Mediterranean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Table Of Content

• MEMORABLE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES
• Variety Cruises
• Night Eastern MediterraneanDetails
• & GREEK ISLES
• Cannes, Monaco, Genoa, La Spezia, Livorno, Rome, Naples, and Valletta)

Furthermore, Cruise Critic makes no guarantees for availability of prices advertised on our site. Listed prices may have blackout dates, qualifications or restrictions. Get a deep dive into the history of the region with Viking’s educational onboard lectures and discussions. Sail along the coast of Italy in luxury on a Regent Seven Seas Med cruise. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. While we don’t cover all available credit cards, our editorial team creates and maintains all of the analysis of these cards, and our content is not influenced nor subject to review by any credit card company, bank or partner prior to (or after) publication.

12 Best Mediterranean Cruise Destinations for 2024–2024 - Reader's Digest

12 Best Mediterranean Cruise Destinations for 2024–2024.

Posted: Mon, 20 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

MEMORABLE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

Viking has curated a group of itineraries during the quiet season in the Mediterranean—the fall and winter—when there are fewer travelers, easier access to iconic landmarks and more opportunities to interact with the locals for a more immersive experience. One of those itineraries is the 15-night Malta, Morocco and the Mediterranean cruise, sailing round-trip from Barcelona. The newly added itinerary lends itself to days of lingering longer to explore ports like Marseille, France, Valletta, Malta, Casablanca, Morocco and plenty more. Complimentary shore excursions are included with each Viking cruise; on the itinerary, guests can choose from excursions like a panoramic tour of Corsica, sightseeing in Rome and Algiers, and a walking tour of Málaga, to name a few.

Variety Cruises

Travel Tuesday cruise deals go live at midnight on Cyber Monday, and are designed to bring you discounts on experiences that you'll remember for a lifetime. Discover the charm of the Mediterranean on a bucket list busting Euro vacation this summer. Catch spellbinding views of multicolored seaside towns sparkling against turquoise waters along the Amalfi Coast. Wander through bougainvillea-draped pathways and sun kissed shores in Mykonos. And savor mouthwatering authentic Neapolitan pizza in a cozy trattoria in Naples and flavorful mezes in hillside tavernas in Greece.

Night Eastern MediterraneanDetails

More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments. Until it was popularized by the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona was a hidden gem amidst Europe’s diverse landscapes. Now it’s widely recognized for its architectural masterpieces and spirited customs. On European cruises from Barcelona, leave enough time before you depart to visit Park Güell — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and feel inspired by the colors and unique artistry that lies in the park and throughout the entire city. Best for F1 fansGet trackside at the Monaco Grand Prix on one of Azamara’s voyages that coincides with this world-class sporting event.

Why Book the Mediterranean With Us

Of course, North Americans taking Mediterranean cruise vacations will need a passport to fly to and from their ship's departure and arrival ports. However, for vacationers who want all the attractions without the hassle, a cruise is an ideal way to explore the Mediterranean. This type of European cruise can be especially alluring to honeymooners, families and older couples. If you've never been to Europe, you may feel overwhelmed by destination choices. If you know which ports are on your must-see list, you might be more stumped by which cruise line to choose or which specific itinerary will be the best for you.

& GREEK ISLES

It switches to sailing the Atlantic in winter, taking you to the sunshine of the Canary Islands on an in-depth itinerary covering six islands. By day, visit the lesser-known isle of La Gomera, home to Unesco-listed Garajonay National Park, and listen to the curious whistling language used by the islanders. By night, look up and discover celestial secrets in the clear skies above La Palma on a star-gazing trip.

However, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises stand out for including a large variety of shore excursions in their cruise fares. If you're a foodie, these two lines plus Oceania Cruises are notable for their culinary tours in port, plus destination-themed cooking classes on board. The Eastern Mediterranean is especially popular for its wonderful beaches, warm weather, beautiful islands, rich culture, ancient ruins, and unique culinary traditions. The Western Mediterranean — anchored by tourist-heavy Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy — is known for its historic cities, picturesque and chic seaside towns, art, culture, shopping, and cuisine.

However, if you want to live it up at night, note that the ship does not have an onboard casino. The three newest ships in the Silversea Cruises fleet — Silver Moon, Silver Dawn and 2023's first-in-class Silver Nova — all feature the cruise line's immersive culinary program known as S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste). When Silversea's next ship, the 728-passenger Silver Ray, debuts in 2024, it will also take its guests on culinary-focused journeys — among them an 11-day Rome to Venice itinerary in June 2024. Cruise to Greece's idyllic islands and watch the sunrise over the Aegean. Explore the Old Town of Corfu or Crete, or travel even further back in time to see the ancient Acropolis of Athens or the Temple of Aphaia on Aegina. After that, relax on the world-class beaches or go snorkeling to explore what lies beneath the warm, crystal-clear waters.

Cannes, Monaco, Genoa, La Spezia, Livorno, Rome, Naples, and Valletta)

Another smart time to book a Mediterranean cruise is during January or February when cruise lines run their "wave season" sales, often with lots of extra freebies thrown into the cost of the sailing. You might find last-minute deals on spring cruises to Europe or still be considered early for fall itineraries. You can find a variety of weeklong Mediterranean cruises, but if you've got the time, nine- to 14-night sailings are not uncommon.

Best for familiesFrom Ajaccio in Corsica to Zadar in Croatia, this line’s encyclopaedic list of ports of call reads like an A to Z. MSC covers the whole of the Med on its big, blingy ships that are family-friendly and come with a staggering choice of embarkation ports. MSC Virtuosa had a starring role in the Channel 5 drama series Good Ship Murder, which was filmed on board the ship that sails from Southampton for the Mediterranean. Celebrity Cruises describes itself as a “relaxed luxury resort at sea.” The cruise line provides a modern, yet dignified experience on board. Experience distinguished cuisine and cocktails, Broadway-quality shows and live music, plus enrichment and educational options that satisfy even the most inquisitive passenger.

Here are the 10 best places to visit in Turkey, with something for every traveler. A Norway vacation will help you take in all the wild north has to offer. You'll be able to see an incredible range of wildlife during your stay. The headstrong Spanish farmers continue to produce some of the world's finest oranges, olives, and hams. From Mykonos to Malta, we’ve curated a collection of the top spots to have a luxurious experience on your Mediterranean cruise. Preparing your house for an extended vacation can seem like a huge task, but doing a few things before you go will make your trip carefree.

We believe that the best cruise ship for Mediterranean cruises is a small ship. When doing your Mediterranean cruise comparison, consider the benefits of going by small ship. A common question we answer is “When is the best time to visit the Mediterranean?

Know that you can't see everything in one Mediterranean cruise — even on sailings that run multiple weeks. Once you let go of your need to see and do it all and accept that you're on a sampler tour, you'll be better able to make your cruise selections and enjoy the ports your ship does visit. Start your trip search with this selection of recommended and popular cruises. Our experts lead the way, so the selection process becomes a part of the adventure. Select from regions, ship styles, all-inclusive or flexible itineraries and more. We will ensure the small ship Mediterranean cruise you choose is your perfect match.

The line’s French Riviera sailings include the chance to visit this tiny principality, which is a magnet for the rich and famous and, consequently, where people-watching is an irresistible pastime. The glamour continues at the resort of St Tropez — a celebrity hideaway since Brigitte Bardot immortalised the white sands of Pampelonne beach during the filming of And God Created Woman in 1956. Best for tall shipsExperience the golden age of sailing — without having to discover new worlds — with Star Clippers. The tall-ship cruise line sails in the Mediterranean with its three recreated clipper ships; Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer. There are chances to explore the Balearic Islands, top up your tan in St Tropez and see the luxury and extravagance of Monaco. Vessels sail under wind power whenever possible and the sight of the creamy billowing sails is a spectacle to behold.

8 best Italy cruises for a Mediterranean vacation

Table Of Content

• Night Eastern MediterraneanDetails
• More from The Times and The Sunday Times
• Vegas hits the seas
• Picture Postcard Travel-Cruising

Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Night Eastern MediterraneanDetails

The ships have an exhaustive list of onboard experiences including nightly live entertainment, specialty dining options, areas to play sports like pickleball, pools, and everything from salsa dancing to jewelry-making classes. The larger ships simply come with more to do, for everyone in the family, including waterslides, roller skating, and even bumper cars. It's a shame that the itinerary has no sea days because the ship offers plenty to keep cruisers busy on board. There's a wealth of dining options, from the Italian cuisine-serving Onda by Scarpetta to a trendy food hall, plus a go-kart track, multistory twisty slides and a bar serving sustainable craft cocktails. Viking also offers complimentary shore excursions in every port, so you'll have access to knowledgeable guides who can explain the historical sites you're touring. Enjoy the exemplary service you have come to expect from The Ritz-Carlton Hotels when sailing the Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

More from The Times and The Sunday Times

BEST Royal Caribbean Cruises to the Western Mediterranean (with Prices) 2024 & 2025 on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic

BEST Royal Caribbean Cruises to the Western Mediterranean (with Prices) 2024 & 2025 on Cruise Critic.

Posted: Sun, 21 Apr 2024 04:30:16 GMT [source]

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II,” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style. If you’re not big on visiting historical sites or taking crowded ship-sponsored excursions, you might want to hire a car with guide to take you on a customized tour of places that most interest you. Check Roll Call to make onboard connections for your next cruise.

Vegas hits the seas

Seven-night cruises are best if you're short on time or want to tack on a few days in Barcelona, Rome or Athens before or after your cruise. Longer itineraries are ideal for experiencing a greater variety of destinations and traversing more of the Med. I liked the itinerary and the ship when I saw it in your promotional materials.

[I  most enjoyed the] Ancient theater at Epidaurus, Olympia and Delphi. These are amazing ancient places that I'd heard about for a long time. They were beautiful in the springtime with blossoming trees and wildflowers all about.

Ritz-Carlton, which entered the cruise realm in 2021 with its 298-passenger luxury yacht, Evrima, offers an all-inclusive "yachting lifestyle" experience. This leisurely sailing features overnights in Sorrento and Taranto and two sea days with ample ways to enjoy onboard pampering. The ship's spacious suites are designed with a contemporary residential feel and range in size from 300 square feet with an 81-square-foot terrace to 1,091 square feet with a 635-square-foot terrace. According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry, this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers.

Another popular port of call on Riviera itineraries is Monaco, where you might visit the royal palace of the Grimaldi family and stop by the glamorous Monte Carlo Casino to pretend you are James Bond enjoying a night on the town. You'd be hard-pressed to sample Spain, France, Italy and Greece on one land tour without transportation nightmares. A Mediterranean cruise, however, is the perfect way to get a taste of many coastal countries with ease as you transit between destinations while you sleep aboard your ship. For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. Highlights of the complimentary shore excursions on this itinerary include a panoramic tour of Corsica, seeing the sights in Rome and Algiers and a walking tour of Málaga, to name a few. This 22-day trip tracks its way through 20 ports via five countries, including Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, and Turkey.

Evrima also offers nine bars and dining venues featuring menus created to reflect the ports visited. For culinary indulgence, guests can book a table at S.E.A., a specialty dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the Michelin three-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany. Plus, with a cruise season that runs from early April through late October (and even year-round for a few cruise lines), Italy offers something for everyone. Travel here to find an alluring mix of impeccably preserved historic sites, renowned regional cuisines and natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Our award-winning Mediterranean cruise shore excursions bring you to iconic beaches, landmarks and ancient artifacts.

Check out a few shore excursions, or go it alone, knowing you have the perfect place to call home, even for a few days, each night. Holland America doesn’t have the wide-ranging options like other cruise lines on this list, however, the sailings it does offer are top-notch. Holland America also offers a varied pricing list to allow people to choose the right price point for them, with rooms ranging from interior staterooms that come with 151 square feet to over-the-top suites with 712 square feet to stretch out in. Rates for the two-week sailing are from $5,498/person; vikingcruises.com. Perhaps you’re eager to hop between big-city, blockbuster Mediterranean metropolises at ports like Barcelona, Athens, or Rome on a seamless cruise-based itinerary.

What are the best cruise lines of 2024 for every traveler? - Cruise Blog

What are the best cruise lines of 2024 for every traveler?.

Posted: Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Today, the cruise line hosts Americans, and of course other nationalities, on its ships in the Mediterranean showing off the region’s vibrant and diverse cultures with thousands of unique excursions. A cruise is a great way to explore the Mediterranean’s diverse culture, captivating history, stunning beauty, and of course, delectable cuisine — all while unpacking your suitcase just once. Our readers’ top 10 offers a variety of cruise experiences sure to suit every style. When looking at a cruise with children, you'll want to mix time exploring on land with playtime on the ship, whether in the kids club or with attractions like video arcades and waterslides. Look for an itinerary that includes one or more fun-filled days at sea. The five-masted Wind Surf is as picture-perfect as the ports you'll visit, and the 342-passenger ship can follow all the luxury yachts into smaller harbors and off-the-beaten-track destinations.

(This would probably have been fine, if I'd been prepared with hiking boots and a walking stick, but not knowing what to expect, I wasn't). The small ships we work with mean a more personalized approach to a popular destination. Our travelers enjoy one-on-one correspondence with a dedicated Adventure Specialist.

At these times, departures often have more space and are less popular for family travel; popular ports are also less busy. The Mediterranean has long welcomed travelers, resulting in a never-ending list of ways to go. But with the region’s turquoise waters, spectacular beaches and quaint seaside towns, AdventureSmith believes the best way to see the Mediterranean is by ship—small ship. According to Clabbers, "Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country.

In port, guests can sign up for special chef-guided market excursions for shopping local markets in locales such as Barcelona and Malaga, Spain, and Livorno and Sorrento, Italy. Finds are later prepared and served by the chef via cooking demos back onboard. Choose from a series of 7- to 11-night Mediterranean Celebrity Edge voyages, running round-trip from Rome or between Rome and Barcelona.