Western Mediterranean Cruises

Are you planning to take a western Mediterranean cruise? You're in for a treat! You'll be able to enjoy the blue sky, turquoise sea, gourmet food, and excellent service while travelling to some of the most intriguing ports of call in the world. There is so much to experience and see on a Mediterranean cruise you may find yourself struggling to fit it all in to your itinerary. Stopping in France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain will leave you with enough activities for a dozen vacations. Below is a list of some of my favorite regions to help you organize your western Mediterranean cruise.

If you've long dreamt of visiting the French Riviera a cruise may be the perfect way to go this. You'll be able to hop from port to port and explore the scenery which inspired Picasso and Matisse. Stopping at Marseille you'll be able to see the Notre Dame; in Cannes you can take in the sites of the world -- renowned film festival; in Nice you can enjoy the Old Town and Opera House. This region is packed full of things to see and do -- you may have a hard time climbing back on the ship. All this while luxuriating in the balmy, sea breezes and clear, blue water will be enough to entice you to return.

In warm Barcelona, Spain more delights await you. The unparalleled Gothic architecture will blow your mind. You'll be able to view the works of Picasso again in the Picasso Museum. It holds one of the world's largest collections of his work. Mallorca is another popular stop on cruises through Spain. The stunning Palma Cathedral is another site worth seeing as you cruise through Spain. It is located on Spain's largest island -- the island offers over 70 beautiful beaches for swimming, lounging, and soaking in the sun.

The beautiful ports of Lisbon and Funchal await you in Portugal. Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has sites your whole family will enjoy. Sites such as Jeronimo's Monastery, Belem Tower, and St. George's Castle are a few places adults and children can explore together. Other ancient relics can be found in the Gulbenkian Museum. Your children may also enjoy visiting the Oceanarium. The Oceanarium is home to interesting marine life such as sharks and Antarctic penguins. The Oceanarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Its modern architectural lines give an interesting contrast to the ancient stonework in the remainder of the city. It is one of the most scientifically advanced buildings in the western Mediterranean.

Funchal is a great stop for people who thrive on outdoor adventures. You can go onshore to hike Picos de Barcelos. This mountain is over a thousand feet high and allows a view of the entire island. For people who would rather not hike while relaxing on a cruise vacation there is Colombo's Statue in Santa Catarina Park and the Quinta das Cruzes botanical garden.

Any western Mediterranean cruise will, of course, include Italy. The sites to see and things to do in Italy are too numerous to mention. In Italy you can see St. Peter's Basilica, the Colloseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Arch of Constantine, and Vatican City -- and these are just a few of the stops you'll want to make during a trip to Rome. While in Italy don't forget Florence. In a visit to Florence you can see Piazza della Signoria, Uffizi Museum, Palazzo Vecchio, and, of course, the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

And did I mention the food? Authentic gelato, pizza, pastry, and pasta await you. Whether you sample the foods from street vendors or take the time for a restaurant meal you will not be disappointed. Every region of the Mediterranean has its own specialties. Make sure you try them all.

Taking a cruise is a great way to visit this beautiful region of the world. After just one trip you'll be in love and want to return time after time. So much culture, art, history, and food in one tiny region -- definitely worth a trip!