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October 22, 2025

The Enchanting Provence, Tuscany and the French Riviera itinerary, offered by Scenic, guides travelers through some of the most beautiful locations in the western Mediterranean: eight days of sailing from Nice to Barcelona, touching ports that embody the diversity of the European coastal landscape.

The cruise begins in Nice, an ideal starting point for an itinerary that combines comfort with cultural interest. From here, the Scenic Eclipse sets sail for Cannes, the first stop of the journey and the ultimate symbol of the French Riviera. The city has two souls: the elegant one, represented by the Croisette with its historic hotels and seaside cafés, and the more authentic one of the Suquet district, where life slows down and panoramic views open over the bay.

During this stop, passengers have the opportunity to explore the city independently or join one of the guided excursions offered by Scenic: cultural walks through the old town or panoramic tours of the surroundings.

Sailing eastward, the ship reaches Portofino, a small Ligurian harbor renowned for its picturesque profile and tranquil setting. Disembarkation takes place by tender, given the port’s limited size, but arriving at anchor offers a striking view of the village nestled between sea and hills.

The experience here centers on discovering the area through guided walking tours, nature hikes in the Portofino Park, or short coastal cruises to San Fruttuoso Abbey. Those who prefer to stay in town can visit Castello Brown, stroll along the cliffs, or simply enjoy the calm of the piazzetta.

The next stop is Livorno, a strategic port for reaching Tuscany’s most beautiful art cities. Scenic provides organized transfers to Florence and Pisa, with itineraries designed to ensure a complete and authentic visit. Florence serves as the cultural centerpiece of the excursion, featuring stops at major Renaissance sites – from the Duomo to the Uffizi – while Pisa offers a shorter but visually impactful tour around the famous Leaning Tower.

Those who decide to remain in Livorno can explore Venezia Nuova, a district crisscrossed by canals and bridges, or walk along the seafront to the Mascagni Terrace. It’s a culturally rich stop that adds historical and artistic depth to the journey without sacrificing comfort.

On the fourth day, the cruise arrives in Calvi, on the northwestern coast of Corsica. The approach to this French town offers a breathtaking natural setting: the citadel rises above the sea, narrow streets climb toward the ramparts, and the bay opens out with crystal-clear, tranquil waters.

Excursions include walks through the citadel, panoramic off-road tours, or leisure time for those who prefer to relax on the beach. Calvi is a slower-paced destination, perfect for travelers seeking a day of rest or closer contact with Corsican nature.

Returning to the continental coast, the itinerary reaches Monte Carlo, the heart of the Principality of Monaco. Entering the port is among the most scenic moments of the voyage: moored yachts, modern palaces, and the iconic Casino dominating the main square. The stop allows exploration of both the harbor area and the historic district on the promontory, where the Prince’s Palace and the Cathedral stand.

Scenic offers walking tours or themed itineraries focused on the principality’s history, though many travelers choose to explore independently, taking advantage of the compact size of the territory. Monte Carlo retains a distinctive charm, defined by the balance between luxury and order, and serves as an urban interlude within the broader journey.

The voyage continues to Marseille, the largest city in Provence. Marseille combines Mediterranean culture with urban dynamism. From the Vieux Port, the city’s main attractions unfold: the Le Panier district with its artisan shops and murals, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde with sweeping city views, and the bustling fish market that livens the quays each morning.

During this stop, guests can join a variety of excursions including guided tours of the old town, gastronomic tours, or trips to the Calanques, spectacular white-rock inlets washed by turquoise waters.

From the French coast, the journey continues to the Balearic Islands, with a stop in Mahon on the island of Menorca. Entering the port—one of Europe’s largest natural harbors—is a scenic experience in itself. The town is orderly, featuring colonial-style buildings and streets overlooking panoramic terraces.

The company offers a range of shore activities: tours of the old town, tastings of local products, or coastal excursions to small villages and coves. It’s a stop that emphasizes tranquility and connection with the island landscape, in sharp contrast to the more glamorous destinations visited earlier. Those who prefer can spend free time wandering between the market and the harbor area before returning on board in the late afternoon.

The cruise concludes in Barcelona, a city that embodies the soul of the contemporary Mediterranean. From the port, travelers can easily reach the main landmarks: the Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter, and Park Güell, all reflecting Gaudí’s genius and the vitality of Catalan culture.

Here, passengers can take part in half-day or full-day excursions, with the option to extend their stay in the city for a longer holiday. Barcelona offers a perfect blend of urban energy, culture, and coastal life.

In conclusion, Enchanting Provence, Tuscany and the French Riviera stands out as a well-balanced itinerary, designed for travelers seeking a moderate discovery experience, with high-end services and well-paced stops.

The short distances between ports allow travelers to maximize time ashore, while the variety of destinations ensures a rich array of experiences: from Italian art cities to French coastal towns, and the quieter islands of the western Mediterranean.

This Scenic itinerary doesn’t rely on excess, but on a steady rhythm of quality and consistency—ideal for those who seek a relaxed, culturally engaging, and logistically seamless journey.

Stay tuned for more updates, news, and offers from Scenic Luxury Cruises on our website, Cruising Journal.

Mara Di Dio

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