Christmas on board MSC World Europa

One Night in Rome: A Perfect Start

We began our journey with a one-night stay in Rome, soaking up the festive magic of the Eternal City. The sparkling Christmas lights and bustling holiday markets brought the city to life, and we spent the evening wandering past landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Dinner at a local trattoria was the icing on the cake, warming us up with delicious plates of pasta and decadent Italian desserts.

After a restful night, we travelled to Civitavecchia to board the MSC World Europa. Priority boarding, courtesy of the Aurea Experience, made embarkation smooth and stress-free, setting the tone for an unforgettable week.

Christmas at Sea: Aurea Elegance and Festivities

The onboard festive vibe was simply magical. The ship glowed with dazzling decorations, with Christmas trees and garlands around every corner. The Aurea Experience added an extra sparkle to our trip, giving us access to exclusive perks like the Top 19 Solarium, where we enjoyed peaceful, sun-filled moments with stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Christmas Eve was a luxurious affair, complete with a gala dinner showcasing seasonal dishes and excellent service. Christmas morning was just as magical, and we spent the day participating in festive activities that brought the entire ship together in celebration.

Exploring Barcelona: A Vibrant Stop

Barcelona was one of the most exciting destinations on our itinerary, and it didn’t disappoint! From the moment we stepped off the ship, the city buzzed with life and culture. We started our day exploring La Rambla, the famous avenue lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers.

A visit to the Sagrada Familia was an absolute must. The stunning architecture of Gaudí’s masterpiece left us in awe, and it was exciting to see the progress on this iconic basilica.

We also found time to explore the Gothic Quarter, with its narrow medieval streets and hidden gems. Lunchtime brought us some of the best tapas we’ve ever had, paired with sangria that was perfectly refreshing. Barcelona’s vibrant energy and captivating history made it an unforgettable stop.

Messina: Coastal Charm in Sicily

Our exploration of Messina brought a more laid-back experience. This charming Sicilian port was a treat for the senses, with its Baroque architecture and sweeping coastal views.

We marvelled at the Cathedral of Messina, with its stunning façade and astronomical clock, before wandering through the city streets to enjoy gelato and soak up the relaxed vibe of the region. A stroll along the harbour was the perfect way to round off this scenic visit.

Palma de Mallorca: An Unexpected Bonus

When bad weather diverted our itinerary from Valletta to Palma de Mallorca, we turned the unexpected into a delightful bonus.

Palma’s La Seu Cathedral stood out as a stunning landmark, captivating us with its grand design and views of the waterfront. The city’s Old Town charmed us with its winding streets, where we uncovered quaint boutiques and stopped to enjoy buttery ensaïmadas, Mallorca’s famed pastries. This unplanned stop became a cherished highlight of our trip.

Discovering Portofino from Genoa

Our day trip to Portofino from Genoa offered breath-taking scenery and postcard-perfect moments. Walking through the picturesque village with its colourful harbour, we found it almost too beautiful to be real.

We climbed to the Church of San Giorgio, where panoramic views of the Ligurian coastline left us speechless. A leisurely seafood lunch by the harbour finished our visit on a high note, adding a taste of indulgence to an already perfect day.

Onboard Memories: Family Fun and Relaxation

Back aboard MSC World Europa, every moment offered something new and special. The Aurea Spa provided a welcome escape for us adults, complete with soothing thermal area sessions, while the kids had the time of their lives at the waterpark, zipline, and VR zones.

Evenings brought dazzling performances in the ship’s theatre, blending awe-inspiring acrobatics and brilliant musical acts. These shows quickly became a family tradition, and we always ended the night with smiles on our faces.

One Night in Rome: Saying Goodbye in Style

Our adventure concluded where it began, back in Rome for one last night to reflect on our journey. This time, we stayed near the Spanish Steps, perfectly positioned to enjoy the twinkling city lights and a stroll to iconic spots like the Trevi Fountain.

A final Italian dinner at a rooftop restaurant gave us sweeping views of the city, reminding us why Rome is always a good idea. It was the perfect way to cap off a magical week.

Christmas to Treasure Forever

From celebrating Christmas onboard MSC World Europa with the added luxury of the Aurea Experience to exploring vibrant cities like Barcelona, quaint villages like Portofino, and hidden gems like Palma, this Christmas cruise gave us unforgettable moments and cherished family memories.

If you’re planning a Christmas getaway that blends adventure, culture, and relaxation, an MSC cruise with the Aurea Experience offers all you need for a festive season filled with joy, indulgence, and exploration.