How about a Cruise to the Western Mediterranean?
A trip on Western Mediterranean Cruises is very popular with Royal Caribbean. Lots of people who are going on a cruise to Europe for the first time start from the Western Mediterranean.
The Mediterranean has amazing old places, beautiful views, and different cultures. When you go on cruises to the Western Mediterranean, you can see many hidden places. But if you’ve never been on a cruise to Europe, picking where to go and which cruise ship to take can be hard. It might feel like a lot to decide.
Cruises to the Western Mediterranean
When you go on a cruise to the Western Mediterranean, deciding on the size of the ship can take time and effort. Big cruise ships usually go to big ports like Florence, Rome, and Barcelona, which are the most popular destinations in the Western Mediterranean.
Many well-known cruise lines like Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Disney offer these trips. Celebrity Cruises Western Mediterranean even sends its newest ships to this region for several cruises, while Royal Caribbean Cruises Western Mediterranean uses its largest ships here during the summer. Carnival also has some trips in the area, but they keep more of their ships in North America compared to other cruise lines.
If you want to experience Europe more authentically, think about going on a cruise with a company from Europe. Costa and MSC Cruises are based in Italy and Switzerland. They offer shorter trips that are usually less expensive, and they serve delicious pasta.
There are other fancy cruise ships, too, like Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, Crystal, Silversea, Oceania, and Seabourn. They also sail in the Mediterranean. These Western Mediterranean Cruises often stop at smaller ports like Portofino, Cannes, and Capri. They also last longer and explore the Eastern Mediterranean.
Where do Western Mediterranean Cruises go?
Florence, Italy:
Florence, in Italy, is a must-see on any trip for Western Mediterranean Cruises. It’s famous for being the heart of the early Italian Renaissance, a time when great artists like Giotto, Ghiberti, Brunelleschi, and Michelangelo created amazing paintings and sculptures there.
You can still see their works in Florentine churches, buildings, palaces, and top museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia. Florence is also known for its impressive architecture, especially the magnificent dome of the city’s cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, called the Duomo.
Barcelona, Spain:
Barcelona, the main city in Spain’s Catalonia area, is one of the prettiest and liveliest places in Spain, and maybe even in Europe. Its buildings, designed by local architect Antoni Gaudi, mix old Gothic styles with new ones.
His famous church, Sagrada Familia, is a must-visit destination. The old part of the city is the center of activity, with museums, shops, and cafes. Take a walk along Las Ramblas, where you’ll find stands selling fruit and flowers, an old opera house, and an interesting pet market. Afterward, relax with some tapas and sangria.
Naples and Sorrento, Italy:
From Naples or Sorrento, many people start their journey to Pompeii. Pompeii is an old city buried by a volcano, and it’s interesting to explore. You can see things from Pompeii in a museum in Naples. After that, you can enjoy eating at Naples’ famous pizzas.
You can also use the port to visit the beautiful Amalfi coast. There are amazing drives along roads or cliffs that take you to fancy cities like Positano and Ravello. Another choice is to visit Capri Island, where you can see the pretty coastline and visit lovely gardens.
Related: The Best Tips for a Mediterranean Cruise
Civitavecchia, Italy:
Rome takes time to explore during your Cruise to the Western Mediterranean, so expect to see only some things in one day, especially during a stop in Civitavecchia. If it’s your first time, consider taking a tour that covers the main attractions like St. Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, and Trevi Fountain.
Rome is a captivating and easy-to-walk city. Once you’re familiar with the main sights, take some time to wander through its narrow streets, check out smaller museums and charming churches, and relax at a café in Piazza Navona.
The French Riviera:
A road trip along the French Riviera lets you see many famous towns by the sea. Starting from Cannes, which is renowned for its film festival, you can go to Saint-Tropez, a colorful fishing village with small streets.
In Monaco, near Nice, you can visit the famous casino, palace, and Oceanographic Museum. If you want to see the countryside, visit St. Paul de Vence, a village from the 16th century with shops and cafes. It’s on a hill, so you get great views of the Mediterranean Sea on a clear day.
Western Mediterranean cruise destinations offer a pleasant blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. From the charming beaches of the French Riviera, with its lovely towns like Cannes and Saint-Tropez, to the opulent city-state of Monaco with its famous casino and palace, there’s no shortage of captivating experiences to be had.
Related: A Guide to the Western Mediterranean Cruise
Conclusion
Moreover, venturing inland to places like St. Paul de Vence reveals picturesque villages nestled amidst scenic landscapes, providing a refreshing change of pace from the bustling coastal scenes. Whether you’re drawn to the glitz and glamour of the cities or yearn for the tranquility of the countryside, a Western Mediterranean cruise promises unforgettable memories against the backdrop of azure waters and sun-kissed shores.