7 Unforgettable Stops on Our Mediterranean Cruise: Greece to Italy
If you’re planning a Mediterranean cruise, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. My wife and I took an 8-day voyage on the Sun Princess, exploring the beautiful countries of Greece, Montenegro, and Italy. Our itinerary was packed with jaw-dropping historical landmarks, scenic coastal towns, and unforgettable food. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual traveler, our guide will help you get the most out of your Mediterranean cruise!
Day 1: Athens, Greece – A Blend of Ancient and Modern Wonders
Rooftop Restaurant at Intercontinental Athens Hotel
We arrived in Athens and kicked off our trip with a meal at the Intercontinental Athens Hotel’s rooftop restaurant, where we were treated to a stunning view of the Acropolis glowing golden in the setting sun. The combination of local wine, delicious Greek cuisine, and that mesmerizing view was the perfect start to our adventure.
Travel Tip: Try to time your visit with sunset for the most spectacular view of the Acropolis.
Acropolis Tour
The next morning, before boarding the cruise, we strolled through the streets around the Acropolis, enjoying a leisurely coffee and watching the world wake up. We also learned a few fascinating facts about this ancient landmark:
- The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, features towering Doric columns and intricate friezes, all crafted from marble hauled from Mount Pentelicus, a 6-hour walk away.
- Despite its age, the Acropolis has maintained an almost-perfect symmetry in its design, a testament to the Greeks’ architectural prowess.
- From the top, you get a panoramic view of Athens—whitewashed buildings against a backdrop of rugged hills stretching out to the horizon.
After this, we boarded the Sun Princess and set sail on our Mediterranean adventure.
A Relaxing Day at Sea
On day two, we enjoyed a day at sea, soaking in the views from our balcony and exploring the ship’s amenities. The Sun Princess is like a floating city, complete with pools, restaurants, and theaters. With 20 decks and a capacity for over 4,000 passengers, there was never a dull moment. It’s the perfect way to unwind between port stops.
Bar, Montenegro – A Hidden Gem on the Adriatic Coast
Exploring Bar, Montenegro
The small town of Bar, Montenegro surprised us with its charm. Set against rugged, green mountains and the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic, Bar offers a perfect mix of history and scenery. The Bar Old Town has an ancient feel, with weathered stone buildings and medieval walls transporting you back in time.
- The sea breeze and views of the stunning coastline made this a serene stop.
- If you’re into history, the Old Olive Tree is one of the oldest olive trees in the world, believed to be over 2,000 years old!
Corfu, Greece – A Day Full of History and Scenic Beauty
The Old Fortress of Corfu
The Old Fortress was our first stop in Corfu, and it’s a must-see. The stone structure rises majestically from the Ionian Sea, offering incredible views. Highlights include:
- The Church of Saint George, a neoclassical beauty that resembles a Greek temple.
- The towering fortress walls, providing sweeping views of Corfu’s colorful town and coastline.
Mon Repos Palace
Next, we headed to the Mon Repos Palace, a regal 19th-century estate. The unique, bold color schemes of each room made every turn a surprise, but our favorite room was the one upstairs with a calming blue ceiling and elegant decor. It’s a perfect spot to escape the heat and immerse yourself in Greek neoclassical architecture.
Corfu Town
Our last stop was Corfu Town, where we wandered through narrow streets lined with pastel-colored buildings draped in vibrant flowers. We stopped for a coffee with a view of Mouse Island, a tiny island with a whitewashed church on it. If you have time, take the short boat ride out to Mouse Island for a closer look.
Messina, Italy – Where History Meets Modern Life
Duomo of Messina
The Duomo of Messina is one of those places where you feel the weight of history. The Romanesque-Norman architecture is stunning, especially the massive rose window and intricate stone carvings on the facade. Inside, we admired the tall Gothic arches and the detailed mosaics that line the cathedral’s walls.
Bell Tower of Messina
The Bell Tower features one of the world’s largest astronomical clocks, a golden masterpiece that springs to life every day at noon. We climbed the tower and were rewarded with incredible views of the Strait of Messina and the surrounding coastline.
Miscela d’Oro Restaurant
After all that exploring, we stopped at Miscela d’Oro for some well-deserved food. The pasta and local wine were divine, but they also served up one of the best burgers I’ve had outside the U.S.! After lunch, we strolled through Messina’s colorful streets and cooled off with a delicious gelato.
Naples, Italy & Pompeii – A Walk Through Ancient History
Pompeii Tour
Visiting Pompeii was a surreal experience. The city, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, is a massive open-air museum. Here are a few highlights:
- Streets lined with ancient stone, ruins of homes and shops, and incredibly preserved frescoes and columns.
- The haunting cast figures of people and animals, preserved in their final moments.
- The ancient theater, still perfectly intact and known for its outstanding acoustics.
Exploring Naples
After Pompeii, we walked along the Naples waterfront, enjoying stunning views of the sea. Naples is also the birthplace of the margherita pizza, so of course, we had to try an authentic slice! The mix of colorful buildings, charming streets, and lively atmosphere made Naples a wonderful place to explore.
A Final Day at Sea
Our last full day was spent at sea, and it was quite the adventure. With 14-foot waves, the ship rocked quite a bit, but the Sun Princess remained a safe and comfortable haven. We spent the day enjoying the ship’s many amenities, relaxing, and reflecting on the incredible journey we’d just experienced.
Barcelona – A Quick Goodbye
We docked in Barcelona early on day eight, but we didn’t have time to explore since we headed straight to the airport for our flight home.
Final Thoughts
Our Mediterranean cruise aboard the Sun Princess was the perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. From exploring ancient ruins in Greece and Italy to wandering the charming streets of Montenegro, this cruise offered something new and exciting at every stop.
For anyone thinking about taking a similar trip, we highly recommend it. It’s a great way to see multiple countries and experience different cultures—all while relaxing aboard a luxurious ship.
Check Out Our Travel Video:
Contact Me:
If you have any questions about our favorite stops or want more tips on taking a Mediterranean Cruise to Greece or Italy, feel free to reach out!
Instagram: @huntxcoop
Facebook: HuntxCoop
YouTube: HuntxCoop
Website: huntxcoop.com
Email: [email protected]
I’m always sharing tips, new content, and exciting stories from my adventures. Be sure to follow me on social and check out my other blogs on my website for more travel guides, fishing tips, and outdoor adventures!
FAQs About Mediterranean Cruises:
Q: What is the best time to take a Mediterranean cruise?
A: The best time is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Q: Do I need to book excursions through the cruise line?
A: No, but booking through the cruise line offers convenience and guarantees you’ll get back to the ship on time. If you’re comfortable exploring on your own, local guides can offer more personalized experiences, but beware of scams.
Q: How many days should I plan for a Mediterranean cruise?
A: Most Mediterranean cruises last between 7 to 12 days. We did an 8-day cruise, and it felt like the perfect amount of time to experience a variety of destinations.
Q: What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise?
A: Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing for warm weather, but don’t forget a sweater for cooler evenings or air-conditioned interiors on the ship.