On the Lookout — Sights to Expect on a Med Cruise

2014/10/10

On the Lookout — Sights to Expect on a Med Cruise

As a cruise destination, the Mediterranean encompasses the most diverse range of ports and experiences in the world. Any combination of three continents, 18 countries and hundreds of sea ports, many of which are major global capitals of culture, history and commerce can make up the term “Med cruises.” Accordingly, picking out an itinerary is seldom a simple affair, it all depends what you want to experience. Read on to discover the potential of these Med ports of call…

photo courtesy of Justin Shier on Flckr CC

Istanbul: where east and west collide

Three great civilizations have written their legacies all over this Turkish city, immediately tangible in its skyline of minarets and steeples, riven, as it is, by the majestic Bosphorus. For immediate, effective cultural immersion, lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar, the beating pulse of the city, with some extra trinkets in tow as souvenirs of your trip.

Rome: Seven hills of romance and culture

Rome is naturally included in most land-based Italy Tour Packages. But how about arriving by cruise ship?

Arriving in Rome is a little like stepping over the threshold of one, giant, citywide museum. The best way to experience Italy’s capital, especially as a day tripper, is to simply grab a gelato and walk through it, making peace with the fact you can’t begin to tick anything off your Roma bucket list in one day. Whether you spend an afternoon sauntering around its bustling piazzas, marveling at iconic landmarks like St Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon or simply gorging on pasta, to have seen the eternal city is to have experienced it. Forget queuing up for main attractions and allow yourself to experience what you can.

photo courtesy of i_bogin on Flckr CC

Barcelona: Spain’s eccentric Catalan capital

The extravagant architecture of Barcelona’s streets is reason enough to visit this friendly Spanish port. Wonder at the organic, liquid beauty of Gaudi’s creations; any shore excursion should include a trip to the Sagrada Familia or Casa Battló. Wander the city’s Gothic Quarter with a brightly colored pastry in hand to the sound of street music, and don’t neglect to indulge in some tapas before re-embarking.

Cannes: A glance at Cote d’Azur extravagance

The gleaming white yachts docked along the port of Cannes are the first clues for day trippers as to the wealth of this southern French town. People parade down the Croisette with dainty pooches, shop fronts gleam sizeable price tags and pastel-colored Vespas roar down cobbled side streets. Cannes is an eye-opening destination for people-watching.

Should you choose a cruise geared around South of France sun-lounging, the exotic souks of north Africa and Turkey or a vibrant city like Rome or Barcelona, the great thing about a cruise to the Med is that the success of your holiday is already confirmed.

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