A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean – with Smithsonian Journeys

Catalonia enjoys one of the richest cultural heritages in Spain. This specially designed program introduces you to two fascinating elements of that heritage: the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on Montserrat and the modernist marvels of Barcelona.

Day 1 – Barcelona, Spain

Arrive in Barcelona, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and offer suggestions for dining and independent exploration.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a cocktail reception at the hotel to kick off your journey. Dinner is on your own.

Day 2 – Barcelona | Montserrat

After breakfast, set out on a full-day excursion to the astonishing Monastery of Montserrat. A scenic drive north of Barcelona brings you to the charming town of Monistrol de Montserrat, where you’ll board a cog railway for the dramatic climb up the serrated limestone mountains to the monastery perched near the summit.

Your guided visit includes the ornate basilica, home to the beloved wooden statue of the Virgin that has drawn pilgrims since the 12th century, as well as the Montserrat Museum, which houses works by Monet, Picasso, Casas, and Rusiñol.

Enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch at Abat Cisneros Restaurant, once the monastery’s stables, followed by free time to explore this spiritual site on your own. Return to Barcelona in the afternoon, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 3 – Barcelona | Embark

After breakfast and check-out, embark on a guided exploration of Barcelona’s architectural gems and iconic views. Begin with a pleasant stroll from your hotel to the vibrant Passeig de Gràcia, where you’ll step into the dazzling world of Modernisme. Enjoy close-up views of Casa Batlló, Gaudí’s fantastical masterpiece, followed by an introduction to the neighboring jewels of the Manzana de la Discordia, where Casa Amatller and Casa Lleó i Morera stand in striking contrast.

After a brief return to the hotel for a comfort stop, you’ll continue to La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s most famous work. A full interior visit reveals the awe-inspiring columns, luminous stained glass, and soaring vaults of this unfinished symphony — a truly unforgettable experience.

Next, a short drive brings you to Estació de França, where a leisurely walk leads to Brisa Restaurant for a relaxed lunch featuring local Catalan flavors. The afternoon concludes with a panoramic drive across Montjuïc Hill, offering sweeping views of the harbor and city skyline — the perfect final glimpse of Barcelona before transferring to the port to embark your ship in the late afternoon.

Your hotel:
The Almanac Barcelona is a contemporary five-star hotel set within a beautifully restored historic building, ideally located just steps from Passeig de Gràcia. Stylish rooms combine modern comfort with elegant design, while amenities include a rooftop terrace and pool with panoramic city views, a sophisticated cocktail bar, and a Mediterranean restaurant showcasing seasonal Catalan cuisine.

Your program includes:
2 nights at Almanac Barcelona (or similar)
Transfers and luggage handling from the airport on Day 1
Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the pier on Day 3
Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1
Breakfast on Days 2 & 3
Lunch on Days 2 & 3
Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
Local English-speaking guide
Gratuities for drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:
Transfers from the airport on days other than the scheduled program arrival day
Personal expenses and any services or meals not mentioned as included

Please note:
It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the program start to secure your transfer. Early check-in and/or late check-out are available subject to availability and at a supplement. Extra nights can be arranged upon request. The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted. This pre-cruise program is sold as a package. No refunds will be made for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions. Program is subject to change and offered on a space-available basis.

Hotel contact information:
Almanac Barcelona
Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 619–621
08007 Barcelona, Spain
Telephone: +34 93 546 4000 

Extend your voyage with a refined exploration of Provence—its papal history, colorful hilltop villages, and timeless art of living. From the ochre cliffs of Roussillon and the cobbled streets of Gordes to Avignon’s grand medieval heritage and the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, experience the essence of southern France before concluding your stay amid the graceful fountains and café culture of Aix-en-Provence.

Day 1 – Nice | Aix-en-Provence

After breakfast and disembarkation in Nice, travel inland by motorcoach toward Aix-en-Provence, the historical capital of Provence. Upon arrival, enjoy a lunch of local specialties before setting out on a guided walking tour of Aix’s graceful boulevards and squares. Explore the Cours Mirabeau, the Mazarin District, and Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, whose layered architecture reveals centuries of artistic
and cultural evolution.

Later, check in to your hotel for the next three nights. Dinner is independent and at your leisure.

Day 2 – Roussillon | Gordes

After breakfast, journey into the Luberon, a landscape of vineyards and perched villages. Visit Roussillon, celebrated for its brilliant ochre pigments that tint the façades of its houses in shades of red and gold. Enjoy a short walk along the Ochre Trail before continuing to Gordes, often named one of France’s most beautiful villages. Pause for a leisurely Provençal lunch, then explore its narrow streets and stone architecture at your own pace.

Return to Aix in the late afternoon; the evening is free to relax and dine independently.

Day 3 - Avignon | Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Following breakfast, depart for Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its medieval ramparts and magnificent Palais des Papes, a striking reminder of the city’s 14th-century papal legacy. After a guided visit and lunch before returning to Aix-en-Provence in the late afternoon.

The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Day 4 – Aix-en-Provence | Departure

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to Marseille-Provence Airport (MRS) for your onward flight.

Your hotel:
Located in the heart of the city, Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel is a luxury property with beautifully appointed rooms and suites outfitted with all of the amenities you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. It has two pools, a fitness center and spa, and its two restaurants and lounge bar are known for their chefs' gourmet creations.

Your program includes:
3 nights at Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel (or similar)
Transfer and luggage handling from the pier in Nice to the hotel on Day 1
Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to Marseille Airport on Day 4
Breakfast on days 2-4
Lunch on Days 1-3
Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
Local English-speaking guide
Gratuities for the drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:
Transfer from the hotel to the airport on any day other than the scheduled program departure day
Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program

Please note:
It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 60 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, shops, and restaurants.
The duration of the visits is given as a guide only, and the order of the visits may change.
This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
This program is offered on a space available basis and subject to change without notice.

Hotel contact information:
Renaissance Aix-en-Provence
256 Avenue de Pérouse
Aix-en-Provence
France, 13100
Telephone: +33 4-86 915 500