What to expect on a Mediterranean cruise

A destination of diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, ancient wonders and beautiful beaches, the Mediterranean is a bucket-list location for many, and there is no better way to see it than on a cruise holiday.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy sun-soaked port days, want to sample tantalising local cuisine or immerse yourself in the local cultures, then the Mediterranean has it all. In this guide, we take you through some of the things you should expect on your upcoming cruise to the Mediterranean.

Port days will be full of history

The beauty of a cruise to the Mediterranean is that there will often be a plethora of ports you’ll get to experience, and each of these ports will offer something completely different. The beauty of the Med is that many of the locations are steeped in culture and history, making them extra special to explore on port days.

Cadiz, the ancient seaport in Spain, was founded nearly 3,000 years ago and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the west of Europe. Visitors to this Spanish mecca can explore ancient monuments like the Catedral de Cadiz, the Oratorio de La Santa Cueva or the neighbourhood of El Populo.

Alexandria is a historic city in Egypt which offers visitors the chance to wander ancient ruins and experience the rich culture. Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders by exploring the Qaitbay Fort, one of the most important on the Mediterranean coast, as well as the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, often considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.

Some of the other historic locations you can expect to visit on a Mediterranean cruise include Athens, Palma de Mallorca, Rome, Lisbon, Corfu and Dubrovnik.

Walking, walking and more walking

If you’re embarking on any cruise, but specifically one that stops in any Mediterranean cruise port, then it is wise to plan for lots of walking and pack comfortable walking shoes. One of the best ways to explore Mediterranean cities is by foot, through cobbled and winding streets and off the beaten path where others may not think to visit.

Mallorca is a popular destination for keen walkers as well as those who are looking to explore the city's inner streets. Locations like Gibraltar and Barcelona in Spain can only be experienced adequately on foot, allowing you to experience the rich culture and ancient history that surrounds you as it was intended. Meander into ancient cathedrals, stroll the streets with centuries of secrets or pause with a coffee and admire the view.

No matter what Mediterranean locations you visit on your next cruise on an Ambassador cruise ship, make sure you try and plan for a day of exploration on foot.

READ MORE: Top hidden gems to explore on a Mediterranean cruise

The weather isn’t always warm

When you think of the Mediterranean, you may think of warm climes and beautiful sunny weather, which has made the term Mediterranean summer a famous saying across Europe. But it is important to note that not every destination in the Med will be warm and sunny all year round, so if you’re planning a cruise, this is something to consider.

Weather across the summer months can range from mid-twenties to low thirties, making it the ideal location for a spot of summer sun. Still, if you’re booked onto a cruise over the later months or the new year, it is wise to check the temperature where you are stopping.

The Balearic Islands can drop to a cooler 16˚c through the winter months, and the Greek islands can often fall to the mid-teens, too, so it is always wise to be prepared with some extra layers.

You’ll get to visit a plethora of destinations

One of the most exciting things you can expect on a Mediterranean cruise is the plethora of beautiful and breathtaking destinations you’ll get to visit along the way.

On a Mediterranean cruise in 2025 with Ambassador, you won’t be disappointed by the outstanding selection of cruise ports at which we stop. Whether it is the ancient cities of Barcelona and Naples or the iconic beach locations of Corfu and Rhodes, you will not be disappointed. Some of the beautiful places you can visit on an Ambassador Mediterranean cruise include:

• Gibraltar

• Sardinia

• Crete

• Sicily

• Malaga

• Mallorca

• Dubrovnik

• Split

• Valencia

If you’re looking to book your next cruise, then there truly is no better option than a Mediterranean cruise if you want to see some of the most breathtaking spots in Europe.

If you’ve already booked your 2025 cruise, or you’re still deciding which location to choose, hopefully, this has given you an idea of what you can expect on a Med cruise with Ambassador Cruise Line.

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