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Cruise to Monte Carlo, Monaco

Monte carlo shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in monte carlo.

Try Your Chances

Front of the Grand Casino I Monte Carlo, Monaco

It's impossible not to recognize the facade of Monte Carlo casino, whether from European travel guides or James Bond movies. Walk inside and have a look around at its ornate marble atrium. Play a hand of blackjack. Or simply stay near the entrance and gawk at the long line of Lamborghinis and Maseratis the valet attendant is busy parking.

Get the Royal Treatment

The Prince's Palace of Monaco, the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco, in Monte Carlo, Monaco

The only thing more rewarding than ascending the hill where Monaco's resplendent Prince's Palace sits? The view you enjoy from the top, whether of Monte Carlo's iconic yacht port beneath, France's Cote d'Azur to your west and the start of Italy's Ligurian coast to your right. Now that's a view fit for a prince or princess.

Toast the Sea

While many of Monaco's most popular to-do's involve glitz and glamour, the simplicity of Larvotto Beach remains more or less as nature intended. The beach is stylishly manicured, of course, with dramatic carmine umbrellas and ivory beach chair covers. Plus, the martinis and wines on offer here are no more expensive than on any other European beach.

Local Cuisine

Despite the island's reputation for extravagance, residents of Monaco are famously modest about their food. While it's true that local specialties like stocafi — dried cod cooked in tomato sauce — and socca chickpea pancakes can be found elsewhere in the Mediterranean, this simple cuisine manages to be every bit as elegant as the casino and the yachts.

Monaco's local markets are as delightfully simple as its local food. Condamine Market evokes France's nearby Provence region — head here for handmade goods, including the region's signature lavender products. Cruise to Monte Carlo and head to the Place du Casino or Cercle d'Or if you want to shop with the city's highest rollers for luxury goods such as designer watches, silk scarves and leather shoes.

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Cruises to Monte Carlo, Monaco

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Monte Carlo, Monaco Cruise Port Guide

On a Monaco cruise, you’ll discover the glitz and glamour this exciting beach town is famous for. Admire the Monte Carlo skyline, dotted by skyscrapers and high-end resorts, as your Western Mediterranean cruise ship sails into port. Up close, attractions like La Rocher and the Jardin Exotique reveal Old Monaco’s opulence. Soak up the sun at Larvotto Beach, a pebbled paradise lined with bright red umbrellas. Wade through clear, turquoise waters for total rejuvenation, then hit the elegant boutiques or dine at fine restaurants in the city center.

Despite its small size, you’ll find more than enough fun, adventure, and things to do during a Monte Carlo cruise. Roll the dice, tour exotic palaces and gardens, explore one of the world’s best aquariums, and discover a foodie paradise.

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to Monte Carlo, you can still discover the beauty of the French Riviera on one of our cruises to Nice or Cannes. Browse our luxury cruises to the French Riviera below.

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Top sights & attractions on a monte carlo cruise, casino de monte carlo.

The glamour of the French Riviera reaches new heights at the Casino de Monte-Carlo, one of Monaco’s most famous attractions. Play a game like roulette, craps, and Texas hold’em in an elegant setting or tour the incredible grounds of this ornate landmark.

Musée Océanographique de Monaco

With cliffside views and the dramatic French Riviera landscape just beyond, the Musée Océanographique de Monaco offers a glimpse at the species and animals that call the Mediterannean home. Turtle observations at the museum are bound to capture young hearts and the young at heart. Stunning coral reef formations are beautifully preserved on site.

Jardin Exotique de Monaco

Don’t miss Monte Carlo’s stunning botanical garden, the Jardin Exotique de Monaco. Memorable plant life, including succulents imported from México and other parts of the world, offer a green escape for nature lovers. After you’ve admired the flora and fauna, turn your attention to the awe-inspiring views of the Mediterranean from the garden’s cliffside vantage point.

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Top things to do in monte carlo, monaco, wander through le rocher.

Stroll through centuries of Monaco’s history at Le Rocher, a well-kept and shining example of the look and feel of Old Monaco. It’s also home to the Prince of Monte Carlo’s opulent palace.

Drive a Luxury Sports Car

Monaco’s streets are more glamorous from behind the wheel of a luxury car. Cruise down the same drags used for the Formula 1 Grand Prix races, Monaco’s famous annual event. You’ll feel like a movie star as you navigate the scenic byways along the French Riviera. 

Explore the French Riviera

Fall in love with the French Riviera beyond Monaco on a scenic drive along the coastal Middle Corniche Road, stopping in glitzy Cannes and France’s beloved town of Nice. Take a guided tour with an expert on French culture, where you’ll learn the history of the International Film Festival, Cannes’ most glamorous event. Wander the promenade, popping in lively cafes, boutiques, and galleries along the way.

Top Food & Drink Spots in Monte Carlo

On a Monaco cruise, you’ll find high-end dining in abundance. Fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentations are highly valued here. The food merges French classics with a modern, seaside twist. Try local bouillabaisse , a regional fish stew that’s beyond comparison. Roasted porchetta is another favorite. Stop at the Michelin-starred Le Louis XV for traditional French fare, freshly-caught seafood, caviar, and much more. EQVITA is an excellent option for vegans, featuring all sorts of inventive plant-based dishes.

Culture and History of Monte Carlo

Greece and Rome were early colonizers of Monaco thousands of years ago. In the 13th century, the Grimaldi family from Genoa took control of the area, establishing the Grimaldi dynasty. By the 19th century, Monaco was recognized as an independent nation. Today, Monte Carlo is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, where real estate, luxury experiences, and the Formula One Grand Prix attract thousands of visitors each year.

Monte Carlo Cruise Port Facilities & Location

Monaco’s cruise port is called Nouvelle Digue de Monaco. Most attractions are just a mile beyond the harbor in the center of Monte Carlo and Old Town, where museums and palaces are within walking distance.

Transportation in Monte Carlo

Exploring Monte Carlo on foot is a popular option, whether you’re touring its gardens and cathedrals or exploring where the Formula One Grand Prix is held. Taxis and buses are also available. Many Monaco cruise passengers book shore excursions to explore the area’s top sights.

Shopping Near the Monte Carlo Cruise Port

Boutiques and high-end shopping are plentiful in this town, where luxury is the norm. Visit Avenue des Beaux-Arts and Avenue de Monte-Carlo for a shopping experience you won’t soon forget.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

You’ll use the euro while on a Monte Carlo cruise. In Monaco, ATMs are plentiful. Tipping your taxi driver isn’t expected, but leaving a 15% tip at restaurants is best practice. Because of the casino culture in Monaco, carrying cash is recommended.

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• Drive a Ferrari Super Car along the French Riviera. Embrace your inner James Bond and zoom along the French coast in one of the world's sportiest cars.
• Drive along the curving coastal Moyenne Corniche to the 14th century town of Eze , which is built right on the edge of the cliff, overlooking the sea 1400 feet below. A walking tour here will acquaint you with the local style and charm as you breathe in the crisp island air and stunning panoramic views.
• Visit the tombs of Princess Grace & Prince Rainier III and the Oceanographic Museum .
• Take a walking tour of Monte Carlo's  Principality , a part of the city under the rule of the Grimaldi family since 1297, overlooking the modern city.
• Get an aerial view of Monte Carlo from a helicopter , which flies you right over the main sights of the city and gives you a magnificent view of the Cote d'Azur.

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Monte Carlo, Monaco

Cruises that visit or depart from Monte Carlo sail in the Mediterranean. Some argue that there is no place more glamorous than Monte Carlo in its beautiful Riviera setting. A favorite destination of the rich and famous, it's a great place for people-watching, and the streets are lined with elegant boutiques and cafes. The best tours visit the casino, the posh Hotel de Paris, the Oceanographic Museum and the cathedral where Princess Grace and Prince Rainier are entombed.

Leave the airport, and at the roundabout, continue straight onto Avenue Auguste Maicon. Get onto the M6202 ramp and continue on M6202 for 2km. Turn left onto Traverse de la Digue des Francais/M6222. Use the right lane to merge onto A8 via ramp to Nice-Nord/Monaco/Genes. Merge onto A8 for 20km, then take exit 56-Monaco toward Monaco/Cap-d'Ail/Beausoleil. Continue onto A500 for 2km then continue onto D6007 for 3km. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Boulevard du Jardin Exotique/D6307 heading to Monaco. Continue for 1.5km, then turn right onto Boulevard de Suisse. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit to stay on Boulevard de Suisse, turn right onto Passage de la Porte Rouge, right onto Avenue de la Costa, right onto Avenue d'Ostende. Then take a sharp left onto Boulevard Albert 1er, then use the right lane to turn right onto Avenue J.F. Kennedy. Take a sharp right onto Route de la Piscine, then turn left to your destination, Port Hercules.

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Monte Carlo, Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is the epitome of Riviera chic. This tiny enclave of 370 acres surrounds a sheltered harbor that draws yachts from around the world to enjoy the beautiful scenery, mild weather and elegant casino. Glamorous Monte Carlo is one of Monaco's four quarters, which also include La Condamine, the business district; Monaco-ville, the capital; and Fontvieille, an area built on reclaimed land. Ruled by Prince Albert II, Monaco has a population of over 32,000, of which about 16 percent are citizens, or Monégasques.

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The world's second smallest country is big on glitz and glamour. Perhaps best known for its breathtaking casino and headline-making royal family, Monte Carlo is all manicured streets, impressive palaces and lush city parks. Come see how the rich and famous live and play.

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Monte Carlo

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Best Things to Do in Monte Carlo, Monaco

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: February 26, 2023

Cruise ships of all sizes include a visit to the tiny territory of Monaco , and its famous city, Monte Carlo. Here’s what I think are the best things to do in Monte Carlo on your own. There’s no need to spend a fortune on a shore excursion.

What to Do in Monte Carlo, Monaco on a Cruise Day

If you’re like me and most American tourists, the difference between Monaco and Monte-Carlo isn’t clear. Monaco, first ruled by the House of Grimaldi in 1297, continues to be a mecca for the rich and famous. Before you set out to explore, you should know the four districts that comprise the Principality of Monaco.

• Monaco-Ville (the old city) is the historic seat of the Principality and is located high above the harbor, near the Prince’s Palace.
• La Condamine is home to many Monegasque (long-time Monaco descendants) and French, near the cruise port.
• Fontivielle is a new industrial part of the territory.
• Monte-Carlo, the area surrounding the landmark Monte Carlo Casino.

No matter how you arrive into Monaco, you can’t miss “The Rock;” just look up. It’s the oldest area of the Principality of Monaco. Because of steps and hilly paths, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to go exploring in this chic, seaside and sparklingly clean city.

Before you start out au pied, be aware that from the harbor, everything is uphill. There are sloping walks, modern elevators built into the rock (this is Monaco after all) and hundreds of stone steps. If mobility is an issue, take your ship’s tour, hire a driver or try a swanky city bus near the harbor.

With my most comfortable walking shoes and a bottle of water, I set out to explore the fabulous cruise port of Monaco. Here are my choices of not-to-be-missed places.

Visit the Prince’s Palace

An 8 Euro ticket will get you into the Prince’s Palace for a 40 minute guided tour of this 13th century castle. Time your arrival to coincide with the changing of the guard at 11:55am every day, before you begin your tour. Chances are that you won’t see any of the Grimaldi family, but the tour is definitely worth the few Euros for admission.

Walk to Monaco Cathedral

Located on Avenue St. Martin, view the towering 19th Century Cathedral of Immaculate Conception (also called the Monte Carlo Cathedral) that contains the tombs of Princess Grace and Prince Ranier.

Built in 1875, the cathedral houses an altarpiece dating from 1500 by artist Louis Brea as well as a delicately carved Carrara white marble Episcopal throne. Admission is free.

Spend Time at the Oceanographic Museum

Like many other structures in this horizontally-challenged city, the Musée Océanographique and Aquarium is actually built into the side of a cliff.

As I walked up the stairs from the cruise port up to the top of the “Rock,” I was in shock to see this ornate stone building just simply perched there over the sea.

The Oceanographic Museum is home to thousands of sea creatures, including sharks, turtles, and tropical fish.

Stroll Through this Exotic Garden

Opened in 1933 and overlooking the waterfront, it’s a short walk downhill from Old Monaco to reach this sprawling, cantilevered botanical park.

Stroll through the winding pathways amid lush grounds overlooking the sea, that showcase the world’s largest collection of succulent and cactus plants, a variety of trees and thousands of colorful flowers.

Maybe you’ll want experience a tour of the underground grottoes and connecting caves. For a small admission fee, you’ll see a subterranean wonderland, with dozens of stalagmites, illuminated by tiny twinkling lights.

Buried in the caves are archeological finds from Cro-Magnon dwellers.

Read About:  More Mediterranean Cruise Ports You’ll Want to Visit

Try Your Luck at the Casino

Most of all, don’t miss this iconic Monte Carlo landmark. Built in 1865 and literally saved the city from ruin, is the magnificent Monte Carlo Casino. You don’t have to bet a year’s wages, but you can go inside and imagine you’re living in the Belle Epoque.

Sadly, no cameras are allowed inside to photograph the elaborate frescoes and Rococo ceilings.

While the high rollers have their own private gaming area, tourists are welcome to try their luck, too but only in a section of the casino which opens in the mid-afternoon through the wee hours. You will need to dress up if you plan to visit the Casino in the evening.

Stop and See the Monte Carlo Opera House

After a visit to the Casino, walk around back and see the ornately carved exterior of the adjoining Opera House, opened in 1879. It was built by Charles Garnier who several years later, also designed the much larger Paris Opera House.

Drive the Grand Corniche

No, not the car. Instead, take a scenic drive along the Grand Corniche. It’s a scenic road that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the French Riviera. You can take a drive or a guided tour along the road to take in the beautiful views.

Make it a Beach Day

Monte Carlo is more than luxury shopping and gambling. There are several beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. Larvotto Beach is the most popular beach in Monte Carlo and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Party Time!

I just happened to stumble on the exotically chic Buddha Bar as I was wandering around outside the Café de Paris. Stop in for cocktails, dinner and disco until late at night.

It’s located to the left, as you face the Hotel. With the already steep prices in Monte Carlo, why not take advantage of the nightly Happy Hour from 6-8pm. The least expensive Happy Hour drink will soak you for a mere 12 Euro.

With such a perfect harbor, excellent location on the Med and a stellar reputation for safety, it doesn’t surprise me with the amount of cruise ships that stop by (and some stay overnight) every season.

Whatever you decide to do while in Monaco, it’s a cruise port that won’t disappoint. From ancient history and multi-cultures to expansive museums and international cuisine, there is something to please everyone in the family.

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About Sherry Laskin

I'm the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world without flying. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breath...stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.

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July 8, 2014 at 11:58 pm

Thanks so much, Carol. We must have just missed each other. I hope to go back this fall too. Message me your Azamara cruise date.

July 8, 2014 at 10:44 pm

Sherry, I was here with my niece last October and experienced an “Azamazing Evening” at the Oceanographic Institute. Magic! Will be returning with my husband in 3 months. Can’t wait – and your article really gets my wanderlust fueled — as usual! Thank you for all your contributions.

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Monte Carlo, Monaco

The tiny and wealthy principality of Monaco, ruled by Prince Albert II, is dominated by the attractions in the resort quarter, Monte Carlo, with its casino, internationally acclaimed Opera House and the Triangle d’Or shopping area. The cliffs of Le Rocher de Monaco rise above the Mediterranean, the strategic stronghold of the Grimaldi family of Genoa who assumed power of this unstable region in 1297. The principality was a quiet backwater until the 1850s when trains put the sun-soaked destination within easy reach of affluent French and British travelers looking for an escape and relaxing things to do. Prince Charles III quickly understood what it would take to seduce the new tourists, and created a Belle Epoque resort featuring the mythic Casino de Monte-Carlo.

Sitting on the coast like a precious gemstone, Monte Carlo and Monaco still draw an international jet-set crowd. The Palace commands from Monaco-ville, called Le Rocher by locals, and high-rises make the most of precious land with public elevators in lieu of sidewalks in this steep country. Superyachts fill the port, ultraluxury cars dominate the road and outrageous jewels sparkle under the night sky in an eternal promise that in some places, fairy tales really do come true.

Featured Shore Excursions

Mediterranean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

No two Mediterranean cruises are the same. Some bring travelers to the French and Italian rivieras for food, wine and cultural pursuits. Others head east to the Greek Islands, where passengers alternate days sipping ouzo at a beachfront taverna with trips to ancient sites. Each itinerary is a mix of urban tourist capitals — Barcelona! Rome! Istanbul! Jerusalem! — and sleeper gems, such as Portofino, Italy, or Kotor, Montenegro.

If you've never been to Europe, you may feel overwhelmed by destination choices. If you know which ports are on your must-see list, you might be more stumped by which cruise line to choose or which specific itinerary will be the best for you.

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Know that you can't see everything in one Mediterranean cruise — even on sailings that run multiple weeks. Once you let go of your need to see and do it all and accept that you're on a sampler tour, you'll be better able to make your cruise selections and enjoy the ports your ship does visit.

Get started with this Mediterranean cruise guide. You'll learn the basics of itineraries, cruise lines, destinations, when to go and when to book your European adventure at sea.

Why cruise to the Mediterranean?

Many of the European countries on your travel bucket list lie along the Mediterranean Sea: Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Israel and Egypt. A cruise lets you hit many of the hot spots (the French Riviera, Barcelona and Venice, Italy) on one trip without having to navigate multiple hotels, transportation between cities and making dinner reservations in foreign languages.

For some people those experiences are a key part of travel. However, for vacationers who want all the attractions without the hassle, a cruise is an ideal way to explore the Mediterranean. This type of European cruise can be especially alluring to honeymooners, families and older couples.

Mediterranean cruises beckon travelers with a love of culture and history. Visit the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, or the Colosseum in Rome; see Michelangelo's David in Florence, Italy; or make a pilgrimage to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. Take a tour to a medieval town or marvel at the construction of a soaring cathedral. If you've always wanted to see the pyramids in Giza, Egypt; the ruins in Ephesus, Turkey, and Pompeii, Italy; Gaudi's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona; and the famous casino in Monaco, you can do it easily on a Mediterranean sailing.

You can also eat your way through the markets, cafes, trattorias, gelato shops and crepe stands in the ports you visit. Sample local wines at vineyards in France and Italy, or sip ouzo or limoncello made on the premises.

When do cruises go to the Mediterranean?

You might be surprised to learn that cruise ships sail the Mediterranean year-round.

The majority of ships, however, arrive in the spring and depart in the fall, choosing warmer climes like the Caribbean for holiday sailings. Only a few hardy stalwarts remain through the winter months. Most of those are European-based lines, such as Costa Cruises , MSC Cruises and Celestyal Cruises , but Viking also braves chilly weather for its destination-focused itineraries in Europe.

Best Mediterranean itineraries

You can find a variety of weeklong Mediterranean cruises, but if you've got the time, nine- to 14-night sailings are not uncommon. Seven-night cruises are best if you're short on time or want to tack on a few days in Barcelona, Rome or Athens before or after your cruise. Longer itineraries are ideal for experiencing a greater variety of destinations and traversing more of the Med.

Here are some the best Mediterranean cruise itineraries you should consider for your European vacation.

Western Mediterranean

The classic Western Mediterranean cruise sails between Barcelona and Rome, and calls in ports in Spain, France, Monaco and Italy. This is your chance to explore Tuscany and the French Riviera, as well as hit up Florence, Monte Carlo, Naples and islands such as Corsica, Mallorca, Sicily and Sardinia. Just watch out: Marquee destinations like Rome and Florence are both located an hour or more from the cruise port, so get ready for long bus rides and long days off the ship.

Greece and Turkey

The classic Eastern Mediterranean cruise sails out of Athens or Istanbul and visits a mix of historic places (Delphi, Ephesus via Kusadasi, Rhodes) and sun-drenched islands (Mykonos and Santorini).

Adriatic Sea

Some so-called Mediterranean cruises actually spend most of their time on the Adriatic Sea, sailing from Venice and visiting ports in Croatia and Greece, and sometimes Montenegro and Albania. You may also find an Adriatic sailing wrapped into longer Western or Eastern Mediterranean cruises.

The most easterly of the Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, Holy Land cruises spend time in Israel and sometimes Egypt, often with overnight stops or multiple days spent in each country to maximize touring opportunities. These sailings may also call in Cyprus or ports in Greece and Turkey.

Best Mediterranean cruise lines

Most major cruise lines send at least one ship to the Mediterranean every year. Even Carnival Cruise Line , known for its affordable cruises out of U.S. home ports, offers some Mediterranean sailings, as does Disney Cruise Line , which typically bases its ships near its theme parks.

If you're looking for a bigger ship, Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are the best choices as they base a handful of ships in the Mediterranean each year, arriving in the spring and departing in the fall. These lines offer a variety of itinerary choices, so you can find the Mediterranean ports you most want to visit. You'll also find lots of restaurant choices and evening entertainment options to keep you occupied at night when the ship is sailing.

Couples or families with grown children looking for longer sailings and a destination focus should consider Viking, which offers eight- to 15-night cruises through the Mediterranean, including three- and four-week voyages for retirees (or workationers?) who have the time for a most thorough exploration of the region.

Which luxury line is best for your Mediterranean cruise will come down to what you're looking for in a luxury ship and a European itinerary. However, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises stand out for including a large variety of shore excursions in their cruise fares. If you're a foodie, these two lines plus Oceania Cruises are notable for their culinary tours in port, plus destination-themed cooking classes on board.

Things to do in the Mediterranean

Sightseeing is a big component of Mediterranean cruises, whether that's exploring a historic site like the Roman Forum or the walled city of Dubrovnik, Croatia; visiting cathedrals in Florence and Barcelona; or touring medieval villages, forts and old towns. You might want to skip the formal tours and merely wander around the port town, browsing local shops or grabbing a coffee or snack in a local cafe.

Culinary tours are also popular here. You can choose from roving food tours, cooking classes, winery visits and tastings, and meals made with local produce and cheeses in beautiful villa or farmhouse settings.

Travelers looking to stretch their legs might want to sign up for cycling tours in city and country settings, hike around a volcano on Santorini or Sicily, or even take a kayak for a spin in Croatia or Greece.

A beach day is possible in the Greek Islands or along the French Riviera, and many ports will have sightseeing cruises.

Best Mediterranean cruise ports

Everyone has their favorite list of the best Mediterranean cruise ports (as evidenced by the discussion I just had with TPG's cruise team about which to include). Some travelers want to hit all the most popular cities, while others prioritize the ability to walk right off the ship into the heart of the town. Some ports are better for historical attractions, others for cafe culture or outdoor activities.

The following cruise ports are generally standouts, no matter your travel style.

Barcelona: Both an embarkation port and a port of call, depending on your itinerary, Barcelona has much to offer first-timers and repeat visitors. Cruise ships dock at the end of Las Ramblas, the main thoroughfare in the old part of the city, so it's easy to leave the ship and simply wander. Don't miss Gaudi's fantastical buildings or a meal of tapas.

Monte Carlo, Monaco: Monte Carlo is both a fascinating port on its own and a gateway to the French Riviera. In town, you can walk to the casino, palace and stunning oceanographic museum. From town, you can take the twisty-turny Corniche coastal roads to destinations like Nice, Eze, Cannes and Grasse.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Even if you're not in it for the "Game of Thrones" tour, you will be captivated by Dubrovnik and its famous walled city. Walk the walls or take to the water for scenic views of the old town.

Rome: It's actually a pain to get to Rome from the cruise port of Civitavecchia by bus or train, but it's worth it to experience the Eternal City firsthand. Tour the Vatican and Sistine Chapel at St. Peter's Cathedral, step back in time at the Colosseum and Roman Forum, climb the Spanish Steps, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain and meander through the Borghese Gardens. When your feet give out, take a breather with a gelato or plate of pasta.

Rhodes, Greece: The historic port of Rhodes no longer has a Colossus, but that doesn't take away its appeal. Ensconced by ancient stone walls, Old Town is easily walkable, composed of cobblestone streets lined with restaurants and stores housed in structures dating back to the 14th century. If shopping isn't your thing, keep walking until you reach the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, where you can take a tour, or venture out to one of the city's beaches.

Naples, Italy: Naples is one of our favorite ports because you have so many options of what to do there. It's the jumping-off point for tours to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Or, if you want to explore the city on your own, perhaps sitting down to a lunch of the region's famous pizza, it's a quick walk right into town from your cruise ship.

Ashdod, Israel : Most cruisers don't stick around Ashdod; it makes our list of best Mediterranean cruise ports because it's the gateway to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea. Prepare to be amazed by the sites you will see, but also be ready for long bus rides and long days off the ship touring.

Istanbul: Istanbul is the vibrant city you might not know you need to visit. Serving as both a departure port and port of call on Mediterranean cruises, the city offers something for everything: the cultural icons of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, intense shopping experiences at the Grand Bazaar, Byzantine palaces, traditional Turkish baths (called hammams), flavorful cuisine, Bosporus day cruises between Europe and Asia, and plenty of neighborhoods to explore.

When to book a Mediterranean cruise

It's a good idea to book your Mediterranean cruise early, even nine to 12 months in advance. You can take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions and have the widest selection of available cabins and suites and dining times (if applicable). An early booking is ideal if you're planning on using miles to book your flights or points for a pre-cruise hotel. Look for fall sales when the current Mediterranean season is winding down.

Another smart time to book a Mediterranean cruise is during January or February when cruise lines run their " wave season " sales, often with lots of extra freebies thrown into the cost of the sailing. You might find last-minute deals on spring cruises to Europe or still be considered early for fall itineraries.

What to bring on a Mediterranean cruise

The Mediterranean region has a temperate climate, but it still gets chilly in the spring and fall and can be brutally hot in the summer. Check the weather before your sail date and pack for the predicted temperatures — with layers, in case the forecasters are wrong and it's unseasonably hot or cold.

You'll likely do a good deal of walking on a Mediterranean cruise, so a good pair of walking shoes is a must. Bonus if you can find cute options you can wear on sea days or sneakers that can do double duty in the ship's gym.

If your tours take you to religious sites, especially in Israel and Egypt, you might need a modest outfit that covers shoulders, arms and knees. Ladies, a shawl is a versatile option you can toss over your shoulders (or hair if need be), use for warmth with your strappy formal night attire or as a blanket on the airplane.

Of course, North Americans taking Mediterranean cruise vacations will need a passport to fly to and from their ship's departure and arrival ports.

Bottom line

The Mediterranean is an amazing region to cruise, and a sailing there is a wonderful introduction to Europe for travelers who have never been. The varied choices of itineraries, cruise lines and ships can be intimidating, but rest assured, you can't really go wrong with any of them. Just know that once you go, you may feel a need to return — either to see a port you loved more in-depth on a land vacation or to sail to the Mediterranean countries you missed on your first go-round.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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10 Night Mediterranean Cruise

Epicureans are delighted by the Oceania Cruises experience where Jacques Pepin is Executive Culinary Director and the Culinary Tours introduce you to a world of flavors.

Travel through an intimate region full of fresh food and wine with a Mediterranean cruise vacation.

Experience the life of the rich and famous with a trip to the glamorous spots of Monte Carlo in the tiny constitutional monarch of Monaco.

• Vista - Passenger Capacity: 1,200 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2023 Last Refurbished: N/A

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Rates and offers are subject to select dates and categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars, and include NCCF. Government taxes and fees are additional on select sailings. Any advertised fares that include the "Free Airfare" promotion include airline fees, surcharges and all government taxes. Some airline-imposed personal charges, including but not limited to baggage, priority boarding and special seating, may apply. All rates and offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability and confirmation, and may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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