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Destinations

6 destinations to visit on a Mediterranean cruise



Warm sunshine, a treasure trove of history, and world-famous cuisine… there are so many attractions of the Mediterranean. But why should you join a boutique cruise to the region rather than on a traditional holiday?

Well, on a holiday you’re likely to only visit one or two destinations, which will probably be well-known tourist spots, and you’ll only visit for a few days. Plus, you have the added stress of travelling to and navigating around busy airports, complete with baggage limits, lengthy queues and transfers. And when you’ve arrived at your destination, you’ll have to arrange your own day trips and find places to eat, all at an extra cost.

But when you cruise the Mediterranean with us, you’ll have the chance to visit several ports in one journey, from popular cities to lesser-known destinations. And you can take your time exploring and immersing yourself in each culture, with some longer cruises sailing for over three weeks.

From the first knock at your door from our included return chauffeur service, nationwide for 2025 sailings, to boarding your no-fly cruise directly from UK ports and settling into your balcony cabin, we’ll take care of everything.

And there’s no need to worry about finding unique excursions, drinks and dining, gratuities, travel insurance or Wi-Fi – that’s all included in the price of your cruise too. Our unbeatable value is just one of the things that sets us apart from other cruise lines.


Our top Mediterranean destinations


Hydra

Blending scenic views over the Aegean Sea, rich history and unique architecture, Hydra packs a lot into 19 square-miles. You could take a stroll along the town’s quaint streets, before relaxing with a mezze and cold drink. You might also enjoy touring the island’s historic sites, which includes 300 churches, six monasteries and museums located in the houses of soldiers who fought in the Greek War of Independence (1821).

Hydra, Greece

Hydra cruise excursion – Hydra Walking Tour

On this walking tour explore the pleasant town of Hydra, rich in historical charm. Admire the architecture of the Monastery of the ‘Assumption of Virgin Mary’, Koundouriotis Mansion and the Cannons – where you can capture a unique view across the mainland and the Peloponnese Peninsula.

Elba

Famous for harbouring Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile in 1814, Elba is the third biggest island in Italy and part of the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago. Here you can explore Portoferraio’s boutiques and cafes, discover museums pertaining to Napoleon’s year on the island and even scale the summit of Mount Capanne by cable car for panoramic views.

The view over Portoferraio

Elba cruise excursion – The Highlights of Elba

Soak up the sunshine on this scenic drive through the island, with a visit to the beautiful Porto Azzurro. On your journey, admire the breathtaking Bay of Biodola and Procchio, and the bays of Lacona, Laconella, and Golfo Stella. You’ll then have free time to browse the charming streets of Porto Azzurro, before enjoying snacks and refreshments at a local bar.

Savona

Beyond Savona’s modern waterfront lies its medieval old town, which survived the 16th-century occupation by Genoese forces. In the old town you could visit the grand baroque Cattedrale di Nostra Signora Assunta and the huge Fortezza del Priamàr.

The port city of Savona

Savona cruise excursion – Visit Genoa

A visit to Genoa reveals a peek into its former glory days of the 12th to 13th centuries, where ‘the Most Serene Republic of Genoa’ ruled the Mediterranean. Explore the maze of narrow streets, or caruggi, through the old town to find highlights like the Via Garibaldi and its UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli.

Palamos

The idyllic fishing village of Palamos on the Costa Brava is renowned for its white-sand beaches, hidden coves and rich history, complete with relics of its Catalan past. Be sure to visit the ‘Museu de la Pesca’, where you can learn more about Palamos’ important role in the fishing industry and sample some gambas de Palamós – prawns deemed to be some of the tastiest on the market.

The coastline at Palamos

Palamos cruise excursion – Legends of Girona

Girona is a small town which has maintained most of its charming medieval quarter. The quarter’s main feature is the 17th-century Baroque Cathedral, which has now been converted into pleasant gardens surrounded by medieval ramparts, towers and turrets.

You can also visit the medieval Jewish quarter named Call Jueu, before walking down the Rambla.

Port Vendres

Port Vendres in France is the only natural port on the Vermeille coast and has been an active harbour since the 6th century. In the 17th century, at the order of King Louis XIV, Port Vendres was turned into a military defence with three redoubts, though only two remain. These can be seen along the Route des Cretes, while other defences created by military architect, Vauban, can be seen along the port.

Port Vendres, France

Port Vendres cruise excursion – A visit to Perpignan

Perpignan is an important French town on the Mediterranean coast, north of the border with Spain – though Salvador Dali once declared that Perpignan was the centre of the world. Discover Perpignan with your local guide and enjoy the mixture of historical Gothic art and colourful Art Deco.

Ceuta

Ceuta is an autonomous city administered by Spain, which borders Morocco. Here, two continents are linked and different cultures come together. While you enjoy some independent exploration time, take a walk along the impressive Royal Walls and perhaps relax at the Mediterranean Maritime Park.

The Royal Walls of Ceuta

Ceuta cruise excursion – Chefchaouen and the Blue City

Chefchaouen is famous for its Medina, with blue-painted walls, winding streets and artisans’ workshops. It is said that local Jews originally painted the town blue to protect against mosquitoes - and the ‘Evil Eye’. Enjoy lunch in an idyllic garden at the Riad Dar Echchaouen, a hotel near the town centre, then visit the Kasbah, which stands near the principal mosque. Stroll along the alleyways and take in the sights, sounds and smells of this enchanting town before heading back.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.

The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.

Our Mediterranean cruises