Windstar Cruises Mediterranean: 24 nights from Lisbon with Star Explorer
Sep 7, 2027

Lisbon

Perched on steep slopes overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon offers all the pleasures you'd expect from Portugal's main attraction.

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon (in Portuguese Lisboa) has experienced a great rebirth in recent years, with a lively and flourishing contemporary culture. Perched on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is one of the rare European cities that face the ocean and use water as an element that defines the city. Lisbon enchants travelers with its white limestone buildings, intimate alleys and an ancient charm that makes it a popular destination all year round.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a port city with wide boulevards, squares and gardens with an atmosphere rich in history

Cadiz is an elegant city offering buildings dated back to XVIII and XIX Centuries. The City has a long and charming history: discover its monuments, the museums and all the amazing places where you can taste good food and have a drink. What makes Cadiz special it’s the people that are open, have a great culture and are independent. The majority of them enjoy life and the company of their friends in the many bars and squares of the city.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a port city with wide boulevards, squares and gardens with an atmosphere rich in history

Cadiz is an elegant city offering buildings dated back to XVIII and XIX Centuries. The City has a long and charming history: discover its monuments, the museums and all the amazing places where you can taste good food and have a drink. What makes Cadiz special it’s the people that are open, have a great culture and are independent. The majority of them enjoy life and the company of their friends in the many bars and squares of the city.

Tanger

The city of Tangier (in Arabic طنجة, Tanja; in Latin Tingis) is a port in northern Morocco. Located at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, at the meeting point between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean, the beautiful Tangier presents an unforgettable landscape that for centuries has attracted generations of artists, including Eugène Delacroix, Camille Saint-Saëns, Pierre Loti and Paul Morand. With its temperate climate, important vegetation, its luminosity and the strip of beach that extends for 3 km in a distinct way, Tangier seduces thousands of tourists every year. Its history makes it a mythical city, a land of relentless occupations and colonizations. The Old Medina preserves memories of Muslim influence: as soon as you cross the threshold, you will be assailed by the smells and perfumes of the Grand Socco literally known as the great soukh. Merchants in traditional costume will convince you to buy traditional clothes of the country and genuine leather products. A few meters away, you can also admire the Sidi Bou Abid Mosque, a favorite attraction for visitors. But be careful: entry to this place of worship is forbidden to non-Muslims. On the contrary, the modern city of Tangier, has preserved the French architectural experience, distinguishing itself The Grand Café de Paris, one of its fundamental pillars. Tangier is certainly one of those cities that must be deeply known to discover its wonders.

Cartagena De Indias

The City is a fairytale of romanticism, legends and pure beauty. Cartagena de Indias is an exciting place you will fall in love with.

The city was one of the first sanctuaries of African slaves freed in the America and is today populated by an ethnic melting pot of Colombian varieties. It is a vivid city, the ideal place if you are looking for something different from the usual touristic routine. To immerge in the city, you just have to have a walk through Cartagena’s labyrinth of cobblestones alleys, where huge balconies are wrapped by bugainvilles and massive churches cast their shadows on the tree-lined squares. Take your time and relax in one of the many cafes in Cartagena.

Valencia

Welcome to Valencia, it’s the Mediterranean gem where history, culture and nature merge into stunning beauty and harmony. This magnificent city is located on Spain’s eastern coast, captivating with its vibrant streets, amazing festivals and rich historical heritage, making you want to buy a vacation house.

Valencia is renowned for its magnificent architectural landmarks, with the iconic Cathedral of the Holy Spirit standing out as a symbol of the city. One of Valencia's most famous symbols is "La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias" (The City of Arts and Sciences) - a modern complex of architectural masterpieces designed by the great architect Santiago Calatrava. This complex includes museums, an aquarium, cinemas, an opera house and much more.

Valencia is a true paradise for food lovers. As the birthplace of paella, here you can savor the best examples of Spanish cuisine, fresh seafood and flavorful tapas. You should also try horchata, a traditional drink made from almonds, sugar and water.

Additionally, the city is famous for its celebrations and festivals, such as the renowned Las Fallas Festival. During this event, enormous cardboard and wooden figures are erected throughout the city and then burned in a festive bonfire. This festival attracts thousands of tourists from around the world.

Valencia is also a perfect starting point for Mediterranean cruises. Aboard a cruise liner, you can enjoy luxurious amenities and entertainment while traveling to the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean.

 

Valencia: Spain's Vibrant Gateway to the Mediterranean

Set sail from Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, a dynamic port where ancient traditions meet futuristic marvels. With its stunning City of Arts and Sciences, historic Old Town, and beautiful urban beaches, Valencia offers a captivating and diverse starting point for your Mediterranean cruise. Before embarking, savor its world-famous paella, explore the central market, and immerse yourself in its vibrant street life. Valencia provides a perfect blend of culture, innovation, and sun-drenched charm, making it an ideal gateway for your Spanish and Mediterranean adventures.

Mediterranean Dreams Set Sail from Valencia

Cruises departing from Valencia open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the sun-kissed coasts of the Balearic Islands, the historical richness of Italy, the romantic allure of France, or the exotic shores of North Africa, Valencia serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Spain to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Valencia promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a jewel enclosed between sea and mountains, an en plein air museum to be discovered. Catalonia is an autonomous region whose indipendence has long been a subject of debate and is still a topic that divides opinion in the country. The region has its own language, culture and history, most visible in its Roman ruins, Gothic cathedral and modernist buildings. The city of Barcelona is the emblem of this unique culture. Barcelona is the most cosmopolitan city in Spain and one of the most busiest port in the Mediterranean. In summer, the beautiful beaches of this city are a magnet for beach lovers. Beautiful beaches are not the only the reason why Barcelon is one of the most loved destionations for tourists. 

The city is a symbol of the the artistic, culinary and cultural avant-garde: visit the Sagrada Familia and the other visionary architectural works of Antoni Gaudi, La Pedrera, Casa Batlllò or Park Guell. For sports lovers, a visit to Camp Nou is not to be missed, while for art lovers here is the Picasso Museum, the Caixa Forum, the MNAC or the Miró Museum. If you want to taste the local cuisine, restaurants and bars are the right choice. They are always crowded as the sea in summer. An holiday aboard a cruise offers the opportunity to visit this beautiful city and immerse yourself in this unique atmosphere.

Palamos

Port Vendres

Sanary Sur Mer

Sanary-sur-Mer, located on the Mediterranean coast of France, is a delightful destination for cruise passengers wishing to discover the charm of Provence. Here are some of the main attractions that this charming seaside village has to offer:

1. The Old Port: The beating heart of Sanary-sur-Mer is its picturesque harbor, where you can admire colorful boats and luxurious yachts. A walk along the harbor offers spectacular views and the opportunity to savor the relaxed atmosphere of the place.

2. Open-air market: Sanary-sur-Mer hosts one of the most lively open-air markets in the region, famous for its fresh local products, including fruit, vegetables, cheeses and flowers. The market is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the colors and flavors of Provence.

3. Church of Saint Nazaire: This Gothic church, located near the port, is known for its magnificent stained glass windows and imposing architecture. It is a place of peace that reflects the deep religious history of the region.

4. Island tours: Several boat tours depart from Sanary-sur-Mer to explore the surrounding islands, such as the Embiez and Bendor islands. These excursions offer splendid opportunities for swimming in crystal clear waters and discovering preserved natural environments.

5. Beaches: The beaches around Sanary-sur-Mer are known for their beauty and tranquility. Beaches like Plage de Portissol offer a perfect retreat to relax, sunbathe and take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean.

6. Diving Museum: For maritime history enthusiasts, the Diving Museum in Sanary-sur-Mer offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of diving equipment with a unique collection of historical artifacts.

 

Montecarlo

Monte Carlo (in French Monte-Carlo, in Monegasque Monte-Carlu), sometimes referred to as Montecarlo, is the central part of the city-state of the Principality of Monaco, and constitutes one of its four traditional districts. Monte Carlo is known for its casino, beaches, skyscrapers, fashion, and for being the chosen residence of several famous personalities.

The Monte-Carlo district is bordered to the northeast by the Larvotto and La Rousse / Saint Romain districts, to the northwest by the La Condamine and Saint Michel districts, and to the north by France, now forming a single urban agglomeration with the French commune of Beausoleil.

Montecarlo is known for its casino, beaches, skyscrapers, fashion and for being elected as a place of residence by several famous people.

The Monte-Carlo district borders the Larvotto and La Rousse / Saint Romain districts to the north-east, the La Condamine and Saint Michel districts to the north-west and France to the north, now constituting a single urban agglomeration with the French municipality of Beausoleil.

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.

Genoa

Genoa is one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean and it welcomes a large numbers of commercial ships and cruise ships. Discover on Taoticket all cruises that depart from Genoa, there are departures all year round, with itineraries from 3 up to 100 nights! You will surely find the cruise that suits you best, discover our departures from Genoa.

Located between sea and land and with a lively port, Genoa powerfully and humbly displays its glorious past, the many palaces in its extensive medieval old town and the ancient terraced hills. The best way to visit Genoa is by walking. All attractions are near the port: the historic city center, via Balbi near railway station in Piazza Principe or Acquarium, the most famous in Italy and the largest one in Europe. Lose your way in the characteristic Caruggi (the alleyways of the old part of the city) and let yourself be carried away by exotic scents, stalls and craft shops, until you reach the majestic Piazza de Ferrari. From here you can do shopping in the central via XX Settembre (20th September Street) or discover the hidden corners of the city, ready to reveal surprises at any step.

We suggest to have an aperitif or eat an ice cream in Piazza delle Erbe, near Piazza Matteotti. If your stop in the city is long enough, you can admire exhibitions and art expositioins in Palazzo Ducale, one of
the most impressive buildings in Genoa. Do not loose the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, where is kept an unexploded bomb from War World II. Genoese cuisine is very rich and tasty, try the Farinata di Ceci (chickpea flatbread) or a piece of the tasty
and renowned Genoese Focaccia! You can choose to stop at one of the many trattorias in the historic center that offer fixed-price menus to try a plate of Trofiette al Pesto, Pansoti al Sugo di Noci and much more, or enjoy your sandwich in the sun on the benches of the Porto Antico admiring the Lantern in all its splendour.

Genoa: The Historical Heart of Mediterranean Cruises

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Genoa, a majestic port city nestled on the Ligurian coast, renowned for its rich maritime history and architectural splendor. As the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa offers a captivating blend of ancient alleys, grand palaces, and a vibrant contemporary scene. Before setting sail, explore the Aquarium of Genoa, wander through the UNESCO-listed Strade Nuove, and savor the local pesto. Genoa provides a truly authentic Italian experience as your gateway to the Mediterranean's most captivating destinations.

Mediterranean Wonders Await from Genoa

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

Portoferraio

Portoferraio is a small town in Elba and is a touristic resort all year round. According to mythology, it was Portoferraio the place where the Argonauts arrived, the Greek heroes that were in search of the golden fleece.

The name “Portoferraio” derives from the mines that enriched this area during the XIX Century. Napoleon Bonaparte moved to Portoferraio in 1815 and changed it radically, transforming it in a huge construction site in order to turn it into a real pearl. Napoleon benefit from the industry and also enriched the town with public works that made it even more beautiful. Portoferraio, then, became property of Granducato di Toscana.
In Portoferraio there are many proofs of Napoleon’s life. Here, you can visit San Marino Residence and Villa dei Mulini.
The landscape of this town is fascinating even before reaching it: its bastions make it look like a fortress overlooking the sea, jealously hiding the old town centre. The city offers an important Archeologic Museum that holds many evidences of the past and that is an unmissable destination for the subject enthusiasts.

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.

Sorrento

According to a Greek legend, it was in the waters of Sorrento that the mythical Sirens once lived. Like them, this location is able to bewitch its visitors.

Dating back to Greek times, Sorrento's strong point is its fabulous location. Straddling cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius, it is ideally located for exploring the surrounding areas: the best of the uncontaminated countryside, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and the archaeological sites and the fabulous island of Capri.

Giardini-Naxos

Giardini-Naxos (Giaddini or Giaddina in Sicilian) is an Italian municipality in the province of Messina in Sicily. Formerly called Nasso, it is 40 km from Messina and 39 km from Catania. In 1978, "Naxos" was added to the old name of the town ("Giardini").

Kotor

The Adriatic Sea penetrates the jagged coast of Montenegro and winds between high mountains until it meets the exquisite and walled medieval city of Kotor.

Along the Adriatic coast of the former Yugoslavia, we find one of the most unique and fascinating European coastal areas, the city hidden in Montenegro, Kotor.
Located at the bottom of a bay, the beautiful medieval city of Kotor is considered a Mediterranean location surrounded by cliffs and an interesting historic wall. The tourist attractions of Kotor are easily reached with a pleasant walk. This small walled city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has compact dimensions that make it comfortable and easy to visit.

The central part of Kotor was built between the XII and XIV centuries. A historic center surrounded by a rather thick wall, four and a half kilometers long and fifteen meters high. This immense fortified wall reaches the bastion of Sveti Ivan (San Giovanni).
Inside the walls, it preserves an urban network cut into the stone. Its most emblematic work is the Cathedral of San Trifone, built in the 12th century. Inside the church it contains objects and frescoes sculpted during the 14th century. Furthermore, The Orthodox Church of San Nicolas, built between 1902 and 1909 in neo-Byzantine style and that of San Luca (13th century) built in Romanesque and Byzantine style.

Together with the churches, the city includes many palaces that tell its history: the Maritime Museum, located in the Grgurina Palace, a splendid baroque building located in the historic center of the country. The Drago house, with its beautiful Gothic windows, the Prima building, where Renaissance and Baroque lines are combined, the Ducal Palace and the Bizanti, both from the 17th century and the Napoleonic theater in the 19th century.
In Kotor, it is very common to see locals located along the rocky coast in the lower part of the city. In the old part of the area you will find many shops and restaurants that will delight your eyes. This location is the classic ideal city to spend quiet days or for a romantic getaway.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is definitely special. A magnificent curtain wall surrounds marble streets and Baroque buildings exude a pearly light in the Adriatic sun.

Picturesque and artistic, Dubrovnik is a tourist hotspot and port in southern Dalmatia, at the foot of the Srđ mountain. From a historical and cultural point of view, it has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Thanks to its beauty and everything it has on offer for tourists, Dubrovnik is one of the most attractive destinations in the Mediterranean, so much so that the city can be visited all year round. In addition to its world-famous architectural heritage, this place has beautiful rocky beaches, pebble beaches and sandy beaches, enjoys a Mediterranean climate and also has lush vegetation. The main pedestrian street, Placa, is a melange of cafes and shops with monuments at each end.

Churches, monasteries and museums adorned with finely carved stone, recall an eventful history and a rich artistic tradition. Beyond the city there is a paradise of beaches, wooded peninsulas and a crystal-clear sea dotted with lush islands.

The city is also known for its delicious cuisine and its infrastructure of hotels for tourists. The city offers a wide selection of first-class restaurants, numerous sport and leisure activities, as well as cultural and entertainment events

Rovinj

Venice

Setting sail from Venice on a cruise ship is unique and unforgettable. Discover all the cruises that depart from Venice for a great start to your holiday!

Venice it is one of the golden destinations of our age. A unique city of 120 islands, with an ancient history and endless waterways, it attracts a constant flow of tourists from all over the world to see its inspiring architecture and navigate its canals.

There are many souvenirs you can bring home from Venice, but the most lasting memory will be your impression of the city itself.