Mediterranean Cruise Guide 2026: Port Reviews & Tips
View of Athens from Grand Hyatt Athens
Dreaming of the Mediterranean? From Athens’ ancient wonders to Rome’s timeless streets, this guide brings together my best tips, port reviews, hotel recommendations, and cruise hacks to help you plan the perfect Mediterranean adventure.
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Best Time to Cruise the Mediterranean
May–June and September–October offer the best weather and fewer crowds.
July and August are peak season — hot, busy, and more expensive.
Shoulder seasons are ideal for budget travelers and families.
Cruise Lines & Itineraries
Princess, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian all offer strong Mediterranean itineraries. If you're sailing Princess, don’t miss my full guide:
👉 Princess Cruises Guide — excursions, dining, MedallionClass tips, and insider strategies.
Mediterranean Cruise Port Guides & Reviews
Use these destination guides to plan your days ashore with confidence. Each one includes tips, timing, transportation, and the best things to do.
😊Don’t miss my Mediterranean packing list - Mediterranean Cruise Packing List
Athens (Piraeus)
Athens is a must‑see for history lovers — the Acropolis, ancient ruins, and incredible food. Most cruises start or end here, making it the perfect place to spend 1–2 days.
2 Days in Athens Itinerary — Acropolis tips, tickets, museum, and must‑see sights
Best Athens Food Tour — authentic Greek eats you can’t miss
Where We Stay: Grand Hyatt Athens (great views, modern rooms, rooftop pool)
👉 Book the Grand Hyatt Athens here → Grand Hyatt Athens
Mykonos
Known for its whitewashed streets and iconic windmills, Mykonos is a favorite for beach lovers and shoppers.
Mykonos Shore Excursions Review — best and worst tours for cruise travelers
Crete (Chania)
Crete offers rugged landscapes, charming towns, and some of the best wine in Greece.
Crete Wine Tasting Review — Manousakis Winery Jeep Safari (Chania excursion)
Naples
Naples is your gateway to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and some of the best pizza in the world.
Naples Shore Excursion Review — wine tasting + scenic views
Rome (Civitavecchia)
Rome isn’t a cruise port — it’s a full destination. Most ships dock in Civitavecchia, about 60–90 minutes from the city.
One Day in Rome (Pre‑Cruise) — what to see, where to eat, and how to get around
Rome Cruise Port Guide — transportation, timing, and tips
Where to Stay in Rome: Sina Bernini Bristol Hotel Review
👉 See availability for Sina Bernini Bristol → Sina Berini Bristol in Rome
Where to Stay Before Your Mediterranean Cruise
Athens Hotels
Grand Hyatt Athens — modern, spacious, rooftop views
Rome Hotels
Sina Bernini Bristol — luxury stay near Trevi Fountain
Top Mediterranean Cruise Excursions
These are some of my favorite excursions — perfect for first‑timers and families:
🍷Book the same Crete wine safari we did → Crete wine safari
How to Save Money on a Mediterranean Cruise
Use Points & Miles for Flights to Europe
Earn points toward your next cruise and get built‑in travel protections:
Chase Sapphire Preferred – great for families + trip delay coverage
Chase Sapphire Reserve – lounge access + premium protections
Capital One Venture – easy redemptions + travel credits
Stack Deals on Hotels
Princess Cruise Hacks
Final Thoughts
Every Mediterranean cruise is a journey through history, culture, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, tasting local wines, or wandering seaside villages, these guides are here to help you travel smarter, spend less, and make every trip count.
Plan Your Mediterranean Cruise
Use these guides to build your perfect itinerary:
About the Author
Julie Davis is the creator of No Point Left Behind, where she helps families travel smarter using points, miles, and strategic deal‑stacking. She’s sailed multiple Mediterranean itineraries, explored these ports firsthand, and loves turning real‑world experience into practical guides anyone can follow. When she’s not cruising, she’s optimizing her next adventure from her home base in Tennessee.
