Desire French Riviera Cruise | May 4-11, 2024

Dynamic and desirable, Barcelona houses both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From scenic trails and romantic alleyways, to beachside nightclubs and the city’s dozens of sacred churches and architectural marvels, this seaside city attracts all types of tourism: the adventurer, the couple, the partier, and the culture lover, each longing to uncover all there is to discover.

2,600 years of history come to life in the magnificent port of Marseille. The Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée is filled to the brim with insight on the culture of this romantic region and is well worth a visit. From there, explore La Panier for souvenirs to remind you of your sensual journey before capping off your day with a glass of pastis, an alcoholic beverage that is a local favorite!

Prepare to literally be blown away by Toulon, the capital of Provence, as the climate is distinctive for more than 30 diverse types of wind that blow in from all points, and figuratively by the many charms of this ancient port. In Toulon you can find specialties like lavender, wine, and fine herbs at the Cours Lafayette, or head to boulevard Amiral Vence with your lover and jump on the cable car which will lead you almost 2,000 feet up to the top of Mont Faron and visit the Mémorial du débarquement et de la libération de Provence.

With streets full of colorful buildings, palm-lined boulevards, and a harbor of turquoise blue, you may feel like you’ve somehow stepped into a living painting when you arrive in Nice. Often called “The Queen of the Riviera,” the epitome of Nice’s famous joie de vivre can be found in full swing on the Promenade des Anglais, which features stunning views, especially at sunset. Don’t miss the opulent Hôtel Negresco, where royalty and high society have held court since 1912, or the art deco Palais de la Méditerranée. To visit the Cathédrale Saine-Réparate, head for the heart of the city to the picturesque Place Rosetti. After dark, the square becomes an open air-dance club complete with dramatic lighting that casts a magical glow on the ancient cobblestones. From Nice you can take a quick trip by train to Monaco, the city with a reputation that’s far bigger than its mere 0.76 square miles. It’s the kind of place where professional athletes, royals, socialites, and Bond villains (or the actors who play them) rub elbows while searching for elusive lady luck. Come prepared to be amazed by the opulence, by the breathtaking beautiful surroundings, and for some of the finest people watching this side of the seas.

This charming resort community is the perfect place to indulge in some well-deserved relaxation. Be sure to bring your walking shoes since there’s a gorgeous walking district where you can see glamorous old hotels and dramatic forts overlooking the sea. Don’t miss Castello di Santa Margherita, a castle built in 1550 by the Republic of Genoa as a defense against pirate attacks. The main city square, Piazza Mazzini, is lined with colorful palaces just begging to be Instagrammed.

Florence is the sublime birthplace of the Renaissance, bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, and museums with such an abundance of riches that it could make an art lover weep for joy. The list of illustrious names connected with this city include Botticelli, Dante, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo. For many years, the city was ruled by the powerful Medici family, patrons of the arts and bankers to the papacy, whose line included six kings and, allegedly, four popes.

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class in the fitness center, join us poolside for some erotic adult entertainment, or lounge the day away on our sunny clothing-optional pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of sensually seductive evening entertainment, from thrilling shows to intimate performances.

Rome has something special to offer to all visitors, no matter their interests and tastes. Whether you daydream about fighting with gladiators in the Coliseum, debating with togaed senators in the Forum, tossing a coin in a fabled fountain, or being awestruck by the magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s masterpieces, Rome seems to live up to its sobriquet as the Eternal City. When you need sustenance, today’s Rome will provide delizioso pasta e vino. Or perhaps you draw strength from a little retail therapy—the Italians are also renowned for their sense of style. Spend some time here before you head back home. Say farewell to your new friends and don't forget to book your next Spicy Vacation!