Five Mediterranean Ports to Call On

From the rich history of Ephesus, Turkey, to the dreamy hillsides of Santorini, Greece and the famous nightlife of Ibiza, Spain, there’s something that will appeal to every traveler at five of the Mediterranean’s best ports of call.

Ephesus, Turkey: The Mediterranean is a mecca for history and culture buffs, and Ephesus is one of the best ports to experience it. Once the capital of Roman Asia Minor, excavations of the ancient city has made it one of the most engaging places to discover the ancient Greco-Roman world. Be sure to visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Santorini, Greece: Home to some of Greece’s most charming cliff-side villages, Santorini offers a mix of verdant island landscape and well-maintained historic sites. It’s hard not to be awed by the views from Santorini’s high cliffs overlooking the sea-filled caldera, a large crater left by a volcanic explosion. Shore excursions range from visits to the ancient city of Akrotiri to the historic and scenic village of Oia.

Rome, Italy: One of the world’s most unforgettable cities, cruisers have a range of options when calling on Rome’s port. A simple walk through the city to see the sites can’t be beat, especially with a stop for a local meal. Must-sees include the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and St. Peter’s Basilica – to name just a few.

Ibiza, Spain: World famous for its club scene, Ibiza is the place to be for nightlife lovers. But there’s plenty more to this destination than the parties. The island is also full of beautiful and relaxing nature, from thick woods and rural areas to white-sand beaches with azure waters. Ibiza is also home to Unesco World Heritage sites such as Dalt Vila, the oldest part of Ibiza Town.

Amalfi, Italy: Sheer cliffs descending into stunning seas characterize Amalfi, one of the world’s most striking coastlines. Some of the most popular towns along the coast include Sorrento and Positano, with a luxurious atmosphere and stunning scenery. Breathe deeply to inhale the sweet smell of lemon trees, relax on the beach, or browse through small shops, galleries, and cafes in this port of call.