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Where do Western Mediterranean cruises go?
Amazing, beautiful and interesting places! These itineraries visit Spain, France, Italy (including Sicily), Malta, and some even go as far as the Canary Islands! Scroll down to see all the places a Western Mediterranean cruise can take you, or click here for Eastern Mediterranean information.
Got questions? We’ve got answers!
La Spezia (Italy)
This northern Italian port is very close to some of our favorite places in all of Europe: TUSCANY, the LEANING TOWER OF PISA and FLORENCE!
Barcelona (Spain)
There are so many things to see here, it will make your head spin. And the ship docs only about 20 minutes from downtown Barcelona, so you’ll be able to get about easily.
Most folks tour these: Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Casa Batllo, the gothic quarter, and Park Guell. But if you’re feeling frisky see a flamenco show, a bullfight, or do a coastline bike tour with Tapas!
Park Guell in Barcelona! An inexpensive bike tour will take you here!
Marseille (France)
This northern Italian port is very close to some of our favorite places in all of Europe:
Rome/Civitavecchia (Italy)
So many amazing sites to see, you’ll have a hard time choosing!
The Appian Way is a 2000-year old road between Rome and Brindisi and still exists today!
The Senate Forum, Palatine Hill – site of the Roman seat of government
The Vatican
But there’s so much more! The Trevi fountain, (shown above), the Sistine Chapel, and more more more.
How to get from the cruise terminal to downtown Rome?
A ‘port mobility’ bus will take all cruise passengers from the ship to a staging area a few kilometers away where you will find your shore excursion busses.
Or, if you didn’t book an excursion, you can begin walking to the train, or you can find folks holding signs trying to sell you their shore excursions. Their prices are usually around $40 to $60 per person for transportation and day tour of Rome.
Most shore excursions include roundtrip transportation, but if you can walk the 15 minutes from the cruise terminal in Civitavecchia, you can take the train to central Rome for about $5.
How do you find the train station? Follow the pack of people who take off walking to the right!
Palermo (Italy)
The capital of Sicily! Tour ancient city sights and historic little streets, or have a beach day at Mondella.
Valletta (Malta)
This place is amazing! The NY Times ranked it number 3 in their top 50 places to visit in 2016.
Valletta is one of the warmest cities in Europe. So if you’re looking to escape the winter chill, this is where you want to go.
It’s an island somewhere south of Sicily and north of Africa. It has beautiful beaches, 7000 years of human history, UNESCO sites, and more.
Shore excursions will take you to many amazing places, but you also walk to the city center from the cruise terminal (it’s close, but up a hill).
Naples (Italy)
Do not leave Naples without visiting Pompeii, the Amalfi coast or both! Destroyed and petrified by Mount Vesuvius, there is no place quite like Pompeii it in the world (except for nearby Herculaneum). On the other hand, the beautiful seascape of the Amalfi coast makes for the perfect photo. Enjoy the cute local towns of Positano and Sorrento. When you’re done, scarf down an amazing pizza, take a shot of limoncello, and then work it off with a bike tour of the town!
Palma de Mallorca (Spain)
The sand beaches here are the prettiest of white. When people ask for beaches in the Mediterranean, this is the port that comes to mind! There are many beach options including the Jetty Sea Horizon Beach, and Talamaca Beach! However, there’s also beautiful greenery, and the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, to be seen by jeep or train! Head underground to the Drach caves where pearls are found. Or head straight to Aqualand waterpark!
Gibraltar (England, but it is located in Spain)
Come see the Barbary Macaques monkeys. They are everywhere! The Rock of Gibraltar is considered a natural wonder, allowing you to see the African coast from Spain! One way to take it all in is by cable car! There is also the rock formations in St. Michael’s Cave, the Great Siege tunnels, and a large span of glorious beaches!
Casablanca (Morocco)
Welcome to cosmopolitan Morocco! This former french settlement is fascinating. Check out the Royal Palace, and the Hassan II Mosque. Head to nearby Rabat to see the beautiful mosaics, the religious epicenter of Fez, or Marrakech, “the pearl of the south.”
Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands)
The capital city of Santa Cruz is one of Tenerife’s best kept secrets; a bustling, vibrant port city set at the foot of the stunning Anaga Mountains. Head to the the Garajonay National Park, to see a moss covered forest like that of the movies. Or stay in town! Santa Cruz offers beach, plazas, parks, museums, shopping, theatre, art, fine dining and a lively Tenerife nightlife. Try the Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour, or take your family to see the seals at the Siam water park.
Funchal (Portugal)
Known for it’s appealing temperatures, wine, and crafts, the top spots to visit in Funchal nod to this influence. Go to the open Worker’s Market, Blandy’s Wine Lodge, the Sacred Art Museum, town Cathedral, and waterfront. Heading west out of town along Avenida do Infante will take you to Praia Formosa, a long pebble beach with a breathtaking view of Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest cliff. Funchal has friendly locals, walkable streets and cheap taxis that make it easy to get around, but if you’re looking for a guided tour, try the Catamaran Sunset Tour, private driving tour, or go at your own pace on the Hop on, Hop off bus tour.
Malaga (Spain)
This town is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the Phoenicians! It has the Alcazaba, a moorish palace, a Roman Theatre, and easy access to Seville, Cordoba, and Grenada, where you can see La Alhambra!
Savona (Italy)
Savona is the home its OWN version of Sistine Chapel, and the historic fortress of Priamar. Within a 50 mile radius is the incredible Cinque Terre, Monte Carlo, and the seaside village of Portofino! You can also go snorkelling by the nearby the island of Bergeggi, or enjoy the hop on hop off bus tour of nearby Genoa.
This awesome port is also DRIVABLE for military families stationed in Germany!
Genoa (Italy)
Genoa is a true Italian blast from the past with historic buildings, a central fountain, and beautiful pastel and stone buildings. Take a city tour to see the San Lorenzo Cathedral, the Palace of the Doges, and the Royal palaces. Head to the charming Portofino fishing village with a scenic coastal tour, or onward to the gorgeous Cinque Terre
Ajaccio (France)
As the main city on the French island of Corsica, Ajaccio, is a great place to visit the birthplace of Napoleon, sail on a water taxi, snorkel, or just enjoy the beach. Hike through the Prunelli gorges, up Vizzavona, or take the mountain wheel train from Cricheto Pass.
Bilbao (Spain)
Home of the Guggenheim Art Museum, and the beautiful Basque coastline, is Bilbao, Spain. Head to the nearby town of Guernika, old mines, and the fishing village of Urdiales to truly encounter Basque country.
Cadiz (Spain)
Head out early to the Playa Victoria, to enjoy the glorious sun, before touring the beautiful port of Cadiz and nearby Seville! Check out old fort ruins in the Castillos de Santa Catalina, the golden dome of the Cathedral de Cadiz, and more moorish influence at the impressive Alcazar, the oldest royal palace still in use. For true Andalusian culture enjoy the horse school, and Sherry bodega, on this tour from Princess.
Cagliari (Italy)
A beautiful crystal blue mediterranean beach awaits you here no matter which Spiaggia you choose. This fantastic port in Sardinia is also home to the archeological ruins of Nora, and the UNESCO site of Barumini, which houses remains from the Megalithic period. Whether you hike past the sheep in the gorgeous green mountains, go to the Santa Giusta beach or the ruins -you can’t go wrong!
Cannes (France)
Home of the prestigious film festival, Cannes does look the part of a stunning movie set. Enjoy the free public beaches at Plages du Midi, and de la Boca. Sample the wine at the Lerins Abbey produced by the local monks, tour the Grasse perfume factory, and get lunch with the panoramic views afforded you from the Ile Sainte-Marguerite. Feel like venturing out? Explore the French Riviera including the palace of Monaco, Monte Carlo’s casino, and the medieval village of Eze.
Cartegena (Spain)
As of a former part of the Roman empire, Cartagena has some true archeological treasures. See it through a walking tour, or head directly to watch archeologists at work in the Barrio del Floro Romano. Then check out the Roman Theatre, and learn about underwater archeology at El Museo Nacional de Arqueologia Subacuatica.
Ibiza (Spain)
This island is known as a beach party spot in the Mediterranean. If you are young and looking for bars and clubs on the beach, then Ibiza is for you. You can rent jet skis to enjoy the waves, go snorkeling, take a tour, or just lay on the Cala Tarida beach.
La Coruna (Spain)
Known for it’s lush rolling hills, La Coruna has been compared to Ireland! Known for it’s own local language of Galician, medieval buildings such as Santiago de Compostela, and a history of explorers like Sir Francis Drake, this port is not to be missed!
Livorno (Italy)
Come for the food, and stay for the beach. Livorno has a plethora of “Spiaggias.” Head inland just a bit and this port is you best option for trips to Florence, Cinque terre, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
Malaga (Spain)
This town is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the Phoenicians! It has the Alcazaba, a moorish palace, a Roman Theatre, and easy access to Seville, Cordoba, or Granada to see La Alhambra!
Messina (Italy)
Welcome to Sicily! Benvenuti a Sicily! Eat pizza right before hiking to Mount Etna, an active volcano. Then go see the village of Taormina which has an ancient Greco-Roman theatre, the Santa Maria delle Scale church in Catania, or go on a “Godfather” themed tour!
Monte Carlo (Monaco)
People come to Monte Carlo to see the famed Casino that draws the rich and famous. Built of gold and marble, it is the standard in luxury! However there is much to experience beyond its walls. Enjoy the Ferrari driving experience, the view from up on the hill in Eze, or the oceanography museum. Venture out, and nearby is beautiful Cannes, Nice, and the French Riviera!
Olbia (Italy)
Olbia is one of two main ports on the island of Sardinia, and it is lined with beaches, such as Le Saline! It is adjacent to Asinara, the albino donkey island, and hosts many goats itself. Come see them, and see why Olbia was nicknamed Costa Esmerelda.
Porto (Portugal)
Also known as Oporto, this city gave “port” wine its name! With this in mind, vineyard tours and wine tastings are prevalent! There are also walking tours, and jewish heritage tours of this fascinating place.
Salerno (Italy)
Hidden in Italy, is one of the best preserved Greek temples, Paestum. It is worth a visit! In town for the whole day? Take a day trip due north to the ruins of Pompeii, or Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast!
Toulon (France)
Whether you are enjoying the panoramic view from atop a cable car, the classic waterfront of St. Tropez, or are sipping wine on the Hilltop village of Le Castellet, your photos are sure to be glamorous in Toulon!
Valencia (Spain)
If you want futuristic architecture, check out the City of Arts and Sciences! If you want traditional Valencia, head to Albufera natural park for Paella and eel trapping! Either way you can’t go wrong. Es buenisimo!
Villefranche-sur-Mer (France)
Situated just between Eze and Nice is the interesting town of Villefranche-sur-mer. Head down to the dock, bike the riviera, and check out the historic Fort du Mont Alban, which overlooks the town. Nearby to Nice are the famous cities of Monte Carlo and Cannes. See all three on a relaxing train tour!
Agadir (Morocco)
This city get’s a lot of visitors, and I can see why. The Agadir beach is beautifully scenic, there is plenty to buy at the Berber market, and you can ride a camel! To mix it up head to the historic market of Taroudant, or visit Crocparc!
Alicante (Spain)
Whether you zoom through this beach town on a Segway tour, or flop right on the Benidorm beach, this is a prime vacation spot! If you want more natural beauty, nearby Guadalest is a military stronghold, surrounded by beautiful forest-covered, granite mountains, beside the shore.
Arrecife (Canary Islands)
Arrecife is a small town, near the port, on the island of Lanzarote. Check out the archeological history of the region, with the Castillo de San Gabriel, painted cave museum, and lava stone church. Explore the volcanic landscape of Timanfaya National Park, and beautiful beaches such as playa del reducto, and puerto del carmen. There are many ways to
Cadiz (Spain)
Head early to the Playa Victoria to enjoy the glorious sun. Then you can truly begin touring the beautiful port of Cadiz, and nearby Seville! Check out old fort ruins in the Castillos de Santa Catalina, the golden dome of the Cathedral de Cadiz, and more moorish influence at the impressive Alcazar, the oldest royal palace still in use. For true Andalusian culture enjoy the horse school, and Sherry bodega, on this tour from Princess.
Gibralter (England, but it is located in Spain)
Come see the Barbary Macaques monkeys. They are everywhere! The Rock of Gibralter is considered a natural wonder, allowing you to see the African coast from Spain! One way to take it all in is by cable car! There is also the amazing rock formations in St. Michael’s Cave, the Great Siege tunnels, and a large span of glorious beaches!
Las Palmas/Gran Canaria (Canary Islands)
Prime sites to visit here include Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Arucas, and Palmalitos zoo park. Families typically spend their time at the water parks or beaches, while those seeking a peaceful escape head to Mogan’s fishing villages. While you’re there, try out the ever-popular Jeep safari adventure and camel ride or the Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour.
La Coruna (Spain)
Known for it’s lush rolling hills, La Coruna has been compared to Ireland! Known for it’s own local language of Galician, medieval buildings such as Santiago de Compostela, and a history of explorers like Sir Francis Drake, this port is not to be missed!
Lanzarote (Canary Islands)
Famous for its year-round warm weather, beaches like the beautiful El Reducto, and papagayo beaches, and volcanic landscape, Lanzarote is a feast for the eyes. This amazing Canary Island also boasts whitewashed villas, clear water for snorkeling, and the Famara beach cliffs, which are great for hang gliding and surfing.
Lisbon (Portugal)
This hilly city is rich in history. To fully appreciate the dramatic architecture, you can take a guided walking tour, or explore the 7 hills of Lisbon by electric bike. Major points of interest are the Padrao dos Descobrimentos, the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, and the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Torre de Belem.
Ponta Delgada (Portugal)
Volcanic activity has produced spectacular scenery on this island, along with some of the highest mountains in Europe. Visitors often climb the crater rims for breaktaking views down into blue and green lakes, hike the mountain and nature trails, and gaze out to sea from the headlands.
Tangier (Morocco)
Tangier’s whitewashed hillside medina is home to the Dar el Makhzen. The medina also has dozens of outdoor cafes, and shops to visit. Other points of interest include: the kasbah, bazaars, souks, beaches, and the grottoes of Hercules Cave. Take a taxi to one of the town’s nearby beaches, ride a camel, or you can opt for a private Tangier highlights tour.
Vigo (Spain)
Enjoy some of the most beautiful coastline in the world during your drive along the scenic coastal road to La Toja, a city where you’ll experience true Galician culture. It is rich in historical significance, and home to a church that is completely covered in seashells. Visitors typically explore the ruins of Santa Maria de Dozo, visit the famous El Berbes area to see the Oyster Market, or simply wander the oldest part of the city with its twisting streets, cobblestone, mansions, and beautiful cafes and wine bars.
Smaller Boutique Ports
The MS Oosterdam goes to some unique ports that the other, larger ships cannot!
Almeria (Spain)
(ms Oosterdam only) Dip your toes in the waters of the heavenly Monsul beach and just relax. Feeling energized?, Take a city tour, head to the historic moorish white village of Mojacar, or take in the scenery while hiking in the cabo de Gata nature park in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Saint Raphael (France)
(ms Oosterdam only) Head for a relaxing coastal drive, along the French Riviera, to nearby Cannes. However, be sure to return in time to listen to the bells of the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire.
Sete (France)
(ms Oosterdam only) Sete is a home to art! Check out the work of french folk artist, George Brassens, at the Espace Brassens, or the wildly decorated fisherman chapel, Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette.
Calvi (France)
(ms Oosterdam only) The white sand beaches of this Corsican port, are rivaled only by the gorgeous mountains and desert behind them. Visit the historic Citadel, or look down on Calvi from above, at the Chapelle de Notre Dame de la Serra.
Ceuta (Spanish Morocco)
(ms Oosterdam only) Take a city tour of the Royal Walls, the San Antonio Chapel or visit Harry Potter at the Casa de los Dragones. Then, eat a lunch of traditional Moroccan food, while visiting the the ancient city of Tetouan.
Palamos (Spain)
(ms Oosterdam only) Palamos is a fishing village that takes pride in its craft. Just head to the quirky Museu de la Pesca, and you will see what Palamos is all about. Look at the walled fortress of Carcassonne, a UNESCO world heritage site, the classic french town of Montpelier, or the Roman Circus at Arles.
