Few cruising regions offer as much cultural and historical diversity as the Mediterranean. Mediterranean cruises generally come in two flavors: Eastern Mediterranean and Western Mediterranean, with the toe of the Italian “boot” as the dividing line. Western Mediterranean itineraries cover Spain, France and the west coast of Italy, including Sicily. On the other side are Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, which sail the Adriatic Coast, Greek Isles, Turkey and perhaps beyond to Egypt and the Holy Lands.
Eastern Mediterranean Cruises vs Western Mediterranean Cruises – which one will you choose?
The choices can be daunting, so join us on a cruise around some of our favorite ports in the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, and choose for yourself.
Western Mediterranean Cruises
Spanish Fiestas. Monte Carlo indulgence. Amalfi Coast panoramas. Ancient Roman History. Florence renaissance. A Western Mediterranean cruise will inspire your imagination and capture your heart.
Barcelona: The starting port for many Western Mediterranean cruises, Barcelona is home to the ambitious architecture of Antonio Gaudi, Las Ramblas, with its outdoor markets and perfect people-watching cafes, and the magnificent Catalan National Art Museum.
Marseille (Provence,) France: Marseille serves are your gateway to the lush Provence region, immortalized in the canvases of Van Gogh, Cezanne and Matisse. An excursion to soak in the ambiance and architecture of the medieval cities of Avignon and Aix is a must.
Monte Carlo, Monaco: The Glamorous city of Monte Carlo, playground of the rich and famous, is yours to indulge in. A full day in port lets you visit the world famous casino, luxurious hotels and elegant restaurants and boutiques.
Livorno, (Florence,) Italy: The port gateways to Italy’s “must see” cities of Pisa and Florence. More than any other place, Florence and its landmarks symbolize the wealth and power of the Renaissance’s golden age, and the glow of that storied era still resonates through the city’s architecture, museums and bustling piazzas.
Citavecchia (Rome,) Italy: It wasn’t built in a day…and it’s hard to visit in a day on your own. A tour is highly recommended to ensure you see the best of Rome, as the port is an hour away. From the Coliseum to St. Peters, from an espresso on the Spanish Steps, to chianti in a hidden piazza, Rome will remain with you forever.
Sorrento, Italy: Your gateway to the alluring towns along the spectacular Amalfi Coast, including Positano, the charming Isle of Capri and the magnificently preserved ancient city of Pompeii.
Eastern Mediterranean Cruises
Turkish delights. Greek Island fantasies. Dubrovnik, pearl of the Adriatic. They mystery of Istanbul and the Romance of Venice. The Eastern Mediterranean is a memorable mix of stunning vistas and captivating cultures.
Venice, Italy: Serenading gondoliers, winding cobblestone streets, renaissance architecture from a fairy-tale. It’s no wonder Venice is among the world’s most romantic destinations. Be sure to allow extra days before or after your cruise to sample its delights.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: On the beautiful Adriatic coast sits the ancient city of Dubrovnik, where medieval ramparts encircle a tight maze of narrow streets and ornate stone buildings.
Santorini, Greece: The “Black Pearl of the Aegean,” Santorini has one of the most dramatic vistas in the world. Witnessing a Mediterranean sunset against a backdrop of whitewashed buildings clinging to volcanic cliffs will surely be one of your cruise highlights.
Piraeus (Athens,) Greece: Combining the rich mix of centuries-old buildings steeped in ancient lore, with such modern pursuits as shopping and dining, Athens will be one of the most attraction filled places you’ll visit on your cruise. Shore excursions range from three hours to a full day.
Istanbul, Turkey: Visit the 17th century Blue Mosque with an interior decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles in 33 different shades of blue, or explore the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world.
Ephesus (Kusadasi,) Turkey: Discover one of the most fascinating archaeological sites available to the modern day traveler. One the ancient streets of Ephesus, paved in white marble and lined with colonnades, Mark Antony and Cleopatra rode in procession and St. Paul preached against the statue of the goddess Artemis.
Who takes you there?
With Royal Caribbean Cruises, you can sail the Adventure of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Grandeur of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and the Mariner of the Seas.
Celebrity Cruises sails Europe with lots of their newer ships including the Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Solstice.
Holland America Cruises offers cruises aboard the Amsterdam, Eurodam, Maasdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Prisendam, Rotterdam and the Ryndam.
Other choices include Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, NCL Cruises, Cunard, Seabourn Cruises, Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises.
