We recently completed the Norwegian Epic 7 night cruise departing from and returning to Rome with intermediate stops in Florence, Canne France, Barcelona Spain, Palma Spain, and Naples Italy. This was an amazing cruise for our family of four - two parents, one recent college grad and a high school junior. This being our first trip to this part of Europe we wanted to see as much as possible, focusing on the highlights, with some time to do our own thing. This cruise was perfect for that.

It was actually a cruise/tour with three days in Rome before the ship sailed. That part was CRITICALLY important. There is so much to see and do in Rome that you just cannot do it justice in a day. Take the time while you are there. Even in three days we only saw highlights of Rome. But that was great for us. I see so many people complaining about lack of time on the tours, moving through things too quickly, etc. That's correct. But you see A LOT. If you want to take your time moving slowly through the multitude of museums and seemingly endless basilicas in the area, then go to Rome, stay two weeks and plan on one or two day trips by train. That was not what we were looking for.

I do recommend getting your own entry pass to the Academia Museum in Florence to see the real statue of David if you aren't doing a tour there. Doing it on our own was perfect for us. If you go during the season catch an Opera one evening at the Roman bath ruins - an amazing outdoor venue. If you are into soccer leave time in Barcelona to do the tour of Camp Nou. AND BE SURE TO GO TO HOWL AT THE MOON on the ship as many times as you can. AMAAZING talent and such a fun time.