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Best Things to Do in Valletta, Malta on Cruise Day in Port

What are the best cruise excursions to do in Valletta, Malta, with only one day in port? Here are our recommendations to make the most of your cruise day in Valletta, starting in this ancient and fascinating cruise port in the western Mediterranean . 

Best Things to Do in Valletta, Malta

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Getting Around in Valletta

Valletta, the capital of the small independent island of Malta, is one of three islands in the Maltese Archipelago. It is located in the western Mediterranean, 52 miles south of Sicily. Your ship docks fairly close to the old walled city. Even though it’s a short walk (about 20 minutes), keep in mind that Malta was inhabited over 5,000 years ago.

English is commonly spoken in Malta, mainly because it was a British colony from 1813 until the end of World War II. Italian is also commonly spoken because of the island’s proximity to Italy, and Catholicism is the major religion.

The currency in Malta is the Euro, and yes, shopping in Valletta is excellent and pricey. 

Life on Malta dates back over 5,000 years to around 3000 BCE. Ancient temple ruins dot the island and may be seen from some of the roads. Shore excursions can take you around the island to view many of these megalithic sights as well as include a visit to Mdina, the historic Old Town of Malta.

Many of the sidewalks are ancient cobblestone, stairways aren’t always level, and even the main shopping area has somewhat uneven terrain. When you visit Valletta, you might want to arrange for a taxi from your ship or take one of the colorful horse and buggy rides to the interior.

Another walled city over 3,000 years old, you’ll want to pay a visit to Mdina Cathedral . The cathedral and cathedral museum house a collection of oil paintings and frescoes, woodcuts by Albrecht Dürer, and beautiful inlaid marble floors.

One of the best things to do back in Valletta, Malta, especially for art enthusiasts, is to head over to St. John’s Co-Cathedral in the center of town. Inside this cathedral is a small museum with several works by Caravaggio. Many of the Knights of the Order of St. John of Malta are buried in this very important cathedral.

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Shopping in Valletta, Malta

Shoppers will find delicately woven Maltese lace, blown glass, and even brass door knockers throughout the island. Silver filigree jewelry and locally made pottery are also popular among tourists. The central shopping area in Valletta is located inside the walls, along Republic and Merchant Streets.

Many of the shops close between 1 pm – 4 pm and reopen until 7 pm. If you’re on a morning shore excursion, you may not have a lot of time to shop.

Where to Eat and Drink in Valletta, Malta

Once again, because of the island’s proximity to Sicily, Italian fare rules the roost. Local specialties include bragioli—spicy beef and olive rolls—and rabbit stew.

Tourists tend to favor traditional pizza and pasta choices but shouldn’t miss a taste of the locally produced cheese, Gbejniet, usually served in soup. Lampuki Pie (fish pie) and Kapunata, (Maltese ratatouille) are also good lunch choices.

If you decide to walk back to the ship, waterfront cafés dot the promenade and make for a nice finish to your day. Taxis are also available for the short distance back to the ship. Be sure to have Euros with you in case the taxi does not accept credit cards. A 10% tip for taxi rides and restaurant servers is standard.

Places to See in Valletta, Malta

St. john’s co-cathedral- valletta, malta.

Also called the Church of the Knights of the Order of St. John, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is located on St. John Street. Completed in 1577 and dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the cathedral is one of the most significant buildings on the island.

An excellent way to see Valletta, Malta, and the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is on a city walking tour with the Cathedral included. We did it, and it was incredible.

The interior was decorated in the “new” Baroque style, ornate and similar to the palaces in Europe. St. John’s is the owner of the largest collection and the most important work by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, on display in the Caravaggio Centre.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Take a stroll through the beautiful grounds of what was once the private gardens of the Italian Knights. Overlooking the Grand Harbour, you can view the fortress towns of Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittorosa.

National Museum  of Fine Arts

Located downtown, this museum is housed in an 18th-century palace. Inside, you’ll find possessions of the Order of St John, including furniture, sculptures, and the world-renowned artworks of Carpaccio, Michelino, and Tintoretto. Local Maltese artists also have their works on display.

When you’re walking through the Old Town in Valletta, remember to pay attention to the architecture.

The short walk to the ship can seem like miles at the end of the day, especially in summer. Treat yourself to a horse and buggy ride back to the ship.

Whether you choose your cruise shore excursion to tour the island or spend the day on your own in the Old Town, a cruise visit to Valletta, Malta, takes you to one of the most unique ports of call in Europe .

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Hi Angus, Lucky you…on both counts…Viking Sun AND a visit to Valletta! Have a wonderful cruise. It sounds like you’ve been there before.

We’ll be there in April on Viking Sun. Beautiful city.

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Valletta, Malta

The Fortress City of Valletta, Malta's capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect place to start your Malta adventure. Verdant gardens overlook an island topped with medieval castles, forts, the Grand Harbor, minarets and Baroque churches. Many tours visit the Grandmaster's Palace, home to the country's government since it was built in 1571, as well as the must-see St. John's Co-Cathedral and Museum, which displays two of Caravaggio's masterpieces. Various outings stop in the walled town of Mdina (the former capital), where you can shop and dine along quaint streets and tour a hand-blown glass factory for up-close looks into the production of the island specialty. The clear-blue Mediterranean waters welcome divers for excursions among artificial reefs, WWII military wreckage and-most famously-underwater caves.

Leave the airport and head southwest onto Vjal L-Avjazzjoni. At the first roundabout, take the 1st exit to stay on Vjal l-Avjazzjoni, then at the next one, take the 3rd exit onto Triq Il-Kunsill Tal-Ewropa. Continue on this road for 1.5km, and it will turn into Aldo Moro Rd. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Triq Dicembru 13, and continue for 1.3km. At the roundabout, continue straight onto Moll ic-Cangaturi, which turns into Triq I-Ghassara ta' I-Gheneb. Drive 1km and reach your destination.

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Malta is strategically positioned in the centre of the Mediterranean offering endless possibilities for Eastern and Western itineraries.

Step off the ship immediately onto the neighbouring Valletta Waterfront, an award-winning and favourite landmark on the Island of Malta. There are nineteen beautifully restored 18th century warehouses and bastions, built during the late Baroque period.

Malta's convenient size makes everything witin close proximity. Whether for homeporting or turnaround operations, Valletta Cruise Port is just minutes away from Malta International Airport.

Valletta Cruise Port Vault 1, Upper Floor, Pinto Wharf, Valletta Waterfront, Floriana FRN 1913, Malta

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Valletta (Malta)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-04-29 04:23

Port Valletta cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Valletta, Malta. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Valletta is the principal seaport and capital city of Malta (island country in the central Mediterranean Sea, southern Europe). Malta Island is located midway between North Africa and Sicily Island (Italy). Since 1974, Malta is a British Commonwealth nation. The other Malta cruise port is Mgarr Harbour (on Gozo Island) .

The cruise port is located within the Grand Harbour (port locode MTMLA), which is a natural deepwater harbor waterway.

The Valletta Cruise Port is a subsidiary company of Global Ports Holding. In December 2023, Valletta Cruise Port officially started to provide shore-side power supply to berthed vessels. The first ship ( Viking Saturn ) connected to Boiler Wharf's shore-power system on December 1st. By this project (budgeted EUR 50 million), the Port now provides electricity (from the city's power grid) at the Grand Harbour's five cruise quays.

Valletta Malta is also the port of registry/flag state for many cruise vessels including riverboats.

A fast-ferry service Mgarr/Gozo-Valletta is provided by two companies - Gozo Fast Ferry, and Virtu Ferries. Both operators offer 45-min crossings via high-speed catamaran ferries with max passenger capacity 300. The Gozo-Valletta distance is approx 43 km (27 mi).

La Valletta City was founded by the 49th Grand Master of Knights of St John - Jean Parisot de Valette (1495-1568). Most of the town's medieval structures still remain.

In 2015, Port Valletta handled 668,277 cruise passengers (29% increase over 2014). The cruise port in 2016 reported a record year with a total of 682,222 cruisers (embarking passengers were excluded), or 2% increase over 2015. During 2016, the port was booked by 42 different cruise shipping operators and 81 different vessels. In 2016, Gozo Island received 19 cruise ship calls and around 7,000 passengers.

In 2017, Port Valletta handled 330 cruiseship calls and 700,000+ tourists. With P&O UK 's ship Oceana in the Mediterranean during 2017 season, the port had scheduled 27 calls and over 100,000 passengers via P&O's fly-cruise deals (fares inclusive of flights from UK to Malta and back). The port also had another 5 calls with additional 10,000 passengers (visiting Valletta as port of call).

In 2017, Valletta welcomed its 700,000 cruiser. He arrived on MSC Meraviglia and received a free 3-day Malta vacation package for 2. The package (courtesy of Malta Tourism Authority) was inclusive of flights and a 2-night luxury hotel (provided by The Saint John Hotel). By the end of 2017, the cruise port reported a record year with handled 340 ship calls and around 780,000 passengers. For season 2017, here were homeported liners from the fleets of P&O UK and TUI . In 2017, Malta's inbound tourism results totalled nearly 2,3 million (15,7% increase over 2016). Total overnights in Malta increased by 10,3%. The tourism industry contributed EUR 1,9 billion to country's economy. As demographics, most cruise ship tourists are from North America (USA and Canada).

For 2018, Valletta City was designated "European Capital of Culture". In 2018, Port Valletta handled nearly 800,000 cruise tourists. Season's highlights included Seabourn Ovation 's christening ceremony (held here on May 11).

In 2019 (a record year) were handled 906,000+ cruise passengers via 373 ship calls. Season 2019 included roundtrip departures by P&O UK and TUI liners, representing ~31% homeportng operations.

In the post-COVID 2022, the cruise port handled nearly 530,000 passengers.

For 2023, the Port reported ~65% increase (over 2022) in handled passenger movements (~900,000). The industry contributed ~EUR 85 million to the Maltese economy, of which EUR 32M in cruise tourists spending and EUR 53M in cruise lines spending.

Valletta cruise terminal

Valletta Cruise Port is managed by Global Ports Holding Plc (GPH) - currently ranked the world's largest cruise port terminal operator with lease agreements in the regions of Europe-Mediterranean, Caribbean, Asia-Pacific.

Cruise ships dock at Valletta Waterfront pier in Valletta Harbour. Currently, the cruise port offers 7 ship berths, of which 4 are within a 15-min walk from city center. In 2020 was inaugurated an extended quay with capacity to handle larger vessels.

Ther terminal features 250-year-old warehouses from the baroque era. This is the city's historical Quay Wall where merchant vessels used to dock and unload their cargo.

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7 Night Cruise to the Western Mediterranean

10 night cruise to the mediterranean.

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11 Night Cruise to the Western Mediterranean

• You want a cruise with tons of fun for the entire family
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• You dislike crowds or lines; you can find both on Norwegian Escape
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10 Night Cruise to the Western Mediterranean

116 night cruise to around the world.

• You want plenty of choice on a more traditionally styled ship
• You love open deck space; this ship has lots to go around
• You enjoy a wide array of family-friendly entertainment choices
• You've cruised on Coral Princess and loved the experience
• You want cabins with ultra-luxe features and amenities

11 Night Cruise to the Mediterranean

• You like to be entertained, but love a classic cruise atmosphere
• You enjoy using the spa; Oosterdam's thermal suite is soothing
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11 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want to dine at any time and wherever you want, at no extra cost
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7 Night Cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean

• You want a small-ship expedition with plenty of French chic
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45 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

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42 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

5 night cruise to the mediterranean, 5 night cruise to transatlantic.

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6 Night Cruise to the Mediterranean

12 night cruise to europe.

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Weekend Cruise from Malta - Norwegian Epic

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Departure: 22/9 2024

Activities From top to bottom and from bow to stern, Norwegian Epic has enough onboard activities to fill every minute of your cruise. Think you're brave? Visit Aqua Park and feel the exhilaration as you slide down 200 feet on The Epic Plunge - the only bowl slide at sea. Heat up your day or night at Spice H20, our adults-only beach club at the back of the ship. Wanna get lucky? Bet it all at our award-winning Casinos at Sea®. And when all is said and done, enjoy a pamper session at Mandara Spa. With so much to do, we'll always have you coming back for more.

Day 1: Malta

Embarkation on Norwegian Epic at Malta port. The ship departs at 22:00

Day 2: Messina, Italy

The ship arrives at Messina port at 08:00 and departs at 18:00

The third largest city on the island of Sicily, Messina welcomes cruise ship visitors with its lovely harbor, extraordinary architecture (much of which miraculously survived a horrendous earthquake and tidal wave in 1908) and wonderful food. Stroll through Messina's Piazza Cairoli taking in magnificent fountains and cathedrals, or sip Marsala wine at a sidewalk cafe. 

Messina, the third biggest city in Sicily, includes sights such as the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, Fontana di Nettuno and the Fort of San Salvatore.

The city was recently ranked by Forbes amongst the top five cities in the world with great street food. It was also elected the European Capital of Street Food.

Day 3: Naples, Italy

The ship arrives at Naples port at 06:30 and departs at 16:30

Cruise to Naples, located on Italy's stunning Amalfi coast, a city rich in history. A tour around Naples' grand piazzas, cathedrals and castles in the old centre will take you back centuries.

Pompeii is not too far either, a dashing city which boasts diverse cultural offerings and charming streets. Buildings, churches, streets, ancient fortresses and castles in the sea, as well as natural caves make Naples unforgettable. Pizza was invented in Naples, Italy. The margherita pizza, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella, was named after Queen Margherita. The Funicular in Naples is one of the longest funicular lines in the world. 

Day 4: Livorno, Florence, Italy

The ship arrives at Livorno port at 09:00 and departs at 20:30

How lucky to visit the Tuscan region, Florence & Pisa, resplendent in art and history. What's even more fortunate is that all the main attractions in Florence are centrally located for the perfect walking tour. See Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo and Michelangelo's David.

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, symbolizes the wealth and power of Italy's golden age more than any other city in Italy. It offers much more than the famous leaning tower. The Leaning Tower was designed many centuries ago as a Campanile - a free-standing bell tower of Pisa Cathedral. Although designed to be standing vertically, the tower started to lean the southeast direction shortly after its construction began. Cathedral of Santa Marla Del Flore is the second largest cathedral in the world, capable of holding 3,000 people. Begun in 1296, it took 140 years to complete.

Day 5: Rome, Civitavecchia port

The ship arrives at Civitavecchia port at 06:00. Transfer to Rome airport. 

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Cruises to Valletta, Malta

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On a cruise to Valletta, Malta, the city’s is immediately striking. It’s a cultural hub for Baroque art, museums, and historic sites. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, limestone architecture pops against the year-round temperate sun. This mix makes Valletta perfect for an intellectually stimulating but relaxing stop on any Mediterranean cruises . Valletta was even named a “European Capital of Culture” in 2018 by the EU.

The historic downtown is easily walkable, and while there’s certainly more than a day’s worth of activities, you’ll get a sense of Valletta’s elegance in no time. Take a tour of the intricate St. John’s Co-Cathedral, built between 1572-1577 and every bit as elaborate as hundreds of years ago. Walk along the Grand Harbor for views of the Mediterranean sea, then stop in at an outdoor cafe or wine bar along the harbor for a bite. Or, take a ferry to the island of Gozo for hiking, swimming, and sunbathing along the area’s red-sand beaches.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to valletta, st. john’s co-cathedral.

Take a tour of the ornate church to discover its significance in Valletta’s history. Art lovers will find plenty to awe and inspire on a Valletta cruise stop. Inside this 16th century Baroque cathedral, you’ll see some of Caravaggio’s most famous paintings, including The Beheading of St. John the Baptist .

Grandmaster’s Palace

After your tour of St. John’s Co-Cathedral, head to the Grandmaster’s Palace nearby, just blocks away. The exterior is stately, but the interior of the Grandmaster’s Palace is nothing short of opulent, and the Parliament of Malta met in the building until 2015. Walk around the Palace and its grounds for a step back into the 16th century.

Grand Harbor

Valletta owes much of its development to its seaside location and its strategic importance throughout history. While you’re in the capital city on your Valletta cruise, be sure. Your views of the Mediterranean sea, dotted with white limestone and ships in the distance, is unbeatable.

Fort St. Elmo

Fans of military history will find much to see at Fort St. Elmo, which is also now home to the National War Museum. Check out military memorabilia or take an audio tour of the museum, where you’ll learn about the various ways the fort has guarded Valletta’s harbor, including enduring a brutal siege in 1565 by the Turks. Admission is only €10 for adults.

Learn More About Valletta Shore Excursions

Top things to do in valletta, see the upper barrakka gardens.

Slow down for a bit with a walk through the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where you’ll catch a panoramic view of the Grand Harbor from the terrace of these well-maintained public gardens. Entrance into the garden is free, and they are open from 7am until 10pm, so you can enjoy the gardens for sunrise and sunset any day.

Check Out the National Museum of Fine Arts

The National Museum of Fine Arts in Valletta is home to some of Malta’s most influential artists as well as historic art from European painters and sculptors. The museum is known for its comprehensive Baroque selection.

Take a Tour of the Island of Gozo

Gozo is a perfect day trip from Valletta for all kinds of outdoor activities from scuba diving to hiking. After your ship docks on your cruise to Valletta, Malta, take a car or bus to Cirkewwa. From there, a half-hour ferry will get you to Gozo, where you can see the nearly 100-foot tall limestone arch called the Azure Window, or swim the extra clear waters of Blue Lagoon. 

Walk Along the Valletta Waterfront

The Valletta waterfront is rarely crowded and always atmospheric. Take a stroll down the promenade, where many of the warehouse buildings have been repurposed, and grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants on the Marsamxett Harbor.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Valletta Cruise Port

Address: 117/119 Santa Lucia Street, Valletta, Malta  

For a true hole-in-the-wall wine bar, head to Legligin for a relaxed night out in Valletta. It’s wine selection is unmatched, and the menu changes regularly based on seasonality and what’s on hand in the kitchen. Past dishes like octopus and steamed mussels are standard fare. The interior of Legligin is cozy—the cellar is decorated with green tables and checkered black-and-white tiles. You’ll feel like you have the place all to yourself even with a crowd.

Piadina Caffe

Address: 24 Triq Santa Lucija, Valletta, Malta

Stop inside Piadina Caffe for a quick lunch with an Italian spin. Seating is limited, so the restaurant has a quick turnaround time. If you’re looking to linger, take your food to-go and sit on a bench admiring St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which is nearby. Salads, sandwiches on fresh focaccia, and even a few cheap eats for breakfast can be found on the menu here.

Zero Sei Trattoria

Address: 75 Old Theatre Street, Valletta, Malta

Zero Sei is no frills, but it take Italian food very seriously. Cacio e pepe, carbonara, and veal dishes are staples of the menu. They aim to bring a taste of Rome to Malta in everything they do.

The Rootz Bar

Address: 11 Strait St, Valletta, Malta

Wine and cocktails flow at The Rootz Bar, which is a romantic, cozy stop for a drink or two and small plates. They don’t serve a full dinner menu, but cheese boards and charcuterie boards are there to help sate your appetite. You might arrive to find live piano playing. Start your night here, and then venture to dinner somewhere nearby.

Address: 211 Republic Street, Valletta, Malta

Noni is ideal for a fancy night out in Valletta. The restaurant regularly receives rave reviews, and its aim is to revitalize classic Mediterranean dishes in new, exciting ways. You’ll find no shortage of creativity—like local rabbit with a roasted garlic puree, slow-cooked octopus tagine, or chocolate and orange mousse—on the menu at Noni.

Culture & History of the Valletta Cruise Port

Valletta is Malta’s capital city, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, and today it’s a hub for government as well as music and public art. Valletta is a small capital, with a population of less than 7,000 people living in the city proper. Its small size, however, doesn’t diminish the city’s charm or its historic significance.

The city was established in 1566 by the Knights of Malta, who developed a new grid plan for the city. Valletta has a varied history of occupations by the Ottomans, the French, and the British throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. Valletta saw a lot of destruction during World War II as a result of German and Italian air attacks, damaging the city’s Royal Opera House and many other buildings. The city’s architecture contains a heavy Baroque influence, and Malta is a major art destination, home to the National Museum of Fine Arts and the annual Valletta International Baroque Festival, held every January.

Valletta Port Facilities & Location

The Valletta cruise port is less than a mile from the city center. Within the cruise terminal, you’ll find standard amenities like restrooms, information centers, duty-free shops, and transportation services. The Valletta cruise terminal can accommodate multiple ships at once, so you’ll likely see passengers from other ships exploring the city center as well.

Transportation in Valletta

Taxis are a popular mode of transportation for tourists, and you’ll find taxis outside City Gate in Valletta. Taxis tend to have specific spots where they post up and will wait for passengers. If you’re renting a car, you can haggle on the rate sometimes, particularly during off-peak season from October to May in Malta. Hop on Bus 133 for a circular bus tour of the city, taking you around the city walls in about a half-hour. Buses are also commonly used for transportation in Valletta. Because of how walkable the interior of Valletta is, you probably won’t need to rent a car or motorbike unless you’re headed outside the city to neighboring towns or staying in town for more than a day.

Shopping Near the Valletta Cruise Port

On your cruise to Valletta, Malta, the majority of boutique shopping is in the city center, where many of the shops are family owned and operated. Leather, gold and silver jewelry, and souvenir stands for tourists are popular there. Many shops close on Sunday. You’ll also find a lot of lace for sale in Malta, as its one of the country’s most popular goods. Shopping centers and malls are further from the city center, and typically require a bus ride or car trip to get there.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

On your cruise to Valletta, Malta, the Euro is the primary currency you’ll use, and you’ll find ATMs scattered throughout the city. Tipping is polite, anywhere between 5-10% in restaurants and bars, as well as hotels. If you notice a service charge already included in a bill, you don’t have to put forth anything extra beyond that. Leaving a tip for a guided tour 10% for their service is also encouraged, and tipping a porter or bellhop one or two euros per bag is best practice. Round up to the nearest euro for taxi drivers, or a little more if they provide recommendations to you while on your ride.

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Shore Excursions

Best of Malta

Valletta, malta.

GL-MELITA'S FLORA AND FAUNA, THE LAND OF HONEY

Three Cities & Boat Ride

Let's Take A Selfie - Valletta

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Duration 8 hrs

Visit landmarks that reveal the true character of Malta, especially the iconic attractions that lie inland. As an introduction to Valletta, you will gaze out over the grand harbor from the Upper Barracca Gardens and then walk to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, whose severe exterior belies its sumptuous interior. Caravaggio’s masterpiece “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist” hangs in the oratory. Be sure to notice the artist’s macabre signature in the blood flowing from the saint’s throat. A panoramic drive through the island’s interior will bring you to the Tarxien Temples, a prehistoric archaeological complex so architecturally important that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site. The highlights in nearby Mdina include its medieval ramparts and St. Paul’s Cathedral, which was constructed in 1702 in a glorious baroque style. The creative side of Malta will be apparent in the Ta’ Qali Craft Village, where you can watch artisans blowing glass and making delicate gold filigree jewelry.

• Browse St. John’s Co-Cathedral, whose stark exterior belies the splendor inside. • Visit the megalithic Tarxien Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. • View the thick-walled medieval ramparts built to protect Mdina, Malta’s former capital. • Behold the magnificently ornate St. Paul’s Cathedral in Mdina. • Browse a handicrafts village and watch local artisans create works of art.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

• Adult from: € 184,43 EUR
• Child from: € 138,09 EUR

Duration 4 hrs

Meet a horticulturalist for a revealing tour of the island’s most intact forest and then watch how honey is produced using techniques that date to Roman times. The Knights of Malta originally planted Buskett in the mid-1500s as a hunting ground, and its flora and fauna are extraordinary. There, you can expect to stroll under oaks and Aleppo pines while following winding paths through manicured shrubbery and beds of blooming flowers. Continuing on, you will pause for photos at Dingli Cliffs, the island’s highest point. Don’t miss the chapel dedicated to St. Mary Madgalene on the edge of the cliff. You will then pass through Mdina, known as Melita in Roman times. The Greeks referred to Malta as Melite, a name derived from the word for honey. How fitting, as beekeeping still thrives. An apiarist will show you how honey is produced locally using techniques that haven’t changed in centuries. You will also be offered a taste.

HIGHLIGHTS • Walk through a forest planted in the 1500s with a horticulturalist. • Gaze out over the sea from the towering Dingli Cliffs, the island’s highest point. • Watch an apiarist produce honey using techniques dating to Roman times.

HELPFUL HINTS • Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

• Child from: € 184,43 EUR

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Valletta, many of them iconic attractions that define the city. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie expert guide will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Valletta, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include: • Mdina Blue Door • Saint Paul’s Cathedral • Mdina Gate • Upper Barrakka Gardens/free • Auberge de Castille • Triton Fountain

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Valletta. • Follow tips from your selfie expert guide to ensure the very best pictures. • Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings. • Travel inland to Mdina to pose at the village’s 18th-century gate and the famed blue door. • Stroll through the gorgeous Upper Barrakka Gardens, a greenspace created in 1661. • Stand before the Auberge de Castille, considered the most beautiful building in Valletta.

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. • Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. • Be sure your phone or camera is fully charged.

• Adult from: € 110,29 EUR
• Child from: € 101,02 EUR

Malta has an important place in the history of Europe, not only for its association with the Knights of St. John, but for its extraordinary collection of megalithic temples. Today, you’ll learn about both and visit some of the most interesting attractions of the island, in the exclusivity of a small group. Head to Valetta for a walking tour that will take you to the Upper Barracca Gardens. This setting offers an unrivaled panoramic view of Malta's natural harbors and the historic cities of Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa. Continue, to visit the impressive St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Conventual Church of the Order of the Knights of St John. The interior, in sharp contrast with the facade, is extremely ornate. It houses magnificent works of art, including Caravaggio’s famous masterpiece - the Beheading of St. John.

Drive to Qrendi and visit Hagar Qim Temple, one of the Megalithic Temples of Malta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a tasty seafood lunch at a restaurant in the picturesque seaside village of Marsaxlokk. Head to Mdina for a stroll through its quaint streets. Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral and enjoy the view from the city ramparts. Stop at a village where Maltese craftsmen produce high quality handiworks. During free time, you might want to shop or browse for glass, silver, filigree, leather and linen.

• Adult from: € 277,11 EUR
• Child from: € 230,77 EUR

Malta Attraction Pass

Duration 6 hrs

Maximize your time in Malta by seeing the attractions that interest you most and exploring them at your own pace. With the attraction Pass in hand transportation to and from them is included, as well as the entrance fees. Getting around Valletta will be easy because the pass allows you to ride the buses that loop through the capital. Simply hop off at an attraction that sounds intriguing, spend as much time as you like exploring and then hop on another bus when you’re ready. The diversity of the attractions is phenomenal. The Malta National Aquarium, where you can see the biodiversity in the surrounding water, Malta's medieval past in Mdina Dungeons, Experience and Cathedral, feeling how ancient times comes to life and understating why this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For an unusual look at the local culture and history, you might watch a technologically cutting-edge film at Malta 5D and see the Malta Experience show. Attractions included: Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour (Yellow Line), The Mdina Dungeons, Mdina Cathedral Museum, Pallazo Falson Historic House, Malta 5D, The Knights of Malta, The Mdina Experience, the Malta National Aquarium, Leave no sight unseen and get the most out of your visit to Malta!

HIGHLIGHTS • Use the Attraction Pass to see Valletta’s best attractions at no additional cost. • Ride a bus around town, stopping at the attractions that you find most appealing. • Stay as long as you like at each attraction to enhance your understanding of it. • Hop on another bus whenever you please and ride it to another intriguing destination. • Return to the cruise ship when you’re ready.

• Adult from: € 156,63 EUR
• Child from: € 119,56 EUR

Beach Transfer

Enjoy fun in the sun, clear blue waters and the golden color sand. An approximately 40 minute drive takes you to one of Malta's popular beaches. Enjoy approximately 2.5 hours to swim, walk on the beach, participate in water sports or simply soak up the sun. Watersports are available at an additional charge and equipment can be rented right here, from local vendors.

• Adult from: € 46,34 EUR
• Child from: € 37,07 EUR

A visit to the three cities - Senglea, Cospicua & Vittoriosa and a short ride aboard a typical Maltese boat is a great way to learn about Malta’s extraordinary past and enjoy its colorful ports. Walk around Senglea, a fortified city in the Grand Harbour for a view of the historic bastions. Drive through Cospicua on your way to Vittoriosa. Its honorific name of Vittoriosa was granted as a result of its victorious stand in the Great Siege of 1565. Walk along the narrow streets of this city, admiring such historic sites as the Church of St. Lawrence and Fort St. Angelo, from the outside.

Embark on a traditional Maltese ‘Dghajsa’ (boat) for a short trip within the Grand Harbour which served the Knights of St John for 268 years. Many wars were fought here and the British military also used the harbor for many years, but that is all in the past. Today, it is much quieter and you’ll enjoy its grandeur and the views from the water’s vantage point. Head to Marsaxlokk, for a photo stop and enjoy some free time in the open-air market of this colorful fishing village.

• Child from: € 73,22 EUR

A Taste Of Malta

Depart quayside to Mosta to see the famous Basilica Mosta Dome (exterior visit) considered to be the third largest in Europe. The famed 19th century church is visible from almost anywhere on the island. Malta is also known for its fine wine, which you will sample at a local winery, before visiting Mdina Glass in Ta' Qali crafts village. You can watch glass blowers produce beautiful works of art. Another side of Malta shows itself at the formal San Anton Gardens, built and established by Grand Master Antoine de Paule, who ruled the island in the 1600s. The garden's exotic flora includes palms, jacarandas and conifers, some of which are more than 300 years old.

• Adult from: € 119,56 EUR
• Child from: € 82,48 EUR

City Knights & Mdina

Duration 5 hrs

A walking tour of the old and new capital cities of Malta offers you the opportunity to admire many of its treasures. Visit the state rooms and tapestry chambers of the Magisterial Palace, stop at the Upper Barracca Gardens for a unique panoramic view, visit St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta and a walking tour of Mdina.

A short drive around the impressive bastions of Valletta takes you to the new capital city. Walk to the Upper Barracca Gardens for a panoramic view of Malta’s natural harbors and the historic cities of Senglea, Cospicua and Vittoriosa. Continue your walk to St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Conventual Church of the Knights of Malta, housing Caravaggio’s famous masterpiece - The Beheading of St. John. Continue your walk to the Magisterial Palace, formerly known as the residence of the Grand Masters of the Order, and visit the state rooms and tapestry chamber. Drive to Mdina “The Silent City” and walk through the narrow streets of the town, past St. Paul’s Cathedral and the bastions for a panoramic view of the countryside.

• Adult from: € 138,09 EUR
• Child from: € 110,29 EUR

Malta's Scenic Beauty

Enjoy the island of Malta’s most stunning views and learn about its history with minimal walking. Drive through some of its smaller cities, villages and coastline, with stops for photos along the way. This comprehensive excursion takes you on a scenic drive to Vittoriosa one of the three historic cities, where you can see from outside, the church of St Lawrence and Fort St. Angelo. Stop in Marsaxlokk, Malta’s largest fishing village, where you’ll have free time to enjoy the colorful scenery. Continue your scenic drive through the various villages until you reach Dingli Cliffs – the view from Malta’s highest point is spectacular. You’ll also drive through Rabat and around the perimeter of Mdina, Malta’s former capital city. As you drive through Mosta, you’ll see its famous dome, considered as the third largest unsupported dome in Europe.

• Adult from: € 91,75 EUR

Accessible Companion: National Museum & Silent City

This excursion is for guests that use a cane/walker, have limited mobility issues or for companions of those guest that have booked mobility equipment tour.

Those guests that are fully dependent on their mobility device please book: MLA_A2 ACCESSIBLE Mobility Equipment: National Museum & Silent City.

Tour includes step-free routes, shorter distances and no stairs. Accessible restrooms with wide doors for wheelchairs are present along the tour route. Vehicles are adapted with an access ramp (or lift where available) to accommodate a limited number of wheelchairs and/or mobility scooters. Guides are not allowed to push wheelchairs; therefore, guests needing special assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied.

Head inland to Malta’s former capital of Mdina and browse an archaeological museum in Valletta, the capital since 1570. As you will discover, Mdina is now sparsely populated, which spurred its nickname “The Silent City.” The lack of people make it even easier to explore this ancient walled city and its abundant medieval and baroque architecture. Back in Valletta, you will visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Although the outside of St. John’s Co-Cathedral is rather severe, the interior is unexpectedly sumptuous. You can’t help but be awed by the intricately carved limestone walls, painted vaulted ceiling and altars that depict watershed events in the life of St. John. You will be further enlightened while browsing the National Museum of Archaeology, whose artifacts date to the Neolithic period. You may see tools used by prehistoric people, Phoenician glass and gold, and a large terracotta sarcophagus. Even the building, the Auberge de Provençe, is a work of art.

• View the highlights in Mdina, the nearly abandoned former capital known as “The Silent City.” • Marvel at the sumptuous interior of St. John’s Co-Cathedral in the present capital of Valletta. • Gain insight into Malta’s past by browsing the esteemed the National Museum of Archaeology.

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.

• Child from: € 277,11 EUR

Accessible Mobility Equipment: National Museum & Silent City

This excursion is for guests who are fully dependent on their mobility device. You will be required to supply your own wheelchair/scooter. Your mobility equipment (manual or electric) must not exceed the following dimensions: W 39", L 47", H 62".

Those guests that are companions, use a cane or walker, or have limited mobility issues must book the companion tour code: MLA_A1 ACCESSIBLE Companion: National Museum & Silent City.

This excursion is for guests who are fully dependent on their mobility device. You will be required to supply your own wheelchair/scooter. Your mobility equipment (manual or electric) must not exceed the following dimensions: W 39", L 47", H 62".

*Prices vary by ship and sail date. See Terms & Conditions

NCL makes arrangements for Guests for shore excursions solely for the convenience of the Guest; NCL does not act on behalf of or supervise the parties or persons who own, furnish, or operate such excursions, and the same are provided by independent contractors. NCL assumes no responsibility for, nor guarantees the performance of, any such excursion provider, and Guests acknowledge that NCL shall not be liable for losses or injuries arising from the acts or omissions of such provider.

Participation in activities and excursions may involve physical exertion, and may be potentially hazardous or dangerous. It is the responsibility of each individual to determine whether you are capable of engaging in any activity. Participation in any activity or excursion is at your own risk.

Photographs are for illustration purposes only used to represent the excursion experience and may not accurately depict the excursion, location, or activity indicated.

Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen kann körperlich anstrengend sein und unter Umständen Risiken und Gefahren beinhalten. Jeder einzelne Gast trägt die Verantwortung dafür, einzuschätzen, ob er/sie in der Lage ist, an entsprechenden Aktivitäten teilzunehmen. Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen erfolgt auf eigene Gefahr.

Die Fotos dienen ausschließlich zur Veranschaulichung der Exkursionserfahrung und bilden möglicherweise die entsprechende Exkursion, den Ort oder die Aktivität nicht akkurat ab.

A participação em atividades e excursões pode envolver esforço físico e pode ser perigosa. É sua responsabilidade determinar se você é capaz de participar das atividades. A participação em qualquer atividade ou excursão é por sua conta e risco.

As fotos são apenas para fins ilustrativos, usadas para representar a experiência da excursão e podem não retratar com precisão a localização ou atividade indicada.

アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーには激しい活動を行うものもあり、危険が伴う場合もあります。 内容がご自身に適したものかは各自でご判断ください。 アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーへは、あくまでもご自身の責任でご参加いただきますようお願いいたします。

写真は寄港地観光ツアーの体験を表現するためのもので、実際のツアーや場所、アクティビティとは異なる場合があります。

La partecipazione ad attività ed escursioni potrebbe prevedere sforzi fisici e potrebbe essere potenzialmente rischiosa o pericolosa. È responsabilità di ciascun individuo stabilire se si è in grado di partecipare a qualsiasi attività. La partecipazione a qualunque attività o escursione è a proprio rischio e pericolo.

Le fotografie utilizzate per raffigurare l'escursione sono unicamente a fini illustrativi e potrebbero non rappresentare accuratamente l'escursione, il luogo o l'attività indicata.

La participation aux activités et excursions peut demander un effort physique et peut parfois être potentiellement dangereuse. Il revient à toute personne de déterminer si elle est capable de participer à une activité ou non. La participation à toute activité ou excursion se fait à vos propres risques.

Les photos sont affichées à titre d'illustration uniquement et de représentation de l'expérience et peuvent ne pas représenter l'excursion, le lieu ou l'activité indiqués avec précision.

השתתפות בפעילויות ובסיורים עשויה לכלול מאמץ פיזי, ועלולה להיות מסוכנת. זוהי אחריותו של כל אדם לקבוע האם הוא מסוגל להשתתף בכל פעילות. השתתפות בכל פעילות או סיור היא על אחריותכם בלבד.

תמונות מוצגות לצורך הדגמה בלבד, הן משמשות כדי לייצג את חוויית הסיור ועלולות שלא לתאר במדויק את הסיור, המיקום או הפעילות.

Las fotografías son solo para fines ilustrativos y se utilizan para representar la experiencia de la excursión y es posible que no reflejen con precisión la excursión, el lugar o la actividad indicada.

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You don’t have to search all that hard to find the best Italy cruises — most leading cruise lines offer dozens of itineraries that visit Italian ports, often in conjunction with neighboring countries France, Greece and Croatia.

The reason? Italy has it all: coastlines on both the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, historic port cities (Rome, Venice and Naples among them) and spectacular islands (including Sicily, Sardinia, Capri and Elba).

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Plus, with a cruise season that runs from early April through late October (and even year-round for a few cruise lines), Italy offers something for everyone. Travel here to find an alluring mix of impeccably preserved historic sites, renowned regional cuisines and natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Here are eight of the best Italy cruises for every type of traveler.

Best Italy cruises for cultural immersion: Azamara

Azamara pioneered the concept of single-country itineraries, which allow for greater cultural immersion and even overnight stays in select ports. The cruise line’s 11-night voyage in October 2024 is one of its most comprehensive.

The sailing begins in Monte Carlo, Monaco, and ends in Rome (Civitavecchia), with visits to seven more Italian ports and Tunis, Tunisia. You’ll explore Genoa, Livorno (overnight for Florence/Pisa), Porto Santo Stefano (on the Tuscan coast), Cagliari (on Sardinia), Trapani (on Sicily), Amalfi and Sorrento.

This voyage is aboard the 684-passenger Azamara Onward, one of the cruise line’s four virtually identical ships. (All are former Renaissance R-class ships built in the early 2000s and renovated over the past several years.) The vessels’ intimate size and Azamara’s focus on cultural experiences and shore excursions emphasizing history and food (including cooking classes and market tours) make for an immersive cruise itinerary.

Other Italy-Intensive voyages in 2023 and 2024 include the following: a 10-night voyage in October 2023 aboard Azamara Quest, a 10-night voyage in April 2024 aboard Azamara Pursuit, and a seven-night voyage in May 2024 aboard Azamara Quest.

Best Italy cruises for small-ship lovers: Windstar Cruises

It’s rare to find a cruise itinerary so fully focused on one specific region of Italy, but Windstar Cruises ’ small ships — three classic sailing yachts and three all-suite motor yachts, which accommodate 148 to 342 guests — allow it to offer cruises to less-frequented ports.

Windstar’s 10-day Sicilian Splendors , aboard its 342-passenger sailing yacht Wind Surf, is available on multiple dates in 2023, 2024 and 2025. The ship will cruise round-trip from Rome and call on six Italian ports: Catania (for Mount Etna), Porto Empedocle (for the ancient ruins at Agrigento) and Trapani (for its signature colored salts and Marsala wines), all in Sicily; the island of Lipari (the largest of seven Aeolian Islands); and Sorrento and Amalfi on the stunning Amalfi Coast. The cruise also visits the neighboring islands of Malta and Gozo.

Five-masted Wind Surf is the world’s largest sailing ship. It manages to be intimate without feeling claustrophobic, although it is worth noting that none of its staterooms or suites has a balcony. There is, however, ample deck space for relaxation, with a pool and two hot tubs, as well as inviting alfresco bars and dining areas.

Related: The 2 classes of Windstar ships, explained

Indoors, the ship’s restaurants and social spaces, such as the Veranda Restaurant, Stella Bistro and the Compass Rose Bar, are light-filled, with elegant neutral decor refreshed in 2019.

Musical entertainment takes place in the Wind Surf Lounge and Compass Rose Bar, and Windstar’s excellent dining program reflects an ongoing partnership with the James Beard Foundation. In select tender ports, passengers can enjoy a watersports platform and take out sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

Best Italy cruises for onboard pampering: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

If enjoying yacht-style indulgence as you explore Southern Italy is on your cruise wish list, consider the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s 10-night Rome to Valletta itinerary in May 2024. This cruise visits scenic hot spots such as Sorrento and Amalfi on the Amalfi Coast, history-rich Siracusa in Sicily and three ports (Gallipoli, Taranto and Otranto) in lesser-known Puglia, located on the heel of boot-shaped Italy, before passengers disembark in Malta.

Ritz-Carlton, which entered the cruise realm in 2021 with its 298-passenger luxury yacht, Evrima , offers an all-inclusive “yachting lifestyle” experience. This leisurely sailing features overnights in Sorrento and Taranto and two sea days with ample ways to enjoy onboard pampering. The ship’s spacious suites are designed with a contemporary residential feel and range in size from 300 square feet with an 81-square-foot terrace to 1,091 square feet with a 635-square-foot terrace.

Evrima also offers nine bars and dining venues featuring menus created to reflect the ports visited. For culinary indulgence, guests can book a table at S.E.A., a specialty dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the Michelin three-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany.

The ship also features chicly designed spaces for relaxing and socializing, such as the Pool House lounge overlooking an aft infinity pool, a second pool located next to the alfresco restaurant Mistral, a panoramic Observation Lounge and a full-service Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best Italy cruises for foodies: Silversea Cruises

The three newest ships in the Silversea Cruises fleet — Silver Moon, Silver Dawn and 2023’s first-in-class Silver Nova — all feature the cruise line’s immersive culinary program known as S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste). When Silversea’s next ship, the 728-passenger Silver Ray, debuts in 2024, it will also take its guests on culinary-focused journeys — among them an 11-day Rome to Venice itinerary in June 2024.

The itinerary includes calls on seven ports in Italy: Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Palermo, Siracusa, Trieste and Venice. The sailing also visits ports in Malta, Montenegro and Croatia.

Silversea’s sailings blend food-centric excursions — such as a visit to a family farm for a tasting of fresh cheese, salami and olive oil in Sorrento — with the onboard S.A.L.T. program to make sampling local cuisine a natural part of the cruise experience. The day-to-day menus at S.A.L.T. Kitchen are all inspired by the ports visited. The Terrain menu focuses on that day’s port while the Voyage menu draws from the best flavors of the entire itinerary.

Passengers aboard Silver Ray should definitely pack an appetite — in addition to S.A.L.T. Kitchen, the ship features seven other restaurants. They are La Dame for haute French cuisine, Atlantide for signature fine dining (think caviar and lobster), Kaiseki for Japanese sushi and teppanyaki (as well as pan-Asian dishes), Silver Note for tapas-style dining and live music, The Grill for casual burgers and salads, La Terrazza for handmade pasta and other Italian specialties, and Spaccanapoli for thin-crusted Naples-style pizza. With 11 nights aboard, there’s time to sample all of them.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Best Italy cruises for families: Norwegian Cruise Line

 If an Italy adventure with the entire family sounds like the perfect cruise vacation in 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line ’s new Norwegian Viva, launching in August 2023 as the sister ship to 2022’s Norwegian Prima, is an ideal playground for guests of all ages.

The most Italy-focused itinerary? The 10-day Mediterranean: Italy, Greece & Croatia cruise (offered aboard 3,099-guest Viva in late June and late September 2024) calls on six ports in Italy — Rome, Livorno, Naples, Messina, Siracusa and Trieste — as well as the islands of Corfu and Malta; Koper, Slovenia; and Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia.

This itinerary is rich in history and culture, including the ancient landmarks of Rome, the archeological wonders of Pompeii and the Leaning Tower of Pisa near Livorno, plus the beauty and culinary treats (sweet cannoli and savory arancini) of Sicily, where Viva makes two port calls. Though the cruise ends in Trieste, the wonders of Venice are just 90 minutes away, so adding a few extra nights to explore its colorful, canal-laced islands is a must.

Onboard Viva, you’ll enjoy more than a dozen dining options (five of them complimentary, including the casual and family-friendly Indulge Food Hall), 16 bars and lounges and all the fun activities/entertainment (including a production of the Broadway hit “Beetlejuice: The Musical”) that the line offers.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Top amenities include the three-deck Viva Speedway for exhilarating go-kart racing, three thrilling slides (two of them 10-story corkscrew dry slides and one tidal-wave-style waterslide), virtual-reality gaming in the Galaxy Pavilion, tech-enhanced minigolf and more. Also, Viva’s generous outside deck space — especially Deck 8’s Ocean Boulevard with its lively Indulge Outdoor Lounge and sleek Infinity Beach pools — is ideal for scenic cruising in the Mediterranean and Adriatic.

Best Italy cruises for couples: Oceania Cruises

The sophisticated onboard ambiance and a romantic itinerary are a lovely combination, and couples can enjoy both on the 12-night Mediterranean Tapestry sailing offered in June 2024 aboard Oceania Cruises ’ newest vessel, Oceania Vista.

The 1,200-passenger ship, which debuted in May 2023, will visit four top ports in Italy — Venice/Trieste in Northern Italy, Taormina in Sicily, Amalfi/Positano in Southern Italy and Civitavecchia for a day in Rome.

Beyond Italy, this itinerary offers a sampling of scenic locales in six other Adriatic and Mediterranean countries with a possible pre-cruise stay in Venice. You’ll visit Korcula and Split in Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Igoumanitsa and Katakolon in Greece; Ajaccio, Corsica; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseille, France; and Barcelona, Spain.

Oceania caters to couples seeking an upscale cruise experience with a culinary focus. Onboard Vista, the atmosphere is sleek and polished, with interior decor awash in elegant neutrals of varying patterns and textures, all woven together into a soothing mosaic (in some cases, literally, as tiled vignettes are used throughout the ship). Vista’s bars and lounges, especially the Martini Bar and the Grand Lounge, are so chic you’ll want to get dressed up every night to enjoy one of the craft cocktails on their newly enhanced menus.

All specialty dining is included in the cruise fare, and stand-out meals at Polo Grill (for an excellent steakhouse menu), Toscana (for authentic Italian, including recipes by Vista’s godmother Giada De Laurentiis) and Red Ginger (for flavorful pan-Asian) are just a reservation away. Two new eateries, Aquamar Kitchen and Ember, serve wellness-focused cuisine and casual American comfort food, respectively, and an expanded Culinary Arts Center lets guests who love to cook take hands-on classes.

Best of all, Vista is an all-balcony ship, so every stateroom features access to fresh air (French Veranda Staterooms don’t have an outdoor sitting area, however). Veranda Staterooms and Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms offer a spacious 290 square feet of indoor space — and some of the best standard bathrooms at sea with roomy walk-in showers and ample storage.

Related: The best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Best Italy cruises for travelers on a budget: Royal Caribbean

To score a budget cruise fare in the Mediterranean, it helps to look for sailings aboard a cruise line’s older ships. If Italy is your main focus for a future cruise, it’s hard to beat the seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary in September 2024 aboard Royal Caribbean ’s Voyager of the Seas.

It visits five Italian ports: Venice/Ravenna, Messina in Sicily, Naples, Rome and Livorno (for Florence and Pisa). The ship also calls on Marseille and Barcelona. Voyager’s Italy-focused cruise is a jam-packed itinerary with just one sea day.

Ideal for both couples and multi-generational families, the 3,600-passenger Voyager of the Seas (which debuted in 1999 and was last refurbished in 2019) features seven restaurants (including three complimentary dining venues and specialty restaurant favorites Chops Grille and Giovanni’s Table) and eight bars/lounges.

The ship has been “amped-up” so guests can enjoy features found on Royal Caribbean’s newer ships: Perfect Storm waterslides, FlowRider simulated surfing, Battle for Planet Z laser tag, Voyager Dunes minigolf, Studio B ice-skating shows and reimagined spaces for kids and teens.

Nights aboard Voyager of the Seas will be filled with complimentary entertainment options: production shows in the Royal Theater, pub performances by guest entertainers and bands, game-show competitions, pool parties, outdoor movie nights and a ‘70s disco party.

Best Italy cruises for adults-only ambiance: Viking

 Is Venice at the top of your wish list? Does an adults-only cruise on a ship with serene, Scandinavian-inspired interior decor and complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner sound ideal?

If so, check out Viking ’s 15-night Italy, the Adriatic and Greece itinerary , which sails from Athens to Rome and visits six Italian ports — Venice/Chioggia, Bari, Crotone, Messina, Naples and Rome — with three days spent in Venice. As a bonus, you’ll also visit ports in Greece (Katakolon and Corfu), Croatia (Dubrovnik, Split and Sibenik) and Montenegro (Kotor).

Offered on multiple dates in fall 2023, 2024 and 2025, this itinerary is chock full of port experiences; there are no sea days, and a total of 13 cities are visited. Viking includes one free guided shore excursion in each port, usually a panoramic bus tour or historic walking tour. Use that as an overview and then explore on your own or book one of the cruise line’s longer or more specialized excursions. Onboard guest speakers also offer insight into the ports visited and the cultural landscape.

The cruise line’s nine ocean ships are all identical and accommodate 930 passengers, most of whom are couples over age 55. Onboard dining is available in eight restaurants, including the main venue, The Restaurant and the buffet-style World Cafe, the casual Pool Grill and the Norwegian-focused Mamsen’s. Guests can also reserve dinner at two specialty restaurants (at no extra charge): Manfredi’s for Italian cuisine and The Chef’s Table for multi-course, wine-paired menus that rotate throughout the cruise.

Afternoon tea is served in the elegant Wintergarden. The Aquavit Terrace overlooking the aft infinity pool is a sunny spot to enjoy alfresco dining.

If you’re willing to come back early from port, Viking’s ocean ships offer plenty of ways to relax on board. All passengers enjoy complimentary access to the ship’s thermal suite in the LivNordic Spa. It features a thalassotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and snow room. The Main Pool has a retractable roof and can be enjoyed no matter what the weather. However, if you want to live it up at night, note that the ship does not have an onboard casino.

Bottom line

The best Italy cruises offer access to some of the country’s most-loved cities, as well as a chance to explore some of its sunny islands and lesser-known coastal ports. No matter the itinerary, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the splendid landscapes, treasured antiquities and, of course, the incredible gelato.

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.