Sarah Bretz, ContributorAs the Mediterranean continues to grow in popularity as a vacation destination, MSC Cruises has met the demand.
Now, the line is highlighting its Mediterranean itineraries and destinations. The line’s sailings in the region are aboard nine ships and taking place from May to October.
Valencia, Spain
Valencia is a vibrant port city full of rich history, Mediterranean charm, and arguably the best nightlife in Spain — making it a must-visit this summer. Here, cobblestone streets lead guests to discover Spanish history along with modern style, not to mention culinary delights such as tapas, Paella, and refreshing horchata.
Vibrant blue waters at Playa de Las Arenas beach are perfect during the day, and as the sun sets, Valencia comes alive with hip bars and nightlife.
Ships calling on Valencia this summer include:
- MSC Fantasia: Seven-night cruises from Valencia
- MSC Seaside: Seven-night cruises from Genoa
Livorno, Italy
Brimming with historical monuments, fascinating museums, and amazing seafood, Livorno is a beautiful port town on the west coast of Tuscany. Stunning natural environments, like Macchia della Magona, are a staple of the region and ideal to explore in summer. Livorno is also the perfect launch pad to Tuscany’s capital of Florence, where the Italian Renaissance was born, and visitors can still admire ancient architecture and masterpieces from Caravaggio, Raphael, and da Vinci.
A short coastal drive to Pisa unveils Piazza dei Miracoli, the famous Leaning Tower, the 13th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Baptistery with its splendid Gothic façade.
Ships calling on Livorno this summer include:
- MSC Fantasia: Seven-night cruises from Valencia
- MSC Grandiosa: Seven-night cruises from Livorno
Barcelona, Spain
A metropolis full of diverse experiences, Barcelona is alive during the summer with festivals and outdoor activities, including its beaches. Those who opt to explore the city center will find world-class museums, designer restaurants, and shops brimming with art, not to mention Gaudí’s masterpiece Casa Batlló with its unique façade reflecting the joyful artist. I
In nearby El Raval, eclectic bars and boutiques have flourished in the wake of the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art. An unparalleled view of this iconic city is best observed on the mountain Montserrat where visitors can journey to the basilica perched on top and take in the scenery below.
Ships calling on Barcelona this summer include:
- MSC Seaview: Seven-night cruises from Barcelona
- MSC World Europa: Seven-night cruises from Genoa
- MSC Grandiosa: Seven-night cruises from Livorno
- MSC Musica: Seven-night cruises from Civitavecchia
- MSC Poesia: 11-night cruises from Genoa
Palermo, Italy
Palermo is Sicily’s capital city that holds an unrivalled display of Norman art and architecture and Baroque churches, combined with a labyrinth of medieval streets and markets. A complex and multilayered city, Palermo is best explored by foot where back alleys give way to lively scenes in the city center. Historic venues, such as the 18th-century Palazzo d’Orleans and Palermo’s opera house, Teatro Massimo, which has appeared in movies and TV shows, amaze, as do the impressive Baroque churches.
Ships calling on Palermo this summer include:
- MSC Seaside: Seven-night cruises from Genoa
- MSC Grandiosa: Seven-night cruises from Livorno
Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is synonymous with beauty and excess, making it the hub of Spanish nightlife, but there is much more to explore on the island this summer. Ciutat d’Eivissa is the most charming town there, featuring the UNESCO-listed old quarter of Dalt Vila, encircled by impressive medieval walls which culminate at the main archway entrance, the imposing Portal de ses Taules. Just inside lies the elegant Plaça de Vila, a beautiful square lined with restaurants and cafés, perfect for enjoying tapas or a leisurely meal. The climb up the steep, winding streets to the cathedral is well worth the effort, if only for the spectacular views over the harbor.
Ships calling on Ibiza this summer include:
- MSC Musica: Seven-night cruises from Civitavecchia
- MSC Seaside: Seven-night itineraries from Genoa
Cádiz, Spain
Discovered more than 3,000 years ago, Cádiz is the oldest city in western Europe. Since, the different settlers of Cádiz have left an important cultural imprint, whose influence still remains in the character of the city’s people.
Located on the Andalusian Atlantic coast, this peninsula has managed to maintain a significant historical heritage, stemming from its commercial significance, alongside pristine beaches and delectable regional cuisine. Nature enthusiasts will find the Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an unparalleled destination for exploration.
MSC Orchestra offers 10-night itineraries this summer from Genoa that call on Cádiz.
Naples, Italy
Southern Italy’s bustling historic city captivates all five senses and is one of the country’s most underrated large cities. Situated on the coast with shadows of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is alive with artistic treasures and architectural wonders, such as Teatro di San Carlo, the oldest opera house in Europe. Its location is ideal to explore nearby Pompeii, the town frozen in time from the volcanic eruption in AD 79. Guests can also take a trip to the island of Capri to admire its cove-studded coastline and learn about the many legends surrounding the island.
Ships calling on Naples this summer include:
- MSC World Europa: Seven-night cruises from Genoa
- MSC Grandiosa: Seven-night cruises from Livorno
- MSC Divina: Seven-night cruises from Civitavecchia
Cannes, France
Guests seeking a blend of glamour, beauty and Mediterranean charm will need to look no further than this French Riviera hotspot, acclaimed for its world-renowned film festival. This magnetic city offers visitors a range of attractions to explore including breathtaking sceneries, pristine beaches, fantastic restaurants, upscale shops along the famed Boulevard de la Croisette, and the city’s old town, Le Suquet, full of rich history.
Ships calling on Cannes this summer include:
- MSC Musica: Seven-night cruises from Civitavecchia
- MSC Seaview: Seven-night cruises from Barcelona
Comments
Are you planning to take a cruise with MSC in the Mediterranean this summer? Have you ever taken a Mediterranean cruise? Drop us an anchor below and let us know your thoughts!
