Extraordinary European Cruise Ports You Shouldn't Skip
Valletta, Malta
Valletta, the capital of the small island nation of Malta, is situated to the south of Sicily. And the views of the medieval fortresses that line the harbor are spectacular. Architecture enthusiasts should head over to St. John's Co-Cathedral in the center of Valletta. Afterward, tour the 16th-century limestone Grand Master's Palace, located on Palace Square. Other shore excursions may include motor coach rides to view ancient megalithic temples and the city of Mdina, the original capital of Malta. A variety of cruise lines, including
Azamara Club Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises offer sailings to Valletta.
Lipari, Italy
A beautiful Italian island located only 50 miles north of Sicily, Lipari offers a picturesque backdrop with colorful fishing boats set against a massive cliff. As you leave the port and wind your way up the cobbled path toward the city, you'll be amazed by old-world sights. Once you reach the top of the hill, take a few moments to absorb the 13th-century Greek mini-amphitheater, and visit the Aeolian Archaeological Museum. Continue your stroll past tiny boutiques and souvenir shops, where you'll find handcrafted jewelry. Many small-ship cruise lines, including Windstar Cruises and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, offer voyages to Lipari.
Explore well-preserved sights at these lesser-known and iconic ports of call.
If you're contemplating a
European cruise, it's important to decide which region you want to visit to find the right itinerary for you. Western Mediterranean itineraries often include stops in Portugal, Spain, Italy and France, while eastern Mediterranean cruises extend from northeast Italy and Croatia into the Adriatic Sea, through the Greek Islands, Turkey and often Israel or Egypt. Meanwhile, northern European voyages may include stops in Britain, Ireland, Scandinavia, the Baltics and Russia. And while it's easier to find cruise itineraries that visit the most well-known
