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Of all the beautiful cruise destinations, the Mediterranean might just be the most diverse. Home to historic cities, elegant architecture, and captivating culture, the countries lining this coast are some of the world’s most enchanting. And the cobalt blue waters, sun-drenched beaches, and mouthwatering cuisine only make the Med all the more alluring.
Many people believe cruising is the best way to explore the Mediterranean because you can enjoy breathtaking views as you cruise and see far more than you would on a land-based holiday. So, if you’re torn between visiting idyllic Greek beaches, ancient Italian cities, or the sun-drenched Spanish coast, why not discover them all on a single cruise?
To shed light on why you might want to consider a Mediterranean cruise, we’ve partnered with Britain’s favourite cruise line, the award-winning P&O Cruises. Offering excellent value for money, stylish accommodation, and fabulous facilities, P&O Cruises allows you to explore multiple destinations while getting the most out of your journey.
As you cruise, you can take advantage of delicious food, excellent entertainment, and exciting on-board activities. And, when you’re on land, P&O Cruises offers a wide range of shore experiences, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of each place, and immerse yourself in rich new cultures.
So, if you’d like to know more about cruising the Med, from the sun-soaked shores you can discover to the types of cruises you can choose, we’ve got you covered.
Mediterranean roundtrip cruises and fly-cruises – which one is best for me?
With P&O Cruises, you can choose to sail from Southampton or begin your cruise after flying into Malta, in the heart of the Mediterranean. Both have their perks, but which one is more suited to you?
Booking a Mediterranean fly-cruise
Time is precious, and the beauty of flying to Malta from the UK is that you’ll have more time to explore the different destinations on your cruise. You don’t have to worry about extra planning, either, as, on a P&O Cruises fly-cruise holiday, flights and transfers are included in the price and arranged for you. You’ll even be escorted right to your ship.
There are seven-night or 14-night Mediterranean fly-cruises available. And, because there’s less time spent at sea on a Mediterranean fly-cruise, you’ll get to stop at more ports in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations – waking up to dazzling new views every morning.
You’ll also have the time and opportunity to immerse yourself in more cultural shore experiences. You can feast on delicious meze while soaking up the sun in Santorini, kick back on the beach in Cannes, or swim in the azure waters of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.
So, if you’re looking to soar into the Mediterranean sunshine, check out P&O Cruises fly-cruise holidays.
Booking a roundtrip Mediterranean cruise from Southampton
For others, on a cruise, the journey is as important as the destination – and getting there is half the fun. If this sounds familiar, then a P&O Cruises roundtrip cruise from Southampton might be for you. Southampton is accessible by car, train, or coach, and your holiday begins the minute you arrive at the port and board your ship.
Plus, you can choose 13 or 14-night cruises, or 18 or 24-night cruises that are exclusively for adults, so there’s plenty of variety. Unlike flying, there are no luggage restrictions either, so you can bring as many bags as you can comfortably fit in your cabin. Embarking is quick and easy, your luggage is whisked away to your cabin for you, and then you’re free to relax and enjoy your time on board.
A roundtrip cruise means more days at sea, and on a P&O Cruises holiday, these are filled with fun and excitement. You’ll never be short of things to do: watch a film on the big screen, catch an evening comedy show, hit the gym, sip cocktails at the bar, or enjoy a dip in the pool. If you’re looking to relax, you can try out the many excellent restaurants on board, soak up the sun out on deck or, for a little extra, indulge yourself in a luxurious spa treatment.
If you’re keen to begin your adventure from our own shores, check out P&O Cruises holidays from Southampton.
Enchanting Mediterranean cruise itineraries to inspire your next trip
Greece, Corsica, Italy, and Malta fly-cruise
If you’re interested in a fly-cruise and are dreaming of exploring Italy, Greece, Malta, and the French island of Corsica, P&O Cruises A424C Mediterranean fly-cruise might be for you. Departing on 19 September 2024, you’ll have 14 nights at sea to discover these fascinating destinations and more.
Setting sail from Malta, Greece is the first stop, and you’ll drop anchor at the charming town of Katakolon. From here, you can choose to kick back on pristine beaches, or book a shore experience to the ancient site of Olympia, which hosted the first Olympic Games in the 8th century BC. Then it’s on to the port of Souda Bay, from where you can choose to visit the lovely city of Chania, strolling along the beautiful 14th-century harbour, and losing yourself in the narrow Venetian streets.
Mykonos, one of the loveliest Greek islands, is next. Prepare to be awed by its picture-perfect beauty, whitewashed towns, and world-class beaches. Then, docking at the port city of Piraeus, you can book a shore experience to the Greek capital, Athens. If you’re interested in ancient history, you can tour the Acropolis, admiring the Parthenon, temples of Poseidon and Athena, and the theatre of Dionysus. Then, explore the atmospheric streets of the 3,000-year-old Plaka neighbourhood.
After another day at sea, you’ll reach Corsica’s Ajaccio. Here, you can soak up the Corsican sun, learn about Napoleon’s link with the island, and pick up souvenirs in the bustling market. The final country is Italy, and there are three stops here. The first is at the port town of Livorno, where you’re ideally placed to visit one of two beautiful, historic cities – Florence or Pisa – should you choose to.
If the ancient city of Rome has always been on your travel wish list, you’ll definitely want to book a shore experience from Civitavecchia, which is the next stop. You could admire the Sistine Chapel, marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpieces, and feast on authentic Italian food in the many excellent restaurants. The last stop before docking at Malta is Naples. From this big, bustling, coastal city, you can choose to visit the Roman town of Pompeii, the swanky resort of Sorrento, or even the dreamy island of Capri.
Spain and France roundtrip cruise from Southampton
If you’d like to visit Spain and France, and fancy sailing from the UK, P&O Cruises K511 Mediterranean cruise might be more suitable. Setting sail from Southampton on 25 May 2025, the first stop will be La Coruña. Located on the northwestern tip of the Iberian Peninsular, this port city is known for its medieval old town, glass-fronted houses, and the Tower of Hercules – the oldest surviving lighthouse in the world.
Next up is Malaga, on the Costa del Sol, and you can explore this Andalusian city at your leisure. Discover the thriving art scene (it’s the birthplace of Pablo Picasso), tuck into tapas, or visit the striking Roman fortress Alcazaba. The next day you can explore Alicante, taking advantage of its beautiful white-sand beaches, strolling along the palm-lined promenade, and exploring the bustling Ayuntamiento plaza.
After another day at sea, you’ll reach Toulon, in the South of France. With all the culture and history you’d expect from a French port, wandering the cobbled streets is a joy. Then, it’s on to one of Europe’s most exciting cities; the Catalonian capital, Barcelona. Here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore in your own way, whether that’s walking up La Rambla, sampling the mouthwatering local cuisine, or admiring the astonishing architecture, including Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Família.
The last stop is historic Cádiz. As the oldest continuously inhabited city in the West, this compact, characterful place is packed with history. However, it’s just as famous for its seafood, sand, and sun, making it ideal for relaxation too. If you like, you can also book a shore experience from Cádiz to Seville. Then, after two days at sea, the cruise will finish back in Southampton.
Montenegro, Croatia, Corfu, and Puglia fly-cruise
If you’d like to go away for a week rather than 14 days – and you’re more drawn to the southeastern Med than the west – P&O Cruises A528 Mediterranean fly-cruise could be ideal. After flying to Malta’s ancient capital, Valletta, and boarding your ship there, you’ll set sail on 24 July 2025. Then, you’ll spend a relaxing day at sea before reaching Kotor, Montenegro.
Tucked between dramatic mountains and fjord-like cliffs, Kotor is jaw-droppingly beautiful. This historic port was ruled by Venice for years, and as you stroll around the narrow streets of the Old City, you’ll see the Venetian influence everywhere. You’ll have plenty of time to soak up Kotor’s unique charm, paddle in these gin-clear waters, or perhaps head inland to Lovcen National Park to discover its rugged, atmospheric beauty.
The next day, you’ll wake up outside the terracotta-tiled city of Dubrovnik. With its pretty harbour, sleek marble pavements, and towering ramparts, its beauty is dazzling, and it’s packed with architectural wonders – from ornate statues to the elaborate fountains. Here, you can sip delicious local wine, feast upon fresh seafood, and swim in impossibly blue seas. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ, or a boat ride past the lush Lokrum Island?
Then, onto the gorgeous Greek island of Corfu, where you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town – admiring the charming squares and pretty balconies, and perhaps sipping Greek coffee in a café along the French-style Liston Arcade. Or why not travel inland to some of the traditional villages, where time seems to have stood still? In Kinopiastes you can sample authentic Corfu dishes in tavernas, watch a show of local Corfiot dances, and see a whole other side to the Greek islands.
The last stop will be Taranto, in sunny southern Italy. This coastal city is the gateway to Puglia, one of Italy’s most romantic regions. Here, you can wander around whitewashed hill towns, soak up the sun on white-sand beaches, and enjoy local dishes like orecchiette pasta, tomato focaccia, and sweet cartellate pastries. After another day at sea, your cruise will conclude back in Valletta, from where you’ll fly home.
Final thoughts…
A P&O Cruises holiday to the Mediterranean allows you to see so much more of this stunning region than you would on a land-based holiday. Every day, you’ll wake up to a spellbinding new view, and have numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in cultural experiences, discover new places, and enjoy sampling the local cuisine.
Plus, being able to choose between roundtrip cruises from Southampton and fly-cruises from Malta means you’re able to pick the holiday that’s right for you. If you begin your adventure from the UK, you’ll have more time to enjoy the fantastic amenities, phenomenal food, and exciting entertainment on board. And, if you fly to Malta, you’ll have more time to explore different destinations. It all depends on the type of holiday that appeals most to you.
Whichever type of cruise you choose, P&O Cruises offers the option to book fascinating shore experiences. These allow you to delve into the local culture and history, try different gastronomic delights, and make the most of your beautiful surroundings.
The itineraries featured in this article are just three of P&O Cruises Mediterranean holidays. With so many different destinations and durations to choose from, there really is an itinerary for everyone, and there are Mediterranean cruises available to book for 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Whatever countries are calling you, with P&O Cruises you can plan the ultimate Mediterranean escape.
To find out more about Mediterranean holidays with P&O Cruises, you can visit their website using the button below…
Have you been on a Mediterranean cruise before? Or are you tempted by any of these itineraries? We’d love to hear about your Mediterranean travel experiences in the comments below.