Mediterranean Cruises to visit Unesco World Heritage

The Mediterranean Sea almost seems to have been designed for Cruises. With 191 different islands in the region and moderate balmy temperatures, the sheer beauty of this part of the world is a joy in itself. Experiencing the culture and gastronomy from the deck of a ship is indulgence at its best. Stopping at numerous ports-of-call to experience each city and exploring different cultures and iconic landmarks is an adventure each time you get to shore.

As well as the onboard experience on the ship, cities with UNESCO World Heritage sites await you.

Mediterranean Cruises & Culture

Let’s take a look at some of the highlights and you might be tempted to book yourself on one of the 5 star Mediterranean Cruises that set off throughout the year.  Barcelona, Valletta and

Barcelona

Catalonia’s hub of culture, arts, dining and shopping, there is always much fun to be had in Barcelona. One of the main highlights of the city is the UNESCO work of famous architect Antoni Gaudi. From the Sagrada Familia, to Park Guell or the Casa Batlló house, you must take a tour of these eccentric but truly wonderful sights. You can soak up the atmosphere by taking a walk down the Ramblas. Walk past street artists and stop off at little flower stands. Just be sure to keep your bags out of sight from pickpockets!

This Barcelona street is also the entrance to the bustling La Boqueria. The central food market, full of fresh fruits, fish and drinks. Take a wander around and treat your senses to the smells, sights and sounds of local life.

If you just want to take it easy, Barceloneta Beach is a perfect spot for sunbathing.

Valletta

The capital city of small but perfectly formed Malta, Valletta has a long history that you’ll want to discover. UNESCO named the city a World Heritage Site, saying that it is, ‘’one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world’. Start your exploration by visiting the St John’s Co-Cathedral with its opulent 16th century decor.

Then head to Grand Master’s Palace, which was once residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St John. Here you can see the impressive armour and weaponry that the knights once used. After that head underground and make your way around the chambers and passages of the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum necropolis.

Naples

Italy’s third largest city, Naples offers wonderful art and architecture. The historical centre is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the city’s oldest street market, La Pignasecca. Piazza Bellini is a brilliant place to stop off and take in your surroundings with a coffee — you’ll be sitting in a modern bar, surrounded by 4th-century Greek ruins.

Close to Naples there are also some beautiful Italian Islands worth discovering too. This city is a historical hotspot, so you’ll find a surprising flash back in time at every turn.

Have a look around Cattedrale di Sant’Agatabaroque, a baroque style chapel then carry on a journey back in time by walking around Italy’s third largest ancient amphitheatre, Anfiteatro Flavio. Visit the Castel Nuovo on a guided tour to learn about this historical site before heading back onboard.

The best part of a Mediterranean Cruises is climbing back on board the ship and talking over what you saw with your fellow passengers, all ready for the next adventure at the following port of call. One of the best things about a cruise holiday is that you’ll also have time to fit in a massage and gourmet meal too while sailing on to your next destination.

©PONANT