Many of Europe’s most legendary (and most beautiful) locales dot the Mediterranean’s sunny shorelines. Home to cozy, cobblestone villages and ancient cities that changed the course of world history, each iconic destination is as close as your ship’s tender. Explore the exotic seascapes of the Eastern Mediterranean, where whitewashed buildings and the grand bazaars of Egypt, Greece, Turkey, and Croatia beckon. In the colorful countries that comprise the Western Mediterranean – including France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain – you’ll encounter medieval castles sprawled high on harbor cliffs and the glamorous playgrounds of the rich and famous.

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Athens (Piraeus)
The birthplace of Plato, Socrates, and Sophocles, Athens is widely referred to as "the cradle of Western Civilization," and it’s fair to say that no other city in Europe boasts a richer legacy of cultural and political achievement. The Grecian sun reflects warmly on the white marble pillars of the Acropolis and dozens of other major landmarks, including Mount Lycabettus, which towers over the metropolis like a watchful protector.
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Barcelona
The second largest city in Spain, Barcelona was founded by Hercules (according to legend) nearly 400 years before the building of Rome. Visitors can expect to encounter a huge number of architectural masterpieces, many of which have been designated as World Heritage Sites, as well as nearly 70 beautiful municipal parks. Las Ramblas, the city’s iconic pedestrian walkway, is lined with cafés, shops, and an eclectic mix of people.
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Dubrovnik
One of the most popular destinations along the Adriatic coastline. The walls that encircle Dubrovnik, originally designed to protect this once-prominent European Republic, are easily the city’s most famous feature. Tour their turrets and towers and you’ll enjoy amazing aerial views of Fort Lovrijenac, Onofrio’s Fountain, and Rector’s Palace. Handmade treasures abound – charming Croatian keepsakes include Ronchi hatwear and fig brandy.
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Kusadasi/Ephesus
Located on an Aegean bay, and flanked by both a gorgeous peninsula and the "magic mountain" of Kaz Dagi, this Turkish port town is a destination unlike any other. According to lore, it was home to the Virgin Mary during her final days. Nearby Ephesus is widely considered to be the Eastern Mediterranean’s best-preserved ancient city. Highlights include the historic Temple of Artemis and the mystical Cave of the Seven Sleepers.

Venice
Built entirely on water and precariously perched just above sea level, this precious Northern Italian city is breathtakingly beautiful. Depicted countless times in film and on television, its romance can only be truly appreciated first-hand – nothing can match the experience of exploring the city’s winding canals aboard an authentic Venetian gondola. Additional points of interest include St. Mark’s Square and the immortal Bridge of Sighs.
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