| Cruise Region : South Africa / Madagascar, Indian Ocean |
| Company : MSC Cruises |
| Ship : MSC Sinfonia |
| Journey Start : Mon 20 Mar 2028 |
| Journey End : Sun 16 Apr 2028 |
| Count Nights : 27 nights |
| Day | Date | Port | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20.03 Mon | Durban / South Africa | 17:00 | |
| 2 | 21.03 Tue | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 3 | 22.03 Wed | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 4 | 23.03 Thu | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 5 | 24.03 Fri | Nosy Be / Madagascar | 07:00 | 16:00 |
| 6 | 25.03 Sat | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 7 | 26.03 Sun | Zanzibar / Tanzania | 08:00 | 20:00 |
| 8 | 27.03 Mon | Mombasa / Kenya | 07:00 | 23:59 |
| 9 | 28.03 Tue | Mombasa / Kenya | 00:01 | 16:00 |
| 10 | 29.03 Wed | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 11 | 30.03 Thu | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 12 | 31.03 Fri | Victoria, Mahe Island / Seychelles | 08:00 | 18:00 |
| 13 | 1.04 Sat | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 14 | 2.04 Sun | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 15 | 3.04 Mon | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 16 | 4.04 Tue | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 17 | 5.04 Wed | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 18 | 6.04 Thu | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 19 | 7.04 Fri | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 20 | 8.04 Sat | Aqaba / Jordan | 07:00 | 21:00 |
| 21 | 9.04 Sun | Suez Canal / Egypt | 19:00 | 19:15 |
| 22 | 10.04 Mon | Suez Canal / Egypt | 15:00 | 15:15 |
| 23 | 11.04 Tue | Rhodes / Greece | 14:00 | 20:00 |
| 24 | 12.04 Wed | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 25 | 13.04 Thu | Day at sea / Sea | ||
| 26 | 14.04 Fri | Rome (Civitavecchia) / Italy | 07:00 | 18:00 |
| 27 | 15.04 Sat | Genoa / Italy | 08:00 | 18:00 |
| 28 | 16.04 Sun | Marseille / France | 09:00 |
Important: MSC reserves the right to change the cabin to the same category or higher. However, MSC will do everything possible to avoid changing the cabin.
Additional costs:
Additionally paid on the liner:
For any purchase of goods on the liner in bars, restaurants, shops and services in the spa center, hairdresser, etc. you will be additionally charged a service fee, which will average 15% of the purchase price.
Drink packages for the seasons "Winter 2025-2026", "Summer 2026", "Winter 2026-2027"
Drink packages must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin, including children over 3 years old (they book the MINORS PACKAGE for children);
Seating at the same table in the main restaurant for dinner is only possible if all guests have booked the same drink package (or if all guests do not have one);
Packages are intended for personal use, the cruise card is not transferable to other people. Only one drink can be ordered per request. In case of violation of the rules for using the package, the cruise company reserves the right to block this package without a refund for unused days;
Packages are valid every day during the cruise and cannot be purchased per day;
In accordance with Saudi Arabian law, alcoholic beverages are not served during port calls in Saudi Arabia (only soft drinks are available). Alcoholic beverages will only be available once the ship has left port and is at sea;
The price of drink packages when purchased on board will be higher than when booking a cruise;
A detailed list of drinks included in drink packages will be provided in the bar menus on board the ship;
Drink packages are also valid on Sir Bani Yas and Ocean Cay;
The cruise line reserves the right to suspend drink packages at any time;
The price is per person per day.
Where applicable:
Mediterranean; Northern Europe; UAE and Gulf; Canary Islands; Caribbean from Fort-de-France; Round-the-World Routes
EASY PACKAGE (for adults aged 18 and over)
A limited selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass:
Beer (1 type) and non-alcoholic beer
Wine (white, pink, red)
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Limited selection of spirits
Solid drinks and juices
Classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, tea
Bottled mineral water
There is a limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (non-alcoholic drinks – unlimited).
A detailed list of drinks is presented in the bar menus on board the ship.
Those who wish can take advantage of a €7 discount on a more expensive drink that is not included in the Easy package (a 15% service charge will be added to the price difference).
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it does not apply:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club, MSC World Europa & America Coffee Emporium, MSC World Europa Raj Polo Tea Room.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in which case seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The package price does not include: minibar, bottled alcoholic beverages, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 40 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 40 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 36 €/day
EASY PLUS PACKAGE (for adults from 18 years)
A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass, costing up to 9 €:
Draught, craft, bottled and non-alcoholic beer
Wine (white, pink, red, and sparkling)
Drink of the day
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Strong alcoholic drinks of famous brands
Carbonated drinks and juices
A wide selection of classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, iced coffee, tea, etc.
Bottled mineral water
There is a limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (non-alcoholic drinks - unlimited).
The Easy plus package gives a 10% discount on the purchase of bottles of wine on board.
Those who wish can take advantage of a €9 discount on a more expensive drink that is not included in the Easy plus package (a 15% service charge will be added to the difference in price).
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in the onboard bars, main restaurants, buffet restaurant and alternative restaurants.
Where it does not apply:
Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury and MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in which case seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The following items are not included in the package price: minibar, bottled alcoholic beverages, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 54 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 54 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 50 €/day
PREMIUM EXTRA PACKAGE (for adults from 18 years)
A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass, costing up to 14 €:
Draught, craft, bottled and non-alcoholic beer A wide selection of wines and champagne
Drink of the day
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Premium spirits
Carbonated drinks and juices
A wide selection of classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, iced coffee, tea, etc.
Bottled mineral water
Limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (unlimited soft drinks).
The Premium Extra package offers a 25% discount on bottles of wine and champagne on board.
Where it is valid:
24 hours a day in the onboard bars, main restaurants, buffet restaurant and alternative restaurants.
Where it is not valid:
Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury and MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or travelling together, in which case seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The package price does not include: minibar, bottled alcoholic drinks, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 75 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 75 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 70 €/day
ALCOHOL-FREE PACKAGE (for adults from 18 years)
A wide selection of soft drinks, carbonated and energy drinks, bottled mineral water, fruit juices, a wide range of coffee drinks, tea and ice cream "to go".
Where it is valid:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it is not valid:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in this case the seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children who have reached the age of three, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The package price does not include: mini-bar, alcoholic drinks.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 26 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 26 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 24 €/day
MINORS PACKAGE (for children aged 3 to 17)
A wide selection of soft drinks, carbonated and energy drinks, bottled mineral water, fruit juices, a wide range of coffee drinks, tea and ice cream to go.
Where it is valid:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it is not valid:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
This package is bookable for children aged 3 to 17 years old, traveling in the same cabin with adults. However, adult passengers must book adult drink packages.
The following are not included in the package price: minibar, alcoholic drinks.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 17 € / day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 17 € / day
Cruises from 11 days and more 17 € / day
Caribbean from Miami; North America; Alaska
EASY PACKAGE (for adults from 21 years)
A limited selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass:
Beer (1 type) and non-alcoholic beer
Wine (white, pink, red)
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Limited selection of spirits
Sodas and juices
Classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, tea
Bottled mineral water
There is a limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (non-alcoholic drinks - unlimited).
A detailed list of drinks is presented in the bar menus on board the liner.
Those who wish can take advantage of a $10 discount on the purchase of a more expensive drink that is not included in the Easy package (an 18% service charge will be added to the difference in price).
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it does not apply:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club, MSC World Europa & America Coffee Emporium, MSC World Europa Raj Polo Tea Room.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in this case, seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
Not included in the package price: minibar, bottled alcoholic drinks, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 40 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 40 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 36 €/day
EASY PLUS PACKAGE (for adults 21 and older)
A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass, priced up to $14:
Draft, craft, bottled and non-alcoholic beer
Wine (white, pink, red, and sparkling)
Drink of the day
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Strong alcoholic drinks of famous brands
Carbonated drinks and juices
A wide selection of classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, iced coffee, tea, etc.
Bottled mineral water
There is a limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (non-alcoholic drinks - unlimited).
The Easy plus package gives a 10% discount on the purchase of bottles of wine on board.
Those who wish can take advantage of a $14 discount on a more expensive drink that is not included in the Easy plus package (an 18% service charge will be added to the difference in price).
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in the onboard bars, main restaurants, buffet restaurant and alternative restaurants.
Where it does not apply:
Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury and MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in this case, seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The package does not include: minibar, bottled alcoholic beverages, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 54 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 54 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 50 €/day
PREMIUM EXTRA PACKAGE (for adults from 21 years old)
A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass, costing up to $16:
Draft, craft, bottled and non-alcoholic beer
A wide selection of wines and champagne
Drink of the day
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Premium spirits
Soft drinks and juices
A wide selection of classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, iced coffee, tea, etc.
Bottled mineral water
Limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (unlimited soft drinks).
The Premium Extra package offers a 25% discount on bottles of wine and champagne on board.
Where it is valid:
24 hours a day in the onboard bars, main restaurants, buffet restaurant and alternative restaurants.
Where it is not valid:
Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury and MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or travelling together, in which case seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The package price does not include: minibar, bottled alcoholic drinks, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 75 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 75 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 70 €/day
ALCOHOL-FREE PACKAGE (for adults from 21 years)
A wide selection of soft drinks, carbonated and energy drinks, bottled mineral water, fruit juices, a wide range of coffee drinks, tea and ice cream "to go".
Where it is valid:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it is not valid:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in this case the seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom a MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The following are not included in the package price: minibar, alcoholic beverages.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 26 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 26 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 24 €/day
MINORS PACKAGE (for children aged 3 to 20)
A wide selection of soft drinks, carbonated and energy drinks, bottled mineral water, fruit juices, a wide range of coffee drinks, tea and ice cream "to go".
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it does not apply:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
This package is bookable for children aged 3 to 20 years old, travelling in the same cabin with adults. In this case, adult passengers must book adult drink packages.
The following items are not included in the package price: minibar, alcoholic drinks.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 17 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 17 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 17 €/day
Asia; Far East
EASY PACKAGE (for adults 20 years and older)
A limited selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass:
Beer (1 type) and non-alcoholic beer
Wine (white, pink, red)
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Limited selection of spirits
Carbonated drinks and juices
Classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, tea
Bottled mineral water
There is a limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (non-alcoholic drinks - unlimited).
A detailed list of drinks is presented in the bar menus on board the liner.
Those who wish can take advantage of an $8 discount on the purchase of a more expensive drink that is not included in the Easy package (an 18% service charge will be added to the difference in price).
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it does not apply:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club, MSC World Europa & America Coffee Emporium, MSC World Europa Raj Polo Tea Room.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in which case seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The package price does not include: minibar, bottled alcoholic beverages, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 40 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 40 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 36 €/day
EASY PLUS PACKAGE (for adults from 20 years old)
A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass, costing up to $10:
Draft, craft, bottled and non-alcoholic beer
Wine (white, pink, red, and sparkling)
Drink of the day
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Strong alcoholic drinks of famous brands
Carbonated drinks and juices
A wide selection of classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, iced coffee, tea, etc.
Bottled mineral water
Limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (unlimited soft drinks).
The Easy plus package gives a 10% discount on bottles of wine on board.
A $10 discount on a more expensive drink not included in the Easy plus package (an 18% service charge will be added to the difference in price).
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in the onboard bars, main restaurants, buffet restaurant and alternative restaurants.
Where it does not apply:
Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury and MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in which case seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) must be purchased.
Not included in the package price: minibar, bottled alcoholic drinks, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 54 € / day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 54 € / day
Cruises from 11 days and more 50 € / day
PREMIUM EXTRA PACKAGE (for adults 20 years and older)
A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks by the glass, priced up to $16:
Draft, craft, bottled and non-alcoholic beer A wide selection of wines and champagne
Drink of the day
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails
Premium spirits
Carbonated drinks and juices
A wide selection of classic hot drinks: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, iced coffee, tea, etc.
Bottled mineral water
There is a limit on alcoholic drinks:
15 drinks per day (non-alcoholic drinks - unlimited).
The Premium Extra package gives a 25% discount on the purchase of bottles of wine and champagne on board.
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in the onboard bars, main restaurants, buffet restaurant and alternative restaurants.
Where it does not apply:
Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury and MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or travelling together, in which case seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom the MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The package price does not include: minibar, bottled alcoholic beverages, some brands of drinks, ice cream.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 75 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 75 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 70 €/day
ALCOHOL-FREE PACKAGE (for adults from 20 years)
A wide selection of soft drinks, carbonated and energy drinks, bottled mineral water, fruit juices, a wide range of coffee drinks, tea and ice cream "to go".
Where it is valid:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it is not valid:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
The package must be booked by all guests staying in the same cabin or traveling together, in this case the seating in the main restaurant will be at the same table. This rule also applies to children aged three and over, for whom a MINORS PACKAGE (for children) is purchased.
The following are not included in the package price: minibar, alcoholic beverages.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 26 €/day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 26 €/day
Cruises from 11 days and more 24 €/day
MINORS PACKAGE (for children aged 3 to 19)
A wide selection of soft drinks, carbonated and energy drinks, bottled mineral water, fruit juices, a wide range of coffee drinks, tea and ice cream "to go".
Where it applies:
24 hours a day in certain bars on board, in the main restaurants and in the buffet restaurant.
Where it does not apply:
in alternative restaurants, in Venchi 1878, Jean-Philippe Maury, MSC Virtuosa Starship Club.
Note:
This package is booked for children from 3 to 19 years old, traveling in the same cabin with adults. However, adult passengers must book adult drink packages.
The following are not included in the package price: minibar, alcoholic drinks.
Cruises from 1 to 4 days 17 € / day
Cruises from 5 to 10 days 17 € / day
Cruises from 11 days and more 17 € / day
The cruise booking conditions may vary depending on the itinerary, season, and selected package. However, the basic conditions include:
1. **Deposit and Full Payment:**
- A deposit of 30% is required to confirm the booking.
- Full payment is usually required 60-90 days prior to departure. For late bookings, full payment may be required immediately.
2. **Cancellation and Penalties:**
- Cancellation penalties depend on the time remaining before departure. The closer to the departure date, the higher the penalties.
- More than 60 days before departure: €50 per person
- 59 to 30 days: 30% of the total price
- 29 to 22 days: 50%
- 21 to 15 days: 70%
- Less than 14 days before departure: 100%
3. **Booking Changes:**
- Passenger substitutions are subject to an additional fee of €50 per person.
4. **Insurance:**
- It is recommended to purchase travel or medical insurance to cover potential costs in case of cancellation or changes to the booking, as well as medical expenses during the cruise.
5. **Document Requirements:**
- All passengers must have valid passports and visas for visiting countries (if required by the destination) on the cruise itinerary. The responsibility for obtaining visas lies with the passengers.
Durban is the third most populous city in South Africa—after Johannesburg and Cape Town—and the largest city in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal. Located on the east coast of South Africa, Durban is famous for being the busiest port in the country. It is also seen as one of the major centres of tourism because of the city's warm subtropical climate and extensive beaches. Durban forms part of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, which includes neighboring towns and has a population of about 3.44 million, making the combined municipality one of the biggest cities on the Indian Ocean coast of the African continent. It is also the second most important manufacturing hub in South Africa after Johannesburg. In 2015, Durban was recognised as one of the New7Wonders Cities (along with Vigan, Doha, La Paz, Havana, Beirut, and Kuala Lumpur).
Nosy Be is a tropical island off the coast of Madagascar, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. The island attracts tourists with its stunning nature: white sandy beaches, emerald waters, coral reefs, and lush greenery. Nosy Be is an excellent destination for those seeking to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in tranquility. Visitors can enjoy activities like diving, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach while watching sunsets.
The island is also famous for its unique natural reserves, such as the Lemur Park, where rare animals, including lemurs and other endemic species of Madagascar, can be seen. Nosy Be is not only a place for beach relaxation but also a cultural destination: the island hosts vibrant holidays and festivals, and the local cuisine offers unique dishes blending African, Arab, and French traditions.
Zanzibar is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean belonging to Tanzania, renowned for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and the ancient Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically, the island was an important trading center for spices, slaves, and ivory, leaving a profound mark on its culture and architecture. Strolling through the narrow streets of Stone Town, visitors can admire old Arab houses with intricately carved doors, bustling markets, and atmospheric mosques.
In addition to its rich history, Zanzibar attracts travelers with its natural beauty. Visitors can take a tour of spice farms, snorkel among coral reefs, or explore the unique Jozani Forest, home to the rare red colobus monkey. The combination of exotic culture, a laid-back lifestyle, and diverse natural wonders makes Zanzibar one of the most desirable destinations on the East African coast.
Turquoise waters and lush jungles frame Victoria on Mahé Island, the capital of Seychelles and one of the smallest capitals in the world. Here, colorful markets with exotic fruits and spices blend with colonial-era architecture, and in the city center, you will find a miniature replica of London’s Big Ben — one of Victoria’s symbols. Nearby, visitors can explore the Botanical Garden, home to rare palm and orchid species, and see giant tortoises living in their natural environment.
A journey to Victoria is an opportunity to feel the slow rhythm of Seychellois life and enjoy a truly tropical atmosphere. Strolling along the waterfront, visiting the National Art Gallery, or tasting freshly caught fish in local cafés will bring you closer to the islanders’ culture and everyday life. Just a few minutes from the city center, white sandy beaches and turquoise waters invite you to underwater adventures among Mahé’s coral reefs.
Aqaba is the only coastal city in Jordan and the largest and most populous city on the Gulf of Aqaba. Situated in southernmost Jordan, Aqaba is the administrative centre of the Aqaba Governorate. The city had a population of 148,398 in 2015 and a land area of 375 square kilometres (144.8 sq mi). Today, Aqaba plays a major role in the development of the Jordanian economy, through the vibrant trade and tourism sectors. The Port of Aqaba also serves other countries in the region.
Aqaba's strategic location at the northeastern tip of the Red Sea between the continents of Asia and Africa, has made its port important over the course of thousands of years.
The Suez Canal is a sea-level waterway in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea through the Isthmus of Suez. Constructed by the Suez Canal Company between 1859 and 1869, it was officially opened on 17 November 1869. The canal offers watercraft a shorter journey between the North Atlantic and northern Indian Oceans via the Mediterranean and Red Seas by avoiding the South Atlantic and southern Indian Oceans, reducing the journey by approximately 6,000 kilometres (3,700 mi). It extends from the northern terminus of Port Said to the southern terminus of Port Tewfik at the city of Suez. Its length is 193.30 km (120.11 mi), including its northern and southern access channels. In 2012, 17,225 vessels traversed the canal (average 47 per day).
The Suez Canal is a sea-level waterway in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea through the Isthmus of Suez. Constructed by the Suez Canal Company between 1859 and 1869, it was officially opened on 17 November 1869. The canal offers watercraft a shorter journey between the North Atlantic and northern Indian Oceans via the Mediterranean and Red Seas by avoiding the South Atlantic and southern Indian Oceans, reducing the journey by approximately 6,000 kilometres (3,700 mi). It extends from the northern terminus of Port Said to the southern terminus of Port Tewfik at the city of Suez. Its length is 193.30 km (120.11 mi), including its northern and southern access channels. In 2012, 17,225 vessels traversed the canal (average 47 per day).
Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands of Greece and is also the island group's historical capital. Administratively the island forms a separate municipality within the Rhodes regional unit, which is part of the South Aegean administrative region. The principal town of the island and seat of the municipality is Rhodes. The city of Rhodes had 50,636 inhabitants in 2011. It is located northeast of Crete, southeast of Athens and just off the Anatolian coast of Turkey. Rhodes' nickname is The island of the Knights, named after the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem, who once conquered the land.
Historically, Rhodes was famous worldwide for the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Medieval Old Town of the City of Rhodes has been declared a World Heritage Site. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The name of the U.S. state of Rhode Island is thought to be based on this island.
Rome is the capital city and a special comune of Italy (named Comune di Roma Capitale). Rome also serves as the capital of the Lazio region. With 2,872,800 residents in 1,285 km2(496.1 sq mi), it is also the country's most populated comune. It is the fourth-most populous city in the European Union by population within city limits. It is the centre of the Metropolitan City of Rome, which has a population of 4,355,725 residents, thus making it the most populous metropolitan city in Italy. Rome is located in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, within Lazio (Latium), along the shores of the Tiber. The Vatican City (the smallest country in the world) is an independent country inside the city boundaries of Rome, the only existing example of a country within a city: for this reason Rome has been often defined as capital of two states.
Rome's history spans 28 centuries. While Roman mythology dates the founding of Rome at around 753 BC, the site has been inhabited for much longer, making it one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. The city's early population originated from a mix of Latins, Etruscans, and Sabines. Eventually, the city successively became the capital of the Roman Kingdom, the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire, and is regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization and by some as the first ever metropolis. It was first called The Eternal City (Latin: Urbs Aeterna; Italian: La Città Eterna) by the Roman poet Tibullus in the 1st century BC, and the expression was also taken up by Ovid, Virgil, and Livy. Rome is also called the "Caput Mundi" (Capital of the World). After the fall of the Western Empire, which marked the beginning of the Middle Ages, Rome slowly fell under the political control of the Papacy, which had settled in the city since the 1st century AD, until in the 8th century it became the capital of the Papal States, which lasted until 1870. Beginning with the Renaissance, almost all the popes since Nicholas V (1447–1455) pursued over four hundred years a coherent architectural and urban programme aimed at making the city the artistic and cultural centre of the world. In this way, Rome became first one of the major centres of the Italian Renaissance, and then the birthplace of both the Baroque style and Neoclassicism. Famous artists, painters, sculptors and architects made Rome the centre of their activity, creating masterpieces throughout the city. In 1871, Rome became the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, which, in 1946, became the Italian Republic.
Rome has the status of a global city. In 2016, Rome ranked as the 14th-most-visited city in the world, 3rd most visited in the European Union, and the most popular tourist attraction in Italy. Its historic centre is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The famous Vatican Museums are among the world's most visited museums while the Colosseum was the most popular tourist attraction in world with 7.4 million visitors in 2018. Host city for the 1960 Summer Olympics, Rome is the seat of several specialized agencies of the United Nations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The city also hosts the Secretariat of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) as well as the headquarters of many international business companies such as Eni, Enel, TIM, Leonardo S.p.A., and national and international banks such as Unicredit and BNL. Its business district, called EUR, is the base of many companies involved in the oil industry, the pharmaceutical industry, and financial services. Rome is also an important fashion and design centre thanks to renowned international brands centered in the city. Rome's Cinecittà Studios have been the set of many Academy Award–winning movies.
Genoa is the capital of the Italian region of Liguria and the sixth-largest city in Italy. In 2015, 594,733 people lived within the city's administrative limits. As of the 2011 Italian census, the Province of Genoa, which in 2015 became the Metropolitan City of Genoa, counted 855,834 resident persons. Over 1.5 million people live in the wider metropolitan area stretching along the Italian Riviera.
Located on the Gulf of Genoa in the Ligurian Sea, Genoa has historically been one of the most important ports on the Mediterranean: it is currently the busiest in Italy and in the Mediterranean Sea and twelfth-busiest in the European Union. Genoa has been nicknamed la Superba ("the proud one") due to its glorious past and impressive landmarks. Part of the old town of Genoa was inscribed on the World Heritage List (UNESCO) in 2006 as Genoa: Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli. The city's rich cultural history in art, music and cuisine allowed it to become the 2004 European Capital of Culture. It is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Andrea Doria, Niccolò Paganini, Giuseppe Mazzini, Renzo Piano and Grimaldo Canella, founder of the House of Grimaldi, among others.
Genoa, which forms the southern corner of the Milan-Turin-Genoa industrial triangle of Northwest Italy, is one of the country's major economic centers. The city has hosted massive shipyards and steelworks since the 19th century, and its solid financial sector dates back to the Middle Ages. The Bank of Saint George, founded in 1407, is among the oldest in the world and has played an important role in the city's prosperity since the middle of the 15th century. Today a number of leading Italian companies are based in the city, including Fincantieri, Selex ES, Ansaldo Energia, Ansaldo STS, Edoardo Raffinerie Garrone, Piaggio Aerospace, Mediterranean Shipping Company and Costa Cruises.
Marseille is the second-largest city of France. The main city of the historical province of Provence, it nowadays is the prefecture of the department of Bouches-du-Rhône and region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. It is located on France's south coast near the mouth of the Rhône river. The city covers an area of 241 km2 (93 sq mi) and had a population of 852,516 in 2012. Its metropolitan area, which extends over 3,173 km2 (1,225 sq mi) is the third-largest in France after Paris and Lyon, with a population of 1,831,500 as of 2010.
Known to the ancient Greeks and Romans as Massalia, Marseille was an important European trading centre and remains the main commercial port of the French Republic. Marseille is now France's largest city on the Mediterranean coast and the largest port for commerce, freight and cruise ships. The city was European Capital of Culture in 2013 and European Capital of Sport in 2017; it hosted matches at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2016. It is home to Aix-Marseille University.
