Mediterranean & Adriatic

Nestled between Europe and Africa, iconic Gibraltar makes for a fascinating visit with its traditionally British red pillar boxes, fish and chip shops, and even Marks & Spencer, but with a delightful blend of Spanish and Mediterranean influences. After wandering through the town and indulging in duty-free shopping at Main Street, you are perfectly placed to explore the Rock and enjoy unrivalled views across to Africa, Spain, and over the Straits of Gibraltar, as well as meet the famously mischievous Barbary macaques, Europe’s only wild monkey population. There will be opportunities to sample local dishes like calentita (chickpea flour bread) and rosto (a delicious meat and tomato pasta). You may also wish to discover the network of tunnels within the Rock, which played a strategic role in World War II.

A natural harbour on the island of Malta and one of the largest in the Mediterranean, Grand Harbour is surrounded by many forts and docks, which give it a unique character and a backdrop that is instantly recognisable. Steeped in history and maritime importance, it’s seen as one of the most iconic and strategic ports in the world, and was sought-after by various empires and civilisations, including the Phoenicians, Romans and the British Empire. During the Second World War, the harbour was heavily bombed but remained strong while playing a significant role is supporting Allied Forces.

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.

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.

St. Anthony's Channel is a scenic and narrow stretch of water close to the historic town of Sibenik on the Adriatic coast of Croatia. Renowned for its picturesque surroundings and lush greenery along its banks, it also offers fantastic views of St. Nicolas' Fortress from the decks of your cruise ship as you sail past. At the entrance to the channel you will also see a Franciscan monastery dedicated to St. Anthony. 

Lesser known than the beautiful cities of Split and Dubrovnik, Sibenik offers all of the quintessential delights that can be expected from destinations situated on Croatia’s glorious Adriatic Coast. Sibenik is situated within one of the best-protected harbours found in the Adriatic region, and boasts spectacular surrounding landscapes, while the city itself has typically Croatian scenes of white-washed, terracotta-topped buildings hinting at the treasures awaiting discovery ashore. Wander the steeply-angled streets and squares framed by a mix of centuries-old architectural gems, including the impressive town hall, the churches of St Barbara and St Fran, and the Cathedral Sveti Jakov. Built in the early 15th century, UNESCO-listed Sveti Jakov is considered one of Croatia’s finest and most important Renaissance-era landmarks.

Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor has towering peaks and a rocky coastline dotted with waterside towns. The Orjen Mountains to the west and the Lovćen mountains to the east, surround this bay of water; where there are many architectural and natural sites, including the Saint George Benedictine Monastery on the waters 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. Kotor has ancient architecture that’s displayed in Venetian palaces and Romanesque churches, earning itself a listing as a UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage Site. The winding cobbled streets are also home to numerous museums, including the Maritime Museum which explores the town’s maritime history.

Nestled on Albania’s beautiful Riviera, Sarandë, once a quiet fishing village, has grown into a thriving coastal town steeped in history. Known for its Mediterranean climate, and nicknamed the pearl of Albania, one of its main attractions is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, with its important archaeological ruins situated in a national park, along with the Blue Eye Spring – a deep, natural pool set in woods close by. Cuisine here is heavily influenced by Italian, Greek and Balkan traditions, so be sure to sample dishes such as Qofta – rissoles of minced lamb, or Byrek, a delicious triangular pastry filled with cheese or meat.

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.

Part of the Aeolian Islands, Vulcano Island boasts a rugged beauty, its landscape shaped by volcanic activity, with smoking fumaroles and bubbling mud pools. As you cruise past, you will be able to see the main crater at its centre, surrounded by rocky coastlines and black sand beaches. You may also spot the island's small harbour area, where local boats bob in the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and notice the faint smell of sulphur, a subtle hint at Vulcano Island’s active volcanic nature.

Located on Sicily’s west coast, Trapani is shaped by its coastal setting and everyday Sicilian life. Its historic centre stretches along a narrow peninsula, with pale stone buildings, small churches and welcoming cafés that are easy to explore on foot. Close by, the medieval town of Erice offers panoramic views over Trapani, while the famous salt pans with its shallow pools, traditional windmills and wide-open skies, create a distinctively beautiful landscape. With its gentle pace, Trapani offers an unhurried introduction to western Sicily and its lasting traditions.

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.

Matosinhos is a delightful city to explore, where a 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.