Countryway is offering the following excursions at no charge to all attendees. These excursions are optional. We do ask that you commit to your choices, so we do not fall below group minimums needed for the excursion to take place.
All attendees will receive a booking link to other available excursions/onboard activities.
(attendees responsible for payment for any additional excursions/activities of their choosing)
SATURDAY, MAY 17
Capri Island Tour
Leave the ship and board a ferry or a hydrofoil for a 50-minute transfer through the Bay of Naples with the beautiful island of Capri as a destination. After docking at the Marina Grande on the north side of the island, you will board a minibus to begin an enchanting island tour. You will reach Anacapri, your first introduction on the Capri-style life. Enjoy some free time to browse the cozy streets with the many handicraft shops on the way to the splendid Villa San Michele. Your guide will introduce you to the history of this important site. Built by the Swedish physician Dr. Munthe at the turn of the 20th-century, it affords gorgeous views of the island and the sea beyond. Next, you will board the island minibus to your next stop, the town of Capri to have some free time to explore the charming streets that surround the famous Piazza Umberto I, also known as "Piazzetta". Or, if you wish, walk to visit Augustus Gardens on your own by buying the entrance ticket on the spot, a place from where you can enjoy a fascinating view over the world-famous Faraglioni. Next, you can choose to return down to Marina Grande with the funicular (paying an additional cost) or onboard the island minibus. You will find the ferry or the hydrofoil for the return trip to Naples and your ship.
SUNDAY, MAY 18
Architecture of Florence and Pisa
Florence is flooded with fantastic architecture, so a knowledgeable guide to navigate the highlights and convey the stories is a must. Meet the guide who'll unlock Florence's treasures after a 90-minute bus ride from the port at Livorno, followed by a short walk from the drop-off point. The two and a half hours walking tour begin with an external visit to the city's monumental cathedral, allowing time to admire its beautiful, Filippo Brunelleschi-built dome. Afterwards, the tour continues to palace-lined Republic Square (Piazza della Repubblica) and on to Ponte Vecchio, the distinctive bridge stretching across the Arno River. Following the walking tour, enjoy an exterior viewing of the Basilica of Santa Croce and its marble facade in white and green, followed by free time for a total duration of 90 minutes. Next is a one-hour drive to Pisa, where you will stop at the Square of Miracles. This famous expanse is a showcase of architectural splendour, encased by three awe-inspiring buildings: the Baptistry of San Giovanni, Pisa Cathedral, and the remarkable Leaning Tower of Pisa (which is technically the bell tower of Pisa Cathedral). Break out the camera for external viewings of all three structures. A 45-minute drive then returns to the pier at Livorno.
MONDAY, MAY 19
Saint Remy De Provence
Step into the heart of Provence with this enchanting five-hour excursion to St-Remy-de-Provence - a village steeped in history, art, and legend. Your adventure begins with a scenic 75-minute drive through the rolling countryside, as the landscape gradually transforms into the rugged beauty of the Alpilles mountain range. As you approach St-Remy, you'll find this charming village nestled at the foot of the northern slopes, its stone buildings and tree-lined streets inviting you to explore. This is a place where history and nature intertwine, offering a captivating glimpse of southern France at its best. Your 45-minute guided walking tour will take you down narrow, winding streets lined with ancient plane trees. As you meander through St-Remy's atmospheric squares, you'll be greeted by the soft gurgling of fountains and the vibrant energy that fills the air. Here, the legacy of the great artist Vincent van Gogh lives on. It was in this very town, in 1889 and 1890, that Van Gogh found inspiration during his time at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum. The surrounding landscape of wheat fields, olive groves, and cypress trees can still be seen in many of his iconic works, including the famous Irises. St-Remy is also the birthplace of the legendary astrologer Nostradamus, whose cryptic predictions continue to captivate people worldwide. You'll pass by the house where he was born on Rue Hoche, adding another layer of mystique to this extraordinary village. The tour also includes a visit to the magnificent Saint-Martin Church, with its soaring 14th-century bell tower and remarkable acoustics. Inside, the restored organ - with nearly 500 pipes - creates a soundscape that is truly awe-inspiring. After your guided tour, you'll have an hour and 45 minutes of free time to explore this picturesque village at your own pace. Wander through local the cozy streets, browse for antiques, or simply relax in a café with a glass of wine, enjoying the exquisite flavours of Provençal cuisine. When the time comes, you'll rejoin your guide and coach for the return journey to the pier in Marseille lasting approximately 75 minutes.
