A Taste Of Italy With Marella Cruises

This is a sponsored post for Marella Cruises.

Anyone considering a summer cruise this year or next should absolutely think about booking a trip to Italy. It’s a breathtaking country with a whole host of amazing ports to explore – some that you no doubt know already, but plenty that are hidden gems as well.

Being on a Marella cruise means you get more time in your Italian ports, and less time at sea – you’ll flight out to your embarkation port so you start your cruise much closer to the action, and you’ll sail to some beautiful destinations – but once you’re there, what are the best options for excursions?

I’ve picked out just a handful of the best – there are so many more you can choose from. But these represent the breadth of what Italy has to offer.

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Benefits of Booking Italy Excursions With Marella

Whenever you’re visiting a port on a cruise, you have three options – head ashore and explore on your own, book an excursion through a third party, or book through the cruise line.

There are pros and cons to each, but for Italy there are some great benefits to booking your excursions with Marella. Number one is that absolute guarantee that you’ll never miss your ship – even if your vehicle broke down, the ship would wait for you – if using a third party, it might not be able to.

Plus, you know that Marella’s excursions give you plenty of bang for your buck – each itinerary is planned to maximise your time exploring, and you know that any necessary tickets for your destinations will be included.

Booking excursions with Marella may cost a little more than going third-party, but when you have a distance to travel from the port to your actual destination, the peace of mind makes it worthwhile.

The Best of Marella’s Italy Cruise Excursions

Rome & The Colosseum – Civitavecchia

Embark on a journey through Rome, where every step echoes with the legacy of Julius Caesar’s era and the splendour of the Baroque period. This tour is a time capsule, offering an immersive experience into Rome’s historical treasures, including exclusive insights into two of its most famed attractions. The adventure weaves through the Italian capital’s iconic landmarks, such as the majestic Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.

A standout experience is exploring the Colosseum, where the echoes of gladiatorial battles still linger. Beyond the Colosseum, the tour presents other remarkable sites: imagine ancient senators at the Caracalla Baths, and feel the pulse of chariot races at the Circus Maximus.

The Roman Forum is the finale, brimming with ancient temples and arches. This tour is a condensed, exhilarating plunge into Rome’s historical wonders.

Frasassi Caves – Ancona

Located just a 90-minute journey from Ancona, the Frasassi Caves await, comprising two vast caverns that open into a maze of subterranean chambers. Spanning over 13 kilometres, these chambers are uniquely named, with titles such as the ‘Great Cave of the Wind’ and the ‘Room of the Candles’.

Uncovered in 1971, these caves are a treasure trove of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. You’ll spend two hours exploring these fascinating geological formations on a guided tour.

Alberobello – Brindisi or Taranto

This tour features a visit to the extraordinary town of Alberobello, a place like no other on earth. Famous for its unique cone-shaped rooftops known as ‘trulli’, Alberobello is so distinctive that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The town is characterized by its whitewashed, limestone houses adorned with the iconic ‘trulli’ and draped in ivy. Narrow, winding pathways ascend through the town, dotted with pots of vibrant fuchsia flowers. The journey includes a stop at the Church of Saint Anthony, situated on a hillside, which provides stunning panoramic views of the entire village of Alberobello.

Godfather Villages – Messina

Nestled on the southern edges of the Peloritan Mountains, the charming town of Savoca, established in the early 12th century, awaits.

A local guide will lead you through this picturesque town, visiting key sites like the Chiesa Madre and the Church of the Capucines. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo in front of the iconic Bar Vitelli, celebrated for its appearance in The Godfather film. Stroll amidst the remnants of the Medieval Castle, immersing yourself in the authentic Sicilian ambience.

The journey then takes you to the stunning Medieval village of Forza D’Agro, perched above the Ionian Sea and guarded by a rock where a 16th-century castle stands. Visit the Church of Annunciation, a filming location for Michael Corleone’s wedding in The Godfather II. Enjoy some free time for photography in this scenic village before making your way back to the coach.

La Cinta Beach – Olbia

Sardinia’s stunning beaches rival those of the Caribbean with their shimmering sands and crystal-clear waters, epitomizing a paradisiacal escape. For those seeking a day of pure relaxation, this beach transfer offers an ideal opportunity.

You’ll be transported by coach to the exquisite La Cinta beach, a celebrated spot in Sardinia renowned for being one of the longest and widest sandy expanses on the island. During the peak of summer, La Cinta transforms into a lively hub, complete with a bar and facilities for windsurfing. Whether you’re looking to bask in the sun, enjoy a cocktail on the beach, or glide over the waves, La Cinta has everything you need for a perfect beach day.

Pompeii & Vesuvius – Naples

This tour is a journey through history, showcasing two of Italy’s most remarkable sites. The first stop is Pompeii, a city famously preserved in ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Here, you’ll witness ancient temples, villas, and streets that remain largely as they were two millennia ago, including the eerie figures of residents petrified in their final moments.

The next destination is Mount Vesuvius itself, an infamous and active volcano, unique as the only one on the European mainland. The tour includes a coach ride to the 1,000-meter mark, followed by a trek through a national park to reach the summit. The effort to ascend is rewarded with breathtaking views, offering a perspective that is truly unforgettable.

A Taste of Trieste – Trieste

This excursion combines a guided tour of Trieste with a delightful sampling of local olive oil and wine. Beginning at the port, you’ll embark on a leisurely walk into Trieste’s core, meandering through its charming cobblestone squares lined with cafés, characteristic of this Italian region. As you soak in the ambiance of the city’s piazzas and cathedrals, the tour continues with a bus journey through the scenic Carso district.

This picturesque highland area stretches into Slovenia and is marked by towering white cliffs along the sea. The unique microclimate here fosters diverse flora and fauna, offering a striking contrast to the rugged coastal landscape.

The tour culminates with a visit to a local factory where you’ll experience the rich flavours of wines and olive oils made from regional produce. This tasting is complemented by an array of delicious breads and cheeses, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

Final Word

Remember that this is just a small sample of the excursions you can enjoy, not only in these ports of call but across the whole of Italy, when you’re on a Marella cruise.

Feeling inspired? It’s a stunning country and I’d highly recommend a visit – so why not book your own Mediterranean Marella cruise now and secure your perfect summer getaway, perhaps with some of these excursions on your to-do list?