Italy Cruises
Enjoy cruises to Italy along beautiful Mediterranean coastlines, exploring this captivating country in depth. Italy inspires, exhilarates and moves like no other, with world-renowned art, jaw-dropping architecture and exquisite cuisine waiting to be discovered.
The country’s turbulent history and how the pendulum of prosperity has swung back and forth across the centuries is evident across its ports and bustling cosmopolitan cities like Sorrento with its boutiques and cafés. Italy is a country that oozes romance. Take the perfect charm of Amalfi Coast, Capri or the achingly-beautiful Sardinia.[ReadMoreMob][ReadMoreDesk]
Italian cruises take you on journeys full of history, natural beauty, incredible cuisine and welcoming people and at the end of a voyage to this magical land, most are left with only one desire – to go back again and again. Home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Vatican City, Italy is a place where history comes alive. Its vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, and friendly people make it a truly unforgettable destination, one that has captured the hearts and imaginations of travellers for generations. Cruise to Italy from the UK to explore its many wonders, from world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, to help you plan your dream Italian adventure. You can also visit Italy on one of our Mediterranean cruises, which lets you enjoy the best of this breathtaking country and other countries in the region.
Discover our cruises to Italy
Browse our latest Italy cruises below. Each one is a hand-crafted itinerary aboard our smaller ships, bringing you close to the heart of every port with unhurried time ashore and the warm, friendly atmosphere we're known for. Find the sailing that suits you and start looking forward to the journey ahead.
Discover our shore tours in Italy
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and may not be available on every sailing. Images are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the exact experience, locations, or activities included in your chosen tour.
Sorrento Lemon Experience
Explore a traditional Sorrento lemon garden, learning about cultivation methods and regional varieties before sampling fresh citrus specialities in this fragrant setting.
The Ruins of Pompeii
Embark on a guided walking tour through Pompeii, the world’s best-preserved Ancient Roman city. Discover luxurious mansions, modest homes, ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and the huge forum.
Cinque Terre Cruise
Cruise along the dramatic coastline of the Cinque Terre to the colourful village of Vernazza, with time to explore its narrow lanes, harbourfront and hillside views.
Frequently asked questions about Italy
Why book an Italy cruise with Fred. Olsen?
A cruise to Italy from the UK with Fred. Olsen means there are no flights to arrange and no baggage restrictions to work around; you can settle in from the moment you step on board and enjoy attentive service, carefully prepared dining and time to watch the Mediterranean scenery unfold.
Our smaller ships also give our Italy cruises a different perspective. We can sail into characterful ports and along stretches of coastline that larger vessels often bypass, giving you a closer connection to the places you visit. It means more of the moments that make an Italian cruise so memorable, such as sailing along the Amalfi Coast and unforgettable Shore Tours.
Whether you are drawn to summer sailings under blue Mediterranean skies or planning ahead for a later voyage, there is a choice of itineraries designed to help you experience Italy's rich culture, natural beauty and coastal charm at a relaxed pace.
What’s included on a Fred. Olsen Italian cruise?
A Fred. Olsen Italian cruise includes comfortable accommodation and full-board dining throughout your holiday, with menus that showcase both classic favourites and Mediterranean-inspired dishes to complement your Italy itinerary. You can also enjoy onboard entertainment, guest talks and a varied programme of daytime activities between ports.
Onboard, you can enjoy swimming pools, Jacuzzis and the fitness centre, whilst luggage porterage and complimentary shuttle services are available when the ship is docked.
Why should I cruise to Italy?
Italy cruises let you experience the country's rich history, coastal charm and everyday life – from sunlit piazzas to working ports – all without the hassle of flights or transfers. Cruises to Italy from the UK take you close to the heart of each destination, so you can step ashore and start exploring straight away.
Sailing with Fred. Olsen means calm mornings at sea, relaxed afternoons ashore in destinations like Sorrento, Pompeii or the Cinque Terre, and evenings spent reflecting on your discoveries onboard.
When is the best time to cruise to Italy?
Italy is most enjoyable from spring through to early autumn. Spring offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds, while early autumn provides comfortable warmth and a relaxed rhythm for exploring coastal towns and historic ports.
What can I see and do on a Italy cruise?
An Italy cruise brings you close to ancient history, Renaissance landmarks and remarkable archaeological sites. You can:
- Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum from Civitavecchia, exploring the heart of Ancient Rome.
- Discover the Basilica of San Simplicio in Olbia, a beautifully preserved 11th-century Romanesque church that is considered the oldest and most important religious monument in northeastern Sardinia.
- Explore Pompeii or Herculaneum from Naples, with their remarkably preserved streets and villas.
Between ports, you’ll enjoy steady scenic sailings as Italy’s cliffs, islands and Mediterranean coastline come into view from the ship.
How long are Italy cruises and what itineraries are available?
Italy cruises with Fred. Olsen typically last 14 to 21 nights. These itineraries often combine time in Mediterranean ports with scenic coastal sailings and visits to historic cities, islands and waterfront towns at a relaxed, unhurried pace. Other countries you can visit on a cruise to Italy include Spain, Greece and Croatia.
What should I pack and what should I know before cruising to Italy?
Italy cruises require lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes for Shore Tours to historic towns and harbours, and a light jumper or jacket for cooler evenings. Smart-casual attire is suitable for onboard dining.
Are Italy cruises suitable for first-time cruisers/couples/solo travellers?
Cruises around Italy are perfect for first-time cruisers, offering calm sailing between historic towns and scenic harbours. Couples will enjoy romantic walks and shared cultural experiences, while solo travellers will find Fred.’s smaller ships friendly and easy to navigate.