730-square-foot Suites. Suite staterooms include a spacious cabin and large 114 to 181-square-foot balcony, along with special suite-only benefits. All Suites include a separate seating area with a sofabed, walk-in closet, full bathroom and deluxe amenities. This suite is partially obstructed due to support beam.
These features and deluxe amenities are standard in a Suite stateroom: Separate seating area with a sofa bed, Upgraded balcony furniture with room for four: two comfortable loungers, a table and two chairs, Complimentary mini-bar set-up, Walk-in closet with personal safe, Comfortable luxury pillow-top mattress, Twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed*, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Upgraded bathroom amenities and hair dryer, Two flat-panel satellite TVs, Evening bed turn-down, chocolates on your pillow, Refrigerator, Writing desk and phone, 110V, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service, Enhanced nightly turn-down service, A host of other benefits and amenities. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
Premium accommodations and luxurious appointments are the signature of our expansive 460 to 687-square-foot Suites. Your Suite stateroom includes a spacious cabin and large 95 to 241-square-foot balcony, along with special suite-only benefits. Suites feature a separate seating area with a sofabed, walk-in closet, full bathroom and deluxe amenities. This room sleeps up to 4 with 2 single beds.
These features and deluxe amenities are standard in a Suite stateroom: Separate seating area with a sofa bed, Upgraded balcony furniture with room for four: two comfortable loungers, a table and two chairs, Complimentary mini-bar set-up, Walk-in closet with personal safe, Comfortable luxury pillow-top mattress, Twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed*, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, Upgraded bathroom amenities and hair dryer, Two flat-panel satellite TVs, Evening bed turn-down, chocolates on your pillow, Refrigerator, Writing desk and phone, 110V, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings, Daily housekeeping service, Enhanced nightly turn-down service, A host of other benefits and amenities. *Due to some cabin configurations, the two twin beds may not convert to a queen size bed.
Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.
- Stateroom Symbol Legend
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Interconnecting staterooms with private balcony (8 persons)
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Will accommodate third person
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will accomodate rollaway
Star
Your days ashore are invitations to adventure, education and the pure pleasure of seeing things you've only read about before. Visit castles, museums and galleries. Explore ancient cities through winding canals. From glorious gardens and gilded theaters to famous boulevards and fabled landmarks, you're in for a picture-perfect experience.
The port of Civitavecchia is the gateway to The Eternal City, where all roads lead. Mad traffic careens past monuments of the great civilizations of the past. You will want to see it all: the soaring inspiration of St. Peter's, the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel; the flow of life along the Spanish Steps, the Coliseum, the Via Veneto and Trevi Fountain. Be sure to leave time for la dolce vita in one of the piazzas.
The achievements of the Renaissance have been preserved and lovingly cared for by the city...artists like Botticelli and Michelangelo were encouraged to produce masterpieces like the Birth of Venus and David. Advancements in architecture, the likes of which hadn't been seen before in Europe... But before you think that Florence is a city trapped in the past, know that it is a highly modernized Italian town...Florence has also emerged as one of the leading shopping and dining destinations in Italy
Tulon
Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family.
One of the "Pillars of Hercules," Gibraltar is an historic landmark with British and Spanish influences. Guarding the entrance to the Atlantic, the great rock still serves as Britain's threshold to the Mediterranean. Take a cable car to the top of the rock for a spectacular view of two continents as well as the famous Barbary apes.
Lisbon is many cities, from the cobbled alleys of the Alfama district to the broad Parisian style avenues at its heart. View it all from the heights of St. George's Castle. Belem's Monument to the Discoveries recalls the seafaring past, while nearby Sintra's storybook palaces, and the seaside resort of Caiscais, have different tales to tell.
The European culture capital in 1996, Copenhagen is Scandinavia's liveliest city. The musical and artistic pageantry are rivaled only by the changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Amalienborg Palace, home of the royal family since 1794. Yet certain parts of Copenhagen maintain a village-like feel, like the winding streets around the Raadhuspladsen and enchanting Tivoli Gardens.
Berlin is a result of a union between two founding towns, Colln and Berlin. They affiliated themselves in 1307 for a union. After riots, elector Friedrich II declared Colln/Berlin his residence in 1451.
The city was devastated in 1945 after the Nazi terror and the end of World War II. Berlin was then divided into four parts: the East was administered by the Soviet Union, the Southwest by the USA, the West by Great Britain and the Northwest by France. As a result of the Berlin Blockade in 1948, Berlin became an object of the Soviet-American conflict as the Americans and British supplied the three West Sectors via "Air Lift" with aircrafts they nick-named "Candy Bombers". Reconstruction began in both East and West Berlin but not without a price. August 13, 1961 is remembered as the day of division, when the Berlin Wall separated this cities people.
Twenty-eight years later, celebration broke out in the city as the Berlin Wall was torn down on November 9, 1989. Months later in 1990, Berlin was reunified and became the residence of the Federal Government, which held its first plenary session on April 19, 1999 in the redesigned Reichstag. Because the Reichstag has a new glass dome, it has become an attraction for both Berliners and tourists from all over the world. Berlin celebrated the new millennium with a magnificent party at the Brandenburger Tor. Berlin has changed a lot since then and will continue to change.
Distributed across fourteen immaculate islands in a sheltered Baltic bay, crisscrossed by scenic bridges, Sweden's capital is one of the most beautiful cities on earth. It is a sightseeing smorgasbord, including the medieval "city between the bridges," the vast Royal Palace, and the City Hall, which hosts the yearly Nobel Prize ceremonies.
Finland's national capital is a spacious Neoclassical city in fine white granite, whose upbeat pace and fashion sense belie the Finnish reputation for conservatism. The massive Temppeliaukio Church is carved out of solid stone, while on the Esplanadi, famous Finnish designers like Marimekko or Iitala demonstrate a lighter, more modern style.
Tallinn is the capital of the recently independent republic of Estonia. In the medieval old town, with its winding cobbled streets, there is a marvelous cathedral and Gothic town hall dating from the 14th Century.
Situated on the Swedish isle of Gotland, Hanseatic Visby was one of the most powerful cities in Europe. Today quaint homes and churches huddle together inside 13th-century walls. In former times, it was called "the city of ruins and roses," for along with its rose-covered churches, there is one somber sight - Gallows Hill, a place of execution so villains "might die looking at the loveliest spot on earth."