We spent a fantastic time on the MSC Fantasia boat, but for me, the most memorable moments were whenever we stepped off of the boat! The excursions along the Mediterranean with the whole family in tow.
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Besides exciting amenities, dining options, and more (check out my family-focused MSC Fantasia Cruise Review 2025 for more info), the MSC Fantasia also offers adventures back on land.
The first stop was Barcelona, Spain! I barely had time to Duoligo how to order a coffee in Spanish, and we were whisked off to Marseille, France! Then, we stopped in Naples and Genoa in Italy, and next thing you know we were inside the Palermo Cathedral in Palermo, Sicily. We even went to La Goulette in Tunisia!
We didn't have enough time to explore every nook and cranny (even though I want to go back and do exactly that), but the breadth of the scenery and cultures will forever be imprinted in my memory.
So read on to learn how to book these shore excursions on your cruise and snippets of our adventures!
And be sure to check out my MSC Fantasia Dining Options Review while you are here.
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Booking Shore Excursions
When it comes to exploring ports, booking shore excursions is super easy and flexible. I found it helpful to browse and reserve activities online before the cruise, but you can also book directly at the Shore Excursions Desk or through the MSC for Me app once you're on board.
MSC for Me APP.
The MSC for Me app really became my personal cruise assistant. I used it to check my daily schedule, make dinner and show reservations, and even find my way around the ship with its interactive maps.
One of the best features? You can message friends and family on the ship for free, which is a lifesaver if you're traveling with a group.
This itinerary allowed us to immerse ourselves in the rich heritage of the Mediterranean while enjoying the comfort and luxury of life aboard MSC Fantasia.
Museums and Tapas in Barcelona, Spain
Arriving at the busy Barcelona port, we quickly found our way thanks to clear signage and helpful staff. The terminal is close to the city center, so we opted for a quick taxi ride to maximize our time exploring.
We went to the city centre and explored art museums and ate amazing tapas at restaurants. We took a quick trip up to Montserrat, where the mountain views and the monastery there were absolutely unforgettable.
We also took a stroll down the El Raval neighborhood to see its cool bars and boutiques.
An Afternoon Escape in Marseille, France
Marseille felt like a vibrant, authentic Mediterranean city with its lively Old Port and stunning sea views. The ship was docked right near the heart of the city, and stayed there from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
We took some time to marvel at the extraordinary views of the Vieux Port from both Palais du Pharo and the hilltop basilica, Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde.
We also took a quick trip to Avignon, and we were amazed by the well-preserved medieval walls snaking along the Rhône river.
The stop wouldn't be complete without a taste of classic Provence charm at Aix-en-Provence, where the cozy cafes and inspiring museums made for a perfect afternoon escape.
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Stunning Cathedrals in Genoa, Italy
The ship docked smoothly at a well-equipped terminal just a short ride from the city’s historic heart. Transportation options from the port include shuttle buses, taxis, and local buses, giving plenty of flexibility depending on how you want to explore.
During our visit, we explored the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo and the Palazzo Ducale, both filled with remarkable art collections and lavish historic decor.
The Renaissance palaces along Via Garibaldi offered an impressive glimpse into Genoa’s wealthy past, but the kids were mostly just in shock by the gigantic buildings.
The kids particularly liked the Acquario di Genova, where the world’s largest Caribbean coral reef reconstruction is located.
We then took a trip to nearby Portofino, an idyllic fishing village, strolling through its boutique-lined streets and picturesque harbor—definitely a highlight of the day.
Almost Losing our Luggage in Naples, Italy
We experienced a slight setback in disembarking at Naples. The luggage claim area was a bit chaotic, with bags spread across various carousels, making it challenging to locate our belongings promptly. Despite this, the rest of the process went smoothly. There were clear signs guiding passengers to taxis, buses, and pre-arranged tours.
One of my favorite experiences was taking a boat trip to the island of Capri. It was so beautiful I had to put my camera down - it just couldn't do it justice. We also learned about the mythical Sirens said to inhabit its shores, and my son kept a keen eye on the waters after that, eager to catch a glimpse of these sea creatures.
Back in the mainland, we wandered through Centro Storico, which had historic streets lined with stunning architecture and the irresistible aroma from local eateries.
We also visited Pompei, where walking among the remarkably preserved ruins gave us a powerful glimpse into life frozen in time after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. It was a moving experience that brought history vividly to life.
Cathedrals and Cafes in Palermo, Sicily
Palermo's cruise terminal is conveniently located in the heart of the city, just a 5‑minute walk from the old town, meaning you’re quickly swept into Palermo’s buzzing souk‑like markets and grand piazzas. With kids, it's easier to pre-book shared or private shuttles if you want comfort and luggage assistance.
We walked through the Porta Felice and the scenic Foro Italico seafront promenade, which was lined with cafés and street vendors. We visited the Capo market and sampled local cheeses, arancini, and freshly made cannoli.
The trip wouldn't have been complete without seeing the Palermo Cathedral. We wanted to take an excursion up Mount Pellegrino and the nearby Monreale’s Cathedral, but we didn't have the time anymore.
Out Last Stop: La Goulette, Tunisia
Our last stop on the cruise! The port looked amazing. It was designed to look like a traditional Tunisian medina—with colorful mosaic tiles, domed rooftops, and even a small hammam-style building. There were shops and cafes right at the terminal.
We had pre-booked a private taxi with another couple from the ship, and it was one of the best decisions we made! Our driver spoke decent English and helped us navigate the day without hassle.
Our first stop was the ancient ruins of Carthage. We visited the Baths of Antoninus, which were massive and beautifully preserved. From there, we continued on to Sidi Bou Said, a postcard-perfect village, it was absolutely stunning. We wandered the narrow lanes, bought handmade ceramics, and had mint tea overlooking the sea.
We returned to the ship with sand on our shoes, souvenirs in hand, and a real sense that we had experienced something beautiful.
Each one of the 7-days on our itinerary was something unique and memorable.
