grand tour mediterranean

Mediterranean tours

Fresh seafood, sun-dappled beaches, and fountain-filled piazzas on our mind? Our trips to the Mediterranean have it all.

September 2024

Showing 1–17 of 87 tours

A Week in Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini

9 days | 12 days with Rome extension

4.7 out of 5 stars

A Week in Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome

9 days | 11 days with Sorrento Peninsula extension

4.6 out of 5 stars

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London, Paris & Rome

11 days | 14 days with Madrid extension

4.4 out of 5 stars

The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

14 days | 16 days with Athens extension

Grand Tour of Italy

15 days | 17 days with Rome extension

Barcelona, Southern France & the Italian Riviera

12 days | 14 days with Rome extension

Italy & Greece

11 days | 15 days with Santorini & Athens extension

Food & Wine: Flavors of Tuscany & Umbria

11 days | 13 days with Rome extension

London & Paris

9 days | 11 days with Paris extension

4.5 out of 5 stars

Grand Tour of Italy & Greece

14 days | 18 days with Santorini & Athens extension

Grand Tour of Portugal & Spain: Porto to Barcelona

15 days | 18 days with Basque Country extension

Greek Islands for Solo Travelers: Crete & Santorini

Food & Wine: Campania, Puglia & the Amalfi Coast

12 days | 14 days with Amalfi Coast extension

A Week in Spain: Barcelona, Madrid & Seville

9 days | 12 days with Granada & Costa del Sol extension

Food & Wine: Southern Italy & Sicily

13 days | 15 days with Naples extension

Venice, Florence & Rome

12 days | 15 days with Sorrento Peninsula extension

Switzerland, Germany & Italy

10 days | 12 days with Italian Lakes extension

4.9 out of 5 stars

What travelers are saying about our Mediterranean tours

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Travel tips for Mediterranean tours

Visit a local vineyard.  Many of the world’s best wines are produced in the Mediterranean. Travelers on our Mediterranean tours will visit vineyards and wineries in Italy and Greece to learn how grapes are grown, harvested, and transformed into world-class wines.  

Explore ancient ruins.  The Mediterranean is home to some of the world’s most important ancient ruins, from the Parthenon in Athens to the Colosseum in Rome. On our Mediterranean trips, travelers can get a chance to see what life was like as early civilizations developed.

See why traveler Donna says ancient ruins are among her top 10 reasons to visit the Mediterranean  →

Go island-hopping.  The Mediterranean is studded with postcard-worthy islands, and no two are exactly alike. Our Mediterranean tours offer the chance to hop from Ischia to Capri in Italy. In Greece, travelers can hopscotch between Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and other dreamy island gems.

The Mediterranean is a year-round destination, but here are a few things to keep in mind when considering going on a trip to the Mediterranean.

Peak season in the Mediterranean falls during June, July, and August, when temperatures are at their warmest and most beach-friendly. This is also peak travel season in the region, so travelers on Mediterranean vacations during this time are likely to encounter larger crowds.

In shoulder season, which falls during April and May, temperatures are pleasant and crowds are significantly thinner, making it the best time to visit the Mediterranean for travelers who prefer calm and quiet.

In fall and winter, crowds all but disappear, as do peak-season prices on everything from food to souvenirs. Travelers who visit the Mediterranean in winter can enjoy holiday festivals, food, music, and decorations throughout the region.

The Mediterranean is home to more cultural, architectural, and natural treasures than we can count. Here are a few of the highlights you can experience on our Mediterranean tours.

• The Parthenon.  Perched atop the Acropolis in Athens, this iconic marble temple was built between 447 and 432 B.C., during the height of the ancient Greek Empire. Travelers who visit Greece on trips like our  Italy & Greece tour  can see it up close during a guided tour.
• The Greek Islands.  With their laid-back beaches, charming villages, friendly locals, and distinctive architecture, it’s no wonder the Greek Islands are a popular vacation spot for travelers from around the world. Want to visit several on a single trip? Our Mediterranean vacation packages make it easy.
• Cinque Terre.  These five, traffic-free fishing villages in the Italian region of Liguria perch along a six-mile stretch of the Italian Riviera and are linked together by scenic footpaths. Each village is packed with pastel-hued homes and offers travelers who book Mediterranean tour packages a distinctly different, but decidedly relaxed, vibe.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia.  Overlooking the azure Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most magnificent walled cities. Visitors who travel to the Mediterranean in the summertime can enjoy its sparkling beaches, as well as boat rides along its dramatic coast.
• Venice.  Arguably one of the most romantic cities in the world, Venice is built across 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea and is known for its network of canals. Travelers who book Mediterranean travel packages that include Venice can explore the city’s canals on a gondola ride, and visit other major landmarks, such as St. Mark’s Square.

Check out photos traveler Harris snapped of his favorite spots on our Italy & Greece tour  →

• Comfortable walking shoes.  No matter which of our Mediterranean tours you choose, be sure to bring sturdy shoes with a good grip. They’ll keep your feet and ankles happy while walking on cobblestones, uneven streets, hiking paths, and other surfaces.
• A day bag.  Keep your water, wallet, sunglasses, extra layers, and other essentials handy in a small backpack, crossbody, or tote.
• A shawl, wrap, or cardigan.  A light layer will add a touch of extra warmth during outdoor dinners by the water, and protect your shoulders from the sun during the daytime.
• A good camera.  And an extra memory card or two to capture the Mediterranean’s natural, architectural, and cultural treasures.
• Sun protection.  Think brimmed hats, sunglasses, and SPF for any time spent outside, especially during walking tours on sunny days.
• A swimsuit and sandals.   Because when you spot the crystal-clear waters that lap at the Greek Islands’ beaches, you won’t be able to resist getting in.
• Light, loose clothing.  If you plan to visit the Mediterranean in the summertime, when temperatures can be hot, pack lightweight, loose clothing that will help keep you comfortable and cool.
• Fresh seafood.  Plucked straight from the Mediterranean Sea, local seafood, like anchovies, mussels, and other shellfish, is as fresh as it gets, making it a must-try when visiting the Mediterranean. Try it prepared simply (a squeeze of lemon and little else) or cooked into a filling pasta dish.
• Kopanisti.  Thick, creamy, and with a peppery flavor, this spreadable sheep’s-milk cheese is often served with bread as a starter on the Greek island of Mykonos.
• All the fresh fruit.  Thanks to the Mediterranean’s mild climate, a variety of fruits grow in the region are far superior in quality to those we often find in grocery stores. Stop at a local market to taste whatever’s in season. If you like olives, be sure to get your fill when you visit the Mediterranean.  
• Pesto.  The Ligurian Coast is famous for this basil-and-oil delicacy, making it a must-try when you visit Italy’s Cinque Terre.

Although the Mediterranean sees plenty of sunshine and warm weather in the spring, summer, and fall, winters here can be on the cool side. Be sure to check weather forecasts before you travel to the Mediterranean so you can pack accordingly.

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Mark

A contributing factor to the success of our tour to Athens and the Greek Islands was going in September. The weather is still great and the water ideal for swimming. Most... Read more of See Greece in September

Traveled in Sep 2024 on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

3rd-time traveler Lenora

The islands, the food, opportunity, weather, education, the people, the views, the waters, our group, accommodations and of course a fantastic Tour Guide, Vasili’s; great time for... Read more of Prospective

Traveled in Oct 2023 on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

1st-time traveler Anonymous

This was a bucket list trip for me and it was absolutely amazing. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who is looking into this tour. It was the most amazing trip I've... Read more of Beautiful Greece

Traveled in Aug 2024 on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

3rd-time traveler Theresa

This tour was the perfect combination of organized tours and free time. It was extremely hot during August 2024 and we were able to tour in the morning and get out of the heat in... Read more of Venice, Croatia, and Greek Islands Cruise

Traveled in Aug 2024 on Mediterranean Cruise: Italy, Croatia & Greece

1st-time traveler Carmen

Bea is such a gifted Tour Director, extremely knowledgeable, caring and on point!!! The tour would not have been the same with anyone else!!! I would take another EF Tour with... Read more of Bea was Amazing! She made the trip!!

4th-time traveler Anonymous

This was a beautifully run, fantastic tour of Athens, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete. Our tour director, Eleftheria, was excellent. She got along with everyone and made it an... Read more of Excellent tour

Traveled in Jul 2024 on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

5th-time traveler Briana

A very nice combination of scheduled group outings and also free time to branch out and enjoy the spectacular cities, seas, shopping and anything else you’d want to do. Our Tour... Read more of Croatia & Italy

Traveled in Jul 2024 on Croatia & Italy: Dubrovnik to Venice

1st-time traveler Bethe

There is no way I could have planned a trip like this. EF sets up transportation, transfers, baggage, hotels, guides, and an amazing travel experience. Our leader, Massa and Ves... Read more of Fantastic Vacation!

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Grand Mediterranean 2025: The true spirit of the Mare Nostrum

From iconic cities to hidden gems, join us and discover all the Mediterranean's secrets on this Grand Voyage. Sunny shores, friendly locals and authentic beauty, let you seduce by the Mare Nostrum's spirit.

• 11 Countries

The authentic nature of the Mare Nostrum can only truly be experienced by exploring the hidden alleyways of its medieval cities and strolling along the sun-lit shores of its secluded bays. In 2025, our Grand Mediterranean voyage reveals all these secrets and more, as you set off for a stunning 54-day journey to 44 destinations in 12 countries, featuring unique ports and destinations in the Adriatic and Greek Isles. From iconic cities, such as Venice, Dubrovnik and Naples, to hidden gems Kotor and Trapani, accessible thanks to our intimate ship, Silver Spirit , this Grand Voyage will change the way you see the Mediterranean for years to come.

The luxury of choice

Catering to individual travel preferences, we are pleased to offer our guests the luxury of choice when selecting the perfect fare.

Itinerary & Excursions

Lisbon to monte carlo.

The excursions are provided as a sample of what may be offered on this voyage and are subject to change. We are constantly updating our shore excursion programme with immersive and authentic experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your tour programme choice closer to your sail date. We invite guests to visit my.silversea.com for the most updated information.

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¹ Up to 50 miles per transfer ² Available from selected countries/gateways ³ For USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Australia only All other standard inclusions apply.

Silver Spirit offers its guests one of the most complete cruise experiences available. With one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the business and eight superlative luxury dining options, she retains our world-famous service standards and home away from home feel. Spacious decks leave plenty of room for relaxation, yet the cosy niches make sure that there is something for everyone. Meet like-minded friends, enjoy first-class dining and relax on our original Silversea flagship.

Broad decks, panoramic lounges, gourmet dining options and all-suite accommodations ensure the most comfortable journey – along with the incomparable luxury that has made Silversea the preferred choice for today’s discerning travellers. All prices shown are double occupancy based and discounted with the Combo Cruise benefit (-5%).

Silver Spirit Dining Options : 8 Restaurants

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Reimagining Europe’s Classic Grand Tour

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• Mediterranean

Venice  seduces. The crumbling, ochre and russet palazzi, glorious churches and cool, green canals of La Serenissima have been on many a traveler’s wishlist for centuries. I’ve always been enchanted by the fact that Lord Byron, the great 19th-century romantic poet, enjoyed swimming in the canals when he lived here in 1816. Byron had long dreamed of visiting Venice and adored what he found.

This fashion for extended wanderings through Europe had a name: The Grand Tour. The title was coined by early travel writer Richard Lassels, who used it in his guidebook “The Voyage of Italy,” published in 1670, describing young aristocrats, mainly, but not exclusively British, traveling abroad for two or three years after graduating from university.

The flamboyant Byron was typical of wealthy young men of the 18th and 19th centuries, traveling with an entourage through Europe, ostensibly to study classical art and expand the mind but in many cases, more inclined to run wild and embark on love affairs.

Origins and parallels

The golden age of the Grand Tour is generally seen as the mid to late 18th century, a time of blossoming awareness of art and of peace and prosperity in Europe, with late adopters like Byron enjoying the tradition in the first half of the 19th century. More than 250 years later, there are still parallels between these journeys and contemporary European travel. The locations, to start with. Venice, Florence and  Rome  were essentials then, as they are now, for the art, the carnivals and the dazzling architecture. The excavations in 1738 and 1748 of the ruins of Herculaneum and Pompeii respectively were a big draw, too, bringing travelers to  Naples  in drove s . Some tourists carried on to  Sicily , Spain (particularly  Seville ), and in the case of a few,  Greece .

The journey from  Northern Europe  was long, with many falling prey to seasickness and the ill effects of foreign food. The route was arduous; the Alps had to be crossed on foot, for example, with the less robust carried over mountain passes on sedan chairs. Money was plentiful but to avoid being relieved of cash by bandits along the way, young men would carry notes of credit to be redeemed in foreign banks.

Travel styles and status souvenirs

Vast amounts of luggage would be taken on tour and sumptuous souvenirs brought home as status symbols, from paintings to statues, busts and scientific instruments. Museums were few and far between in those days — the Uffizi was founded in 1765, but the Louvre didn’t open until 1793 — so young aristocrats would visit private art collections by appointment. Joseph Smith, the British Consul in Venice, was a patron of Canaletto and owned a huge collection of the artist’s work; you can still see his former home, Palazzo Smith Mangilli Valmarana, overlooking the Grand Canal, opposite the Rialto Market. Smith’s whole collection was bought by the young King George III in 1762, himself on a Grand Tour at the time. These early souvenir hunters are one of the reasons so many Canalettos have made it to Britain, displayed in London’s National Gallery and the late Queen Elizabeth II’s own collection.

This fashion for extended wanderings through Europe had a name: The Grand Tour. The title was coined by early travel writer Richard Lassels, who used it in his guidebook The Voyage of Italy, published in 1670, describing young aristocrats, mainly, but not exclusively British, traveling abroad for two or three years after graduating from university.

Architectural styles would be borrowed, too. Architecture had become known as a nobleman’s profession, hence the number of Palladian villas in Britain, inspired by the work of Andrea Palladio, chief architect to the Venetian Republic during the Renaissance. The Venetian churches of San Giorgio Maggiore and Il Redentore, both of which you will see when in Venice, are two of his great legacies. His style is reflected in many buildings in the U.S., too, not least the White House.

Flash forward: the European vacation

What’s also interesting about the Grand Tour then and travel today is that human behavior when traveling has, in effect, changed little. While today’s travelers take selfies, Grand Tourists were no less vain, commissioning artists of the day to paint their portraits in exotic locations. Celebrated Italian artist Pompeo Batoni (1708-1787) developed a lucrative niche, painting more than 175 portraits of wealthy young Britons traveling through Rome, usually posing among antiquities or ruins. Many of Batoni’s portraits can be seen in world-famous museums today, from the Louvre to the Uffizi.

As cameras had not yet been invented, images were captured on paper or canvas, from a sketch of the Colosseum to something more dramatic for those who headed on to Naples. Vesuvius was particularly active in the late 18th century and as most north Europeans had never seen a volcano before, paintings of the fiery skies around the mountain at night proliferated.

Also unchanged is the desire to document the journey. Today, we may write blogs but then, educated young men would publish books. Goethe’s elegant Italian Journey, from diaries written during his travels in Italy from 1786 to 1788, is a classic example. Other famous Grand Tourists have included John Keats, Charles Dickens, Percy Shelley and Robert Browning.

Travel inspired decadence then, as it can now. Exciting foreign cities, sunshine (a novelty for those from the cool and damp of Northern Europe) and free-flowing drink led to an element of debauchery. This was, after all, the era of Casanova, whose story can be followed in Venice, where he was imprisoned in the Palazzo Ducale (the Doge’s Palace) in 1755. Many a Grand Tourist wrote letters home describing the exotic beauty of Venetian women.

The Grand Tour ground to an abrupt halt during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars, spanning a period between 1792 and 1815. There was a brief revival in the early 19th century, but as rail travel made vacations more affordable, the exclusivity of a trip to Europe faded.

The seeds, however, had been sown by those early adventurers, creating an appetite for exploration and cultural enrichment that only continues to grow, not least in the form of a luxuriously long voyage around the  Mediterranean .

So step back into the shoes of the Grand Tourists for the occasional moment on your travels. I’ve certainly stood in Pompeii in the blazing heat and tried to imagine how it must have felt to be there during the height of its excavation (and then, admittedly, counted my blessings while sinking into a comfortable chair in the cool of my ship’s Panorama Lounge at sailaway, martini in hand). Marvel at the masterpieces in the Uffizi, 250 years after those first visitors stood, transfixed, in the same spot. Sketch the Colosseum, rather than trying to capture the perfect shot. In Venice, explore the Palazzo Ducale, but take a moment to picture Casanova’s stifling cell, under the lead roof — and his daring escape.

Just don’t consider a swim in the canals.

Ready to take your European vacation to the next level? Silversea offers an array of  Grand Voyages  that can make you a 21st-century Grand Tourist.

Mediterranean Cruises

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Discover the Timeless Beauty & Culture of the Mediterranean

With history spanning thousands of years, glamorous ports, and dazzling scenery, a Mediterranean cruise is the perfect vacation—and there’s no better way to experience cruises to the Mediterranean than with Celebrity. Bask on the beach in Mykonos one day and watch a fiery sunset over Santorini the next. Sip a cappuccino in glorious Taormina while gazing at snow-capped Mount Etna in the distance, or dig into tapas in a sunlit square in Barcelona. Let us show you Europe’s most beautiful places in style on a cruise to the Mediterranean with Celebrity.

Featured Mediterranean Cruises

Italy cruises.

Whether you dream of exploring the glorious Amalfi Coast or marveling at the ancient sites of Rome, Celebrity has the perfect cruise to Italy, with itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 nights. 

View Sample Itinerary Map

Greece Cruises

Cruises to Greece visit the very best of the islands and cosmopolitan cities on the mainland, including Athens and historic Thessaloniki. Each port bursts with character, from Santorini to Zakynthos, and Mykonos. 

Spain Cruises

Sail from Barcelona and take in Alhambra in Granada, the elegant capital of Palma and Seville, the home of flamenco. On cruises of 7 to 12 nights, you can feast on tapas, taste wines in Rioja, and unwind all in one culture-packed country.

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Why Cruise to the Mediterranean with Celebrity Cruises

Enjoy ancient port cities and glorious scenery on a Mediterranean cruise with Celebrity. You’ll find itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 nights offered by nine of our award-winning ships, including four of our revolutionary Edge-Series ships.  

On board, you’ll be immersed in personalized touches that make every Celebrity vacation special. As you sail from one historic port to the next, indulge in globally inspired menus in up to 12 specialty restaurants. Whatever the occasion, your certified sommelier can pour you the perfect vintage to match the moment, uncorked from a wine list that’s won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 10 years in a row. 

On Edge-Series ships, gaze at exquisite Greek islands or the glamorous Italian coastline, fringed with olive and lemon groves, from the vantage point of The Magic Carpet®, suspended high above the ocean. 

Elevate your vacation to the next level at The Retreat®, with luxurious suite accommodation, access to a private sundeck (on select ships) and tranquil lounge, and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat. And when you venture ashore, you’ll find carefully curated excursions geared to your personal taste, from Destination Highlights to Small Group Discoveries and custom-designed Private Journeys. 

From destination-intensive 7-night cruises to 12-night explorations across this historic region, Celebrity has the best Mediterranean cruise for you. With nine ships to choose from, including four of our ground-breaking Edge-Series ships, you’ll find the perfect setting as your home away from home in the heart of Europe. 

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19 Most Romantic Places in Greece

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Top Mediterranean FAQs

Where do Mediterranean cruises go?

Whether you love art, history, natural wonders, fine cuisine, or all of the above, a Mediterranean cruise lets you experience something amazing at every stop. The Mediterranean region is vast, including many countries each with its own personality, cuisine, and scenery. 

Celebrity’s Mediterranean cruises sail from Athens, Barcelona, Rome, Southampton, and Ravenna (Venice). 

Feel like an old-fashioned movie star on the French Riviera, learn about military history in Malta, explore Biblical history in Israel, and delve back more than 4,000 years in time to Egypt.

How long are Mediterranean cruises?

Mediterranean cruises on Celebrity last from six to 12 nights. Spend seven nights visiting popular ports in Spain, France, and Italy, or longer voyages that include Greece and Turkey. 

When’s the best time to cruise? 

The best time to cruise the Mediterranean will vary depending on your particular interests and schedule. The main Mediterranean cruise season runs from April through November each year, with June to September the peak months. But with Celebrity you can cruise Europe year round. 

July to September is the peak summer season in the Mediterranean, when most Europeans take their summer vacation. April, May, June, later in September, and October are all great months to visit, too. You can sail the Mediterranean with Celebrity right up to November, which is a wonderful time for sightseeing with fewer people around. The best time to head to the far south of the region is from February to April, when the climate is perfect for exploring Israel and Egypt.

What should I pack?

When you’re packing for a Mediterranean cruise, swimwear and beach outfits are essential. You’ll need comfortable shoes for sightseeing, whether this involves walking over uneven cobblestone roads or clambering over the rocky paths of the Acropolis in Athens. 

A good sun hat is essential If you want to visit churches, synagogues, and cathedrals we recommend long pants or skirt and a scarf/shawl to cover your shoulders.  

If you’re traveling at the beginning or the end of the season, the weather could be cool, so bring cover-ups and a light waterproof jacket.

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through coverups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

Each itinerary features one to two “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

What can I see while I’m there?

From the history-lined canals of Venice to the sun-soaked playgrounds of the French Riviera to the iconic architecture of Spain, our array of award-winning Europe vacations offers something special for every discerning world traveler.

Get up close to historic sites like the ancient Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens, and the charming Old City of Dubrovnik. Take stellar photos at the Piazza San Marco in Venice, the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. See Michelangelo’s remarkable Renaissance artwork on the Sistine Chapel ceiling as you tour Vatican City.

In Portugal, experience the spectacular medieval architecture in Lisbon and taste a variety of Port wines in Porto. Explore our port of call in Italy, Trieste, and its ancient architecture, lively cultural scene, and Venetian-inspired coffeehouses. We’re also returning to Kusadasi, and Istanbul in Turkey.

Some of the most beautiful natural sights you’ll ever see may be the view of the whitewashed buildings and turquoise waters in Santorini or the pastel-colored fishing villages in the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

Where are the best beaches?

The Mediterranean is fringed with  dazzlingly beautiful beaches . Here, you’ll find some of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the world, wild dunes, craggy cliffs, rocky coves, and aquamarine shallows on others.

For long sweeps of sand, great watersports, and a lively scene, try Mykonos. If black or red sand intrigues you, head for Santorini. For old-fashioned glamor, visit the beaches around Italy’s Amalfi Coast or the chic beach towns along the French Riviera. 

Sardinia arguably has the most beautiful turquoise water. Ibiza is fringed with pretty coves, some sleepy, some with cool beach bars and DJs spinning tunes all afternoon. 

What is there for families to do on a Mediterranean cruise?

The Mediterranean is fantastic for families. It’s educational, it brings history to life, the shopping is great, the ice cream unsurpassed, and the beaches superb. Mediterranean cultures love kids, too, and children are welcomed everywhere. 

Families can enjoy the Colosseum in Rome, gondola rides in Venice, the old walls of Dubrovnik, and cable cars for stunning city views or off-road buggy experiences. You can also experience Pompeii, the cave houses of Matera, and for soccer fans, Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona. 

Should I book tours ahead of time?

If you are traveling in peak season, we recommend you book your Shore Excursions through My Celebrity Cruises as soon as you confirm your sailing as many attractions around the Mediterranean are extremely popular. 

Booking a shore excursion  with Celebrity also means you’ll be visiting attractions with a professional guide, and on a tour that guarantees to return you to the ship on time. 

Whether you're looking for a private, customizable experience, a carefully curated guided tour with a small group, or an unforgettable trip to iconic local landmarks, we have the right option to discover any destination, granting in-depth knowledge, expertise, and a truly extraordinary experience.

Can I get around with English?

Many languages are spoken around the Mediterranean, from Maltese to French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Turkish, and Hebrew. Most people working in the hospitality industry speak some English.

Do I need a visa?

You will need a passport to travel to the Mediterranean, but the vast majority of countries visited by European cruises do not require a visa. From 2024, Americans, Canadians, and British citizens will be required to register for the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to enter 30 European countries. 

This will be easy to apply for, inexpensive, and is simply a pre-authorization system similar to the ESTA that Europeans need to travel to the U.S. and Canada. Once you have the ETIAS, it will be valid for three years. You should make sure you have at least six months before your passport expires, too.

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10-Day Mediterranean Cruise

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From ancient Rome and Moorish Spain to classical Greece, the empires of the Mediterranean left a remarkable historical legacy—set amid unmatched beauty. Admire the turquoise splendor of the Greek Isles, the vineyards of Provence, the élan of Barcelona and more.

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Highlights of mediterranean cruises.

Join Viking and discover a region awash in culture and history. Civilization is said to have begun and evolved on these shores, whether as the birthplace of democracy or science or with the refinement of wine or art. From the sun-soaked shores of Spain and Sicily to the fascinating past of Greece and the South of France, Viking reveals millennia of history to you during our many journeys along these fabled waters. Here is a sample of what you can look forward to on a Mediterranean voyage:

• Rome’s monumental Colosseum and Pantheon
• Vatican City’s glorious St. Peter’s Basilica
• Diocletian’s Palace in Split, one of Croatia’s oldest cities
• Classical Athens, birthplace of democracy
• The architectural brilliance of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona
• The fine flavors of Italy’s Chianti and Portugal’s port
• Venice’s romantic, car-free lanes and alleys
• The magnificently preserved walled city of Dubrovnik
• Breathtaking beauty of the Greek Islands
• St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Malta’s capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

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18th Century Grand Tour of Europe

The Travels of European Twenty-Somethings

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• M.A., Geography, California State University - Northridge
• B.A., Geography, University of California - Davis

The French Revolution marked the end of a spectacular period of travel and enlightenment for European youth, particularly from England. Young English elites of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries often spent two to four years touring around Europe in an effort to broaden their horizons and learn about language , architecture , geography, and culture in an experience known as the Grand Tour.

The Grand Tour, which didn't come to an end until the close of the eighteenth century, began in the sixteenth century and gained popularity during the seventeenth century. Read to find out what started this event and what the typical Tour entailed.

Origins of the Grand Tour

Privileged young graduates of sixteenth-century Europe pioneered a trend wherein they traveled across the continent in search of art and cultural experiences upon their graduation. This practice, which grew to be wildly popular, became known as the Grand Tour, a term introduced by Richard Lassels in his 1670 book Voyage to Italy . Specialty guidebooks, tour guides, and other aspects of the tourist industry were developed during this time to meet the needs of wealthy 20-something male and female travelers and their tutors as they explored the European continent.

These young, classically-educated Tourists were affluent enough to fund multiple years abroad for themselves and they took full advantage of this. They carried letters of reference and introduction with them as they departed from southern England in order to communicate with and learn from people they met in other countries. Some Tourists sought to continue their education and broaden their horizons while abroad, some were just after fun and leisurely travels, but most desired a combination of both.

Navigating Europe

A typical journey through Europe was long and winding with many stops along the way. London was commonly used as a starting point and the Tour was usually kicked off with a difficult trip across the English Channel.

Crossing the English Channel

The most common route across the English Channel, La Manche, was made from Dover to Calais, France—this is now the path of the Channel Tunnel. A trip from Dover across the Channel to Calais and finally into Paris customarily took three days. After all, crossing the wide channel was and is not easy. Seventeenth- and eighteenth-century Tourists risked seasickness, illness, and even shipwreck on this first leg of travel.

Compulsory Stops

Grand Tourists were primarily interested in visiting cities that were considered major centers of culture at the time, so Paris, Rome, and Venice were not to be missed. Florence and Naples were also popular destinations but were regarded as more optional than the aforementioned cities.

The average Grand Tourist traveled from city to city, usually spending weeks in smaller cities and up to several months in the three major ones. Paris, France was the most popular stop of the Grand Tour for its cultural, architectural, and political influence. It was also popular because most young British elite already spoke French, a prominent language in classical literature and other studies, and travel through and to this city was relatively easy. For many English citizens, Paris was the most impressive place visited.

Getting to Italy

From Paris, many Tourists proceeded across the Alps or took a boat on the Mediterranean Sea to get to Italy, another essential stopping point. For those who made their way across the Alps, Turin was the first Italian city they'd come to and some remained here while others simply passed through on their way to Rome or Venice.

Rome was initially the southernmost point of travel. However, when excavations of Herculaneum (1738) and Pompeii (1748) began, these two sites were added as major destinations on the Grand Tour.

Features of the Grand Tour

The vast majority of Tourists took part in similar activities during their exploration with art at the center of it all. Once a Tourist arrived at a destination, they would seek housing and settle in for anywhere from weeks to months, even years. Though certainly not an overly trying experience for most, the Grand Tour presented a unique set of challenges for travelers to overcome.

While the original purpose of the Grand Tour was educational, a great deal of time was spent on much more frivolous pursuits. Among these were drinking, gambling, and intimate encounters—some Tourists regarded their travels as an opportunity to indulge in promiscuity with little consequence. Journals and sketches that were supposed to be completed during the Tour were left blank more often than not.

Visiting French and Italian royalty as well as British diplomats was a common recreation during the Tour. The young men and women that participated wanted to return home with stories to tell and meeting famous or otherwise influential people made for great stories.

The study and collection of art became almost a nonoptional engagement for Grand Tourists. Many returned home with bounties of paintings, antiques, and handmade items from various countries. Those that could afford to purchase lavish souvenirs did so in the extreme.

Arriving in Paris, one of the first destinations for most, a Tourist would usually rent an apartment for several weeks or months. Day trips from Paris to the French countryside or to Versailles (the home of the French monarchy) were common for less wealthy travelers that couldn't pay for longer outings.

The homes of envoys were often utilized as hotels and food pantries. This annoyed envoys but there wasn't much they could do about such inconveniences caused by their citizens. Nice apartments tended to be accessible only in major cities, with harsh and dirty inns the only options in smaller ones.

Trials and Challenges

A Tourist would not carry much money on their person during their expeditions due to the risk of highway robberies. Instead, letters of credit from reputable London banks were presented at major cities of the Grand Tour in order to make purchases. In this way, tourists spent a great deal of money abroad.

Because these expenditures were made outside of England and therefore did not bolster England's economy, some English politicians were very much against the institution of the Grand Tour and did not approve of this rite of passage. This played minimally into the average person's decision to travel.

Returning to England

Upon returning to England, tourists were meant to be ready to assume the responsibilities of an aristocrat. The Grand Tour was ultimately worthwhile as it has been credited with spurring dramatic developments in British architecture and culture, but many viewed it as a waste of time during this period because many Tourists did not come home more mature than when they had left.

The French Revolution in 1789 halted the Grand Tour—in the early nineteenth century, railroads forever changed the face of tourism and foreign travel.

• Burk, Kathleen. "The Grand Tour of Europe". Gresham College, 6 Apr. 2005.
• Knowles, Rachel. “The Grand Tour.”   Regency History , 30 Apr. 2013.
• Sorabella, Jean. “The Grand Tour.”   Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History , The Met Museum, Oct. 2003.
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Mediterranean Europe Cruises

Explore ancient glories, modern delights and stunning beauty on an unforgettable Mediterranean cruise vacation. From Rome, Italy’s legendary Colosseum to trend-setting Barcelona, Spain; every day is filled with iconic cityscapes and landmarks, flaxen beaches, and remote coastal villages. Choose from an array of carefully curated itineraries, destination ports, and breathtaking destinations to make your luxury Mediterranean cruise dream a reality.

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Explore the Different Regions of the Mediterranean

Italy & Amalfi Coast

Travel from remote coastal, seashell-pink villages to iconic destinations like the Eternal City of Rome, Vatican City, and the Amalfi Coast. Incredible food and wanderlust-inducing sights await you in Italy.

Greece & Greek Isles

Immerse yourself in ancient wonders and once-in-a-lifetime excursions along with some of the bluest water on earth in the Greek Isles.

Croatia & Adriatic Coast

Dubrovnik’s massive walls, centuries of storied history, and a location snug to the serene Adriatic Sea, make a Croatia cruise a tempting endeavor.

No visit to Spain is complete without exploring Barcelona’s La Boqueria Market or tantalizing your tastebuds at a sommeliar's favorite restaurant in Granada.

With ancient wine cellars, medieval castles stacked on idyllic hillsides, and numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, Portugal satisfies every travel wish.

Make the Most of Your Europe Cruise Vacation

Peruse our convenient Mediterranean departure ports. Whether you’re interested in a 7-day cruise or a long voyage, your dream port is where the adventure begins.

Cruises from Barcelona, Spain

Cruises from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Cruises from Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Cruises From Trieste (Venice), Italy

Europe Departure Ports

Featured mediterranean cruise ports.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Experience Dubrovnik charms on a Croatia cruise, from its red-orange rooftops to vistas of the deep blue Adriatic.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is a maze of medieval beauty set on a bay with rolling mountains behind it. Walk along the Old City walls all the way up to Kotor’s fortress, where you’ll be treated to an overlook of red-orange rooftops.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini, the jewel in the crown of Greece's Cyclades, is best known as the island with the giant volcanic caldera at its heart.

Cadiz (Seville), Spain

Cádiz is a 3,000-year-old triumph with ancient history around every cobbled corner. Andalusian horse shows, 18th-century watch towers, and baroque churches will keep your camera busy.

Santa Cruz (Tenerife), Canary Islands

Escape to the Canary Islands to relax on soft golden beaches, ride a cable car to the top of Mount Teide, or explore the colorful plazas and mansions of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

Lisbon, Portugal

Discover a fascinating mix of old and new with time-worn castles and white-domed cathedrals amid chic eateries and shops.

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Featured mediterranean cruise shore excursions.

Shore Excursions help you connect deeply to the people and places you visit. 

A Walk Through Cádiz & The Flamenco Dance

Corfu winery culinary tour, athens & the acropolis, mediterranean cruise travel tips.

Find out what to experience on your Mediterranean cruise. Read insider tips and recommendations for things to see and do in beloved European destinations.

Best Time for a Mediterranean Cruise

While the Mediterranean is incredible during summer, spring, and fall, the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience.

Mediterranean Food: Ties that Bind a Region

Calling all foodies. Learn about the origins and significance of Mediterranean food. Read about health benefits, key ingredients, and dishes to try on Mediterranean cruises.

Packing List for a Mediterranean Cruise

Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and stunning views in Greece, Italy, or Spain, pack smart, so you’ll be comfortable and stylish on your Mediterranean cruise excursions.

Featured Collectors' Voyages Back-To-Back Cruise Itineraries

Collectors' Voyages are combined back-to-back itineraries to make your Mediterranean cruise a longer journey. Span continents and oceans and travel to more seldom-seen destinations. Relish in more days at sea to unwind and more European cruise ports to discover. A Collectors' Voyage lets you unpack once and still see so much of the world. 

Europe Cruise Onboard Experience

Travel to Europe’s most fascinating destinations on perfectly sized cruise ships offering unmatched service and an award-winning onboard experience. Enjoy entertainment for every preference and the best live music at sea.

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Onboard activities, add to your cruise to the mediterranean.

Add flights and hotels before or after your cruise (or both!). Arrange ground transportation to create a custom cruise vacation package.

Find Flights To Europe

Book flights that depart and arrive in time for Mediterranean cruises with Holland America Line Flight Ease®. Find low prices, loads of options, and enjoy flexibility and support should plans change.

Add a Hotel Package

Extend your luxury Greek and Italian cruise. Add a hotel package to your Mediterranean cruise and indulge in an unforgettable overnight departure or arrival city.

Plan Ground Transportation

On Mediterranean cruises, we make it easy to schedule transfers between the airport and cruise ship. Arrange ground transportation ahead of time and breeze to and from your Mediterranean cruise.

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Mediterranean Cruises and Cruisetours

Experience the cuisine and culture of italian and greek cruises.

On a Mediterranean cruise with Princess®, explore the homes of Greek gods, Italian artists and multicultural treasures. As you walk down bustling roads and beaches, cultures and history fill the air. Uncover divine legends at the Acropolis, admire religious relics at Dubrovnik’s Cathedral or climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa and soak up sweeping views of the emerald landscapes.

Mediterranean Cruise Options

Mediterranean (From Barcelona)

The gateway to greatness.

On these Mediterranean cruises, travel from Spain through some of Europe’s most famous ports as you make your way to Italy. Begin in Barcelona where archaic artwork is on display throughout the city. Then saunter through the lavender fields of Provence when you cruise to Marseille. Or visit Il Campo dei Miracoli , also known as “The Field of Miracles,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Pisa.

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Mediterranean & Aegean (From Rome)

From one sea to another.

Embark on a Mediterranean cruise through the Aegean Sea and stroll through highlights of Italy and Greece while also visiting hidden gems like Montenegro. Sail along the Amalfi Coast and tour ancient ruins, including Pompeii. Then cruise to Mykonos, where windmills and bright white architecture accent the turquoise sea. Continue indulging in dreamy landscapes in Athens where mythology comes to life.

Mediterranean & Adriatic (From Athens)

Culture, cuisine and connections.

Marvel at world-renowned landmarks on a Mediterranean cruise through the Adriatic Sea. Arrive into Athens early to explore the original Olympic stadium. Then sail to the black-sand beaches of Santorini before feasting your eyes on the culinary creations of Italy. Fill up on pizzas and pastas in Sicily and Naples before cruising into Barcelona.

Highlights of Spain Cruisetour 13 - 31 Nights

• 3 nights Madrid
• 1 night Valencia
• 2 nights Barcelona
• Escorted by a Tour Director
• Then board your Mediterranean cruise
• Explore Gibraltar, Provence, Genoa and Florence
• Select sightseeing included
• Most meals included

Classic Italy Cruisetour 13 - 28 Nights

• 2 nights Venice
• 2 nights Florence
• 2 nights Rome
• Then sail to Naples and Sicily, depending on your itinerary
• Longer Mediterranean cruisetours may also visit ports in Greece, Turkey, France and beyond

Best of Greece Cruisetour 10 - 25 Nights

• 1 night Athens
• 1 night Nafplion (only on 2023 cruisetours)
• 1 night Delphi
• 1 night Kalambaka

Why Cruise the Mediterranean

World-Class Dining

Captivating cuisine.

With mouthwatering entrees and confections, the Mediterranean invites you to embark on a gourmet tour through iconic cities. Reawaken your taste buds with Italian classics like pastas, pizzas and gelato. Or fill your plate with gyros, keftethes and baklava on a Greek cruise. From breakfast to dinner and every delectable dessert in between, the best is before you with Princess.

Bold Reds and Crisp Whites

The countryside of Italy and Greece are home to some of the most flavorful wines around the globe. With sun and warm temperatures year-round, vineyards are flourishing with grapes by the harvest season. Sip on Italy’s red wines, or sample Greece’s white blends. From sweet Lambruscos to earthy Bordeauxs, fill up your glass on a Mediterranean cruise with Princess.

Ancient Ruins

Where history comes to life.

From towers and temples to cities and shorelines, the Mediterranean is sprinkled with remains of civilizations past. Step back in time on a tour through ancient ruins on a Mediterranean cruise with Princess. Imagine life as a gladiator at the Colosseum, explore Greek mythology at the Parthenon and discover the archeological excavations of Pompeii — a lost city and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Art Galleries & Museums

Artistic ingenuity abounds.

From the treasures on land to the jewels within museums, the Mediterranean is a true work of art. On an Italian cruise, see portraits from the Renaissance period at the Uffizi Museum in Florence, and admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces at the Vatican Museum in Rome. Or walk in the footsteps of celebrated artists that called these regions home — like Picasso and Dali — and allow their work to spark your creativity.

Sun-Kissed Beaches

A vision of natural beauty.

Visions of sparkling coasts and crystalline waters welcome you to the Mediterranean. Dip your toes on the black-sand coast of Santorini on a Greek cruise. Head to Salerno to spend the day in Positano relaxing on the white beaches and admiring the pastel houses that decorate the cliffs around you. Or travel to Mykonos with your loved ones and daydream on the city’s long stretch of golden sand and stroll in the sunshine.

Mediterranean Excursions

Our award-winning Mediterranean cruise shore excursions bring you to iconic beaches, landmarks and ancient artifacts. See the yacht-lined shores of Kotor while riding on a tuk tuk, an electric rickshaw. Savor the flavors of “Koum Kouat” liqueur, created from Corfu’s exclusive citrus plant. Or stroll along the streets of Dubrovnik’s Old town, one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the world.

Learn more about Mediterranean shore excursions

Local Connections

From chefs and beverage makers to artists and guides, meet the many personalities that call the Mediterranean home with our Local Connections program. On a Mediterranean cruise, voyage to an olive tree farm just outside of Provence, and join your hosts for a unique olive oil tasting. Or explore the Archaeological Museum of Naples with a local artist, and accompany them for lunch to dive even deeper in Italy’s art scene.

Learn more about Local Connections in the Mediterranean

More Ashore

Enjoy even more opportunities to experience the colors, cultures and flavors of the Mediterranean with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays. Witness the beautiful sunset in Mykonos on a Greek cruise. Sit front-row for a flamenco dance, and savor a paella dinner during an evening in Barcelona. Or stroll the illuminated streets of Genoa with gelato in hand after a traditional Italian dinner.

Mediterranean Cruise Ports of Call

Discover some of the world-renowned destinations that await you on a Mediterranean cruise with Princess.

Rooted in Greek mythology, Athens is alive with stories from civilizations of the past. On a cruise to Europe departing from Athens, arrive early to tour the remains of ancient lores — like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Acropolis — dine at the city’s lively tavernas and admire iconic sculptures bathed in natural light within the Acropolis Museum.

View cruises with Athens | View Athens shore excursions

Until it was popularized by the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona was a hidden gem amidst Europe’s diverse landscapes. Now it’s widely recognized for its architectural masterpieces and spirited customs. On European cruises from Barcelona, leave enough time before you depart to visit Park Güell — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and feel inspired by the colors and unique artistry that lies in the park and throughout the entire city.

View cruises with Barcelona | View Barcelona shore excursions

As one of the greenest islands in Greece, Corfu is an emerald treasure amidst the colorful Mediterranean landscape. From Paleokastritsa, hike to the mountaintop for unparalleled views of the Ionian Sea. Or get a taste of Corfu when you team up with a famous chef, and handpick local produce that they’ll use to prepare your lunch. Experience it all on a Greek cruise with Princess.

View cruises with Corfu | View Corfu shore excursions

On a Mediterranean cruise to Livorno, travel to Florence or Pisa where artifacts abound. Capture snapshots of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, stop by Michelangelo’s David statue at the Accademia and walk up to the “Gates of Paradise” at the Baptistery. Or explore the countryside and meander through the region’s rolling hills that bear vineyards and green olive groves.

View cruises with Florence | View Florence shore excursions

Nestled within Boka Bay lies a medieval gem. Kotor is enrobed in ancient houses, palaces and churches that speak to its 12th-century origins. On a Greek cruise, dine on Montenegrin cuisine in the home of a local chef, appreciate 14th-century Venetian art at St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and taste regional wines along the riviera. Or see another side of the city when you kayak through the tunnels of Lipa Cave.

View cruises with Kotor | View Kotor shore excursions

As the largest port in the Mediterranean, Marseille is the gateway to opportunity. On a Mediterranean cruise, spend the day in Arles, and explore the landscapes that inspired much of Van Gogh’s artwork. Stroll through the MuSaMa , a soap museum, and create your own blend alongside a master soap maker. Or roam the city’s most popular landmark, Notre-Dame de la Garden, a Catholic basilica that overlooks the city.

View cruises with Marseille | View Marseille shore excursions

Famous for its beaches and spirited lifestyle, Mykonos is the heartbeat of Greece. Embark on a jeep safari past the city’s windmills, lighthouses and lakes. Walk past temples and marble-lined sanctuaries in Delos, the birthplace of famous Greek gods. Or soak up a day of relaxation on the beach with the city’s Cycladic architecture as your backdrop — all on a Greek cruise with Princess.

View cruises with Mykonos | View Mykonos shore excursions

Italy’s capital city is something of a dream. Grand chapels and stone angels line the roads, whispering secrets of Rome’s past. On a cruise to Europe from Rome, arrive early to toss a coin into Trevi Fountain. Legend has it, you’ll be guaranteed return to The Eternal City. Then walk in the footsteps of Emperors at the Colosseum, and receive a blessing from the Pope at St. Peter’s Square.

View cruises with Rome | View Rome shore excursions

Santorini is the epitome of Greece. Wander into the welcoming cafes in Oia, a village teeming with whitewashed buildings and blue-domed roofs. Continue to some of the world’s oldest vineyards and taste the bouquet of wines produced on the island, making sure to visit the black-sand beach of Kamari before heading back to your Mediterranean cruise ship.

View cruises with Santorini | View Santorini shore excursions

#PrincessCruises Europe Connections

Mediterranean cruise onboard experience.

Accommodations

Your home away from home.

Your stateroom is where you rest and recharge between adventures. That’s why every room is equipped with the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program created by a board-certified sleep expert. From interior cabins to full suites, unwind in any of our staterooms, and enjoy peace of mind with the option of connected rooms for families of four or more traveling together.

Flavors that Inspire

From the zest of Provencal ratatouille to the sweetness of Greek Halva, the Mediterranean is bursting with flavor. On board most Princess ships, indulge in a pasta dinner at Sabatini’s℠, or savor local seafood at Crown Grill. While ashore, treat yourself to gelato in Italy or churros in Spain. From ship to shore, appease your appetite with one-of-a-kind dining experiences on every Mediterranean cruise itinerary.

Entertainment

Find your joy.

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Celebrations & Romance

Love blooms on the love boat.

It's difficult to imagine something more romantic than sailing through the alluring cities and charming countryside of Europe. While on board your European cruise, we cater to your sentimental side with private dining on your balcony — like breakfast for two or a sunset dinner — honeymoon packages, flowers and chocolates delivered to your room and couples-only massages in the Sanctuary.

Youth & Teen Center

Step outside the classroom.

Our European cruises were crafted with every guest in mind — even the younger ones. From 6-month old babies to 17-year old teens, kids can unwind and relax or play and explore. In partnership with Discovery™, kids can learn even more with special insights about Italy, Greece and everywhere in between. With engaging activities on board and ashore, kids can see history books come to life before their eyes.

Vegas Hits the Seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Ships Sailing Mediterranean Cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large vessels. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at breathtaking shorelines passing by before enjoying international cuisine in one of our many eateries during your Mediterranean cruise.

Star Princess®   |  Sun Princess® | Sky Princess®   |  Regal Princess®   |   Island Princess®

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

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Learn all about our exciting options to visit Europe from cruises to in-depth cruisetour vacations. 

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See all Europe cruise articles and videos

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go.

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Learn more about transfers

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your Europe cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

View Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

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European Cruise Destinations

Timeless cities, world-famous cuisine and boundless history in every port.

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Royal palaces, ancient art & celebrated history of Baltic ports.

Shore Excursions

Experience fabled lands and world famous museums with it's locals.

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Our Europe tours connect you with the emotion and camaraderie of day-to-day life as you travel throughout its vibrant cities and along the Yellow Roads... those smaller back roads that immerse you on a deeper level offering that authentic sense of place.

• Austria, Czech Republic and Hungary
• England, Ireland and Scotland
• Mediterranean & Greece
• Netherlands & Belgium
• Scandinavia and the Baltics
• Spain and Portugal
• Switzerland

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

Welcome to Europe

Experiential, culturally diverse, and filled with timeless art, Europe is a true melting pot of cultures on a grand scale. Whether you are traveling along our off-the-beaten-path Yellow Roads on a land journey, or aboard a small ship cruise or river cruise... you are connected to day-to-day European life, with its many historical sites and culinary treasures. The finest handpicked hotels add a luxurious sense of place... making you feel right at home.

Yellow roads of europe, land journeys, join us along the "yellow roads of europe"....

Whether you're planning your first journey to "the Continent," or want to add a new set of European experiences to your collection, our "Yellow Roads" land journeys will take you to the Europe you want to see... in Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Great Britain and Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Scandinavia, the Baltic States, Central Europe, the Balkans and Russia.

• River Cruises

Cruising Europe's inland waterways on a Tauck River Cruise...

Many of our river cruise guests tell us that they believe there's no better way to explore Europe than aboard one of Tauck's custom-designed riverboats. While riverboating may not be for everyone, it may be for you... and there's no better way to find out than by joining us aboard a Tauck river cruise along the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Rhône, Saône or Seine rivers.

• Small Ship Cruises

Discover the best of Europe by sea...

Tauck small ship cruising began more than a quarter-century ago in European waters, with a Mediterranean cruise crafted to delight our guests with the best of land and sea, aboard a ship selected especially for the destination. This holds true today as our small ships cruises set off for European destinations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, the Adriatic and the Dalmatian Coast, Greece and the Aegean, Russia and the Baltic , Iceland, the fjords of Norway, and Mediterranean cruises to Italy, Sicily, Spain and Portugal.

Small Group Departures

Small group departures transform your travel experience throughout europe.

Small Group departures averaging 24 guests and even Smaller Group departures averaging 15 guests are available on Tauck's Europe land journeys.

Tauck Bridges Family Travel

Exciting adventures await your family on our tauck bridges trips throughout europe.

Scavenger hunts in famous museums like the Louvre in Paris... bicycle tours, train trips, boat and gondola rides... culinary adventures like a cooking class in Ireland, truffle-hunting in Italy, chocolate art in Paris... a day in gladiator school, a night in a castle, and so much more awaits on our Tauck Bridges family trips and river cruises to fun destinations including the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia.

Journey Collection

Experience Europe

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Guest Favorites in Europe

Many of our Europe journeys and cruises explore some of the continent's greatest cities in one trip – Venice, Florence and Rome on a family adventure in Italy... Amsterdam, Köln and Budapest on one Danube cruise, Berlin, Vienna and Krakow on another... Heidelberg, Strasbourg and Basel on the Rhine...

Italia bella: rome to venice, budapest to amsterdam by riverboat, royal danube, berlin & kraków, the rhine and moselle, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

Travel Experiences that are as memorable as the places...

Leave Your Worries At Home

Tauck takes on all of details of travel – all of the planning, all of the logistics...

One Upfront Price

Get what you pay for and then some; no hidden costs, no options sold...

Travel In Good Company

Our Tauck Directors are the best in the industry, making every moment of your journey count...

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Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

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TRANSATLANTIC CRUISES AND REPOSITIONING CRUISES 2024 - 2025

Venturing through the seas, overcome distances, and building bridges between cultures. The wealth of different perspectives is truly embraced with MSC Grand Voyages. Unlock a world of astonishing discovery with an accurate selection of Transatlantic cruises and repositioning cruises. Delight in the beauty of the open seas sailing from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean or crossing the Atlantic from Europe to Brazil and Argentina. Revel oceans' majesty from South Africa, heading towards the Mediterranean via Seychelles.   For your transatlantic and repositioning cruises in 2024 and 2025, choose from a selection of 37 cruises across 17 different ships, and discover over 35 countries and 100 ports. Sailing on a transoceanic cruise means leisurely gilding across the seas to iconic destinations, finally having time on one's side. With each intercontinental travel lasting anywhere from 10 to 30 days, these Grand Voyages are lengthier than usual! Crossing oceans is to hark back to travel's golden age and relive sea adventures of the past. You'll have numerous options to choose from with MSC Grand Voyages

Venturing through the seas, overcome distances, and building bridges between cultures. The wealth of different perspectives is truly embraced with MSC Grand Voyages. Unlock a world of astonishing discovery with an accurate selection of Transatlantic cruises and repositioning cruises. Delight in the beauty of the open seas sailing from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean or crossing the Atlantic from Europe to Brazil and Argentina. Revel oceans' majesty from South Africa, heading towards the Mediterranean via the Red Sea and Seychelles. 

For your transatlantic and repositioning cruises in 2023 and 2024, choose from a selection of 37 cruises across 17 different ships, and discover over 35 countries and 100 ports. Sailing on a transoceanic cruise means leisurely gilding across the seas to iconic destinations, finally having time on one's side. With each intercontinental travel lasting anywhere from 10 to 30 days, these Grand Voyages are lengthier than usual! Crossing oceans is to hark back to travel's golden age and relive sea adventures of the past. You'll have numerous options to choose from with MSC Grand Voyages

MSC GRAND VOYAGES DESTINATIONS

Transatlantic cruises.

Choose the best Transatlantic cruises in 2024 and 2025. Sailing across the Atlantic between Old World treasures, the shores of idyllic isles, and the New World's lush landscapes. MSC Cruises' transatlantic cruises sail to historic hotspots like Venice, Genoa, Barcelona, Copenhagen and Hamburg through the warm welcome of Mallorca, Casablanca, Canary Islands and the Caribbean . Reach South America and live the distinctive warmth of  Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Buenos Aires . Each cross Atlantic cruise is an extraordinary snapshot of the diverse and beautiful wonders that span the ocean. Book now the most exciting Atlantic crossing!

Repositioning Cruises

From the Mediterranean to South Africa, cruise through incomparable sites of historical value and beauty. Transoceanic cruises include those to the Mediterranean and back from cosmopolitan Durban or gorgeous Cape Town in South Africa. On these routes, delight in the paradise Isles of Réunion and Mauritius , before heading to the beaches, art and culture of the Mediterranean.

BOUNDLESS HORIZONS: A GRAND VOYAGE OF ENRICHING ON-BOARD EXPERIENCES

Enjoy fun new experiences around the clock on an MSC Cruises' ship

You’ll find plenty of entertainment on board your ship, browsing the on-board shops, playing tennis or going bowling. Enrich your mind with fascinating destination lectures, arts, and crafts classes. Creative souls will find joy in cake design, painting classes, and the art of calligraphy. For those seeking laughter and delight, a cartoon caricaturist, line dancing, and the joyous Ship Choir await. You can also attend dance classes, spanning from Ballroom to Reggaeton*. Or simply spend some time relaxing poolside. *all activities depending on availability 

VIEW ALL MSC GRAND VOYAGES PORTS

• Ajaccio, France
• Aqaba (Petra), Jordan
• Arrecife de Lanzarote (Canary Is.), Spain
• Barcelona, Spain
• Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Belfast, United Kingdom
• Bridgetown, Barbados
• Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Buzios, Brazil
• Cadiz (Seville) , Spain
• Casablanca (Marrakech) , Morocco
• Castries, Saint Lucia
• Civitavecchia (Rome) , Italy
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Corfu, Greece
• Doha, Qatar
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Durban, South Africa
• Eilat (Jerusalem) , Israel
• Fort de France, Martinique
• Funchal (Madeira Is.) , Portugal
• Genoa (Portofino) , Italy
• Haifa (Jerusalem) , Israel
• Halifax, Canada
• Hamburg, Germany
• Heraklion (Crete) , Greece
• Ilhabela, Brazil
• Ilheus, Brazil
• Itajai (Balneario Camboriu) , Brazil
• Katakolon (Olympia) , Greece
• Khasab, Oman
• Kiel (Lubeck) , Germany
• Kotor, Montenegro
• La Coruna (Santiago de Compostela) , Spain
• La Possession, Reunion
• Las Palmas de G.Canaria (Canary Is.) , Spain
• Le Havre (Paris) , France
• Limassol, Cyprus
• Lisbon (Cascais) , Portugal
• Malaga (Granada) , Spain
• Marseille (Provence) , France
• Messina (Taormina) , Italy
• Miami, United States
• Muscat, Oman
• Mykonos, Greece
• Naples (Pompeii) , Italy
• New York City (Brooklyn), United States
• Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas
• Oslo, Norway
• Palermo (Monreale) , Italy
• Palma de Mallorca (Baleari Is.) , Spain
• Philipsburg, Saint Maarten
• Piraeus (Athens) , Greece
• Pointe a Pitre, Guadeloupe
• Ponta Delgada (Azores) , Portugal
• Port Louis, Mauritius
• Recife, Brazil
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rhodes (Lindos) , Greece
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Rotterdam (Amsterdam) , Netherlands
• Salalah, Oman
• Salvador, Brazil
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Is.) , Spain
• Santorini, Greece
• Santos (Sao Paulo) , Brazil
• Southampton (London) , United Kingdom
• Split, Croatia
• St Johns, Antigua and Barbuda
• Sydney, Canada
• Trieste (Venice), Italy
• Valencia, Spain
• Valletta, Malta
• Venice - Marghera, Italy
• Vigo (Santiago de Compostela) , Spain
• Zadar, Croatia
• Zeebrugge (Bruges) , Belgium

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Europe Explorer Grand Tour “Mediterranean Route”

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• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Personalized

Places You’ll See

• Explore ancient sites and museums in Tirana
• Discover Naples' historic center and architecture
• Visit Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast's stunning views
• Tour Pollino Park and experience Cosenza's history
• Enjoy Messina and Catania's cultural and natural beauty
• Introduction
• Day 1 Tirana - Kruja - Ferry to Bari (Italy). (82 km, 1h 15 min; +8 hrs and overnight in ferry).
• Day 2 Naples (UNESCO) (253 km, 3h 15 min).
• Day 3 Pompeii (UNESCO) - Amalfi (UNESCO) - Salerno. (95 km, 2h 25 min).
• Day 4 Pollino National Park (UNESCO) - Cosenza (261 km, 2h 45 min).
• Day 5 Messina. (220 km, 2h 55 min).
• Day 6 Etna (UNESCO) - Catania. (132 km, 2h 25 min).
• Day 7 Palermo (UNESCO). (211 km, 2h 30 min).
• Day 8 Cefalu (UNESCO) - Reggio Calabria. (243 km, 3h 45 min).
• Day 9 Bovalino - Soverato - Le Castella. (235 km, 3h 35 min).
• Day 10 Crotone - Matera (UNESCO) (263 km, 3h 40 min).
• Day 11 Taranto - Gallipoli - Santa Maria della Leuca (211 km, 3h 05 min).
• Day 12 Otranto - Lecce - Brindisi . (141 km, 1 h 50 min)
• Day 13 Alberobello (UNESCO) - Bari - Ferry to Durres (Albania). (133 km, 1 h 25 min); overnight in ferry, (300 km, 8 hrs).
• Day 14 Durres - Tirana.

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What's Included

• Accommodation

Adventure Type

• Group of 15 travelers max.
• Fast booking confirmation
• Carefully planned itineraries
• Travel with like-minded people
• Travel with your own group of min. 1 travelers
• Choose your preferred dates and duration
• Upgrade your accommodation
• Customize the itineraries

Operated by

Albania Explorer DMC

Number of tours

12 to 85 years old

Response time

within 2 days

Response rate

Albania Explorer is a motivated and ambitious Tour Operator / DMC and with main office in Tirana / Albania. It is specialized in providing to its travelers the best ways to the best destinations of Albania, the Balkans, Central & South East Europe and Mediterrenean countries, or other related...

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Tour Operator Albania Explorer DMC 5.0
• KaRin · 2nd April 2023 One of the best trips I’ve been on. So much to see. Such beautiful landscapes. Andrea (guide) was extremely... Show more
• Kathy · 23rd October 2022 Our tour guide was excellent he was very knowledgeable he has the special insight to make him a great guide we... Show more
• Paul · 20th April 2024 I undertook this tour in April, out of season, but with wonderful hot sunny weather on most days. This meant that in... Show more

Dates & Availability

Why book with tourradar.

• Flexible payment options
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• Rated excellent on
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• 24/7 customer support
• Earn €50 in travel credits

To protect your payment and ensure your booking will be processed in Austria, never transfer or communicate outside of the TourRadar website or app.

• Upcoming departures
• October 2024
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• Monday 14 Oct, 2024 Sunday 27 Oct, 2024 Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Monday 28 Oct, 2024 Sunday 10 Nov, 2024 Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 3 Apr, 2025 Wednesday 16 Apr, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 1 May, 2025 Wednesday 14 May, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 5 Jun, 2025 Wednesday 18 Jun, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 3 Jul, 2025 Wednesday 16 Jul, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 7 Aug, 2025 Wednesday 20 Aug, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 4 Sep, 2025 Wednesday 17 Sep, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 2 Oct, 2025 Wednesday 15 Oct, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €3,767 Confirm Dates

Good to Know

• Currencies L Lek Albania € Euro Italy

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Albania. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Albania. Ideally 6 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 27th November 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 27th November 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with Albania Explorer DMC. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Albania Explorer DMC will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Albania Explorer DMC" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Albania Explorer DMC. Please familiarise yourself with the Albania Explorer DMC payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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