THE 12 BEST CRUISE PORTS TO VISIT IN THE MEDITERRANEAN
A Mediterranean cruise is perfect for first-timers, short-on-timers, all-the-time-in-the-worlders and of course, families.
Exploring the Mediterranean is a great way to sample cruising for the first time, avoiding long-haul flights and empty days at sea. To join your ship, just catch a short-haul flight from the UK or you can sometimes sail directly from a British port. Then, choose your cruise itinerary from as short as seven days and often themed, such as Ancient Isles or Venetian Vistas. You’ll also find they’re split into Western and Eastern Mediterranean cruise ports. With this wonderful array of choice, it can be mind-boggling knowing where to start.
Here are the 12 best Mediterranean cruise ports, for whetting your appetite and kick-starting the joyous task of planning a cruise.
St Raphael, France
Beautiful St Raphael boasts a marina, boutique shopping and is a great base for visiting other jewels in the French Riviera crown. You’ve got fascinating roman ruins at Fréjus, glamour at St Tropez and glitz at Cannes.
Barcelona, Spain
A favourite city break destination, Barcelona also makes it onto the classic cruise list. The wonderful Las Ramblas, Gaudi’s famously unfinished Basilica and the old quarter, Ciutat Vella, are all easily reached from port.
Palma, Majorca
As you arrive into Palma by ship, be on deck for the best views of the pretty coastline. If your itinerary only allows a few hours, you can still visit Palma’s old town, impressive cathedral and take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Still protected by ancient city walls, Dubrovnik has a rich history. Today, this magical city welcomes holidaymakers from around the world. If all you do is take a Game of Thrones tour and swim in the crystal clear sea, you’ll love your time here.
Valletta, Malta
Valletta is the largest natural harbour in Europe. You’re lured onshore by old stone streets, tree-lined squares and cosmopolitan shopping districts. After seeking out souvenirs of Gozo glassware, head to Upper Barrakka Gardens for mesmerising views of the Grand Harbour.
Naples, Italy
With Mount Vesuvius still dominating the skyline, you simply can’t visit Naples without experiencing the incredible sites at Herculaneum and Pompeii. Many cruise ships will organise tours but if you want to experience these world-famous sights for yourself, be sure to plan your on-shore trips from Naples port in advance.
Chania, Crete
The Venetian harbour in Chania is one of the most picturesque you’ll have the pleasure of sailing into. Compared to other ports, it’s on a small scale. You can easily explore on foot or by short bus journey and discover a melting pot of Mediterranean and Arabian culture.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a shining star among European cities. Be wowed by historical sites such as St George’s Castle which has watched over the city for more than 1000 years and Jéronimos monastery. Built in the 16th-century, it’s now UNESCO-listed. If you prefer modern, visit the fabulous Oceanarium on the waterfront.
Corfu Town, Corfu
Corfu Town is one of the most romantic places in Greece. If you’re short on time in this mesmerising port, just explore the narrow streets and the surrounding fortresses – old Byzantine, dating back to the 6th-century and new Venetian, built more than 500 years ago.
Kotor, Montenegro
The stunning port of Kotor is less than 100 kilometres down the coast from Dubrovnik. Don’t miss passing the beautiful Kotor Bay as you arrive. It’s UNESCO-listed, steeped in history and flush with wine bars, restaurants and food markets.
Koper, Slovenia
The historic centre, cathedral, waterfront cafés, fish restaurants and shops are all just a short walk from the dock at Koper, making it a wonderful port to explore from a cruise ship. Venture further into the city along medieval streets to watch the world go by in Tito Square.
Ajaccio, Corsica
Tender boats will ferry you into the pretty harbour at Ajaccio. Easily accessible on foot, you won’t go far without seeing references to Ajaccio’s most famous inhabitant, Napoleon Bonaparte. With superb restaurants, tempting patisseries and stylish boutiques, everything here feels undeniably French.
With so many Mediterranean cruise ports waiting for you to step on-board, it’s easy to see how a seven day itinerary becomes two weeks, then a month, or three? Happy planning!
More cruise inspiration
