• Soak in the huge variety of architectural styles from Greco-Roman, Neoclassical and Modern • Capture the perfect shot of the Temple of Olympian Zeus 

Home to the first known democracy, Athens is a fascinating city blessed with a rich cultural and historic past. Utilise the highly efficient transport links or join your cruises shore excursion to make the most of your time here. 

At every turn the landmarks of ancient Greece offer an awe-inspiring backdrop against bustling streets filled with energetic charm, striking street art and the sound of live music. Find authentic local cuisine and fascinating museums, and while the magnificent Acropolis is a must, explore deeper into Athens’ maze of alleyways to discover much more.

• Shop indoor food markets filled with delicious local cuisine • Marvel at the ambitious design of La Sagrada Familia

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and famous for Gaudí and other Art Nouveau architecture, Barcelona is one of Europe’s trendiest cities. From La Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell to the cobbled streets of the Gothic Quarter and Montjuïc hill, there’s almost too much to see in Barcelona. 

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path why not take a trip to the Palau Guell, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau or hike up to the Bunkers del Carmel. 

And of course, don’t forget to delve into the delicious world of tapas and Spanish wine. Any time spent in this incredible city is time well spent.

• Get away from the crowds with a short 15 minute ferry to the Lérins islands • People and yacht watching in the harbour with a delicious drink is not to be missed 

Witness the lifestyle of the rich and famous in opulent Cannes. Famed for shimmering waters, beautiful beaches and haute couture fashion, the cultural side of Cannes is sometimes overlooked. 

In Le Suquet, the city’s old quarter, climb winding staircases and pass pastel-coated homes, to see the Musée de la Castre, a home for ethnographic art in a medieval fortress with sweeping views over the impressive marina.

• Climb the fortress of San Giovanni for the spectacular view of The Old Town • Take a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks 

Although actually in the Adriatic, Kotor is visited on many Mediterranean cruises, and rightly so! This medieval town is achingly atmospheric and the cobbled streets form a maze of museums, churches, cafe-strewn squares, and Venetian palaces. Accessed through the dramatic and fjord like Bay of Kotor, even the journey in is breathtaking. 

A UNESCO World Heritage site, The Old Town of Kotor was built between the 12th and 14th centuries, wander the narrow and romantic streets of this historic gem of a town. Every corner of the old town hides a story just waiting to be told.

• Take a ride up the unique Elevador Santa Justa • Wander the high-end stores of Avenida da Liberdade and Chiado 

Lisbon rises from the banks of the impressive river Tagus in a blur of colourful tile-covered buildings. Spend your time wandering the winding streets of Lisbon’s varied neighbourhoods and tucking into deliciously creamy Pastéis de Nata. 

Each of Lisbon’s neighbourhoods has its own unique character personality. Don’t miss the Praça do Comércio in Baixa, São Jorge Castle in Alfama, the sprawling manicured gardens and expansive riverside squares of Belem and the traditional Portuguese restaurants and cafes in Graça.

• Walk in the footsteps of the mighty Roman gladiators at the Colosseum • Photograph the pampered wild cats at the Torre Argentina excavation site 

There’s food, coffee, wine, history and architecture aplenty in the ‘Eternal City’. Rome is an enchanting city where you'll discover a romantic blend of culture and history spiced up with vibrant streets and nightlife. Add into the mix delicious gastronomy and excellent Italian wines, and you have an inspiring and beautiful destination.

Often used as an embarkation port for Mediterranean cruises, you can easily spend a few days here exploring the historic streets and indulging in delicious gelato. 

From the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Trevi Fountain, Rome is full to bursting with monumental history and artistic treasures just waiting to be explored.

• Visit Ancient Akrotiri prehistoric town, considered the Pompeii of Greece • Enjoy romantic sunsets and chic hotels

Greece has no shortage of incredible islands to visit and Mediterranean cruises can visit a number of them. For a range of local activities and a truly diverse landscape, look no further than the stunningly dramatic, Santorini. 

This romantic island has an endless supply of gorgeous sunsets, delicious food and cute villages, perfect for wandering around in the Mediterranean sun. Santorini is also great for wine and with 16 wineries on the island, you can easily while away a few hours sipping wine whilst admiring the view.

• See the city from the water on one of Venice’s iconic Gondolas • Linger over coffee and pastry at a historic café in Piazza San Marco 

Does Mediterranean cruising have a more iconic destination than Venice? The Floating City is arguably the most picturesque city in Europe. With winding canals, beautiful bridges and intricate Byzantine design, Venice has long been a must-visit destination.

Considered one of the finest squares in the world, Piazza San Marco is surrounded on three sides by the stately arcades of public buildings and on the fourth, by Basilica di San Marco's riot of domes and arches and the soaring St. Mark's campanile.

Be aware that Venice has made some changes to the size of ships allowed into their port, meaning only smaller ships are allowed to dock directly in Venice; larger ships will be using alternatives such as Trieste and Ravenna.