I really hope you’ve had the same quality weather that I’ve had the past few days. It’s just hitting that great time of year when many cruise lines start their Mediterranean season, with a number of fantastic ships heading into the region to begin a summer of sailings around the ocean. Whether it’s a voyage focusing on the Western, Central or Eastern parts of the Mediterranean, or one that sails across the whole area, a Mediterranean cruise is always one to remember.
The Mediterranean is my favourite place to cruise. I love the Caribbean, and there are some fantastic places further afield too, but for me the mix on offer in the Mediterranean is unrivalled for a summer holiday. So I decided to write a blog about some of my favourite ports in the Med, and what makes them worth a visit – this is all my own personal highlights, so don’t feel offended if I’ve missed out somewhere you’d consider essential. Instead just let me know what you think in the comments.
Many Mediterranean cruises begin in Barcelona so I will too. On my first visit to the city I was too young to appreciate the stunning cathedral or the excitement of Las Ramblas. I was more interested in Camp Nou, the football stadium. However now I’m older I’d say La Sagrada Familia should be on everyone’s itinerary when you’re sailing the Med. It’s just stunning.
Next up on my own list is Santorini. I’d not heard of Santorini before I started working here, but that’s more of a reflection on me than the island itself. If you don’t know much about it, open up a new tab now on your browser, go to Google Images, and look it up.
Breath-taking, right? It’s even better in real life.
I also love Monte Carlo, in fact the whole of Monaco. The casino and the palace are probably the two most famous attractions but I simply enjoy walking round and soaking in the ambience. There’s a sense of relaxed, subtle luxury everywhere, including some touches which are just pure opulence with no shame. It’s so interesting taking it all in.
Whereas Rome is all about the established sights. It’s a lovely city, but when I go I’m going purely to take a trip to the historic landmarks. It’s probably one of the most historic cities across the whole of Europe, as the capital of the Roman Empire which stretched over the continent. It’s also the home of Catholicism and St Peters Square is one place you must visit, along with the Colosseum and the Forum.
The final place that’s on my own personal highlight reel is Dubrovnik in Croatia. I love the beauty of this city, the harbour in particular, and the wealth of history throughout. It’s just gorgeous. Whenever I’m talking about Dubrovnik I always mention Onofrio’s Fountain. There’s actually two fountains but it’s the big one that I really think is amazing.
And that’s my list. What do you think? Is Malta somewhere you refuse to miss? Does Athens make or break an itinerary for you? Let me know.
By Ian Lewis
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