Helpful Tips for a Mediterranean Cruise
Planning a Mediterranean cruise? I don’t blame you! It’s a dreamy way to explore many iconic European cities without the hassle of figuring out the logistics to get to each. But like anything in travel, there are some tricks to make sure you get the most out of your trip. After just returning from a three week trip, I have some helpful tips for a Mediterranean cruise that will save you unnecessary stress or overspending.
This post is full of advice from someone who’s been there, as well as things I learned while planning this adventure.
So, if you need help deciding when to book your cruise, how to handle money, or what ports to visit, these Mediterranean cruise tips will guide you.
He Works So I Travel content may contain affiliate links for products I use and love. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For full details, please read my full affiliate disclosure here.
Best Time to Sail the Mediterranean
Let’s get real for a second.
You’ve probably seen those stunning summer cruise ads, promising sunny days and shimmering waters. But, spoiler alert—summer in the Mediterranean can be brutal.
I’m talking about scorching heat, massive crowds, and prices that make your wallet weep. I highly recommend cruising in the spring or fall if you have flexibility.
Why? For starters, the weather is mild, which means no sweating through your cute sundresses or wrangling a fan from a street vendor.
And the crowds? They’re fewer, meaning you’ll actually get to enjoy the Trevi Fountain in peace (well, relatively speaking).
Honestly, the best time to take a Mediterranean cruise is during the shoulder seasons when everything is just… easier.
But if summer is your only option, pack strategically.
I made a list of the top cruise accessories that are absolutely a must. Think cooling towels, reusable water bottles, and portable fans. It may not be glamorous, but trust me, you’ll thank me when you’re sipping an iced Aperol Spritz while everyone else is drenched in sweat.
Money, Money, Money: How to Handle the Euro
Fumbling with foreign currency at a crowded café and trying to figure out if you just paid $10 for a cup of coffee is not fun.
The Euro can be tricky, but a little preparation goes a long way.
I made the mistake of thinking I had to exchange my money before I went on my Med cruise. In fact, the only bank in my Texas city that would exchange US dollars for Euros had exchange rates that gouged me.
Only when I had to use the ATM at the Kotor cruise port did I realize by how much.
One of my best tips for a Mediterranean cruise is to wait to get euros from a local bank once you are overseas. The ATMs are easy to find in most ports.
Just make sure you are using an ATM affiliated with a bank and not a free-standing one.
When you withdraw money, do so in Euros, not US dollars. This will allow your bank to convert the amount at the current day’s exchange rate.
Remember that most ATMs will only allow withdrawals from your checking account, not your savings account. You are also limited to your bank’s daily withdrawal limit, so familiarize yourself with that amount.
Credit Cards are Not Always King
In the U.S., we’re used to flashing our credit cards for everything, from gas to groceries, and you can still do that in most places in the Mediterranean.
But in the Mediterranean, cash is still king, especially in smaller ports.
Do you have a Discover card? Forget it. You’ll find yourself explaining what Discover even is to confused shopkeepers.
Stick with Visa or MasterCard, but always have euros on hand for small purchases like local snacks or souvenirs.
Pro tip: Use your card for big purchases, but keep cash for markets, taxis, and small restaurants.
Prepare for the Crowds and Heat
Even in the “less crowded” seasons, popular spots like the Colosseum or Santorini are tourist magnets.
But there’s a secret to avoiding the worst of it: timing.
Early mornings or late afternoons will be your best friends. Not only are the crowds smaller, but the temperatures are more manageable.
Remember that many Mediterranean countries take a break in the afternoons, so don’t be shocked when you find stores closed between 1 PM and 5 PM.
This is your cue to sip on an Aperol spritz in the shade while everyone else is stressing over closed souvenir shops.
Eastern or Western Mediterranean Cruise
When you think of Mediterranean cruises, places like Rome, Barcelona, and Athens probably come to mind.
But if you want a quieter, more intimate experience, consider the Eastern Mediterranean cruise ports and an Adriatic cruise.
Ports like Kotor in Montenegro, Zadar or Split in Croatia, and even Corfu in Greece offer a more laid-back vibe. They’re smaller, less crowded (at least in comparison), and full of hidden gems.
Plus, if you’re torn between doing an eastern or western Mediterranean cruise, the eastern side is often a better bet for a slower, less touristy pace.
Fewer crowds = less waiting in line for gelato, and that’s a win in my book.
Cruise Port Realities: It’s Not Always What It Seems
Let’s talk cruise marketing for a second.
When your cruise says its Mediterranean ports are “Venice to Rome,” they really mean Trieste to Civitavecchia. And surprise, both of these ports are over an hour away from the cities they claim to represent.
It’s not ideal if you’re hoping to stroll through Rome right off the boat.
Make sure to double-check your ports and book transfers ahead of time.
The last thing you want when you plan to embark is to find out you have to find a way to the cruise port, which is an hour and a half away.
Trust me, pre-booking your transfers will save you from a massive headache.
I recommend checking if your cruise line has a shuttle service. Most will offer a direct shuttle from the airport to the cruise port or vice versa.
In Rome, I highly recommend using a shared shuttle service. You can book one to take you to your hotel or the airport.
Although the trains are often recommended as an affordable option, I would avoid them. The lines to take the bus to the train station at the cruise port are obnoxious and trust me; you do not want to wait in the heat.
Know Your Ports: Walkable vs. Excursion-Worthy
Not all cruise ports are created equal, my friends. Some are so easy to explore on foot that booking an expensive excursion feels like overkill.
Zadar? Totally walkable. Corfu? Perfect for wandering.
But places like Naples or Olbia? You’ll want to pre-book excursions for these cities.
Research your itinerary ahead of time to see which ports you can easily navigate on your own and which ones need a little more planning (and cash). This will save you both time and stress—two things you don’t want to waste on vacation.
Skip the Balcony Room
I know, I know! Those balcony rooms are so inviting. And, on an Alaskan cruise, I would totally splurge.
But here’s the deal: on a Mediterranean cruise, you will be in port every day or almost every day. You’ll barely have time to enjoy that private view.
Instead of spending extra on a balcony, save your money for excursions or a fancy dinner in port.
After all, you’ll spend most of your time exploring ancient ruins, sipping wine, and lounging on stunning beaches, not sitting on a balcony.
Consider Skipping the Beverage Package
This might be a controversial take, but hear me out: you may not need the beverage package.
Why? Because you’ll spend your days exploring new cities, tasting local wine, and enjoying authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
Why settle for a cruise ship cocktail when you can enjoy a glass of chianti at a Tuscan vineyard?
If you plan on being off the ship most days, skip the beverage package and splurge on local drinks in port or cruise ship drink specials instead.
You’ll get a more authentic experience and save a few bucks in the process.
Phone Coverage in the Mediterranean
If you’re anything like me, the idea of going without your phone for a week is panic-inducing.
While most cruise lines offer Wi-Fi, it can be expensive and slow.
I recommend looking into international cell phone plans or eSIM cards before you go.
Most major carriers offer affordable plans for short-term travel, and it’ll give you peace of mind.
Alternatively, Airalo offers a digital sim card that you can download and install instantly, so you are connected wherever you go without roaming fees.
Use my special promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 to save 15% off until the end of December 2024.
Choose the Right Ship
Not all Mediterranean ships are created equal, and the type of ship you choose can really shape your experience.
One of my best tips for a Mediterranean cruise is to choose the itinerary first and the ship second.
With Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises all offering Mediterranean cruises, you should have no difficulty finding the right itinerary.
Why a Mediterranean Cruise is Perfect for First-Timers
If you’re dipping your toes into the world of cruising, a Mediterranean cruise is the perfect place to start.
The Mediterranean cruise combines the luxury of cruise travel, like fancy dinners, daily room service, and zero hassle with the thrill of exploring Europe without the headache of figuring out how to get from point A to point B.
Each day, you’ll wake up in a new city without the stress of packing up your bags and figuring out the next mode of transportation.
Best of all? You can experience multiple countries and cultures in one trip without worrying about logistics, customs, or constant airport security checks.
Mediterranean Cruise Like a Pro
Cruising the Mediterranean is an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re marveling at ancient architecture, enjoying a sunset on the Adriatic, shopping for blown glass in Murano, cruising through Rome on a golf cart, or savoring fresh pasta at a seaside café, there’s something magical about this part of the world.
With a little planning and these tips, you can cruise smart, avoid unnecessary costs, and make the most of your time in each port.
So, take these tips for a Mediterranean cruise to heart, pack your light layers, grab some euros, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
And remember, the best part of travel is the adventure, so leave a little room for spontaneity.
