4nt Malta & 7nt Mediterranean Marvels

Duration 4 nights Malta Hotel & 7 night Cruise|

Ship MSC Splendida | Date 11 May 2026

FROM £1199 PP*

Price per person | Inside Cabin

Outside + £120pp

Balcony +£160pp

Suite + £610 pp

ICONIC SIGHTS TO DISCOVER

Embark on a captivating journey with Atlas Holidays aboard the MSC Splendida, a floating luxury resort! Begin your expedition in Valletta, Malta’s capital, where Baroque beauty meets vibrant local life. After sailing the shimmering seas, dive into the enchanting streets of Barcelona, filled with history and culinary delights. Next, explore the charms of Marseille (Provence), followed by breathtaking vistas in La Spezia and the rich heritage of Naples (Pompeii). Finally, soak in the cultural feast of Palermo (Monreale) before returning to the stunning Valletta for a grand finale. Your unforgettable Mediterranean adventure awaits!

Travel Plan

Day 1-4 Fly from UK to Malta for 4 night stay

Today you’ll fly from the UK to Malta. On arrival a transfer will take you from the airport to your hotel for a 4 night 4* hotel stay.

Day 5 Sailing from Malta - 15th May 2026

Malta – The Heart of the Mediterranean

Malta is a sun-soaked island nation where history, culture, and natural beauty come together in unforgettable harmony. Set in the heart of the Mediterranean, the archipelago is famed for its golden limestone cities, crystal-clear waters, and a legacy shaped by Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Knights of St. John, and the British.

From the bustling capital Valletta — a UNESCO World Heritage site — to the medieval “Silent City” of Mdina and the colorful fishing village of Marsaxlokk, Malta is rich in contrasts. Ancient temples older than the pyramids stand alongside Baroque cathedrals, while rugged coastlines give way to hidden coves and sandy beaches.

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Malta is not only a haven for culture seekers but also for those who love the sea. Diving, sailing, and swimming in turquoise bays are part of everyday life here. Add to that a vibrant culinary scene, lively festivals, and a warm, welcoming spirit, and you have an island that offers far more than its small size suggests.

Day 6 AT SEA - 16th May 2026

Day 7 - Arrive Barcelona - 17th May 2026

Barcelona, Spain’s vibrant second city, is a captivating blend of old and new. Home to over 1.5 million people, it brims with rich history, from Gothic cathedrals to Roman remnants, all set against a bold backdrop of cutting-edge architecture and avant-garde design.

A city of lively markets, inviting cafés, boutique shopping, grand cathedrals, and world-class museums. Wander through the historic Ciutat Vella, then glide to the sun-drenched beaches via the city’s sleek metro system. Whether exploring ancient alleyways or basking on the modern seafront, you’ll find Barcelona effortlessly blends tradition with a vibrant, cosmopolitan spirit.

Points of Interest

La Sagrada Família
An awe-inspiring masterpiece of architectural imagination, La Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s most iconic and visited landmark. Designed by the visionary Antoni Gaudí, this basilica is still under construction more than a century after it began — a living work of art. Its soaring spires and intricate façades are breathtaking from the outside, but stepping inside reveals a kaleidoscope of colour, light, and symbolism. Booking a ticket is highly recommended to experience the full wonder of Gaudí’s unfinished dream.

Magic Fountain
First unveiled in 1929, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a dazzling spectacle of water, light, and music that enchants visitors of all ages. Known locally as the Font Màgica, this iconic show blends choreography and colour into a mesmerising performance that transforms the night. A true highlight of Barcelona, it’s an unmissable experience best enjoyed beneath the stars.

Las Ramblas
Known as the “heartbeat of Barcelona,” Las Ramblas is a lively promenade that weaves through the city’s historic centre. Lined with tree-shaded walkways, vibrant kiosks, and open-air cafés, it’s a place where street performers, artists, and locals come together. Discover hidden gems along its length — from a colourful Joan Miró mosaic to the famed Font de Canaletes fountain. Whether strolling by day or night, Las Ramblas captures the city’s energy and spirit like nowhere else.

Park Güell
A whimsical masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, Park Güell is a vibrant mosaic of colour, creativity, and Catalan modernism. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park invites you to wander through curved stone walkways, playful sculptures, and panoramic terraces overlooking Barcelona. It’s a must-see destination that brings Gaudí’s artistic genius to life in a lush, open-air setting.

Day 8 - Arrive Marseille - 18th May 2026

Marseille – France’s Mediterranean Soul

Marseille, France’s oldest city, is a vibrant cultural melting pot where the Mediterranean spirit is felt at every turn. Founded by Greek sailors over 2,600 years ago, the city has long been a gateway for trade, ideas, and cultures, leaving it with a distinctive energy unlike anywhere else in France.

At its heart lies the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishing boats and yachts bob side by side, and lively markets sell the day’s catch. Overlooking the city, the hilltop Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde offers breathtaking views of Marseille’s terracotta rooftops and the dazzling blue sea.

The city’s streets are alive with colour and character — from the winding alleys of Le Panier, the oldest quarter, to the modern architecture of the MuCEM museum. Food lovers will be drawn to Marseille’s culinary star, bouillabaisse, a rich Provençal fish stew best enjoyed by the water.

Beyond the city, Marseille is the gateway to the Calanques National Park, a spectacular stretch of limestone cliffs and turquoise coves, perfect for hiking, swimming, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine.

Blending ancient history, maritime heritage, and a relaxed coastal vibe, Marseille offers cruisers an authentic taste of the Mediterranean at its most soulful.

Day 9 - Arrive La Spezia - 19th May 2026

La Spezia – Gateway to the Cinque Terre

La Spezia, nestled on Italy’s Ligurian coast, is a charming port city framed by rolling green hills and a sparkling natural harbour. Though often seen as a launchpad for exploring the nearby Cinque Terre, La Spezia has plenty of treasures of its own, from palm-lined promenades to fascinating museums and authentic trattorias.

The city’s historic centre invites leisurely strolls through colourful streets, where you’ll find lively markets, local boutiques, and piazzas perfect for a morning espresso. Culture lovers can explore the Naval Technical Museum, a nod to La Spezia’s long maritime heritage, or the CAMeC Modern and Contemporary Art Centre. For a taste of daily life, wander along the seafront promenade lined with gardens, sculptures, and views across the Gulf of Poets — so named for the writers and artists who once found inspiration here.

Beyond the city, La Spezia serves as the perfect gateway to Liguria’s crown jewels. Frequent ferries and trains whisk travellers to the pastel-coloured fishing villages of Cinque Terre, while short trips inland lead to medieval hill towns and scenic vineyards. With its blend of seaside charm and easy access to some of Italy’s most iconic landscapes, La Spezia is both a destination to enjoy in its own right and an ideal springboard for unforgettable adventures.

Top Points of Interest in La Spezia

⭐ Unmissable

Passeggiata Morin – A palm-lined waterfront promenade with views across the Gulf of Poets, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Museo Tecnico Navale (Naval Technical Museum) – Showcasing La Spezia’s naval heritage with ship models, navigation tools, and historic relics.
Castello di San Giorgio – A hilltop fortress with sweeping views over the harbour, home to archaeological treasures dating back to Roman times.

🔄 For Repeat Visitors

CAMeC (Modern and Contemporary Art Centre) – A striking gallery featuring Italian 20th- and 21st-century art.
Piazza Garibaldi & Via del Prione – The city’s lively shopping and café hub, great for soaking up local life.
Giardini Pubblici – Elegant 19th-century gardens dotted with statues and shaded pathways, ideal for an afternoon pause.

🌿 Off-the-Beaten-Path / Curious Travellers

Lerici – A nearby seaside town with a fairytale castle and pretty beaches, once beloved by poets Shelley and Byron.
Portovenere – A UNESCO-listed fishing village with colourful houses, dramatic cliffs, and boat links to the Cinque Terre.
Cinque Terre – Just a short train or ferry ride away, this string of five pastel villages clinging to the cliffs is one of Italy’s most iconic sights.
Sarzana – A medieval hill town inland from La Spezia, known for its fortress, antiques markets, and laid-back charm.

uty!

DAY 10 - Arrive Naples - 20th May 2026

Naples – Gateway to History and the Amalfi Coast

Naples is a city of contrasts — a vibrant, energetic metropolis where ancient history, grand architecture, and raw southern Italian spirit collide. Founded by the Greeks and shaped by Romans, Normans, and Bourbons, Naples is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, brimming with stories on every corner.

At its heart lies a UNESCO-listed historic centre: a maze of narrow alleys, Baroque churches, bustling piazzas, and street vendors serving the city’s most famous creation — pizza. Overlooking it all is Castel Sant’Elmo, with panoramic views stretching across the Bay of Naples and toward the brooding presence of Mount Vesuvius.

For cruisers, Naples is more than a city stop; it’s a gateway to some of Italy’s most iconic destinations. Within easy reach are the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, frozen in time by Vesuvius’ eruption, as well as the glamorous island of Capri, with its Blue Grotto and designer boutiques. Scenic drives along the Amalfi Coast reveal cliffside villages like Positano and Amalfi, while nearby Sorrento offers lemon groves and sweeping sea views.

Colourful, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating, Naples offers both the pulse of authentic Italian life and access to some of the Mediterranean’s most legendary sights.

Points of Interest in Naples

⭐ 3 Unmissable Things to Do

Historic Centre (Centro Storico) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding streets, ancient churches, and vibrant piazzas that showcase Naples’ character.
Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius – A short trip from the port takes you to the ruins of Pompeii, frozen in time since AD 79, with the looming volcano visible in the distance.
Neapolitan Pizza Experience – Visit a traditional pizzeria to taste authentic pizza margherita in the city where it was invented.

🔄 3 Activities for Repeat Visitors

Castel dell’Ovo – Perched on the seafront, this ancient fortress offers sweeping harbour views and legends tied to Naples’ origins.
National Archaeological Museum – Home to one of the world’s finest collections of Greco-Roman antiquities, including mosaics and sculptures from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Spaccanapoli – A lively street cutting through the old town, filled with artisan shops, trattorias, and traditional sfogliatella pastry stands.

🌿 4 Activities for Curious Travellers

For Solo Travellers – Explore the bustling Mercato di Porta Nolana, an authentic market full of local colour and street food.
For Couples – Take a day trip to the island of Capri, enjoying a romantic boat ride to the Blue Grotto and sunset views from Anacapri.
For Kids – Visit the underground tunnels of Napoli Sotterranea, where interactive tours reveal the city’s hidden layers of history.
For Multi-Generational Families – Journey along the Amalfi Coast, with its breathtaking cliffside villages, offering something for everyone — shopping, scenery, and cafés with a view.

Day 11 - Arrive Palermo - 21st May 2026

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a sensory celebration of history, culture, and cuisine. Nestled on the island’s northern coast, this city reveals layers of influence — from Phoenician roots to Arab-Norman architecture. Known as the cultural heart of Sicily, Palermo offers golden domes, bustling markets, and a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions waiting to be explored.

Points of Interest

Teatro Massimo
A majestic symbol of Sicilian grandeur, Teatro Massimo is Italy’s largest opera house and a jewel of Palermo’s cultural scene. Completed in 1897, its grand neoclassical design and world-class acoustics make it a must-visit for lovers of music and architecture alike. Film buffs will also recognise it as the dramatic setting of the final scenes in The Godfather Part III.

Erice
Perched high above the coastal town of Trapani, Erice is a timeless hilltop village that blends medieval charm with sweeping sea views. This ancient settlement is known for its winding cobbled lanes, fragrant gardens, and the imposing Norman Castle that guards its summit. With its cool mountain air and enchanting streets, Erice offers a peaceful escape steeped in Sicilian history.

Cathedral of Palermo
A magnificent fusion of architectural styles, the Cathedral of Palermo is a testament to Sicily’s layered past. This sprawling complex houses royal tombs, ancient crypts, a treasure-filled museum, and an ornate chapel. Its grand façade and panoramic rooftop views make it one of the city’s most captivating historic landmarks.

Palazzo dei Normanni
Europe’s oldest royal residence, the Palazzo dei Normanni once housed the Kings of Sicily and remains a powerful symbol of Palermo’s regal past. Today, it serves as the seat of the Sicilian parliament and is home to the dazzling Palatine Chapel — a masterpiece of Arab-Norman-Byzantine art. A visit here offers a glimpse into centuries of grandeur and political power.

Duomo di Monreale
A true masterpiece of Norman architecture, the Duomo di Monreale dazzles with golden mosaics that adorn its walls, ceilings, and floors — each scene meticulously crafted in the 12th century. Just outside Palermo, this cathedral is a shining example of Sicilian artistry and spiritual grandeur, offering one of the most breathtaking interiors in all of Italy.

Ruins of Segesta
Set amidst rolling Sicilian hills, the ancient ruins of Segesta reveal a striking Doric temple and a semi-circular amphitheatre carved into the mountainside. This remarkably preserved archaeological site offers a powerful glimpse into classical Greek civilization — with panoramic views that make the history feel alive and timeless.

Capuchin Catacombs
One of Palermo’s most haunting and fascinating sites, the Capuchin Catacombs offer a chilling journey through history. Beneath the monastery lie the preserved remains of over 8,000 individuals — monks, nobles, and citizens — displayed in eerie stillness. A visit here is a sobering reminder of mortality, tradition, and the city’s unique relationship with death.

L’Antica Masseria
Tucked away in the tranquil Sicilian countryside, L’Antica Masseria offers rustic charm with refined hospitality. Surrounded by rolling green hills, this beautifully restored estate blends comfort, tradition, and farm-to-table dining — delivering an experience that’s warm, welcoming, and wonderfully flavourful.

Day 12 - Disembarking at Malta 22nd May 2026

Malta – The Heart of the Mediterranean

MSC Splendida

MSC Splendida is a stylish and modern luxury cruise ship that transports guests to some of the most desirable cruise destinations in the world. It’s packed with features including a squash court, F1 simulator, 4D cinema, award-winning spa, and a pool complex complete with 150 water fountains and jets, making this cruise ship more of a floating luxury resort.

It has a wide range of restaurants, bars, and live music on board. The food is mostly scrumptious Mediterranean fare, but they also have some other speciality restaurants like Tex Mex and a steak house. It has some great kids and teen clubs, which means you can enjoy the fantastic facilities and clubs or simply top up your tan while they’re taking care of and having fun.