The Magic Of The Western Mediterranean
Discover the Mediterranean by Sea.
There’s a reason Mediterranean cruises are the most popular European cruises. The amazing variety of fascinating itineraries ranges from Italy to Istanbul and from Barcelona to Tunisia.
It’s helpful to look back in history before looking ahead to where to go. Understanding the Mediterranean is really quite crucial to understanding the underpinnings of many of our modern societies. Some of the most ancient human civilizations relied upon its waters for trading and fishing. The people of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Persia, Phoenicia, Carthage, Greece and Rome called the shores of the sea home.
To these ancient cultures, the Mediterranean was the center of the earth. The Romans, in fact, called it Mare Nostrum (“our sea”). Almost completely enclosed by land, the Mediterranean Sea is surrounded by the shores of Europe to the north, Asia to the east and Africa to the south.
The sea is generally divided between the Eastern and Western Mediterranean. Both sides offer both familiar and exotic ports to call. Even veteran Mediterranean vacationers will discover new sights and experiences.
Starting in the Western Mediterranean, many travelers enjoy the near-perfect mix of arts and culture, surf and sand, café hopping and boutique shopping. The area offers fantastic variety as well as a range of cruise-ship selection: from floating, resort-style mega-ships to university-at-sea-style cruises.
Ports of call in the Western Mediterranean might include:
Barcelona, Spain
Tour the Gothic Quarter and Antoni Gaudi’s stunning La Sagrada Familia Church. Or for something unexpected, visit the Montserrat Monastery, nestled on the side of a mountain about 45 minutes outside of this cosmopolitan city.
Rome, Italy
Get off the ship and get into the Vatican, St. Peter’s Square, the Colosseum or Trevi Fountain. Returning visitors might prefer a walk through the city’s winding cobblestoned streets, taking an espresso break at a sidewalk café at Piazza Navona.
Florence, Italy
Instead of walking the city’s narrow streets or exploring by motorcoach, try exploring Lucca, a medieval walled city that was the capital of Tuscany during the Middle Ages.
If you’ve visited the Mediterranean before, the eastern side might give you a completely new perspective. In every port, you’ll discover sights, sounds and surprises that will delight you.
If you love history and culture, choose a cruise with an itinerary that includes Venice, Dubrovnik, Athens, Katakolon (Olympia) and Istanbul. On the other hand, if you’re into fun in the sun, head to the Greek Isles.