Exploration of the Mediterranean

An important maritime city for centuries, Vigo is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and has one of the best natural ports in the world. The port area was heavily influenced by the sea, and has many old fishing houses and markets selling locally caught seafood. A neoclassical Cathedral, the Collegiate Church of Santa Marta is built on the site of a gothic church that was burnt down by Francis Drake; and there is an impressive statue dedicated to literary author Jules Verne.

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Cadiz is well-known for the golden dome atop the cathedral, which gleams in the pleasant October sunshine. You will be perfectly placed to wander through the narrow streets of the old town or ascend the 173 steps of the former watchtower, Torre Tavira, for outstanding views across the city. There will be opportunities for you to witness a traditional Flamenco show in its place of origin and dine at authentic tapas bars, offering delectable small plates like fried anchovies, garlic prawns, and shrimp fritters, accompanied by local wines or the famously sweet and nutty-tasting Jerez sherry.

Visiting Malaga in the autumn makes for a pleasant exploration of peaceful streets lined with orange trees and historical buildings. You could explore Pablo Picasso’s birthplace and the museum dedicated to his work in Buenavista Palace, or discover the well-preserved Moorish fortress of Alcazaba, which offers beautiful panoramas over the city and the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. Amidst your exploration, savour opportunities to experience local dishes of espetos (sardines on skewers and cooked over coals), tapas in authentic Spanish bard, and a traditionally sweet Moscatel wine. Alternatively, you can enjoy a hike to Gibralfaro Castle, which offers vistas of the surrounding city and a fascinating history dating back to Phoenician times.

In the pleasant October sunshine, a visit to Cartagena beckons, with its variety of historical sites awaiting exploration. The undoubted highlight is the Roman amphitheatre, rediscovered in 1988 and located within the city and close to the harbour, holding thousands of years of history to delve into. After a stroll through the city to admire its Art Nouveau buildings, you could be enjoying a refreshing glass of Licor 43 or an Asiatico at a local bar or café, sitting in the autumn sun, before ascending to the top of Concepcion Castle via its panoramic lift for outstanding views across the harbour.

Alicante, often seen as just a gateway to Spain’s beach resorts, is a vibrant destination in its own right. With a beautiful harbour, golden beaches, and scenic promenades, it’s perfect for relaxing in the Mediterranean sun. You can explore the Old Quarter’s historic sites, enjoy local cafés or visit Santa Bárbara Castle for breathtaking views, while for those seeking out the culture of the city, discover the Archaeological Museum or admire works by Picasso and Dalí at the Asegurada Museum of Modern Art.

Located on the east coast of Menorca, Mahón is the largest city on the island and has a maze of narrow streets lined with Georgian architecture, including buildings with sash windows and balconies. The city has a sheltered harbour, full of islets and coves, which are home to the protected Mediterranean pillow coral.

Savona is a charming coastal city located in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy, perfectly positioned between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, boasting a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a blend of cultural and natural attractions. As you step ashore, you will have opportunities to explore the sandy shores and rocky coves of Savona’s coastline, framed by lush green hills. Alternatively, you can wander round the city, stopping to admire landmarks like the Torre della Quarda, a tower named in honour of Leon Pancaldo, who explored the world with Magellan; or the Priamar, a huge fortress built by the Genovese people. Amidst your explorations, savour opportunities to indulge in local dishes of panissa (deep-fried polenta-like dough) or trofie al pesto (a traditional Ligurian pasta made with basil pesto) along with a glass of fruity chinotto, perfect for summer.

The charming city of La Spezia, located on the Ligurain coast of Italy, offers a colourful blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty and culture. Known for its strategic maritime importance, the naval base here was reconstructed after it was decimated in World War Two, and still produces naval warships for the Italian Navy. The tranquil bay in La Spezia is known as the “Gulf of Poets”, and has inspired many writers and poets, including Lord Byron and Mary Shelley. The city is also gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre, with its beautifully coloured villages perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

A busy port town, Bastia is located on the north-east coast of Corsica. The Vieux Port is lined with faded, coloured buildings stretching up through the hillside, through a network of alleyways and narrow streets to the 15th century citadel, set within the Terra Nova area of the town. Many of the churches here are built in either baroque or neoclassical style, but the real essence of Bastia for visitors is to experience its character and culture.

Positioned on the island’s south-west coast at the head of the Valinco Gulf, Propriano is a traditional Corsican town, with a charming harbour and marina area. There are many 19th century buildings in the town, along with remains from Roman and Greek settlements. Close by is the scenic town of Sartene, with houses so tall they seem to be carved from the rockface, but also renowned for its highly rated wine, of which Rose is the most popular.

As your cruise ship sails past the impossibly beautiful Amalfi Coast, the deep blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea stretches endlessly beneath the golden sun, while pastel-coloured villages cling to steep cliffs, their terraces overflowing with lemon trees and bougainvillea. From the decks of your ship, you may be able to see the legendary towns of Positano, with its charming beachfront; Amalfi, home to citrus groves and steeped in maritime history; and Ravello, offering dramatic views and tiny secluded coves.

Perfectly located between the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park, Salerno is an often overlooked destination in the Campania region. With centuries of rich history, influenced by the Romans, Goths and Byazantines, there are many churches and authentic trattorias laced through the towns narrow cobbled streets. The 11th century cathedral in Salerno is the city’s most important church, and has an abundance of artefacts dedicated to Saint Matthew, with stunning artwork on its ceilings and walls.

Sailing past one of Italy’s most unspoiled stretches of coastline offers the opportunity for you to marvel at secluded coves and rocky inlets that contrast against the deep turquoise of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The The coastline of Maratea, often referred to as the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian, offers views of small fishing villages and the Grotta delle Meraviglie, a natural sea cave of delicate limestone formations. Above the cliffs, you may be able to spot the white Statue of Christ the Redeemer of Maratea, bathed in sunlight, while the town of Maratea itself is a delight of pastel-hued houses and medieval charm. As you approach Scalea, the scenery softens into rolling hills and long stretches of sandy shorelines.

Situated just north of Sicily, Stromboli Island is one of the smallest Aeolian Islands, but arguably the most famous thanks to its intense volcanic activity. One of Europe’s most active volcanos after Mount Etna, Stromboli has been erupting for over 2,000 years and almost non-stop since 1932. The island’s eruptions are so distinctive that geologists use ‘Strombolian’ to describe similar eruptions around the world.

Located between the eastern tip of Sicily and the western tip of Calabria, the Strait of Messina separates mainland Italy with the island of Sicily with its narrowest point measuring just one nautical mile. The strait is home to strong tidal currents and a unique marine ecosystem, with a natural whirlpool at the northernmost point of the strait, said to be linked to the Greek legends of Scylla and Charybdis.

The instantly recognizable 16th century walls and Grand Harbour of Valletta have seen many conflicts, and its diverse architecture is testament to them. Influences from the Romans, Greeks, Crusaders and British are evident in the various churches and palaces. Most noteworthy are the National War Museum, housing many military artefacts and the Casa Rocca Piccola Palace. Located in the north of the island is the silent city of Mdina, home to the Roman burial complex of St. Paul’s Catacombs.

As you arrive in Dubrovnik, known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, the medieval walls of this deeply historic city are bathed in the autumn sun, protecting Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance monuments and an array of impressive architecture, including the 14^th-century Dominican House, home to rare books and manuscripts. Best explored on foot, the old town has a number of tiny, cobbled streets, hidden squares, and staircases begging for exploration, while the cable car to Srdj Hill offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding area. Meanwhile, the nearby island of Lokrum offers opportunities to explore the monastery and botanical garden, or venture further afield to Konavle Valley to discover how Croatians live here, enjoy local brandy and figs, or experience typical Dalmatian music and songs.

The striking city of Split is well-known for its beaches and waterfront area, but just a short walk away is the old town, protected by the UNESCO-listed walls of Diocletian’s Palace. Best explored on foot, wander through the cobbled streets, alleyways, and courtyards as you admire the perfectly preserved Roman architecture of St. Dominus Cathedral and Narodni Trg, the People’s Square. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a taste of Dalmatian life and culinary traditions, sampling local fish and shellfish, accompanied by locally produced wine, or experience village life in the Croatian mountains by listening to a local musician playing the fiddle, showcasing traditional songs from the region. You’ll also be ideally placed to witness the impressive Krka waterfalls, including Skradinski Buk, the last of seven magnificent waterfalls cascading into the river below.

Known as the ‘town of a hundred suns’ and the oldest town in Slovenia, Koper has unforgettable sea views, extensive vineyards and olive groves. After the Second World War, Koper became part of Yugoslavia, but then regained independence in 1991, and officially became part of Slovenia. The spectacular Lake Bled, nominated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is close by and is considered one of the most picturesque spots in the country.

The oldest continually habited city in Croatia, Zadar is located on the northern Dalmatian coast, and is full of narrow marbled streets within the old town. Zadar is your gateway to Krka National Park, a region full of waterfalls and an abundance of plants and wildlife. Declared a national park in 1985, its purpose is to offer recreational, scientific and educational activities to those who visit.

As your ship sails along the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, you’ll have the chance to admire the craggy mountains that surround the rugged coastlines, sprinkled with picturesque waterside villages. You will also be perfectly placed out on the decks of your ship to witness the architectural landmarks of the Saint George Benedictine Monastery at the water's edge and the twin islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks, both of which are religious pilgrimage sites.

Located on the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the town of the same name is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic. Framed by steep mountain peaks and rocky shorelines, you will be able to see the spectacular Orjen Mountains to the west and Lovćen Mountains to the east. You can easily explore the Old Town on foot at this time of year and admire its beautifully crisscrossed streets and squares lined with centuries-old buildings, like the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. During your explorations, there will be opportunities to discover Lovcen National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that thrive in the Mediterranean climate, or visit Lustica Bay Village, where you can wander through an olive tree plantation, learn about the production of olive oil, and enjoy a taste alongside other local delicacies like goat’s cheese and prosciutto.

This beautiful Greek island may have a chequered past, but its interesting history, natural beauty and glorious climate make it a hugely popular tourist destination in Europe. With a history dating back to ancient times, Kerkira - also known more commonly as Corfu - has a diverse cultural heritage, and was ruled by various powers over the centuries; Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, French, and British influences are seen within the wide avenues, narrow flagstone alleys, open squares, ancient churches and fortresses. The island was also the setting for Shakespeare's 'The Tempest'. Aside from seemingly endless stretches of fine beaches and azure blue waters,Corfu's main attraction is the historic Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its diverse mix of Renaissance, Baroque and Classical architecture. The 15^th century Old Fortress, New Fortress and Church of St. Spyridon are must-visit sites, while Spianáda, the largest square in the Balkans, is awash with French architecture from the 19th century. 

The history of Iraklion, the capital of Crete, stretches back over 5000 years to the time of the Minoans – Europe's first civilisation – and is a port city of remarkably well preserved fortifications, a fine, animated street market and atmospheric old alleys and museums. Also known as Heraklion, the city’s most sought-after highlight is the Minoan Palace of Knossos, an archaeological site with frescoes and baths to discover. Guarding the city’s Venetian port is the 16th century Koules fortress, and the vast Heraklion Archaeological Museum exhibits classic Hellenic and Roman sculptures, frescoes, jewellery, wall-paintings, pottery and Minoan art.

Ermoupoli is the main town on the Greek island of Syros, where its neoclassical buildings line the waters edge, and stretch up through the town through a myriad of narrow lanes and twisting alleyways. The whole town is likened to an open air museum, with classic architecture and cultural treasures, such as Miaouli Square, capped by the Municipal Palace with its impressive staircase, and The Apollo Theatre was designed in the 1860’s and is modelled on La Scala di Milano.

One of Greece’s most spectacular ancient sites, the Temple of Poseidon stands atop Cape Sounion, overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean Sea. As the sun rises, it bathes the temple’s white marble columns in a warm glow as the skies turn to soft pink and then fiery orange, enhancing the beauty of this iconic landmark. Built in the 5^th century BC, the temple has stood here guiding sailors and offering a place of worship to Poseidon, God of the Sea, and is best admired from the decks of your cruise ship as you explore the Greek Islands.

The Tourlitis Lighthouse is a unique landmark located just off the coast of Andros Island in Greece. Perched on a small, rocky islet, it creates a striking image against the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. First built in 1887, the stone column it stands on has been sculpted by centuries of natural erosion, leaving just the spindly rock spire with the lighthouse atop it, with its winding staircase seemingly leading from the sea to its door. The fantastical lighthouse was sadly destroyed during World War II but was rebuilt in the early 1990’s by an oil tycoon who dedicated the structure to his daughter and reopened it as Greece’s first automated lighthouse.

Kavala sits on the Bay of Kavala, and is affectionately known as the ‘Monaco of Greece’ due to its dramatic location and coastlines, there are a myriad of narrow alleyways filled with brightly coloured buildings and the bay is often filled with impressive yachts. Close by is the UNESCO World Heritage Site city of Philippi – one of the most interesting biblical and archaeological ancient cities in the Mediterranean.

Mount Athos, also known as the Holy Mountain, is located on the Chalkidiki Peninsula in northern Greece and is a place of deep spirituality and outstanding natural beauty. Home to numerous monasteries scattered across the surrounding landscape, it is a centre of Orthodox Christianity, drawing visitors who seek peace and reflection, although it is restricted to only male pilgrims. Many of the monasteries date back to the Middle Ages and are known for their remarkable architecture and religious icons. From the decks of your cruise ship, you can admire the spectacular buildings, lush forests and steep cliffs that lead down to the Aegean Sea.

Located in the Aegean Sea, the beautiful Greek island of Lesbos is known for its unspoiled landscapes, charming villages and picturesque coastlines. Once ashore in Mytilene, you can wander through cobbled streets lined with neoclassical buildings and discover the well-preserved Mytilene Castle that overlooks the city and across the turquoise sea to Turkey. You will have opportunities to explore traditional villages where stone houses perch on hillsides and sample dishes of fresh seafood and deliciously ripe vegetables coated in olive oil in local tavernas. Meanwhile, you can discover lush forests on this volcanic island full of migratory birds or relax on the renowned Eressos beach.

Known for its lush mountainous landscapes, beautiful beaches, cobblestone alleyways and a rich connection to ancient Greece, Samos is nestled in the Aegean Sea, just a stone’s throw from Turkey. You will be presented with opportunities to wander through colourful streets or stroll along white-sand beaches that frame jewel-like seas before enjoying local delicacies in waterfront tavernas. Savour Mediterranean dishes bursting with flavour, like freshly caught seafood, warm bread dipped in olive oil and perfectly ripe tomatoes covered in tzatziki. Alternatively, you can explore nearby Pythagoreio, a charmingly colourful village that owes its name to the famous philosopher and scientist Pythagoras, or discover the island’s neoclassical buildings and ancient temples.

Largest of the Greek Dodecanese islands, Rhodes importance as a maritime city rose after the death of Alexander the Great in 332BC when the navy was robust and economy thrived. Today, there are still examples of these ancient time, including the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town and the wonderfully preserved Acropolis which overlooks the town. The island is also famed for its delicious honey, and the local mountains provide many varieties of ingredients to ensure the honey from Rhodes tastes the best.

Located on the southern coast of Cyprus, Limassol is home to a striking castle - now the Cyprus Medieval Museum, built in 1193 by Guy de Lusignan, founder of the Lusignan dynasty, but it was then rebuilt in the 19th century by the Ottoman rulers. Close by is the Amathus site, with ruins of a Temple of Aphrodite, where the local museum houses many incredible artefacts from around this time.

Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great and is best known for being one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The birthplace of Cleopatra VII is the cultural hub of the region, and gateway to the Nile Delta, where the Rosetta stone - a stela (stone slab) inscribed with hieroglyphic Ancient Egyptian script, was discovered by the French in 1799, later to become the property of the British when Napoleon was defeated. 

Surrounded by lush pine forests and rugged mountains, Marmaris offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and Turkish coastal life. You can enjoy a stroll along the waterfront of the town’s marina, watching as local boats manoeuvre in and out of the harbour, or relax in one of the cafés lining the promenade. You will have the opportunity to explore Marmaris’s traditional Turkish market, brimming with handcrafted goods, spices and traditional foods, or explore the old town with its whitewashed buildings and cobblestone paths. Alternatively, you can take a dip in the jewel-like Aegean Sea or venture to nearby Marmaris Castle, steeped in ancient history.

Situated in north-western Turkey, Istanbul is seen as the place where east meets west, with a cultural diversity stretching back over centuries. Historically known as both Byzantine and Constantinople, it has seen many ancient empires. Skyscrapers sit alongside traditional and historical structures, such as the Blue Mosque – an iconic landmark in the city, and a fully functioning religious site. Istanbul is also home to the Grand Bazaar, the renowned maze of souqs, located under beautifully decorated ceilings.

Having long served as gateway to the Ancient city of Athens, Piraeus has an attractive marina area. However, it is generally used to visit Athens, which has been continuously occupied since the fifth century B.C. Important landmarks here include the Acropolis, the hilltop citadel overlooking the city, also home to the Parthenon Temple and the Temple of Zeus. Close by is the Panathenaic Stadium, originally built as a racetrack in 330 B.C but has been completely rebuilt and is open to the public.

Located in southern Greece, Kalamata is a vibrant city best known for the production of Kalamata olives, a local speciality grown in nearby olive groves and considered to be some of the finest in the world. The city has a picturesque waterfront with tavernas and cafes overlooking the Messenian Gulf, where fresh seafood, moussaka and souvlaki are popular dishes, along with tasty Greek salads using the local olives and high-quality olive oil. Kalamata's Old Town is located just below the castle, full of tiny alleyways and charming neoclassical houses. The castle itself was first built in the 13th century, and subsequently rebuilt after it was destroyed by the Venetians; and the Benakeion Archaeological Museum showcases artefacts that offer insight into the rich history of the region.

Located on the northwest coast of Sicily, facing the Aegadain Islands and the salt pans, sickle-shaped Trapani is well known for its Baroque-style architecture. The Salt Pans of Trapani and Paceco are one of the most important coastal wetlands in the world, offering shelter to vast species of migratory birds; and with the most spectacular sunsets in the Mediterranean. The pans are protected by the WWF, and salt is still extracted today in accordance with ancient traditions.

The narrow, winding streets of Tangier’s Medina present an exciting assault on the senses, with bustling souks selling traditional crafts, spices, fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables, and restaurants offering local dishes like Tajines of stew in a thick sauce and cooked in a large earthenware pot, couscous, or mouth-watering brouchettes (kebabs) of meat or swordfish. You can immerse yourself further into the Moroccan way of life by participating in the mint tea culture at Café Hafa, frequented by famous musicians and writers of the past, or sample sweet baklava for an authentic taste of Tangier. Meanwhile, the Kasbah fortress dominates the skyline, and the Dar el Makhzen inside offers opportunities to delve into the city’s deep history.

Situated in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, on Morocco’s South Atlantic coast, the present-day town of Agadir was rebuilt in the 1960s due to a devastating earthquake. It’s a lively beachside town, with wide boulevards, sandy beaches and azure blue seas. Contrasting with this, the Old Port area offers markets selling local spices, fruit and vegetables. Nearby, Nomadic Berber villagers live in clay homes in the shadows of the mountains.

The winter sun in the Canaries makes this the perfect time to explore Tenerife and its beautiful beaches, including the man-made golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas in the north and the volcanic black sands of Playa de las Americas in the south. Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, dominates the skyline over Santa Cruz, whose summit can be reached by cable car for spectacular views across the island and beyond. Meanwhile, as the waters surrounding the island are home to a diverse range of wildlife, there will be opportunities to spot pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The renowned “guachinches”, small, family-run restaurants, offer hearty Canarian food and are well worth discovering.

Las Palmas combines the vibrancy of a modern city with a rich maritime history, as well as perfectly clear waters lapping against golden beaches. At Christmas time, you can explore the charismatic Historic Quarter, home to the twin towers of Santa Ana Cathedral, built in a unique combination of Renaissance, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles, before discovering picturesque plazas adorned with festive decorations and authentic tapas bars offering delicious dishes like “papas arrugadas” (wrinkly potatoes) with spicy majo sauce. Meanwhile, you could visit nearby Maspalomas, home to the renowned sand dunes that create a desert-like landscape or wander through its festive market for sweet treats and handmade products.

The lunar-like landscapes of Lanzarote are streaked in hues of orange, red, and yellow which contrast dramatically against the blue of the sea and the white-washed houses on the island. After exploring the mysterious volcanic terrain of Timanfaya National Park, with its spouting geysers and magnificent backdrop of the Fire Mountains, you could be enjoying a stroll in the winter sun along one of the islands golden sand beaches or taking a dip in a natural pool. Arrecife’s picturesque lagoon of El Charco de San Ginés is a delight to wander round and enjoy dishes like boquerones at little cafés, while the Jameos del Agua cave, created by César Manrique, offers the chance to explore its unique volcanic formations.

The glorious island of Madeira is known as the ‘Garden Island’ due to its array of subtropical flowers and plants that seem to burst from every direction. From Funchal, you’ll be able to witness the floral beauty of the island at the exquisite garden in Monte, featuring themed gardens and tropical plants, while its levada walking trails offer unique views of enchanting forests and flowing streams. During December, you will have the opportunity to sample traditional foods and the renowned fortified Madeiran wine, witness local Bailinho dances, or visit one of Europe’s tallest cliffs, Cabo Girao, standing 580 metres above sea level, with a suspended glass platform viewpoint.

Visiting Lisbon in December offers you a delightfully festive feel, with twinkling lights adorning the city and a selection of Christmas markets to browse. You will also be ideally placed for wandering along the labyrinth of cobblestoned streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, which offers a captivating journey of the city, from the grandeur of São Jorge Castle to the stirring rhythms of Fado music. There will also be opportunities to try local dishes like grilled sardines or the deliciously crumbly Pastéis de Nata custard tart, ride through the city on a vintage tram, and visit the nearby fairytale-like town of Sintra, set against the backdrop of rolling hills.

Matosinhos is a delightful town to explore, where a winter stroll along the promenade offers a laidback atmosphere and a lovely beach located just outside the town. Venture further afield to Porto, and you’ll be offered opportunities to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and colourful houses of Ribeira, or perhaps take a boat trip along the Douro River to witness scenic landscapes of terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates known as quintas. Meanwhile, the city is well known for its production of Port wine, which can be sampled at one of the many wine cellars, or for enjoying Porto’s signature dish, Francesinha, a mouth-watering hearty sandwich of meat covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick sauce in an authentic Portuguese restaurant.