Best of the Mediterranean: Our Favourite Cruise Destinations

Europe’s south is home to some of the world’s most revered destinations, and for good reason. Between Italy’s rich culture and unrivalled historical beauty, Croatia’s imposing coastlines and the dramatic scenes of Greece, this corner of the Earth is an endless treasure trove.

Keep reading to see our favourite cruise destinations along the Mediterranean Sea.

Ciao, Italy

Famed for its centuries-old treasures, timeless natural scenery and superior food and wine scene, Italy is high on many travellers’ bucket lists, and for good reason.

Begin your voyage through Italy in none other than Milan: a pioneering metropolis in the country’s northern Lombardy Region where money, creativity and fashion take lead. Holding its own in all things art, Milan also boasts an eminent literary heritage and vivacious music scene for visitors to indulge in. Pay homage to the works of Italy’s best at the Triennale, the country’s foremost institution for design and contemporary culture.

Journey on to Lake Como for another must-see Italian gem and the most ‘James Bond’ of destinations. Neoclassical villas with newfound opulence and Ferraris weaving through ancient lakeside villages set the tone for this enchanting city, backdropped by the unparalleled snow-capped alps. Find a local café tucked within a secret alleyway and while away a quiet morning with a classic Italian cappuccino.

Acquaint with new levels of grandeur in Venice, where the splendours of centuries-old architecture are reflected along the city’s signature S-shaped waterways. No visit to this floating jewel is complete without hopping on a gondola, where you’ll be rowed along the Grand Canal and under the city’s most iconic bridges, such as the Rialto and the Bridge of Sighs. If you have a spare afternoon, hop on over to the island of Murano, best known for its colourful homes and spectacular glass art.

Pass through the rolling hills and terraced vineyards of Tuscany as you make your way towards Florence. Birthplace of the Renaissance, this enchanting city, home to architectural gems like the unmistakeable Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio, is a must-see for any art or history lover. From here, you can take the short drive to Pisa and snap that quintessential photo with the city’s famous leaning tower.

Live la dolce vita with a visit to Rome. The Eternal City endures with endless adventures, where you choose to recall the glory days of Ancient Rome at the Colosseum and Pantheon, explore the Vatican Museum’s extraordinary collection of tapestries or twirl forks full of pasta in a hidden trattoria. Be sure to toss a coin into the baroque Trevi Fountain to assure your return to this intoxicating city.

Complete your Italian discovery in the Southern city of Naples, renowned for its historic centre and divine culinary scene. Gateway to some of Italy’s most alluring destinations, choose to explore the ruins of the lost city of Pompeii or dive into the azure blue waters of Capri and the Amalfi Coast. As one of Italy’s epicurean heavyweights, indulging in a classic margherita pizza or roll of freshly-baked cannoli is a must.

Go for Greek

Discover ancient myths, fresh Mediterranean flavours and those oh-so-dreamy Aegean isles on a voyage to Greece, one of the world’s most coveted destinations.

Step back in time with a visit to Athens, the birthplace of democracy. The magnificent Acropolis, visible from almost every part of the city, is not to be missed – why not find a rooftop bar to watch the sunset over this ancient marvel with a glass of wine in hand? Afterwards, stroll through the narrow streets of the Plaka District, lined with an endless stream of restaurants, cafes and bars.

Set sail for magical Mykonos, where powder-white buildings and bougainvillea blooms pop against the island’s cobalt blue waters. Wander over to the charming neighbourhood of Little Venice, where waterfront tavernas and 16th-century windmills abound. For a taste of Greek mythology, take a short boat trip to the island of Delos, the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis.

It’s impossible to not fall in love with Santorini, a true must-visit on any Mediterranean cruise. Here, volcanic craters and red and black sand beaches meet whitewashed villages and never-ending views of the Aegean Sea. Radiating authentic Cyclades charm, the dreamy village of Oia is the spot to snap a sunset selfie, while there’s no better place to shop for souvenirs than Ypapantis Street in Fira.

Discover a tapestry of sun-drenched beaches, centuries-old treasures and dramatic landscapes on the island of Crete. Soak in the vibes with a stroll along the Old Venetian Harbour before unlocking ancient history at the Archaeological Museum of Chania. Craving a beach day? Sink your toes into the turquoise water at local favourite, Apostoli Beach, or marvel at the pink sands of Elafonisi.

For a different Greek Island experience, cruise to charming Corfu, located within the Ionian Sea. Explore the streets of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, dotted with Venetian-style art and architecture, before hitting one of countless beaches for an afternoon in the sun. Corfu has something to delight every kind of traveller.

Captivating Croatia

Find beaches dripping in sun, walled Medieval cities and luscious lakes in vibrant shades of green and blue in idyllic Croatia, where the shores are calling your name.

Be inspired by the limestone streets, terracotta rooftops and rocky beaches of Dubrovnik, the jewel in Croatia’s crown. Walk the iconic walls that have protected the city for centuries and admire shimmering vistas of the Adriatic whichever way you turn. Later, relish in a thrilling cable car ride to the top of Mount Srd, where you can view the fortified Old Town from above.

Journey onwards to Split, where you’ll discover a seamless blend of old and new. Find historic artefacts, like the Diocletian’s Palace and Cathedral of Saint Domnius, both built for the 4th century Roman emperor, tucked between a plethora of modern restaurants, bars and shops. Take a walk along the palm tree-lined promenade until you reach the azure waters of Bacvice Beach, a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.

Next, set sail for Zadar, one of the Dalmatian Coast’s best-kept secrets. The standout attraction of this intriguing city is the Sea Organ, a world-first where crashing waves create whistling melodies through a series of underwater pipes and perforated stone chairs. And don’t miss the chance to sample Croatian specialties, like black squid ink risotto and sweet Maraschino cherry liqueur.

If the opportunity arises, head away from the coast to explore Croatia’s truly breathtaking national parks. The glorious Plitvice Lakes National Park is easily Croatia’s top natural attraction – here, 16 interconnecting crystalline lakes spill into each other via a series of waterfalls and cascades. Wooden boardwalks criss-cross the lakes to create a fairy tale-worthy scene just waiting to be discovered.

Discover your ultimate Mediterranean escape

A cruise along the Mediterranean truly is the best way to discover all this breathtaking region has to offer. Find your dream Mediterranean voyage with My Cruises, who offer an exclusive range of perfectly-packaged journeys.

The team start by hand-selecting the best Mediterranean cruises, then package them with inclusions like flights, pre and post-cruise discoveries, luxury upgrades, rail journeys and so much more. It’s all part of the My Cruises difference, which simply can’t be found anywhere else.

Explore our range of Mediterranean cruise discoveries here.