Best Mediterranean cruises in 2024 and 2025 for every type of traveler

09.10.2023 - 13:09 / thepointsguy.com / Cruises

The Mediterranean region has it all — amazing food and wine, famous historical and cultural landmarks, scenic seaside towns and gorgeous island beaches.

You'd be hard-pressed to sample Spain, France, Italy and Greece on one land tour without transportation nightmares. A Mediterranean cruise, however, is the perfect way to get a taste of many coastal countries with ease as you transit between destinations while you sleep aboard your ship.

Whether they operate tiny ships with a few hundred passengers or giant megaships with several thousand people, most cruise lines have ships summering in the Mediterranean. Some even sail the region year-round.

Most Mediterranean cruises focus on one region (usually the eastern or western halves of the coastline), though longer itineraries might encompass more. While choosing a ship is important, so is picking which route to take and which countries you want to see.

Consider what's on your bucket list. Cruise lines offer a variety of options, making it possible for culture vultures, beach lovers, history buffs and family travelers to prioritize different ports of call and onboard amenities.

Here are some of the best Mediterranean cruises departing in 2024 and 2025 to whet your appetite for a European adventure by sea.

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For romance seekers, few experiences beat a cruise that lingers along the French and Italian rivieras. France's Cote d'Azur, with its coastal mountains and azure sea, has inspired artists and romantics for centuries. The equally stunning Italian coast is perfect for romantic strolls around secluded harbors or an indulgent, delectable lunch at a table for two overlooking the sea.

Another popular port of call on Riviera itineraries is Monaco, where you might visit the royal palace of the Grimaldi family and stop by the glamorous Monte Carlo Casino to pretend you are James Bond enjoying a night on the town.

Related: Western Mediterranean vs. Eastern Mediterranean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

You'll find these cruises on small and luxury ships, but our pick for romance is Windstar Cruises' seven-night "Yachtsman's Harbors of the Rivieras" sailing between Rome and Barcelona (or vice versa) on multiple spring, summer and fall dates in 2024 and 2025.

The five-masted Wind Surf is as picture-perfect as the ports you'll visit, and the 342-passenger ship can follow all the luxury yachts into smaller harbors and off-the-beaten-track destinations. Your onboard meals, with many dishes created by James Beard-affiliated chefs, might even rival the fresh Mediterranean cuisine you'll find in port.

Ports of call may vary by sail date but can include Port-Vendres,