From Lake Como Luxury to Mediterranean Sea-View Staterooms

While Lake Como is celebrated for its serene waters, elegant villas, and slow-travel charm, many visitors who fall in love with its beauty are also drawn to explore Italy on a broader scale. One of the most effortless ways to do this is by setting sail on a Mediterranean cruise.

The Mediterranean has always occupied a special place in the hearts of cruise travellers looking for an enriching and convenient way to explore multiple iconic destinations of Italy in a single trip.

Combine this excitement with the ease and comfort of a floating hotel with endless sea views, without having to hop between airports or pack and unpack. This spectacular country has a bounty of treasures waiting to be unearthed.

From marvelling at the grandeur of Mt Etna in Sicily or drifting along the canals of Venice to exploring the Colosseum in Rome, there are Mediterranean cruise itineraries to Italy that offer the most rewarding travel experiences.

Best months to cruise to Italy

Italy and its unique Mediterranean cruise ports offer unforgettable access to iconic destinations you may have dreamt of seeing only in travel brochures.

While an Italian cruise is magical at any time of the year, the spring months in particular are perfect to cater to the needs of every cruiser.

Balmier temperatures and fewer crowds make exploring the bucket-list sites easier for everyone. Moreover, airfare deals are easier to score before the main tourist season kicks off.

Choose your cruise line wisely

Look for cruise lines sailing to Italy that combine land-based excitement tailored to every taste with the best onboard experiences at sea, and not just on the destination, but also to attract cruise guests.

Additionally, there should be enough hotspots on the ship for a guest to chill out with a drink in hand, feeling right at home.

Convenient embarkation ports

Choose cruises that start and end in easily accessible Italian cities like Rome (Civitavecchia) or Naples. They are both major travel hubs, well-connected by international flights, and in addition, offer plenty of attractions for a pre- or post-cruise stay.

Time in port and shore excursions

Not all Italian cruise itineraries offer an adequate or the same amount of time in each port of call. If this is your first trip, look for itineraries that offer longer port days or even an overnight halt, for instance, in a significant city like Venice (Ravenna).

Tips for planning the perfect Italian cruise itinerary

A little bit of planning can go a long way to help get the most value and enjoyment from your first Italian cruise trip.

Mediterranean cruises sell out fast, particularly during peak season, so book early to secure the best rates and cabin options. If you are eyeing a popular itinerary or looking for staterooms with sea views, booking early can help.

Cruise during the shoulder season to take advantage of lesser crowds, pleasant weather and often much lower fares.

Double-check passport validity and purchase insurance that covers cruise-related needs such as missed flights and medical emergencies abroad.

If it fits your budget, book a balcony room as watching the Mediterranean coastline from your private space is a cruise memory you are unlikely to forget.

Limit the cruise length to 7-9 nights to cover the major attractions and popular cities.

What places to visit

Italy is the cornerstone of most cruise itineraries as the country offers an unmatched combination of art, history and culinary delights. Key ports of call should include:

• Rome (Civitavechhia)
• Florence/Pisa (Livorno)
• Naples
• Venice (Ravenna)
• Sicily (Palermo, Messina)
• Sardinia (Cagliari)

Whether your goal is to check off iconic landmarks and savour local cuisine or simply enjoy the comfort and amenities onboard the cruise ship, an Italian cruise opens up endless possibilities for discovery and exploration.

With a chance to visit multiple cities on a single trip, every cruise to Italy offers a unique voyage through history, art, culture and natural beauty.