P&O CRUISES

Mediterranean

N916 - Ventura - 03 July 2009 for 14 nights

Mediterranean

Shore excursions by port

Please note: The excursion(s) listed are typical for this port. During the 12 weeks before departure,
confirmed excursions can be viewed and pre-reserved via the Cruise Personaliser.

  • Highlights of Barcelona - BEST SELLER
    Highlights of Barcelona - BEST SELLER
    Be introduced to many of Barcelona’s most famous sights, including its historic heart, Gothic Quarter and the Spanish Village.
    Be introduced to many of Barcelona’s most famous sights, including its historic heart, Gothic Quarter and the Spanish Village.
    One of Barcelona’s famous landmarks is the 600-year-old Catalan Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Hercules. View the exterior of this marvellous building as well as absorbing the other sights of the Gothic Quarter.

    Your tour continues to the huge Catalunya Square - the main square of the city - before taking the Passeig de Gracia to the city’s most unique attraction, the Church of Sagrada Familia (photostop only). Begun in 1884 and still unfinished, this temple with its profuse decoration is a sight that should not be missed.

    Visit the Spanish Village on the Montjuic Mountain, built for the 1929 Universal Exposition. Take a stroll through the Andalusian or Castilian streets in the ‘Village’. Free time will be given for you to browse independently and shop for souvenirs.

    Leaving the Spanish Village, enjoy a panoramic view of the Olympic Ring surrounding the Olympic Stadium.
    • Shopping
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    4 hours

  • FC Barcelona - SOMETHING DIFFERENT
    FC Barcelona - SOMETHING DIFFERENT
    Visit the prestigious home of F.C. Barcelona – one of the biggest clubs in Europe and Europe’s largest football stadium.
    Visit the prestigious home of F.C. Barcelona – one of the biggest clubs in Europe and Europe’s largest football stadium.
    A short panoramic drive will take you past Via Layetana, Passeig Gracia and the Diagonal area. Heading into the Montjuic Mountain, you will be able to see the Olympic Ring, Olympic Stadium and a short photostop at the mirador.

    Known locally as the Barça, Camp Nou is home to the city’s famous football club, F.C. Barcelona. This is one of the world’s richest football clubs and has more than 100,000 members. On arrival, you’ll go through the visiting team’s changing room, and continue along the corridor where players go out onto the ground. Afterwards, the guide will show you the press room and interview room. Get a view of the stadium from the VIP seats as you take a trip to the upper floor.

    Football fans will enjoy a visit to the Barca Museum, which displays memorabilia and trophies. You’ll have an exterior view of the impressive stadium, built in 1957 and extended in 1982 to accommodate 98,000 seated fans. A guided tour will be followed by free time to explore independently. As you exit the ground, there will be an opportunity for souvenir shopping.
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    4 hours

  • Antonio Gaudi Tour
    Antonio Gaudi Tour
    Explore the architectural legacy of one of Barcelona’s most famous sons, Antonio Gaudi.
    Explore the architectural legacy of one of Barcelona’s most famous sons, Antonio Gaudi.
    On a short panoramic tour of the city, you’ll pass through the Paseo de Gracia, the widest avenue in town. Along here, you’ll see plenty of Modernist houses designed by Gaudí including the unusual La Pedrera House and other important architects of the period.

    Designed by Gaudi in 1881 and never completed, the Church of Sagrada Familia stands as witness to Gaudi’s creative, although controversial genius. Construction began again in 1940, but faltered due to confusion over Gaudi’s plans. Join your guide for an inside visit and learn about Gaudi’s vision for the Church. The final construction is meant to include 18 towers in total and is based on the twelve apostles, four evangelists, the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.

    Park Güell was designed by Gaudi in the early part of the 20th century. Take a leisurely stroll through this hillside garden suburb of Barcelona, fashioned after the English model of a ‘Garden City’.
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    4 hours

  • Gothic Quarter City Walk
    Gothic Quarter City Walk
    Enjoy an introduction to Barcelona’s historic heart, the Gothic Quarter, which exudes the very essence of the city.
    Enjoy an introduction to Barcelona’s historic heart, the Gothic Quarter, which exudes the very essence of the city.
    From the Monument of Columbus, you’ll enter the colourful boulevard known as La Rambla. The walking tour then begins from the oldest part of Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter, surrounded by the remains of Roman walls, within which very little has changed for centuries. This is an ‘Island’ within the urban metropolis with narrow, tortuous streets of ancient stone and magnificent historical buildings.

    Moving into the Gothic Quarter, you will cross Plaza Reial to arrive at the site of the Palau de la Generalitat, a 15th century Gothic structure with a renaissance façade. After visiting Plaza Nova with its twin semi-circular towers of the well-preserved Roman Walls, and following the remaining ruins, you will arrive at the Cathedral, a Gothic structure dating from the 14th and 15th centuries.

    At the Boqueria food market, you’ll have a chance to ponder the many food stalls and soak in the atmosphere of the place.

    Following the visit, there will be some free time for independent sightseeing and shopping before rejoining your coach back to the ship.
    • Shopping
    • Substantial activity
    Duration:

    3 hours

  • Barcelona by Bike
    Barcelona by Bike
    A fun and unique way to explore the oldest area of Barcelona - the Gothic Quarter.
    A fun and unique way to explore the oldest area of Barcelona - the Gothic Quarter.
    With your fellow cyclists, your guided bike ride will begin in the popular Ciutadella Park. Originally a fortress designed for King Felipe V, the Park now offers a small boating lake with stunning orange groves and a variety of parrots that live in the palm trees.

    During the 2 ½ hour bike ride, you’ll pass by the Zoological Museum, Parliament, Arc del Triumph and Palau de la Musica until you reach the Old Town’s Gothic Cathedral. Here you will have some free time for shopping or to explore the Cathedral independently.

    The tour continues through the famous and colourful avenue of La Rambla, passing through historic squares. Soak up the history and admire the beautiful old buildings as you cycle through the very narrow streets lined with unusual shops. From Columbus Square, the route will take you back to the Ciutadella Park, passing through the Moll de la Fusta, Passeig Maritim and Port Olimpic.
    • Shopping
    • Substantial activity
    • Activity excursion
    Duration:

    4 hours

  • Montserrat by Rail
    Montserrat by Rail
    The unique ‘jagged mountain’ formations of Montserrat are a magnificent setting for Catalonia’s sacred Benedictine monastery.
    The unique ‘jagged mountain’ formations of Montserrat are a magnificent setting for Catalonia’s sacred Benedictine monastery.
    During your drive to Montserrat, you will see the scenery change from beautiful countryside to the rugged Montserrat mountain range, which rises majestically to 4,051 feet (1,235 metres).

    The 1,000-year-old Monastery of Montserrat is nestled at the foot of the eroded mountain crags of Montserrat. Like jagged teeth, the rocky formations soar skywards creating unparalleled natural beauty. The famous Monastery, founded as a Benedictine Abbey during the 11th century, is firmly perched on a ledge hanging 2,400 feet above the River Llobregat and is home to the 12th century Black Virgin of Montserrat.

    You will transfer to the top of the mountain by rack-railway, which will provide exceptional views of the mountain’s spectacular environment.
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    4½ hours

  • Gourmet Shopping Tour - SOMETHING DIFFERENT
    Gourmet Shopping Tour - SOMETHING DIFFERENT
    Discover a different side of Barcelona! The city’s gastronomic establishments are a must for all gourmets and ‘foodies’.
    Discover a different side of Barcelona! The city’s gastronomic establishments are a must for all gourmets and ‘foodies’.
    A unique opportunity to see, buy and taste some of the city’s first class delicatessen products and local treats. Discover the famous Boqueria Market, in existence since 1836. The market sells a wide variety of local produce, such as vegetables, fish, meat, fruit, olive oil, cheeses, Spanish ‘turrỏn’ and much more. Your guide will introduce you to many traditional stores, all located in the Gothic Quarter, where you can find a special souvenir, or indulge yourself with delicious treats. Almost all the stores are more than 100 years old; the oldest was founded in 1761.

    You’ll have time to stop at one of the old-fashioned ‘granjas’, which are typical bars from Barcelona, to relax and enjoy a coffee or a hot chocolate. Taste the traditional ‘churros’, made from dough, coated in sugar and cinnamon and shaped into tubes – delicious when dipped into a cup of hot chocolate! (Refreshments are at passenger’s own expense).

    During your tour you will gain an insight into Catalunya’s gastronomic history and pass by many of Barcelona’s most interesting corners, like the Cathedral or the Church of Santa Maria del Mar.

    If you wish to indulge in some epicurean delights, then this tour is definitely for you.
    • Shopping
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    4 hours

  • Spanish Wine and Cava - NEW
    Spanish Wine and Cava - NEW
    Visit two of the most well known wine and cava producers in Spain for a tour that will truly please your palate.
    Visit two of the most well known wine and cava producers in Spain for a tour that will truly please your palate.
    Escape the bustle of the city and head towards a contrasting landscape dotted with vineyards and Masias – typical old Catalan houses. Your drive through this picturesque countryside will bring you to Cavas Codorniu. Codorniu is the biggest cava producer in the world, with the first bottle of cava being produced here back in 1872. Despite its size, the estate has managed to retain its old world charm and atmosphere, amid modernist style buildings that blend into the surrounding countryside. Take a short train ride through part of the 30 kilometres of underground cellars where famous reserves are stored for up to 5 years. After your visit, enjoy a sparkling glass of cava before the opportunity to purchase a bottle to take home.

    Torres Wine Cellars, near Pacs de Penedes is a modern, open winery standing alongside ageing cellars. Visit the installations on a guided tour before tasting three of the excellent wines.

    Thanks to its climate, culture and history, Catalonia has become one of the most advanced and dynamic wine regions in the world. The region attracts many visitors every year, who come to admire the great monuments, churches, monasteries, and castles, enjoy the cuisine and of course acquaint themselves with the excellent wineries.
    • Refreshments included
    • Shopping
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    5 hours

  • Helicopter over Barcelona
    Helicopter over Barcelona
    Been to Barcelona before or just fancy a quick overview? Why not see the city from the sky on an exciting helicopter ride.
    Been to Barcelona before or just fancy a quick overview? Why not see the city from the sky on an exciting helicopter ride.
    A short transfer to the heliport in the harbour will bring you to your awaiting helicopter.

    Hold tight for an exciting 10 minute ride over the colourful city of Barcelona. See if you can spot some of the significant sites such as the Forum, La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell and Tibidabo hills. You will also fly over FC Barcelona’s Nou Camp stadium and the Olympic grounds and facilities at Montjuic.

    Your panoramic helicopter will be flying 1,500 feet over the city to provide you with a true bird’s eye view of Barcelona.
    • Limited activity
    Duration:

    40 minutes

  • Port Aventura
    Port Aventura
    Join an adventure to Spain’s leading theme park. Port Aventura is brimming with rides and thrills for all the family!
    Join an adventure to Spain’s leading theme park. Port Aventura is brimming with rides and thrills for all the family!
    Want to experience all four corners of the world in one place? A trip to Port Aventura will offer you just that. See some typical Mediterranean villages in the Mediterranean area or visit a Chinese junk in the China Zone. Meanwhile, the Mayan jungle in the Far West is well worth exploring before you discover the limpid waterfalls in Polynesia and the silver mine in Mexico.

    As well as taking a fascinating trip through the five different zones of the park, you can participate in numerous theme park rides or perhaps jump on a steam train which will take you around the park.

    Covering an area of 115 hectares, there is also a wide variety of games and entertainments including many shops and restaurants.

    At Port Aventura, you will travel through different cultures, plunge into the most exotic, mysterious and ancestral civilizations, and have a lot of fun along the way!
    • Especially suitable for families
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    8 hours

  • Spanish Village Treasure Hunt
    Spanish Village Treasure Hunt
    Enjoy a fun-filled treasure hunt in Barcelona’s charming and historic Spanish Village.
    Enjoy a fun-filled treasure hunt in Barcelona’s charming and historic Spanish Village.
    Built in 1929 for the International Exhibition, the Spanish Village is a showcase of arts, crafts and Spanish architecture. The original project consisted of recreating the local architectural styles of each Spanish province.

    On arrival, each family will be given a back pack with everything you’ll need to begin your scavenger hunt. Included in your pack will be a magnifying glass, postcards with the pictures of the places you have to find, a wooden key ring, a hand mirror with the skyline of Barcelona and of course, most importantly, a map!

    Your guide will brief you about the hunt, then the fun will begin! Follow the clues to find 3 different workshops in the village: basket-making, ceramics and glass-shaping. In each shop, you will have the chance to see how the craftsmen work whilst collecting a gift from each place as a souvenir of your quest!

    If all this scavenging makes you peckish, you can exchange the voucher you are given for an ice cream at the snack bar. But first, you’ll have to find the snack bar too!

    When you’ve found all your treasures, enjoy some free time to explore on your own. Return to the ship via a photo-stop of the Olympic Ring and views of the Olympic Stadium.
    • Especially suitable for families
    • Refreshments included
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    3½ hours

  • Fantasy Island Waterpark
    Fantasy Island Waterpark
    Make a splash at the Waterfun Park of Isla Fantasia!
    Make a splash at the Waterfun Park of Isla Fantasia!
    There’s water action everywhere with 21 different attractions at Fantasy Island, including Torpedo Slides, Grand Rapids, Aquamania, Double Spiral, Foams, Kamakazes, Superslides and a children’s pool with a set of mini slides in the shape of different animals. Hurtle down the rapids before encountering an exhilarating splashdown - soak up the excitement and shoot into mid-air reaching mind blowing speeds. Feel the sensation as you slide up and down in a spinning giant tube, and hang on tight in your boat as you tumble down to a splash pond below.

    Lunch has not been included in the fare and can be purchased from the cafés within the Park.

    With so much to do, you’re guaranteed not to be bored!
    • Especially suitable for families
    • Beach/water related
    • Substantial activity
    • Activity excursion
    Duration:

    6½ hours

  • A Beautiful Coastline - NEW
    A Beautiful Coastline - NEW
    Discover the diverse coastline of the Coast Brava on a boat trip to Tossa del Mar and relax on the beach of Platja Gran.
    Discover the diverse coastline of the Coast Brava on a boat trip to Tossa del Mar and relax on the beach of Platja Gran.
    Your tour heads to the resort of Blanes, from where you’ll embark on a leisurely 45-minute boat trip to Tossa de Mar. As you cruise along the coastline, sit back, relax and take in the sight of some of the Costa Brava’s most picturesque beaches. Platja Gran is the main beach in the centre of Tossa de Mar, set in an attractive horseshoe bay and dominated by the ancient defence towers on the headland.

    On a short guided visit, you’ll explore the old part of the town, which still retains its Spanish old world charm with winding, cobble-stoned streets and ancient houses. Afterwards you’ll have around 3 hours at leisure to soak up some of its rich culture and history, explore the stunningly beautiful natural surroundings and relax on the beach.

    Lunch will be at your own leisure with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from along the beach front or maybe try a more typical Spanish restaurant along one of the narrow streets.

    After a day in the sunshine, your coach will return you to Barcelona.
    • Especially suitable for families
    • Refreshments included
    • Beach/water related
    • Moderate activity
    Duration:

    8 hours

  • Panoramic Barcelona
    Panoramic Barcelona
    Relax in the comfort of your coach as this panoramic drive introduces you to Barcelona’s attractions at a leisurely pace.
    Relax in the comfort of your coach as this panoramic drive introduces you to Barcelona’s attractions at a leisurely pace.
    Your tour starts off with a drive towards the Gothic area passing by the Citadel Park, the Arch of Triumph, Roman and Medieval walls and Catalunya Square. Your informative guide will point out all the highlights and give explanations along the way.

    Passeig de Gracia is a wide boulevard lined with lovely Art Nouveau buildings, that connects the Gothic Quarter to the village of Gracia.

    Despite being under construction for more than 100 years, the Church of La Sagrada Familia still lacks complete walls and a roof. Gaudi’s magnificent nativity façade - complete with flamboyant spires, stained-glass windows and sculpted figures - is an architectural masterpiece to behold. Enjoy a brief stop here for photos or souvenir shopping.

    A short stop at the panoramic viewpoint of Mirador del Alcalde will be made, from where there are splendid views over Barcelona.
    • Limited activity
    Duration:

    3 hours

Guide to Symbols

Pop up symbol guide

Please note: The excursion(s) listed are typical for this port. During the 12 weeks before departure,
confirmed excursions can be viewed and pre-reserved via the Cruise Personaliser.

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