Southern Europe Cruises: Best Cruises to Southern Europe

Cruises to Southern Europe

Discover the wonders of the ancient world on one of Celebrity’s cruises to Southern Europe. Explore the art and culture of Rome and the museums of Lisbon, or marvel at the beauty of the Parthenon in Athens. Take in the genius of Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the artistic legacy of the Knights of St. John in sunny Malta.

Experience some of the region’s most magnificent scenery, too, from the towering black cliffs and sapphire seas of volcanic Santorini to the pine-fringed rocky coves around Mallorca and the rolling vineyards of Tuscany. Whether your dream is to enjoy beach time, explore antiquities, browse designer shops, indulge in local specialties, or perhaps all of these, Celebrity has the perfect European cruise for you.

Southern Europe Cruise Highlights

Fantastic Food

Any cruise to Southern Europe is filled with culinary adventures. Discover the delights of tapas in Palma, Mallorca, or taste grilled sardines in Malaga, Spain. Sit down to a Greek mezze spread of salads and dips in a beachfront taverna or seek out the perfect paella in Valencia. Italy brings its own joys, from decadently rich spaghetti carbonara in Rome to crisp cannoli pastries in Sicily—not to mention gelato in rainbow shades and the perfect cappuccino.

Ancient History

You’ll find antiquities at every turn on a Southern Europe itinerary. Step back 3,000 years in time as you explore the magnificent Ephesus in Turkey. Wander between ancient temples on tiny Delos, next to Mykonos, revered in Greek mythology as the birthplace of Apollo. Learn about Pompeii, preserved under ash, on a visit to Naples and lose yourself in the wonderful Acropolis Museum in Athens. Gaze in wonder at the extravagantly beautiful Duomo in Florence, a vision in red, white, and green marble.

Beautiful Beaches

Many of Europe’s most seductively beautiful beaches are in the south, from the long, urban sands of Barcelona to the aquamarine waters around Split, Croatia. Join the all-day party on Mykonos’ Paradise Beach or strike a pose in chic Portofino. Stroll along Portugal’s sun-drenched shoreline to the west of Lisbon or hobnob with the yachting set in glamorous Marbella. Snap a selfie on Santorini’s Red Beach and sink your toes into the pale pink sand of Crete’s Elafonisi Beach.

Featured Southern Europe Cruise Ports

Rome

Italy’s elegant capital is a feast for the senses. Imagine the roar of the crowd in the mighty Colosseum, 2,000 years ago. Gaze at Michelangelo’s heavenly frescoes in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel and visit the burial site of Julius Caesar in the Roman Forum. Admire the baroque fountains on Piazza Navona as you sip a cappuccino and head to Trastevere to explore the neighborhood’s trattorias. Remember to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, which according to legend, ensures your return to Rome.

View Rome Port Guide

Santorini

Santorini’s dazzling white towns spill over the rim of a towering caldera, the remains of a sunken volcano. Once you’ve stopped marveling at the views of blue-domed churches against a backdrop of the glittering Aegean, explore the island. Learn about the Minoan civilization at Akrotiri and shop for jewelry in Fira. Taste the local white wines and head to Oia for lunch in a clifftop restaurant. Bask on black sand beaches or take a catamaran trip to some of the most striking spots in the caldera.

View Santorini Port Guide

Lisbon

Portugal’s vibrant capital has a rich heritage, from the atmospheric fado bars of the historic Alfama district to fine baroque churches and elaborate monuments such as the Torre de Belem. Gaze out over the city from the ramparts of the 11th century Castelo de São Jorge and learn about the history of exploration at the Maritime Museum. Ride the vintage trams or explore colorful neighborhoods on foot. Don’t miss the bustling Time Out Market, where you can try delicious pastel de nata pastries.

View Lisbon Port Guide

Southern Europe Cruise Itineraries

Choose from a wide array of Southern European cruises departing from Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and Ravenna. You could explore the Greek Islands, the island-specked coasts of Croatia and Montenegro, the Spanish costas, or the glamorous rivieras of Italy. Itineraries range in length from six nights in the Greek islands to 12-night voyages that visit the most beautiful ports in Greece, Italy, Malta, and Spain.

Why Cruise to Southern Europe With Celebrity Cruises

See the best of Southern Europe on one of our contemporary ships, each one a haven of comfort, attentive service, delicious cuisine, and entertainment for every taste. When you’re not exploring some of the most exciting destinations in the Mediterranean, unwind by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or relax on deck and enjoy the sunshine.

Take in the sweeping views from the Magic Carpet on Edge-series ships and inhale the fragrance of fresh grass at the Lawn Club on our Solstice-series ships. Explore specialty restaurants, whether you’re in the mood for sushi, Italian, or French classics. Elevate your experience at The Retreat®, where you’ll enjoy beautiful suite accommodation, an exclusive lounge, and fine dining in Luminae at The Retreat.