Choosing Between an Eastern & Western Mediterranean Cruise

The Mediterranean stretches from Spain in the West all the way to Turkiye and Egypt in the East. The beauty of cruises to this part of the world is the consistency when it comes to experiencing rich cultures. From historical sites to beautiful artwork, there’s tons to see everywhere you are. And what better way to experience a culture than through its food & wine? This part of the world features world-class cuisine and delectable wines at every turn.

When it comes to the Western Mediterranean, there are some unique experiences. While there is art everywhere, this part of the Med features art and museums heavily. The art tends to be more Renaissance up through to modern, contemporary artworks. You’ll also find more refined towns with luxury shopping boutiques. The beaches also tend to feature more rocky pebbles than sand.

In the Eastern Mediterranean, you’ll find a lot more archaeology focused sites. These date back thousands of years, and differs from the Western Med to focus more on ancient history. You’ll also often find more breathtaking landscapes and untouched vistas. This is also the part of the Mediterranean where you’ll find award-winning beaches with pristine white sand (or black sand in volcanic areas like Santorini).

The Mediterranean has something to offer every type of traveler, depending on what they hope to see and do. More active cruisers may prefer port-intensive Western Mediterranean cruises, while relaxing honeymooners may prefer the laid-back vibes of the Eastern Mediterranean. Reach out and let's plan your perfect Mediterranean cruise!

This guide is part of our ongoing series on International Travel. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Solo Transatlantic Cruise on Celebrity Equinox.