MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

One of the world’s most ancient cities, the appeal of heritage-listed historic sites, mythical gods and laid-back, Mediterranean lifestyle has kept travellers returning to Athens for hundreds of years.

Today, the sprawling city is a perfect blend of old and new: ruins sit next to chic new restaurants, centuries-old artefacts hang side-by-side with modern masterpieces and boutique hotels provide a fresh take on city-dwelling.

No Athens stop on a Mediterranean cruise would be complete without a visit to the Acropolis and the Parthenon, whilst those who want to indulge in some retail therapy should make for the Plaka – the city’s oldest neighbourhood, lined with pretty boutiques and jewellery stores.

The Eastern Mediterranean’s most charming old town, sailing into Dubrovnik is a magical experience – whether it’s your first, or fifteenth, time.

The city’s status as a popular tourist hub has escalated over the past several years, and once you step onshore, you’ll easily see why. Baroque buildings line the pristine streets, twisting stone steps lead to hidden restaurants and bars and the azure waters tempt swimmers even in the colder months.

Food lovers will delight at the wide variety of cuisine on offer, but it’s in the seafood restaurants where Dubrovnik’s unique tastes truly shine. After dinner, head for the city’s cliffside bar or take the scenic cable car to the heights of Mount Srd for one of the finest sunsets views in the Mediterranean.

Romance, mystery and intrigue combine in one of the world’s most visited cities. The floating maze of streets and winding canals that cover the 100 small islands of Venice are easy to lose yourself amongst, but a short gondola ride will soon see you back at Venezia’s main attractions.

Unmissable sights include the hidden rooms and passages of the Dodge’s Palace in St. Mark’s Square, the tragically beautiful Bridge of Sighs and the incredible artwork of the Basilica.

Venice is also one of the finest cities in the world for food and drink. Avoid the tourist-traps and sky-high prices around the most famous sights and instead dive down a side street, where bars and restaurants are filled with local alfresco diners, sipping elegantly on Aperol Spritzes canal-side.

The cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona is a city brimming with history, art, architecture and, above all else, incredible food.

The best tapas in the world can be found down some of Barcelona’s many hidden laneways and tucked-away squares, which can be perfectly paired by asking for a recommended local Catalan wine.

Those in search of great architecture can take their pick from the otherworldly Gaudi masterpieces such as the Sagrada Familia and Casa Mila, or the gothic beauty of the city’s old quarter, where Barcelona Cathedral’s intricate interior leaves even those non-believers speechless. Before you set sail, don’t forget to visit the buzzing La Rambla for designer shopping, souvenirs and street food.

Known for its spectacular sunsets, perfectly offset by the iconic white houses and blue domes, this is one Mediterranean destination to be marvelled at.

As you arrive on your Eastern Mediterranean cruise, you’ll be captivated by the romantic hillside houses, charming old-world feel and welcoming locals – including the many donkeys that are still used for transportation on the island.

Incredible sunsets aside, Santorini also has plenty of sights to keep you busy during the day. Explore the historic hilltop village of Oia, visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri or take a dip in the clear blue waters that surround the Island’s beautiful, multi-coloured beaches.

If fine white beaches, year-round sunshine and turquoise waters aren’t enough to entice you, the city of Palma, on the island of Mallorca, is also home to some of the most interesting and underrated historical site in the Western Mediterranean.

Tear yourself away from your sun-lounger for long enough to visit Palma’s exquisite gothic cathedral Le Seu, the impressive hilltop Bellver Castle and the lavish Palau de l'Almudaina, before eating like a local in the historic old quarter.

The Eternal City needs little in the way of an introduction, and with many of our Western Mediterranean cruises starting and finishing in Rome, you’ll have plenty of time to discover the city’s timeless appeal for yourself.

Whether you are eating the world’s best gelato outside the Vatican, exploring the grandeur of the Colosseum or being stunned in silence by the magnificent artwork of the Pantheon, Rome is a city that was made to be explored, and adored.

Cannes is famous for images of movie stars, expensive yachts synonymous with its legendary film festival and glamour.

This gracious city with its palm lined boulevard dividing divine beaches from chic cafes and nightclubs is your gateway to Monaco and Monte Carlo, Nice and St. Tropez.