Virgin Voyages Mediterranean: 10 nights from Barcelona with Scarlet Lady
May 4, 2028

Cannes

Cannes is famous all over the world as the capital of cinema and it is the city of the movies stars and luxury. It is positioned between Nice and Antibes and offers a wide variety of touristic and cultural activities.
Cannes is also known for its beautiful beaches, its rich architecture, its mysteries and the history that confer the city a peculiar identity.

Cannes is in Côte d'Azur, on the Maritime Alps at a few kilometres far from Mandelieu la Napoule and close to the protected Esterel, known for its red rocks. On the east side there are Nice and Monaco and 60 kilometres far from the Italian boundary, there are Ventimiglia and Sanremo. On the upland of Cannes there is the city of Grasse, world capital of perfume.
In origin, the port of Cannes was positioned over a swamp. During the Middle Age, fishermen and monks settled down near Le Suquet and on Lérins Islands. In the XIX Century, the city started to spread its name. Lord Henry Brougham and Vaux, Chancellor of England, decided to settle in Cannes and started building sumptuous residences, drawing the attention of the aristocracy of all Europe. Cannes became rapidly a prestigious place known all over the world. From the castle on the top of a hill, you can enjoy a breath-taking view of the port. You can also find Castra Tower and a church dedicated to fishermen and sailors.
You cannot talk about Cannes without mentioning the famous Film Festival and the Palm d’Or, authentic symbol of the city. The Festival was launched in 1946 and it is one of the most famous cinematographic events in the world. The Festival takes place in the Palais des Festivals, at the end of the Boulevard de la Croisette.
The Film Festival, though, is not the only important event in Cannes. Other events give the rhythm to the life of the city, such as MIDEM MIPCOM, important for the music and television world. Also the International Festival of Pyrotechnic Arts, the International Festival of Game, the International Festival of Ballet and many more.
The best way to discover the beauty of Côte d'Azur and the surrounding area is a holiday in Cannes.

La Spezia

Located 100km south-est of Genoa, La Spezia has a large port where various cruises depart all year round. On Taoticket you will find all cruise itineraries that embark from the port of La Spezia in Western Mediterranean. Discover more information about this city!
The large and vively city of La Spezia is completely in contrast with the surrounding placid coastal villages and the rural hinterland. The city is located at the head of the Gulf of La Spezia, also known as the Gulf of Poets after Byron, Dante, DH Lawrence, Shelley, George Sand and others sought inspiration there. La Spezia is the ideal starting point for excursions to Portovenere, the Cinque Terre and Portofino.

Portovenere is located on a promontory at the end of the gulf, where there is a natural park that takes its name from there. It can be easily reached by ferry from the port of La Spezia and it is a tourist destination all year round. Since 1997, together with Palmaria Island, which is located in front of the town, it was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and scenic beauty. Portofino is a renowned and exclusive resort on the Ligurian Riviera, and it is not unusual to meet some celebrities strolling the village streets or sunbathing on their private yacht. Cinque Terre are formed by the villages of Monterosso, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola and Rio Maggiore. Easily accessible by sea or by train, they offer picturesque views of the coast and characteristic, brightly coloured houses. We recommend a stroll along the famous Via dell'Amore, which links Manarola and Rio Maggiore.

La Spezia: Gateway to the Italian Riviera and Beyond

Embark on an enchanting cruise from La Spezia, a strategic port city nestled in the heart of the Italian Riviera. This vibrant naval hub offers immediate access to the breathtaking Cinque Terre, the charming villages of Portovenere, and the artistic treasures of Tuscany. Before setting sail, explore La Spezia's beautiful gardens, naval museum, and lively waterfront. It provides a perfect blend of Italian charm and maritime history as your starting point for a Mediterranean adventure.

Mediterranean Dreams Set Sail from La Spezia

Cruises departing from La Spezia open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the sun-kissed coasts of France, the historical richness of Spain, or the ancient allure of Greece, La Spezia serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the picturesque Ligurian coast to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from La Spezia promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories of the Mediterranean.

Civitavecchia

The port town of Civitavecchia is about an hour away from the Italian capital and is where ships will dock before bringing lucky holidaymakers into the city of Rome. It is an important port for cruise ships and ferries, connecting to Corsica, Sardinia and Barcelona. Civitavecchia is a town in the heart of Lazio. It is a small, sleepy town that overlooks the sea from behind the busy and chaotic commercial port.

Spreading out along the coast, the town is situated between the Mignon river to the north and the Marangone river to the south.
Civitavecchia is a port town in the heart of Italy, in the province of Rome, 80 kilometres northwest of the capital.

It is shrouded in art and history, and is rich in bays and coves with sandy and rocky beaches. Today the town is the departure point for many cruises and journeys around the Mediterranean. It is an excellent tourist destination where you can simply enjoy 'la dolce vita' or visit the amazing historical monuments. On a level with the majestic ancient capital, in terms of its monuments, gardens, villas and works of art, it also gives you easy access to the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Terme della Ficoncella, and the Etruscan ruins.

Civitavecchia will guarantee you an original and enchanting experience.

Amalfi

Terraced cliffs with fragrant lemon groves mirrored down in shimmering seas; whitewashed villas precariously clinging to the harsh slopes while sea and sky merge into a vast blue horizon.

Terraced cliffs with fragrant lemon groves mirrored down in shimmering seas; whitewashed villas precariously clinging to the harsh slopes while sea and sky merge into a vast blue horizon.

Catania

Set sail from Catania for your Mediterranean Cruise Holiday. Discover on our website all departures with embarkation from Catania and visit Barcelona, Marseille and Naples on board the best cruise ships. The city's Baroque historic centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002.
Catania is a beautiful city on the east coast of Sicily, the second largest after Palermo, located at the foot of Europe's largest volcanic site: Mount Etna. Besides being really beautiful and full of tourist attractions, Catania is also a very important and complete city.
The hub of the city is the port, the main economic center of the region, and one of the busiest in Italy, it is bustling both day and night. An ideal city to enjoy the pleasures of life and savour true Mediterranean
gastronomy Catania will offer you magical moments. Visit the city's various markets, the colourful and lively Pescheria, where you will find the best fresh fish in town, or stop at the market in Piazza Carlo Alberto, also known as Fera'o Luni, where a characteristic flea market is also held on Sundays.
If you want a snack, don't miss the typical Sicilian cannoli with ricotta cheese or have breakfast with a Sicilian brioche and almond granita, a real treat for your palate before arriving at the port and embarking on your Mediterranean cruise from Catania.

Catania: A Sicilian Symphony for Your Cruise

Set sail from Catania, the vibrant baroque city at the foot of Mount Etna, on Sicily's eastern coast. This bustling port offers a dramatic backdrop for your cruise departure, blending ancient history with a dynamic modern spirit. Before embarking, explore the city's UNESCO-listed architecture, taste its famous street food, and gaze upon the majestic volcano. Catania provides a unique and culturally rich starting point for an unforgettable journey across the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean Wonders from the Heart of Sicily

Cruises departing from Catania offer diverse itineraries that span the enchanting Mediterranean. Whether you dream of exploring the Greek Isles, the historical cities of mainland Italy, or the sun-kissed coasts of North Africa, Catania serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Sicily to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. Each voyage from Catania promises breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences on the open water.

Valletta

Malta is one the smallest States in the Mediterranean. Few European countries have such a concentration of history, architecture and, beautiful beaches in such a small area. Malta is one of the most concentrated areas of historical interest anywhere in the world, for this reason it was called La Valletta when Unesco awarded it the title of World Heritage Site. The city is therefore the ideal city for art lovers and it is renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

One of the most concentrated areas of historical interest elements in the world, so La Valletta was described when Unesco awarded it the title of world heritage site, the city is therefore a guarantee for art lovers and certainly renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

Mykonos

Mykonos is an extremely fun and fascinating place, where the frenetic mix of vacationers, fashionistas and celebrities is magically subdued to the cubist charm of the old town.

Mykonos is famous for being a cosmopolitan destination among the Greek islands and widely recognized as one of the meccas of great tourism. It is one of the most touristy islands in the Aegean Sea. Mykonos tends to be extremely crowded with visitors in July and August. The best time to visit Mykonos is mid-May through June (early in the season, accommodation is much cheaper and it's not that hot), or from September to mid-October.

Athens

For many, Athens is a city lived two thousand five hundred years ago. Symbol is the mighty Acropolis which dominates almost every view and itinerary of every visitor, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, stands above the city, watching the sprawling modern metropolis in evolution.

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where antiquity and modernity, history and contemporary culture blend in a unique way. Everyone knows that the name of the city derives from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and justice. However, few people actually know the legend behind this event. According to myth, Athena and Poseidon, the God of the seas, vied for the right to name the city. Poseidon, to impress the inhabitants, gave them water, while Athena gave them an olive branch.

At first the choice fell on Poseidon, since the citizens considered water the most precious gift. When, once they tasted the water, they discovered that it was salty and not drinkable, they changed their minds and recognized Athena as their patron. One of the most famous historical sites in the city is the Acropolis, a majestic hill topped by ancient Doric temples, including the Parthenon, built in 477 BC. and the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC. Climbing the Acropolis, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Aegean Sea. However, Athens is not only history, but also a lively cultural capital. In the Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is possible to stroll through the welcoming streets, visit the traditional Greek taverns and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Then there are the numerous cultural activities offered by the numerous museums, galleries and theaters present in the city. Athens is an important port for cruise ships that offer trips to the Mediterranean and beyond. Cruises from Athens allow guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Greece, including the islands of Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, where you can admire the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and a coast of white houses.

In addition to the Greek islands, cruises from Athens also offer the opportunity to visit other exciting Mediterranean destinations, including historic cities in Italy, Croatia and Turkey. Athens is therefore not only the historical and cultural center of Greece, but also an important starting point for cruises in the Mediterranean, which offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the great history and splendid landscapes of this unique region.

Many still think of Athens as an ancient city that thrived two and a half thousand years ago. Its symbol is the mighty Acropolis, which dominates almost every view and the itinerary of every visitor, and it is crowned by the iconic Parthenon, which rises above the city, overlooking the sprawling and evolving modern metropolis.

Perhaps the most significant change is in the historical centre, which is almost unrecognisable since cars have been banned. This has liberated the area with the most significant archaeological sites, creating the longest, and undoubtedly one of the most splendid, pedestrianised zones in Europe. This huge archaeological park has brought past and present together, returning the cultural and social life of the city to the area around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Athens remains a city of contradictions; it is both frustrating and seductive. It is the oldest city in Europe, yet still in a state of transition. It is one of the safest and most vibrant European cities - an intoxicating mix of grunge and grace with an undeniably urban soul.