Best Time to Cruise the Mediterranean
For optimal weather and adventures aplenty, the best time to cruise the Mediterranean is in the spring, summer or fall season, from early April through late November. During the winter, many locals close up shop, making it difficult for travelers to enjoy the full Mediterranean experience. Whether you want to spend the day touring the Colosseum or taste the first Greek wines of the season, here are the best months to cruise the Mediterranean.
The Spring Mediterranean Cruise Season
Springtime in the Mediterranean welcomes a wonderland of personalities. See countrysides blanketed in lavender, cities sprinkled with oleander and balconies brimming with geranium. Along with the budding flowers of spring, the streets are decorated with local characters. Visit Florence and dine on seasonal produce in the home of a resident farmer. Or shop local markets with a celebrity chef in Corfu and learn about the region’s delicacies.
The Summer Mediterranean Cruise Season
The summer brings endless sun to the Mediterranean. After a season of intermission, the cities awaken in April. Admire the hot pink bougainvillea flowers that bloom around Santorini’s white-walled homes and the vibrant green grass surrounding the Leaning Tower of Pisa. During July and August, cool down with fresh Italian gelato after relaxing on the beaches of Positano. Or step out of the daylight and into the Accademia in Florence, where Michelangelo's David sits gracefully on display.
Known to have the best weather of the year, these mid-summer months welcome guests to dip their toes in the crystalline ocean. Spend a day bathing in the sun at Platis Gialos, one of Mykonos' most famous beaches. Sip on refreshing beverages and feel the warmth of the sand beneath your feet as you look out to the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. With quintessential weather and bustling communities, summer is one of the best times to cruise the Mediterranean.
The Fall Mediterranean Cruise Season
The slightly cooler climate of the fall season doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the beaches of the Mediterranean — but it does make sightseeing more comfortable. Stroll through Rome and toss a coin into the promising waters of Trevi Fountain. Shop for homemade souvenirs along the quaint streets of Capri. Or relive history in the medieval city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For those looking for optimal tour conditions, the best time to cruise the Mediterranean may well be in the fall.
When you cruise the Mediterranean in the fall, prepare to celebrate. With festivals all season long, you might be lucky enough to experience them for yourself. Visit Barcelona around the end of September for a chance to see spirited bands parading through the streets, attracting locals and visitors alike. In Dubrov, taste local favorites through cooking classes and themed dinners. Depending on your sail date, you may even be able to sample Sicily’s olives during their fall harvest season.
From the iconic monuments of Italy to the ancient mythology of Greece, the Mediterranean is teeming with opportunities for exploration. With vibrant landscapes, world-renowned cuisine and lively cultures, it’s no wonder these beloved cities are adored by so many. Sail throughout Europe with Princess® during the Mediterranean cruise season and experience the flavor of these destinations for yourself.