| Croatia | France | Gibraltar | Greece | Italy |
| Malta | Monaco | Spain | Turkey |
This Jewel of the Dalmatian coast, girded in ninth-century walls that rise in sheer fashion from the water’s edge, is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Within the ancient fortifications is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and a striking Renaissance boulevard called the “Stradun.” This makes for one of the most colorful and atmospheric ports of call in the Mediterranean.
This is the longest of the Croatian islands, and a well-known tourist destination due to its mild climate. Noted for its lush vegetation, quaint towns and fertile vineyards. A particularly rich cultural and monumental heritage complements Hvar’s natural and unique beauty. Often called the Lavender Island, the name refers to the aromatic, purple plant that grows in abundance on the island’s stony slopes.
An ancient city on the Adriatic coast, Split achieved fame when the Roman emperor Diocletian had his retirement palace built here from 295 to 305 AD. After his death the great stone palace continued to be used as a retreat by Roman rulers. The old town is built around the harbor on the south side of a high peninsula, sheltered from the open sea by many islands. The high coastal mountains set against the blue Adriatic provide a striking backdrop.
On the French island of Corsica, Ajaccio is famous as the birthplace of Napoleon. Visit the Bonaparte family home and the 16th-century church where he was baptized. Or, take a tour into the wild and rugged outback countryside they call the maquis.
Antibes is a port and a popular tourist Côte d’Azur resort, with sandy beaches, an excellent climate, and luxury hotels. Formerly Antipolis, a trading post founded by Greeks in 340 BC, the town and port were Roman settlements before being controlled by the powerful Grimaldi family of Genoa between 1384 and 1608. The 16th-century Grimaldi Château remains, serving as a gallery devoted to the work of Pablo Picasso who lived and painted here in 1946.
Cherbourg is a deep-sea port, famous in the day of the great ocean liners for having given many Americans their first view of France. Walk through the Chanatereyne Marina, through parks and gardens, or travel along footpaths which have historical markers. Visit Emmanuel Liais Park, with its mansionturned-museum, greenhouses and collections of rare, exotic plants. Or, head for Normandy and Utah Beach, one of the D-Day landing beaches during World War II, approximately 30 miles away.
Le Havre is one of the traditional French transatlantic ports, homeport for the French Line in the days of the great liners. In Le Havre itself, cruise visitors can explore at leisure, visit fish and vegetable markets, public parks, walk along a long seaside promenade next to a vast beach. The city is a frequent base for drives along the Seine and visits to Rouen and its medieval cathedral or Paris, without question one of the world’s greatest capitals.
Marseille is the country’s most important seaport. Two fortresses guard the entrance to the harbor: Fort Saint Nicolas and, across the water, Fort Saint Jean. The city is divided into 16 Arrondissements fanning out from the Old Port – Vieux Port in French. The intimate, picturesque old harbor, packed with fishing boats and pleasure crafts, is the heart of Marseille.
Known as the “Queen of the Riviera” this cosmopolitan resort city is abundant in boutiques, nightclubs and museums, including the fascinating Chagall Museum. You can walk along the elegant beachside Promenade des Anglais, or venture to neighboring cities including Cannes, Monte Carlo, Antibes and the medieval town of St. Paul de Vence.
Built around a sheltered bay with 1,700-foot Mount Faron as an impressive backdrop, Toulon is home to a sizeable marina of yachts and pleasure boats. Its large harbor also serves as the French navy’s Mediterranean home port. During World War II, the bulk of the French fleet at Toulon’s naval base was scuttled by French crews to prevent its acquisition by occupying German forces. The city was liberated in 1944 by French troops.
This village of 7,000 inhabitants is hidden among wooded slopes, above the crystalline waters of the Côte d’Azur. The town itself is delightful, with medieval chapels and an impressive hilltop fortress built by the Duke of Savoy in 1560. The town is located just a few miles from Nice, Cannes, St. Tropez and Monte Carlo.
One of the “Pillars of Hercules,” the British crown colony of Gibraltar is an historic landmark with British and Spanish influences. Guarding the entrance to the Atlantic, the great rock still serves as Britain’s threshold to the Mediterranean. A cable car will take you to the top of the rock for a spectacular view of two continents as well as a visit with the famous Barbary apes.
The port of Aghios Nikolaos is a picturesque village spread around Mirabello Bay. This charming small town has developed into a popular holiday resort thanks to its beautiful beaches and its convenience as a center from which to explore eastern Crete. Crete itself is the largest of the Greek islands, lying at the southern limit of the Aegean Sea.
Though once ruled by Venetian doges, Turkish sultans and French invaders, today’s Corfiot citizen is as Greek as they come. Marvel at the 17th-century icons in St. George’s Church, the Medieval Palace of Phrourio or the 19th-century Achilleion Palace. The greenest of the Greek Isles, Corfu also boasts thriving vineyards and olive orchards among its rugged mountains.
This is one of the ports for Delphi where pilgrims once trekked to gain wisdom from the oracle. Even now, the ruins are said to work magic for visitors. An amazing bronze charioteer is among the many treasures in the Delphi Museum.
Heraklion, the capital of Crete and its principal commercial port, is just three miles away from the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 by Sir Arthur Evans and partially reconstructed, the elaborate palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. The Archaeological Museum in Heraklion displays many of the treasures found during the excavations.
Hydra was once home to seafaring merchants who built Italian-style villas overlooking the harbor. You can enjoy walking along the traffic-free waterfront lined by shops, tavernas and bakeries. You can also ascend the hills on a donkey and enjoy splendid views from the Monastery of St. Constantine.
This is a port used for access to Delphi, one of the ancient wonders of classical Greece. A short drive there reveals the Sacred Way and the famed Shrine of Delphi, where the mythological Oracle was said to foretell the future.
Katakolon is your gateway to Olympia, where the ancient Greeks gathered every four years for more than a millennium to celebrate the sacred games dedicated to Zeus. You can walk through the ruins of the sanctuary with its athletic quadrangles, stadium-temples and treasuries. There is also the modern Archaeological Museum, a treasure house of Archaic, Classical and Roman sculptures, including the famous Niki “Winged Victory”.
Kos is known as the home of Hippocrates, father of medical science. The town is an archeological repository of Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman ruins. Explore ancient Asklepeion and the island’s archaeological museum.
The southern central coast is home to the port city of Limassol. The city is a convenient starting point from which to explore the island’s ancient ruins and lush scenic highlights, including miles of olive, orange and lemon groves, cherry orchards and vineyards that cling to the island’s craggy slopes. Wooded mountains create a stunning backdrop to the stretches of picture-perfect beaches rimming the coastline.
The narrow passageways of Mykonos are a twisted maze of whitewashed houses, miniature churches, lazy windmills, and tiny cafes serving up Greek specialties. Sample the freshest squid or lobster just snatched from the blue Aegean Sea, or shop for typical flokati rugs. There is a vibrant nightlife that adds zest to evening port calls.
The birthplace of Sappho, a famous poet in ancient Greece, Lesbos is a charming island of picturesque villages like Agiassos. The Byzantine Monastery of Leimon (Moni Leimonos) is also of special interest.
This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic Revelations of St. John the Divine, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave where he lived is near the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. The Monastery of St. John, built on one of the island’s highest points, houses priceless icons and manuscripts in its Treasury.
Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. In a single day, you can climb the hill of the Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and then find a welcoming taverna for some spirited Bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and with any luck, energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus itself has inviting waterfront café’s and restaurants. It is fun to watch a non-stop stream of ferries and cruise ships sail into and out of this colorful harbor.
Legend has it that Apollo blessed this isle with sunshine and beauty. True to the myths, the “Island of Roses” is rich in magnificent scenery and umbrella-lined beaches. Many visitors take an excursion to Lindos, where high on a hill rises an ancient acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena. You will also want to walk through the medieval Old Town, once home to the Crusading Knights of St. John. There is also the Grand Master’s Palace, an Italian restoration famed for its superb mosaic floors.
With its steep volcanic flanks looming straight up from the sea, and the tiny white village of Thira clinging high atop the cliffs, Santorini is perhaps the most breathtaking and legendary of all the Greek Isles. To the south is Akrotiri, where recent Minoan excavations support the theories that Santorini might be the fabled lost continent of Atlantis.
A rich experience awaits visitors to this wealthy, energetic and youthful city. Sophisticated shops, cafes, and markets hidden away beyond historic city squares, as well as the superlative Archeological Museum are but a few. Explore the castle-bound Old City with its fine Byzantine churches. Or, spend the day touring the ruins of ancient Pella, birthplace of Alexander the Great. At Vergina, the intact tomb of Philip II, Alexander’s father was recently discovered.
Located roughly between Salerno and Sorrento, Amalfi was already an important maritime republic in the Middle Ages. The port is one of the most popular resorts and stopovers along the famed Amalfi Drive. The coastal road hugs the mountainous coast and carves its way through sheer rock; around every hairpin turn spectacular scenery awaits. Positano, once a small fishing village, is now the star attraction of the entire coast. White Moorish-type houses cling dramatically to slopes around a small sheltered bay. Many of the houses can only be reached via steep staircases.
As Sardinia’s capital, Cagliari is both a thriving modern city and a fine example of the varied history of this Italian island. Worth seeing are the Roman amphitheater, Spanish townhouses, and Pisan watchtowers. Antiquities from the native Nuraghi culture and from the Phoenician era onward are well-displayed in the National Archaeological Museum.
Known as the “Island of Love” since the days of the Roman Empire, Capri offers stunning views, dozens of international cafes, fine Mediterranean restaurants and sophisticated resort shopping. Boat trips around the coast enable visitors to witness the hypnotic beauty of the Blue Grotto. Ana Capri, high atop the island, offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Sorrento below.
Steep, rugged Sicily has bred a race of fierce, funny and passionate people. From this important port, one can drive up the coast to visit Taormina. First Greeks, then Romans used this as a place of worship and reward. Attractions include the temples and the theater, all with Mt. Etna in the distance. You can also take a stroll and shop in the little village of Catania before you leave.
The port of Civitavecchia is the gateway to Rome, where all roads lead. Mad traffic careens past monuments of the great civilizations of the past. Mandatory objectives are the soaring inspiration of St. Peter’s, the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel; the flow of life along the Spanish Steps; the Coliseum; the Via Veneto; the Trevi Fountain; and many other attractions. It is also fun to spend time in an outdoor trattoria in one of the many small piazzas or village squares.
Christopher Columbus hailed from Genoa “the Proud,” which enjoys one of the most illustrious maritime histories in all of Italy. It also features the largest medieval city center in Europe as well as Renaissance palaces that once enthralled Rubens and Van Dyck. Although not yet a mainstream destination for North American tourists, those who can enjoy the charms of Genoa’s narrow streets, piazzas and galleries will be richly rewarded.
From Livorno, your path leads through the rolling green hills of Tuscany to Florence, the flower of the Renaissance. The creative explosion happened right here, with masterworks by Michelangelo, Brunelleschi and Botticelli now landmarks of daily life. Ufizzi, Academmia, il Duomo: the art treasures of a golden age are commonplace to blessed Florentines. Livorno also serves as a gateway to Pisa, one of Tuscany’s great historic gems.
The setting for Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, Messina has much to offer in the way of history. Its dramatic, boulder-filled harbor has challenged navigators since the days of Ulysses. Try to visit the city’s Bell Tower at the stroke of noon – the hour when one of the world’s largest and most fanciful mechanical clocks springs into action. Messina’s museum is also noteworthy for its Renaissance masterworks. Messina also is an access port for Taormina and its ancient Greek theater.
The Bay of Naples is overlooked by the imposing Sant’Elmo medieval castle, high up on Vemero Hill. Many visitors choose to explore the archaeological wonders of nearby Pompeii. Completely buried by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D., Pompeii is one of the world’s most magnificently preserved ancient cities. Built within curved walls, the excavations unearthed sumptuous private homes that featured colonnaded central courtyards with lavish fountains and interior murals painted in vivid colors. Excursions are also offered to the resort isle of Capri.
Once regarded as Europe’s grandest, most beautiful city, Palermo is still quite impressive. The Four Corners of Palermo, where each 17th-century Spanish Baroque facade is adorned with a statue, is one of the city’s most memorable sights. The Fontana Pretoria, often called the Fountain of Shame because of its nude Florentine figures, is also worth noting, as are the famous Norman Cathedral and Capuchin catacombs.
Often called the “Pearl of the Riviera,” this charming hideaway on the Ligurian Sea is a favorite vacation spot of many wealthy Europeans. Once a quiet fishing village, Portofino is now best known for its chic boutiques, wonderful outdoor restaurants, and beachside cliffs that are speckled with pastel-colored villas. Picturesque neighboring coastal villages include Paraggi and Santa Margherita.
Porto Cervo is in the heart of Costa Smeralda, a vacation retreat situated among the inlets of Sardinia’s rugged northern coast. The Costa Smeralda was conceived and implemented by the Aga Khan in 1962 and is still the exclusive resort that he envisioned. A scenic drive into the mountains takes you past elegant private homes and resort hotels that look out over hidden coves and sparkling beaches. The resort of Poltu Quatu Marina dell’Orso is located on the northeast coast of Sardinia.
Some of Italy’s most romantic villages cling to the dramatic slopes of the ruggedly beautiful Amalfi Coast. Available to the visitor is a drive along the scenic coastal road. Further afield are the amazing ruins of Pompeii, uncovered from the ashes of Vesuvius, and the charming island of Capri, a short boat ride away.
A major seaport in the Northern Adriatic, the sights in Trieste include numerous examples of Art Noveau and neoclassical architecture from its Austrian past. The city served as a major port for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Though seldom visited by cruise ships today, it was a major terminal for the transatlantic liners of the Italian Line. Through it, many emigrants sailed for the Americas. It is also the home to Italy’s foremost shipyard, Fincantiari in nearby Monfalcone.
Located on Italy’s north coast and virtually surrounded by water, Venice is singular among the world’s cities. Shakespeare must have agreed, for he selected Venice as the setting for his Othello and the Merchant of Venice. Built over a sprawling archipelago, Venice encompasses 118 islands separated by more than 150 canals that are spanned by some 400 bridges. The many splendid palaces lining the famous Grand Canal, historic St.Mark’s Square, and a wealth of incomparable art treasures, make its reputation as one of the world’s great cities well justified.
Malta’s capital city of Valletta has been designated a World Heritage City by UNESCO. The Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Castilians, the Knights of St. John, the French and the British all left their mark. Controlling the island was a prerequisite to domination of the Mediterranean by the British in World War II. Malta’s location at the crossroads of Europe made it a center of cultural, social and political activity over the centuries. Among the sites are the impressive Palace of the Grand Masters and the baroque masterpiece that is St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Be sure to also save time for walking along the colorful streets of the old town section of this extraordinary port.
An intimate enclave of castles and mansions perched high on a sun-washed ledge above the blue waters of the Mediterranean, this mile-wide principality is the glittering jewel of the French Riviera. At its heart is the glamorous city of Monte Carlo, playground of the rich and famous. World-renowned for its chic gambling casinos, luxurious hotel and beach resorts, and elegant restaurants and boutiques, Monte Carlo rose to fairy tale stature in the 1950’s with the romance and wedding of its sovereign ruler, Prince Rainier II, to Hollywood movie star Grace Kelly, the much beloved Princess Grace of Monaco.
The bustling resort of Alicante serves not only as the port for Madrid, but is also a lovely vacation spot along Spain’s sunny Costa Blanca. This is primarily due to the pleasant climate. Various civilizations have flourished along these shores. Early records indicate that the city dates back to a Carthaginian settlement established in 325 B.C. These settlers were followed by the Romans who equally found the area inviting. Then the Moors ruled this region for five centuries and named the city Al-Akant. Today’s name probably stems from this origin. The city’s occupation by Roman and Moorish forces accounts for a notable and varied heritage. In fact, much of this cultural impact is still apparent today in numerous buildings, names and the cuisine.
Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Among its many attractions are shady, tree-lined streets and the major central artery, Las Ramblas, where you will find street musicians, elegant bistros, tapas bars and exuberant nightlife. Visitors enjoy exploring the venerable Gothic cathedral, the Picasso Museum, or Antonio Gaudi’s still-unfinished Sagrada Familia. Be sure to sample paella in the seaside city, said to be among the tastiest in Spain.
As the cultural heart of Spain’s celebrated Basque country, the shining city of Bilbao is filled with Gothic architecture and landmarks that herald its centuries-old history. But the more modern additions to this port – namely, the spectacular Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art – seem to be drawing the most attention these days. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the museum is made of undulating strips of titanium and limestone, creating the building’s unique shape. Inside, works by Picasso, Braque, Sera and Warhol offer glimpses into the minds of some of the greatest artists of modern time.
Whitewashed houses line narrow streets that lead into lovely squares. The magnificent baroque cathedral and impressive mansions were built with the gold brought back from the New World. The port of Cadiz also provides a convenient starting point for trips to Seville, Spain’s capital during the discovery and exploration of North America. From Cadiz, you can also explore the rolling hills of Jerez de la Frontera, 30 minutes to the north. Here the production of the liquid gold, as the famous sherry is often called, ensures a booming economy.
Spain’s jetset playground of Ibiza rocks to a late-night dance beat, but when the sun rises it draws sleepy international sun-worshippers out to the island’s many beaches. Twisting streets in Dalt Vila (High Town) lead up to the 14th-century cathedral and magnificent views of the city. Shop for Spanish handicrafts and souvenirs, sip Sangria at a beachfront bar or enjoy freshly prepared seafood specialties at an open-air bistro.
Lanzarote astounds visitors with its amazing landscapes. Due to a massive volcanic eruption in 1730, one third of the island was covered by a sea of lava. The eruption lasted for six years. In 1824, a new volcano thrust out of the earth’s crust and once again molten lava poured over a good part of Lanzarote. This left a lunar landscape of more than a hundred craters, lava fields, and layers of cinders and pebbles. View this bizarre scenery at Timanfaya National Park. Wander in the well-preserved colonial town of Tequise, the island’s former capital. Or visit the unusual house of the island’s famed artist, the late Cesar Manrique, who designed it as part of the volcanic landscape.
The capital of Gran Canaria is a delight for strollers with areas such as Ciudad Jardin, where beautiful gardens surround the Canarians’ homes, and the old quarter of Vegueta, where Christopher Columbus stopped in 1492. The island’s landscape is beautiful. Visitors also often venture to the Guanches’ caves where the island’s primitive inhabitants once dwelled.
Situated on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Malaga is the region’s capital and a popular holiday destination. The city is known as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and for the sweet Malaga dessert wines that come from the hilly vineyards just outside of town. Other points of interest include impressive Gothic architecture, the remains of a Moorish castle and several interesting museums. A pleasant town to explore, Malaga also serves as a popular starting point for trips to Granada and the famed Alhambra, the region’s most outstanding attractions.
The heart of Mallorca hums with activity in its casinos, shops and beaches, but calmer pleasures also abound. Palma, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is a cosmopolitan city with sophisticated boutiques and restaurants; it also offers buildings of spectacular Moorish and Gothic architecture. Tour the 13th century Gothic cathedral and hilltop Bellever Castle, or head for the geological wonders of the Caves of Drach and the majestic estate of Valldemosa.
According to legend, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilization. It was called Hispalis under the Romans and Isbiliya by the Moors. Situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir, Seville is one of the largest historical centers in Europe. Part of its treasures include the minaret of La Giralda, one of the largest cathedral’s in Christendom; Alcázar Palace; Casa de Pilatos; the Town Hall; Archive of the Indies, where the historical records of the American continent are kept; the Fine Arts Museum, the second-largest picture gallery in Spain; plus convents, parish churches and palaces.
Tenerife, approximately 790 square miles, is the largest of the seven Canary Islands. Called the “Island of Eternal Spring” by the locals, Tenerife offers idyllic weather, fragrant fruit trees and charming locals. The port of Santa Cruz has colorful markets and fine museums. However, many visitors are tempted by the drive to the summit of Mount Teide, the highest peak on Spanish territory.
Canakkale lies at the narrow (3/4 of a mile) entrance to the Dardanelles that connects the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean. The area is known for two battles, one of them legendary and one all too real. The first is the mythological war surrounding Troy, which Homer immortalized in his Iliad. Archaeological digs in Troy have proven that there have been nine separate settlement periods on that site. The other battle, Gallipoli, took place during World War I when a British Expeditionary Force sought to take Istanbul in order to remove Turkey from the war as a German ally. 500,000 from both sides gave their lives here. The peninsula has been made a national park of remembrance, and monuments can be seen from ships sailing through this waterway.
Istanbul has dominated the Straits of Bosphorus for 25 centuries. As Constantinople, the city was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, a metropolis of stunning splendor when the great capitals of Europe were mere villages. The religion of Christians and Moslems, and the culture of Europeans, Persians and Asians have all found their way into daily life. Landmarks worth visiting include Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar featuring carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar. Be sure to also sample the culinary delights of a meze, a spectacular array of Turkish hors d’oeuvres, at one of Istanbul’s many reasonably priced restaurants.
Little was left after a fire ignited at the tail end of the War of Independence destroyed all traces of the cultural melting pot that was once Smyrna. Seventy-six years after the reconstruction began Izmir has been reinvented as a prosperous, cosmopolitan, commercial city, more livable than Istanbul, less sterile than Ankara, and filled with wide boulevards and swaying palm trees.
This charming, picturesque resort where Antony and Cleopatra used to vacation is best known as the port for the ancients ruins of Ephesus, one of the world’s most wondrous archaeological sites. Explorations should include such masterpieces as the Great Amphitheatre, where St. Paul addressed the Ephesians, the Library of Celsus, and the temples of Athena and Apollo. These are all connected by marble streets rutted by the wheels of countless chariots.
Some content provided courtesy of CLIA (Cruise Line International Association)