Italy Cruises
All-inclusive cruises to Italy from the UK
Set sail for the sun-dappled shoreline of Italy. Spend your days strolling around storied old towns, surround yourself with colourful local life and admire sweeping coastal vistas. Saga’s Italy cruises take you to a captivating collection of Mediterranean destinations. With stops in the vibrant port towns of Sicily, Sardinia and Portoferraio, your Italian cruise adventure is sure to be one that you won’t forget in a hurry.
Cruise to Italy on an all-inclusive cruise with Saga and start the holiday from the moment you leave the house. A chauffeur service, dining and drinks and rooms with private balconies are all included in the price of the cruise.
And to bring Italy to life, there’s a collection of included excursions and a choice of optional excursions to choose from. All that’s left for you to do is sit back and relax onboard as we take you to a string of incredible Italian locales. The dolce vita awaits.
Cruises to Italy
Why cruise Italy
Ancient history
You’re never too far away from ancient history during a cruise around Italy. Founded by the ancient Greeks, the Sicilian city of Syracuse was the birthplace of the great mathematician, Archimedes. Syracuse has long been an integral place of power in the Mediterranean and today the UNESCO-recognized city centre with its Necropolis of Pantalica is a testament to this.
Beautiful scenery
Enjoy a trip under the Tuscan sun to Elba’s capital, Portoferraio, which provides a tantalising taste of the sights and sounds of Tuscany. Almost entirely surrounded by the sea, the city’s hilly streets are overlooked by three 16th-century forts, with Fort Falcone offering up sweeping coastal views. The town was also once the home of Napoleon; his former residence is now open for visitors.
Culture
Stop off at the cosmopolitan Tuscan city of Livorno during your cruise to Italy for a day of discovery. In the 17th century the city became a multicultural trading hub when it was declared a free port. Exploring the sights gives a glimpse into Livorno’s rich past as you explore its historic quarter, attractive waterways and grand Belle Epoque architecture.
Warm weather
Arriving at the Sardinian capital of Cagliari by sea is one of the best parts about cruising to Italy. From the water, grand glistening palazzi, colourful domes and pastel-hued facades can be seen clinging to the rocky cliffs. Spend the day in Cagliari strolling along leafy boulevards, lingering over coffee in a terrace café and admiring views of the marina.
Top Italy cruise excursions
Embarking on an Italian cruise in 2025 with Saga provides the chance to explore a wealth of compelling destinations. Why not join one of our optional excursions to gain a deeper insight into the incredible list of cultural and historical sites that Italy has to offer?
Florence - Birthplace Of the Renaissance
Italy cruises from UK wouldn’t be complete without spending a day in Florence. Stepping out into the romantic streets with a guide, you will embark on a day of discovery and learn all about the birthplace of the Renaissance. The trip begins with a visit to the Duomo. Work on the famous Florentine cathedral began in 1296, but it was architect Filippo Brunelleschi who fully realised the vision of the ornate place of worship when it was finally completed in 1436. Today the cathedral’s brick dome remains the largest in the world.
Step inside and be wowed by colourful 16th-century frescoes by Vasari and intricate marble paving. See the Baptistery with its breathtaking ‘Gate of Paradise’ – a door with ten bronze relief panels. Elsewhere in the historic core of Florence, admire the architecture of the Uffizi Gallery and the ornate Palazzo Borghese and stop off for an included lunch.
Portoferraio - Highlights Of Elba
Soak up the sunshine as you enjoy the highlights of Elba on one of our cruises around Italy. Begin your scenic drive through the island by admiring the breathtaking Bay of Biodola, home to one of the most famous beaches in Tuscany, and the village of Procchio. Continue along the coast to Porto Azzurro and take in views of villages that hug this dramatic stretch of coastline such as Lacona and Laconella.
There’s free time to browse the charming streets of Porto Azzurro itself, which is overlooked by the Spanish-built fortress of Fort Longone. Round up your day with snacks and refreshments at a local bar.
Cagliari - Winery in the Countryside
Immerse yourself in the vine-clad Sardinian countryside via this dreamy day trip on your Italy cruise. Leave the port behind and head off to soak up bucolic views as you make your way up to Monte Urpinu. The hill offers up a panoramic vista from its terrace – on one side, the Gulf of Angels and on the other, the old town.
It’s then onwards to see the salt flats of Molentargius. This protected environment provides a paradise for several bird species, most famously including flamingos. The day continues being welcomed at a local winery for wine tasting accompanied by Sardinian specialities on a backdrop of vineyard views.
Italy cruising tips
The currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Many establishments accept major credit cards, although it is a good idea to carry some Euros in cash with you just in case.
Italian is the official language spoken across the country.
With a Mediterranean climate, expect hot dry summers with average temperatures in the south of the country between 25°C and 33°C. Winter temperatures in Italy are sit around 8°C with the north of the experiencing snow and lower temperatures.
Cruising to Italy in the summer mean enjoying long, hot days and plenty of sunshine. This is also the busiest time of year for tourism which means more crowds at famous attractions. Spring and autumn months can still benefit from warm temperatures, although the weather is more changeable with lower temperatures in the morning and evening. Cruising at this time of year also means fewer tourists.
Travelling in the summer means opting for loose, breathable clothes which protect you from the sun and provide respite from high temperatures. Packing layers is a good idea, especially for those who wish to step inside Italy’s storied churches as rules require visitors to cover up legs and shoulders.
An enticing combination of ancient history, rich cultures and beautiful natural landscapes makes Italy a captivating destination for travellers from across the world.
Our cruises to Italy leave from either Portsmouth and Dover and take you all the way to Italy, stopping in at famous destinations and charming towns along the way.
Learn more about Italy
Discover more about our all-inclusive boutique Italian cruises and set sail on a voyage to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean.
Read our blogOur other Mediterranean cruise destinations
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