Italy Cruises

Experience the Allure of Italy with CruiseAway

Italy, a land of enchanting landscapes, captivating history, and world-class cuisine, is the perfect choice for your next cruise holiday. The beauty of experiencing Italy on a cruise is that you can hop from one iconic city to the next, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and scenic views along the way. Cruisers rave about the must-visit highlights, from the canals of Venice to ancient ruins in Rome, and the charming streets of Florence. Fun fact: Italy is home to the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, with 58 sites bursting with cultural and natural beauty! Ready to explore this breathtaking country? A cruise offers you the freedom to uncover Italy’s diverse treasures without the hassle of packing and unpacking.

Top Harbours to Explore in Italy

Italy has a range of stunning harbours that serve as gateways to unforgettable experiences. Here are five of the most popular ports to visit:

• Civitavecchia (Rome): The primary port for exploring Rome, Civitavecchia is your first step to one of the world’s most iconic cities. Ensure you visit historic sites like the **Colosseum**, **Vatican City**, and **Piazza Navona**. If time allows, wander through the charming streets of **Trastevere**. Pro tip: Take a guided tour to get the most out of your short visit, as the sites can be far apart and often crowded!
• Naples: Known as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Naples is alive with local tradition. Make sure to visit the **Naples National Archaeological Museum** for an impressive collection of Roman antiquities and enjoy authentic **Neapolitan pizza** in its birthplace. Insider tip: Don’t miss a quick trip to nearby **Pompeii** for a glimpse into ancient Roman life—it’s spectacular and only a short ride away!
• Venice: The floating city of Venice is a must-visit, famous for its winding canals and stunning architecture. Enjoy a gondola ride through the canals, visit **St. Mark’s Basilica**, and explore the narrow streets filled with shops and local cafés. Pro tip: Take the Vaporetto (water bus) to explore the outer islands like **Murano** and **Burano** for beautiful glassware and vibrant houses!
• Messina: Located in Sicily, Messina boasts incredible historical sites and scenic views. As your cruise docks, take a stroll through **Piazza del Duomo**, known for its stunning clock tower, or visit the nearby **Etna Volcano** for a hiking adventure. Insider tip: Sample the local cuisine at a trattoria for an authentic Sicilian meal—you won’t regret it!
• Livorno: This port city is your gateway to Florence and Pisa. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the **Leaning Tower of Pisa** and the mesmerizing **Duomo** in Florence. Pro tip: Catch a quick train from Livorno to Florence to maximize your sightseeing chances; it’s a brief ride that allows you to experience the Renaissance at its finest!

Optimal Times to Cruise Italy

The best time to visit Italy is typically during the shoulder seasons of **April to June** and **September to October**, when the weather is pleasantly warm, ranging from **15°C to 27°C**. These months provide an excellent opportunity to explore without the bustling crowds that peak during July and August when temperatures can climb up to **30°C or more**. The spring blossoms and autumn colors make the scenery particularly enchanting!

Cost Considerations for Cruising in Italy

When considering a cruise to Italy, expect to pay around **$1,800 to $3,600** for a one-week standard cruise, while a two-week adventure can range from **$3,500 to $6,800**. Luxury cruises generally start around **$5,000** for a one-week journey. The most budget-friendly times to set sail are often during the shoulder seasons, while July and August are when prices peak due to high demand and summer holidays. Regarding food, a typical meal can cost between **$20 to $50**, depending on your choice of dining venue.

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Italy

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships**, **16** sail to Italy, with **MSC Fantasia** and **MSC Magnifica** being the top choices. Departures typically take place from **Genoa** or **Barcelona**. MSC is well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse onboard options, ensuring that cruisers of all ages have a fantastic experience exploring Italy.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line offers **17 ships**, with **11** heading to Italy, namely the **Sun Princess** and **Majestic Princess**. Cruises often depart from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Athens**. Renowned for their exceptional service, Princess Cruises provide immersive cultural experiences that help you connect with the destinations you visit.
• Cunard: With **four ships**, **three** focus on Italy, including **Queen Victoria** and **Queen Anne**. Departing from **Civitavecchia** or **Barcelona**, Cunard is synonymous with elegance and tradition, bringing a refined luxury to cruising with premium culinary offerings and exceptional service steeped in maritime heritage.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line has **11 ships**, with **four** visiting Italy. The popular **Oosterdam** and **Nieuw Statendam** frequently sail from **Sydney** or **Barcelona**. Holland America Line specializes in enhancing the onshore experience, providing unique shore excursions that deeply engage cruisers in local culture.
• P&O Cruises: Boasting **seven ships**, **five** explore the Italian coastline, including **Azura** and **Aurora**. Departures mainly happen from **Valletta** or **Southampton**, and P&O is well-known for its value-for-money cruises, offering a friendly atmosphere with varied onboard and onshore activities.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises: Featuring **11 ships**, **eight** sail to Italy, with **Viking Star** and **Viking Saturn** being notable choices. They frequently depart from **Barcelona** or **Civitavecchia**, and Viking is celebrated for its enriching itineraries, allowing cruisers to deeply engage with Italian culture through immersive shore excursions and local experiences.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This ultra-luxury cruise line includes **six ships**, **five** of which travel to Italy, including **Seven Seas Splendor** and **Seven Seas Voyager**. They generally set sail from **Civitavecchia** or **Athens** and offer all-inclusive luxurious experiences where every meal, excursion, and beverage is covered, making it a luxurious option for travelers seeking indulgence.
• Explora Journeys: This cruise line comprises **two ships**, both visiting Italy, namely **EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II**. Often departing from **Barcelona** or **Civitavecchia**, they provide a mix of luxury and exploration, with a focus on sustainability and enriching cultural experiences.
• Seabourn: With a total of **six ships**, **four** cruise to Italy, including **Seabourn Ovation** and **Seabourn Encore**. They primarily depart from **Barcelona** or **Monte Carlo**. Seabourn is known for its top-notch service and all-inclusive luxury, offering exclusive onboard activities and gourmet dining that showcase local ingredients.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of **eight ships**, **six** explore Italy, including **Nautica** and **Vista**. They typically depart from **Civitavecchia** or **Athens**. Oceania is known for its commitment to culinary excellence, providing memorable dining experiences designed by renowned chefs, making every meal an exquisite adventure!

Explore Alternative Regions

If Italy has caught your interest, but you’re also curious about other incredible destinations, here are five alternatives you should consider:

• Southern Europe: This region offers beautiful coastlines, rich cultural experiences, and delectable culinary delights, perfect for those looking for a similar allure as Italy.
• Western Mediterranean: Known for stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant cities, it provides a unique mix of culture and relaxation.
• Greece: With its breathtaking islands and rich mythology, Greece offers a captivating experience with fantastic food and warm hospitality.
• The Caribbean: A different kind of paradise featuring picturesque beaches and tropical rhythms, it’s perfect for those hoping for a leisurely escape.
• Spain: Combining vibrant cities and regions with unique cultures, Spain promises unforgettable experiences filled with captivating arts and rich history.

Your next adventure awaits in Italy, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes intertwine beautifully. So why wait? Book your cruise with **CruiseAway** today and get ready to explore Italy like never before!