There are so many wonderful cruise ports of call and destinations around the world with these being among the most scenic and popular with travelers.
1. Venice, Italy
This canal-filled city offers some extraordinary views, experiences and history. It’s the favorite destination of many travelers and cruise lines alike as numerous ships dock in this beautiful Italian city on their Mediterranean adventures. Just the views alone from the ship when it’s pulling in and out are magnificent. There are plenty of recognizable landmarks to enjoy such as St. Mark’s Square, the Campanile bell tower, and Doges Palace.
2. Barcelona, Spain – Parc Guell
This site was created by architect Antoni Gaudi in the Gracia neighborhood of Barcelona. It features a small museum, colorful gardens, and some unique and fantastic architecture. The public park has some splendid vistas where you can catch a glimpse of some of the city’s other visual treasures such as the Sagrada Familia church, which was also built by Gaudi. You can also explore the gatehouses, the Room of a Hundred Columns, and the Gaudi House Museum.
3. Marseille, France – Notre Dame de la Garde
If you visit Marseille while on a cruise it’s highly recommended that you take the time to visit the Notre Dame de la Garde basilica. This famous monument is filled with war medals, plaques, and paintings, with some of them dating all the way back to the historical 13th century. The structure was created in Roman Byzantine style and it sits on top of the highest point of Marseille. The views from here are quite breathtaking. You can take a bus to the church, a small train, or climb up the streets to reach it.
4. Rome, Italy – Il Vittoriano
This is a huge white monument that’s made out of marble and is dedicated to Victor Emmanuel II, who was united Italy’s first king. The Il Vittoriano monument looks over the famous Piazza Venezia and it offers some marvelous views of the city. There’s a glass elevator that takes you to the top and you’ll be able to see the historical Roman Colosseum and the surrounding area. You can also get some wonderful views of Rome from Janiculum, which is located near the center of the city.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
The city walls in the beautiful Croatian coastal city of Dubrovnik are quite a sight to behold. The walls were constructed back in the 15th century and are one of the most popular sites in the city. You’ll get some amazing views of the sea and city from on top of the walls. You’ll see some historic landmarks and orange rooftops of the old city. The wall at Dubrovnik is regarded as one of Europe’s best preserved when it comes to fortifications. It’s just over a mile long and has three different entrances. You’ll come across three different forts along the way as well as souvenir shops and a museum.
6. Messina, Sicily, Italy – Taomina
If your cruise docks in Messina, you’ll find the beautiful community of Taormina about an hour away. This charming medieval town is located on a steep hill at Monte Tauro. You’ll be able to see Mount Etnafrom here as well as some exceptional sea views. There’s also a Greek theater here which was constructed way back in the 3rd century B.C. you’ll also see the cathedral, Saracen’s Castle, the Corso Umberto, and Roman baths.
