Popular Mediterranean Ports

The Mediterranean is one of the most popular cruise destinations on the planet and offers some of the best itinerary options. No matter your interests, you will surely be impressed by touring this jaw-dropping region by taking a cruise. Whether you are looking to marvel at the beautiful European architecture, discover ancient ruins and historical landmarks, or relax like royalty along the serene coastline, The Mediterranean has some of the best cruise ports worldwide.

This part of the world is perfect for a cruise. You won’t be disappointed if you are heading to major cities like Barcelona or Athens or smaller ports like Kotor or Dubrovnik. If you want to have the best possible tour of the region, check out these seven most popular cruise ports in the Mediterranean.

As Barcelona, Spain, is one of the most visited cities worldwide, it’s only fitting to have one of the best and most popular cruise ports in the Mediterranean. Sitting as the gateway into the city, the port is separated into three distinct sections due to its large size and popularity. Whether you have a few hours in Barcelona, or a night or two, you are conveniently located to explore some of the best parts of the city, such as Barcelonetta, Old Town, and Las Ramblas.

Port of Piraeus, sitting in the cultural city of Athens, Greece, is one of the most popular cruise ports in the Mediterranean. Better yet, it is the busiest cruise port in all of Europe. The port dates back to the 5th century and is surrounded by culture and history. The capital city of Athens is about 15 minutes away, and is easily accessible whether you have a short or longer stay, giving you plenty of time to wander around ancient ruins, museums, and landmarks.

Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a breathtaking walled city on the Mediterranean coastline boasting one of the most popular cruise ports in the region. While the port sits on the outskirts of the suburbs, the city center is only a mile away. You will be surrounded by gorgeous sunny skies and dazzling blue waters, and Dubrovnik is full of charming shops and cafes. Enjoy a scenic walk from the port, or catch a taxi and take in the beauty of the fortified city. Be sure to visit the Old Town during your port stop, as it’s a must-see spot in the city!

Istanbul, Turkey, is home to one of the most popular cruise ports in the Mediterranean and the very first underground cruise terminal worldwide. The port stretches for more than 3 miles and is one of the most modern ports in Europe, making it a great match for Istanbul’s enormous and multicultural city. If you are short on time, the terminal is full of various shops, restaurants, and cafes to wander around. If you venture into the city by taking the tram, you be greeted with a mixture of European and Asian cultures, beautiful churches and mosques, fantastic architecture, and welcoming locals.

Heading further south to the continent of Africa, La Goulette, Tunisia, is one of the most beautiful and popular cruise ports in the Mediterranean. It presents a perfect blend of modern and scenic beauty, as it is designed with an organized layout and spacious area for multiple ships to dock at once. Tunisia has a lot to offer those who port in La Goulette, such as dazzling beaches, ancient ruins, idyllic mosques, and one of the most famous museums in Northern Africa, the Bardo Museum.

If you are looking for the perfect cruise port in the Mediterranean, look no further than in Valletta, Malta. Sitting at the southern tip of the continent, surrounded by glistening blue waters, its small size allows everything to be within easy access from the waterfront. Valletta is great for history buffs and nature lovers, and it has breathtaking scenic landscapes, a gorgeous coastline, and historic ruins scattered all around. Some artisanal shops and cafes line the waterfront by the port, and beautiful nearby beaches like the Golden Bay.

While Montenegro may not be on everyone’s radar, true explorers will know that Kotor has one of the most popular and most dramatic cruise ports in the Mediterranean. This city is like no other place in Europe, boasting a long, drawn-out historical past and a unique style and personality. When you arrive in Kotor, be sure to be outside, as you will be greeted with a scenic stretch of mountains on your way in. Walk along the charming cobblestoned streets and enjoy the city during your stop, and you’ll quickly see why it’s one of the best cruise ports in Europe.

A cruise around the Mediterranean will likely become one of your favorite holiday destinations. Whichever cruise ports you visit, the Mediterranean will surely exceed your expectations. We hope you have enjoyed this guide to the best cruise ports in the Mediterranean, and remember to refer back here when planning your next holiday at sea!