Uncover the Best Mediterranean Cruises
Cruises around the Mediterranean provide guests with the perfect blend of cultural exploration and coastline relaxation. From strolling through Santorini's whitewashed streets to marvelling at Rome's historical splendour, a Mediterranean cruise is a gateway to the heart of some of Europe’s greatest and most storied cities and ports.
Top Mediterranean Cruise Destinations
The sparkling waters of the Mediterranean connect so many iconic destinations for guests to explore. Whether travelling via a fly-cruise or sailing directly from the UK, guests can cruise through this tapestry of cultures, stunning landscapes and historical wonders. They can visit the ancient ruins of Athens, the vibrant cities of Spain and Portugal, and the aquatic channels of Venice within the same expansive Mediterranean cruise.
Sailing deep into Mediterranean waters, cruises explore the very best of Greece’s diverse archipelago. Santorini and Mykonos are glistening highlights of any itinerary, their whitewashed buildings and azure waters filling the Eastern Mediterranean with sparkling light and colour.
Sail the Legendary Seas – Book Your Mediterranean Cruise Today!
From sun-drenched coastlines to ancient ruins and world-class cuisine, explore the rich history and beauty of the Mediterranean.
Stepping onto Italian shores, explore Renaissance cities as well as the stunning Amalfi Coast, journeying from the majestic Colosseum to cliff-hugging towns in just a matter of days. Over in Spain, Mediterranean cruises call into cities like Barcelona and Valencia, offering opportunities for exploring the bustling La Rambla or indulging in the tapas of Valencia’s historic quarters. The passionate spirit of neighbouring Portugal also offers a sensational stay for the senses.
An opulent highlight of any cruise around the Mediterranean is France's Côte d'Azur, featuring glamorous cities like Nice and Cannes. Promising a luxurious escape, the pristine beaches, chic boutiques, and exquisite restaurants are sure to impress, as is the French Riviera!
Top Ports on a Mediterranean Cruise
When you cruise the Mediterranean, every destination plays a pivotal role in shaping an experience to remember. Offering its own unique charm and list of attractions, every port is alive with personality and spirit, vying for its place on your dream cruise itinerary.
Barcelona
The iconic Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and the Picasso Museum – Barcelona truly sets the standard for Mediterranean cruise ports of call.
Civitavecchia (for Rome)
Explore the wonders of the Vatican City, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and discover Rome's rich history via this essential port.
Venice
Glide through historic waterways on a gondola and visit the iconic St Mark's Basilica as you explore the timeless beauty of Venice.
Athens
Serving as a gateway to discovering Greece's ancient wonders, Piraeus lets guests step back in time. From the Acropolis and charming Plaka district to Greek delicacies savoured in traditional tavernas, Athens merges antiquity and modernity.
Marseille
With a vibrant cultural scene in the heart of Provence, Marseille is a must-visit Mediterranean port. Discover the bustling Old Port, the striking Notre-Dame de la Garde, and the picturesque countryside while immersed in authentic French charm.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Mediterranean Islands to Visit
These dazzling European shores are home to numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and guests cruising the Mediterranean can uncover a variety of ports offering tranquil charm and unique excursions.
Venturing from the Italian coast, the Aeolian Islands await with the promise of untouched beauty and sensational volcanic landscapes. The beaches of Lipari are quiet havens of aquatic bliss, and the active volcano of Stromboli offers a unique hiking opportunity for those eager to explore. If relaxation is more your aim, the thermal baths of Vulcano forge unique connections between guests and the landscape.
For a flavour of travel distinctly and uniquely French, Corsica's rugged terrain and charming villages are sure to appeal. The island's dramatic cliffs and lush forests are a testament to wild beauty at its best, and the surrounding picturesque towns, such as Bonifacio and Ajaccio, offer Corsican cuisine alive with flavours that mirror the island's diverse heritage.
To explore medieval castles and secluded beaches, guests need look no further than the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. Providing tranquil escapes with rich history, Rhodes, Kos, and Patmos offer truly serene retreats. Malta's hidden gems also showcase stunning natural wonders, with Gozo and Comino offering crystal-clear waters to dive into and ancient temples to discover.
Families seeking to explore national parks and fishing villages together will find the Croatian islands of Vis and Mljet to be jewels of rich culture and fewer crowds.
Tips for Booking the Best Mediterranean Cruise Deals
Booking your dream Mediterranean cruise is certain to lead to lifelong memories, and we’ve got the best tips for how you can craft a memorable experience that meets your every need.
We know that booking early often secures the best prices and cabin selections for Mediterranean cruises. Cruise lines frequently offer early-bird discounts and incentives for those who book in advance, allowing you to take advantage of these offers often and confirm your preferred itinerary months or even years in advance.
Another top tip is that off-peak travel in spring or autumn can result in reduced rates and fewer crowds across Europe, especially for last-minute deals. The Mediterranean is beautiful all year, but travelling during the shoulder seasons can result in lower fees and a quieter, slower-paced experience for those who desire it.
Mediterranean Cruises – Frequently Asked Questions
To find the most affordable Mediterranean cruise deals, guests are advised to compare prices from different cruise lines, use online travel agencies, sign up for cruise line newsletters for exclusive offers, and consider booking during off-peak times. Keep an eye out for flash sales and promotions that can help you secure a great deal on your Mediterranean cruise. All-inclusive cruises can also offer great value for money.
On a Mediterranean cruise ship, guests can expect a wide range of activities and amenities to enjoy on board. From gourmet dining options and luxurious spas to live entertainment and exciting shore excursions, there is something for everyone on a Mediterranean cruise. Specific activities and amenities may vary between cruise lines, so be sure to review the details of your particular cruise.
Mediterranean cruises can vary in cost depending on the cruise line, itinerary, packages, and time of year. Starting from as low as £41 per person, Odysia Cruise offers a variety of price options for sailing the Mediterranean.
Cruises around the Mediterranean can visit a variety of countries and territories around southern Europe, including Spain (Barcelona and Valencia), Italy (Rome and Venice), Malta (Valletta), Turkey (Istanbul), Greece (Kavala and Athens), and many more. The exact itinerary a ship will follow will vary from cruise to cruise.
There are generally two ideal periods throughout the year to cruise the Mediterranean. The periods from April to June and September to October offer the best combination of pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and value-for-money prices. The summer months are ideal for those who don’t mind crowds and want the hottest weather and longest days possible, though prices will be highest at this time.
Cruises range from short 3–5 night getaways to extended 10–14 night voyages. Longer cruises often allow for deeper exploration of both Western and Eastern Mediterranean regions, with more time to enjoy diverse ports and onboard experiences.