Favorite/worst HAL Mediterranean ports?

[SeaWatch]

I am planning my first Med cruise......what are your favorite and least favorite HAL ports? Pictures would be GREAT also :)

[numbersix]

Bit of a Luddite, so no pics, but favourite Med ports are:

Basically, we love all of them, but love these the most:

--Santorini
--Kusadasi (Ephesus)
--Venice
--Naples
--Barcelona
--Civitavecchia (Rome)--but wish Rome was closer to the port(!)
--Athens
--Monte Carlo

Least:

--Marseille
--Corfu

(But we still like these, just like them a bit less than the others--they're still 7 or 8 out of 10, while the others are 10+)


For a first Med cruise (is it also 1st Europe trip?), you might think about hitting the 'biggies', like Rome, Barcelona, Venice, Athens, and maybe add a Paris and London, if possible? Just a thought.

Anyway, whatever you end up doing, you'll love Europe/the Med!

Kevin

[SeaWatch]

We have been to the ' mainland ' using the train in France and Italy ( yes, a train strike made a cruise seem like the next mode of transport!) but have not seen the coast of France, Greece or Turkey.

[cruisemom42]

Wow -- tough question. There are few Mediterranean ports that are "duds". Some have more history, some have more scenery. I prefer the Eastern Mediterranean to the Western, mostly because I'm a huge history nerd and the traces of Roman, Greek and other civilizations are more visible in the Eastern ports than the Western ones.

I also tend to prefer larger cities to smaller islands, and I will pick a museum or a great ruin over pretty beaches and scenery any day.

I suppose my least favorite port I've visited so far would have to be Corfu. Just not much there of interest to me.


Most Favorite: Rome (Civitavecchia) -- there is so much to see here that a week can barely scratch the surface. Works best as a port when your cruise begins or ends there, allowing you to spend extra days sightseeing. Even with only a day, you can see a lot. Public transportation via train is cheap and easy if you are a do-it-yourself type.

I have a zillion photos; a few of my favorites:

The Pantheon, the most perfectly preserved building from ancient Rome (exterior and interior):

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Nn36mEBoeKM/TsnUPrMWzyI/AAAAAAAADgk/PR8ZzqIaBT4/s576/P1040304.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zSBjdK7nln8/Tsk2zk7oypI/AAAAAAAADX4/N92VenXXaeo/s512/P1040163.JPG



And of course, the Colosseum (outside and inside):

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BU9mObldfgo/TslwHXecTGI/AAAAAAAADf8/a8AUHzrsx7g/s576/P1040290.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mKplIi36W1Y/TeJ_axZ2GMI/AAAAAAAABdQ/PfqQIKTsy34/s640/IMG_0444.JPG




Two of Rome's most famous fountains: Trevi (above) and the Fountain of the Four Rivers at Piazza Navona (below):

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-qJQ5GnogXcA/TeY-kM4KTQI/AAAAAAAABuk/5RTi-QdjMGM/s576/IMG_0380.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t9PPGdGblvg/TsxssZcKSyI/AAAAAAAADpM/SJhuEIEn8zM/s512/P1040548.JPG

[2ptu/000]

Istanbul is amazing

[SeaWatch]

Do you feel Instanbul /turkey is safe?

[KirkNC]

Yes Turkey is safe. We did Istanbul on our own with no problem.

My favorite port would be Liverno, gateway to Florence.

[George C]

Loved Naples, went forn to Pompeii then had lunch at the oldest pizza place Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, food was unbelivable, had a great taxi diver that we hired for
the day

[andeesue]

Wow -- tough question. There are few Mediterranean ports that are "duds". Some have more history, some have more scenery. I prefer the Eastern Mediterranean to the Western, mostly because I'm a huge history nerd and the traces of Roman, Greek and other civilizations are more visible in the Eastern ports than the Western ones.

I also tend to prefer larger cities to smaller islands, and I will pick a museum or a great ruin over pretty beaches and scenery any day.

I suppose my least favorite port I've visited so far would have to be Corfu. Just not much there of interest to me.


Most Favorite: Rome (Civitavecchia) -- there is so much to see here that a week can barely scratch the surface. Works best as a port when your cruise begins or ends there, allowing you to spend extra days sightseeing. Even with only a day, you can see a lot. Public transportation via train is cheap and easy if you are a do-it-yourself type.

I have a zillion photos; a few of my favorites:

The Pantheon, the most perfectly preserved building from ancient Rome (exterior and interior):

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Nn36mEBoeKM/TsnUPrMWzyI/AAAAAAAADgk/PR8ZzqIaBT4/s576/P1040304.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zSBjdK7nln8/Tsk2zk7oypI/AAAAAAAADX4/N92VenXXaeo/s512/P1040163.JPG



And of course, the Colosseum (outside and inside):

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BU9mObldfgo/TslwHXecTGI/AAAAAAAADf8/a8AUHzrsx7g/s576/P1040290.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mKplIi36W1Y/TeJ_axZ2GMI/AAAAAAAABdQ/PfqQIKTsy34/s640/IMG_0444.JPG




Two of Rome's most famous fountains: Trevi (above) and the Fountain of the Four Rivers at Piazza Navona (below):

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-qJQ5GnogXcA/TeY-kM4KTQI/AAAAAAAABuk/5RTi-QdjMGM/s576/IMG_0380.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t9PPGdGblvg/TsxssZcKSyI/AAAAAAAADpM/SJhuEIEn8zM/s512/P1040548.JPG

Great shots! I'm ready and raring to go on a Med. cruise after seeing these. I've traveled lots in the area, but never on a cruise... should be wonderful!

[KirkNC]

Yes Turkey is safe. We did Istanbul on our own with no problem.

My favorite port would be Liverno, gateway to Florence.

[iancal]

Turkey is very safe. We been there a number of times. Last fall we did a cruise from Istanbul and then did a two week independent land trip. We actually feel safer in Turkey than we do in parts of Italy or Spain.

[Harry1954]

Turkey is indeed very safe and eating in the restaurants in Istanbul is just wonderful.
We have done the Med many, many times and visited about all the ports that are typically available. The only ones we found problematic and will not return were the ports of Morocco and Algeria. The people were unfriendly, the carpet sellers et all were brazenly rude, especially to women and the streets were filthy.
ALl other ports are wonderful.
harry

[SweetP2]

Turkey is indeed very safe and eating in the restaurants in Istanbul is just wonderful.
We have done the Med many, many times and visited about all the ports that are typically available. The only ones we found problematic and will not return were the ports of Morocco and Algeria. The people were unfriendly, the carpet sellers et all were brazenly rude, especially to women and the streets were filthy.
ALl other ports are wonderful.
harry

Just want to clarify to all saying Turkey is safe. I agree, many of the countries are safe, including Turkey, however, in most cases it is because you are a man, or have a man at your side. We know many 'women only travellers' that experienced many unsafe, scary moments in Turkey and couple of other countries...certainly not all. One occurrence: they were feeling extremely unsafe until one of the women's son walked up to their sides and all the men backed off, shook his hand, and assumed the women were his wifes!

SP

[tbrein]

Argostoli was one that did not interest me. Split was not high on my list either.

However, I loved Corfu. We rented a car and went all over the island. The views from Bella Vista are magnificent! Very pretty island. As far as history goes, that is another story.
Terri

[cruisemom42]

Do you feel Instanbul /turkey is safe?


I've been to Istanbul four times and to Turkey on a land trip. I feel Turkey is very safe. Three of the four times in Istanbul I've walked around extensively on my own, including taking public transportation and eating in restaurants. Twice have stayed in a hotel on my own. Never had any problems other than the usual slightly bothersome carpet vendors in the tourist shopping areas.

Overall, Turkey is one of my favorite countries and Istanbul is probably my second favorite Med port (after Rome). The port of Kusadasi, with a visit to the ruins of Ephesus, is nothing short of amazing as well and should be a MUST on any Eastern Med itinerary.

[cruisemom42]

Just want to clarify to all saying Turkey is safe. I agree, many of the countries are safe, including Turkey, however, in most cases it is because you are a man, or have a man at your side. We know many 'women only travellers' that experienced many unsafe, scary moments in Turkey and couple of other countries...certainly not all. One occurrence: they were feeling extremely unsafe until one of the women's son walked up to their sides and all the men backed off, shook his hand, and assumed the women were his wifes!

SP

This has not been my experience at all in Istanbul or Turkey in general. (See my previous post.)

[dazadelaide]

Istanbul is fantastic! as is Kusadasi to see Ephesus, also Crete to see Knossos Chainia on Crete is very picturesque.
Have a great trip.
Daz

[kazu]

Sailling in and out of Venice is a very pretty sight. One of the most surprising ports for us was Dubrovnik. A beautiful town which we enjoyed very much.

[baggal]

I love the French Riviera. Also, Florence and Naples (for Pompeii and the Amalfi coast), Rome not as much. The sail-in to Venice is breathtaking. Barcelona is a great tourist city too. No matter what, you can't go wrong with a Mediterranean cruise.

[Cruising-along]

After 3 Med cruises, I can't think of one port I haven't liked. Eastern Western, it's all wonderful. Istanbul is one of my favorite ports, but I find it hard to pick a #1 favorite.

Also at the top of my list would be Rome, Athens,Santorini -- (anywhere in Greece). I find Greece breathtakingly beautiful.

[habibti]

Loved Venice, Naples,Valleta, Taormina, Santorini & Kotor - liked most all of them ... my least favorite was Ravenna - but they're all good when your cruising!!

[iancal]

We are not very fond of Livorno or Civit. They are both too far from where we want to go and too much time is wasted on transportation. We avoid these ports in favor of land tours.

[catl331]

I am planning my first Med cruise......what are your favorite and least favorite HAL ports? Pictures would be GREAT also :)I'd say Venice and Istanbul are at the top of my 'best' list, and Palermo the worst.

Do you feel Instanbul /turkey is safe?Yes. Fascinating city!

[callmedeb]

From our recent Med Cruise here are my thoughts:

Loved:
Rome (we spent three days at the end of the cruise, what an amazing and walkable city)
Pisa (was with my Dad so just did Pisa from Livorno, on our own. So pretty)
Palma de Mallorca (Just took the transfer to town and walked around)
Tunis, Tunisa (LOVED, LOVED, LOVED - this was my favourite stop, the people were awesome and the history was inspiring)

Meh:
Monaco (Pretty, but expensive, liked looking at the boats in the marina)
Barcellona (probably because I had a cold - would like to go back though)

Disliked:
Palmero, Sicily (Didn't help that we were there on a Sunday, wouldn't go back)
Naples (Graffiti on Monuments! Dirty! Only place I felt unsafe. I'd go back but head away from town to Almalfi and Pompeii. Did do those this time, just did the city)

Cheers,

Deb

[lawyerrose]

I notice that many people have said they really liked Istanbul. Can you tell me what makes this port so attractive?

[Wayfairers]

We were in the Mediterranean last fall on the Maasdam and loved it. We visited too many ports to list them all, but here are some of the standouts IMO....

Barcelona was my favorite .... Loved just wandering the streets, Sagrada Familia is a don't miss as is Parc Guell.
Palermo, Sicily ... The catacombs were incredible.
Sorrent, Italy is a fun town to wander with delicious pizza.
Naples... Good place to drive through on the way to Pompeii or Herculaneum. The city looked dirty. The Alfami coast is a beautiful drive with cute towns....Positano or Almafi.
Rome..amazing sites and delicious food.
Palma de Mallora make sure you do an island tour, it is beautiful. And the train ride in Soller is nice too.

We really enjoyed all the stops. They all have something interesting, you just have to have the right attitude and find the things that interest you.

[ANSalberg]

I am planning my first Med cruise......what are your favorite and least favorite HAL ports? Pictures would be GREAT also :)

I think the Mediterranean ports are all marvelous BECAUSE they are segments of history and I LOVE learning about civilization and THERE is the perfect place. The one that simply "blew me away" was Malta -where a tour took us to the top of the mountain that contained a mausolium that was 8000 years old; THAT enough blew me away but there were carvings/artwork -waves - cut into the limestone. I would have thought that 8000 years ago your biggest quest would be to stay alive....but this artwork was beautiful -if simple. THAT'S what you "see" in the Med - where we came FROM!
Anne

[RuthC]

I notice that many people have said they really liked Istanbul. Can you tell me what makes this port so attractive?
My arrival to this exotic city was a pretty ride on a beautiful, sunny day.
It is a city open to western culture, yet displays a strong Middle Eastern culture of its own. There were many, many (too many!) places to tour that are nothing like home. Topkopi Palace was beyond interesting, and had lots and lots of precious jewels on display. I wanted to run my fingers through the bowl of large emeralds on display!
Wander through the Spice Market, and the Grand Bazaar and be amazed at what is for sale!
The Blue Mosque was worth the long walk to get in.

I felt very safe, even breaking away from my tour to take a rest. Perhaps it's because I'm an older, somewhat disabled, woman, but the men took care to see that I was comfortable.

[SwissMyst]

The best things about historic Mediterranean ports is they grew in importance for centuries simply because they had this prime access to the sea. Consequently they are best viewed when coming into them from the sea.

CORFU: We did the hydrofoil excursion to Albania and it was terrific to see this previously isolated country with its past glories (Butrint - UNESCO site) and present challenges trying to find a place in the modern world and economy. We had an excellent guide on this HAL excursion (Ryndam: 8-9/11).

NAPLES: One of our nostalgic favorites. Rick Steve's book on Mediterranean cruise ports provides an excellent and easy walking tour of this fascinating city to try and tackle it in one day - easy access from the port to the heart of the city. Or also look into an idyllic sojourn to the tiny island of Procida on your own also leaving directly from the port area by hydrofoil one hour each way. Great read: From Salt Water to Holy Water.

CADIZ: time it right, and you can take the fast train from Cadiz next to the port into Seville and do this lovely city on your own for about three hours. Spanish Railways online to get train schedules

CAGLIARI, Sardenia: on your own - local train close to port to Oristano - great views of the country side and fascinating, elegant little town for a quick day trip turn-around. Check "Trenitalia" website for train schedules

VALETTA, Malta: fabulous city with compelling history. A must read is The Siege of 1565, day by day, blow by blow of one of the most fascinating battles between the clash of Mediterranean civilizations, great read even for those not interested in military battles. Super easy access from port.

PALMA DE MALLORCA: on your own: wonderful walking city and local trains to outlying destinations, well set up for tourists

BARCELONA: one of the world's great cities, layers upon layers of fascinating exploration, very easy access from port. HOHO gives a thorough sweep for superficial overview.

TRAPANI, Sicily: Local train to Marsala and see the windmills and salt flat area and visit a non-tourst small town with an excellent maritime museum. Train station in easy access from port.

[cruisemom42]

I notice that many people have said they really liked Istanbul. Can you tell me what makes this port so attractive?

There are a lot of reasons to like Istanbul. It's just exotic enough to be interesting, without being off-putting. It's a very picturesque place, people are friendly, the city is clean (as cities go), the food is delicious, and the sites are close to the ship and easy to get to in a limited amount of time. And it's got history galore.

Additionally, for those who like to "go it alone", transportation to and from the Old Town (Sultanahmet) area where most of the key sites are located is a cinch on the local tram that runs on a street about 3 blocks from the cruise terminal. There is only one line so it's practically fool-proof.

A few photos, for the original poster.....

The Blue Mosque:

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-JA5gktUyp4s/TysqIN9J07I/AAAAAAAAEoE/VwDnP83QSKU/s576/IMG_0283.JPG


The Basilica Cistern: (a holding tank for water never looked so good...)

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-m2KjKWdloP8/TQ6tqxuoikI/AAAAAAAAAZk/sZMwOy8vxak/s640/P1000246.JPG


The Haghia Sophia:

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W11J9roSreI/TQ7IbM76spI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/uxQY-4-Y5YI/s576/P1000365.JPG

[SwissMyst]

Just want to clarify to all saying Turkey is safe. I agree, many of the countries are safe, including Turkey, however, in most cases it is because you are a man, or have a man at your side. We know many 'women only travellers' that experienced many unsafe, scary moments in Turkey and couple of other countries...certainly not all. One occurrence: they were feeling extremely unsafe until one of the women's son walked up to their sides and all the men backed off, shook his hand, and assumed the women were his wifes!

SP

Traveled independently in Turkey for several weeks - only incidences were in crowded trams etc when men would "brush" their hand against my backside, but only when they thought it was an anonymous setting. Otherwise the hospitality I experienced was overwhelmingly welcoming and wonderful. In fact, many would offer me a safe place to stand on the trams just so this sort of "brushing" could be avoided. While silly and annoying, it NEVER felt unsafe. At first I thought it was just jostling in a crowd, then it was obvious there as a pattern to it. I then could see that sort of setting coming and took steps to avoid it. That was the end of it.

[SwissMyst]

I notice that many people have said they really liked Istanbul. Can you tell me what makes this port so attractive?

Highly walkable city full of color, history, crowded street life, pedestrian only areas and intriguing side streets with markets and food stalls, fabulous food, good pubic transportation, beautiful Turkish Auto Club historic restorations, lots of tourist amenities and public bathrooms, exotic enough for non-western eyes, but friendly enough to feel safe and accessible, opulent architecture, high presence of public safety officials .............

[Ians Grandma]

I liked all of the Med ports but I thought that sailing into Valetta in Malta was the most beautiful of them all.

[iancal]

We did a DIY cruise in Croatia. Ferry from Ancona to Split. Then we used the local Jadrolinija ferries to go down the coast to places like Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnic, and Kotor. Spent a few days in each location. Then back to Italy via the ferry to Bari. We prefer to have multiple days at each stop rather than a few hours.

One of our other favourites is Lisbon...but you really need a few days.

[SwissMyst]

I liked all of the Med ports but I thought that sailing into Valetta in Malta was the most beautiful of them all.

Our entrance to the Valetta harbor in late August, early September was in the very early morning hour when the lights were still on showcasing the monumental architecture, but the sun was making the sky rosy gold creating dramatic shilouettes . Fabulous combination. Best part of that early arrival on the Ryndam was having the city more to ourselves at least for a few hours before the hordes of mega ships started out-pouring their crowds.

[RMLincoln]

Venice! Loved Venice. Had 3 days there before sailing. History, art, glass, music, especially the music! Went to organ recitals in the afternoons (free) and small-venue classical concerts o the evenings. Rode the vaporettos (water buses) all day to get anywhere, or one can walk everywhere - it's pretty small. One could spend a weeks at the Doges Palace. Definately Venice! m--

[madera1]

We enjoyed all of the ports although Messina, Sicily was our least favorite. Ephesus was the biggest delight for us. We enjoyed the tour we took and learned so much history. I thought Santorini was beautiful. We have not made it to Istanbul but would like to visit there in the future.

[ricki]

How much did people enjoy Pompeii?

Ricki

[Cruising-along]

We have been to Pompeii twice and loved it. By taking 2 different tours we saw different things. The place is huge, and most tours (if you don't go on your own) are only a couple hours long. It probably would take at least 4 hours to see everything.

The second time we went to Pompeii, we went to Mt. Vesuvius first and hiked the top part up to the crater. Amazing experience looking down at Pompeii and Herculaneum from the top of the volcano.

[Bellair]

Our favourite ports on the Rotterdam 12 day Ancient Discoveries Oct. 2011 visiting; Athens, Piraeus, Rhodes and Gythios in Greece, The Pyramids of Cairo Egypt, Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee & Nazareth in Israel, Ephasus Turkey and Rome Italy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtVKXPeSJQ
MV Rotterdam Spanish Charms 15 day Cruise highlights Nov.2011 sailing from Rome Italy to Corsica France, Barcelona-Cartagena-Malaga Spain, Tangier Morocco, Funchal Portugal and Fort Lauderdale USA.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMTI61gFq9U

Enjoy

NB

[ariawoman]

Rome is my favorite city, but only to start/end a cruise because you need at least 3 days there if not more to really get the full experience. Been there 3 times and would go again tomorrow if I could.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L2dicGtHhqA/SvJkOU2HdNI/AAAAAAAABNc/7iIQx1RXDzk/s640/IMG_1658.JPG

I love Santorini - Oia Village is just amazing to me, especially in great weather.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HKYRAUNCbmA/TMD9bKbQiQI/AAAAAAAADbc/GcjL2m1Kvfw/s640/SAM_1282.JPG

Dubrovnik really surprised me. It's gorgeous. I loved climbing the city walls and taking a million pictures. If you don't believe me, look in the album I took lol https://picasaweb.google.com/103697664725694822863/Vacation2010DubrovnikCroatia

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_Y9NDxPwhDg/TMR4kyzZ6eI/AAAAAAAADvE/jAA-B1G_ShY/s912/SAM_0708.JPG

I've been to several ports listed, if you back up to my main album on the top of that page you'll find venice, rome, barcelona, corfu, santorini, etc. I'm in love with cruising in the med!

This year is the first time I'm going to be traveling overseas and NOT visiting Rome. I might suffer withdrawals!

[cruisemom42]

How much did people enjoy Pompeii?

Ricki


From my daily reading of the Italy forum for the last 5 years, I can tell you most folks really enjoy Pompeii. The only things that can detract from the experience are the extreme heat in the middle of summer (very little shade there) and sometimes it can be very crowded.



We have been to Pompeii twice and loved it. By taking 2 different tours we saw different things. The place is huge, and most tours (if you don't go on your own) are only a couple hours long. It probably would take at least 4 hours to see everything.



This gave me a chuckle. I've been to Pompeii twice on short tours, like you. I'm planning to go back there when I spend a week in Sorrento in late March. We originally planned to spend a whole day at the site. After doing thorough research, we decided TWO days would be necessary just to see the "selected" sites that we wanted to be sure not to miss! :D

Some Pompeii photos:

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MLmFfUQNUpM/Ty1DWOcoEBI/AAAAAAAAEq0/oS5qQvGW144/s640/IMG_0015.JPG


https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Wcev5H-NK1g/Ty1DdBjCEBI/AAAAAAAAErE/3LiL2BV_gRg/s640/IMG_0018.JPG


https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-JiXW544KLsc/Ty1HK3CITKI/AAAAAAAAEr0/PSvCQVYiNNM/s640/IMG_0024.JPG


https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bhEN7Exd6m4/Ty1HSWon2GI/AAAAAAAAEss/CBTGN_Wx1yY/s640/IMG_0026.JPG


The last one, of the Forum with Vesuvius in the background, always gives me a bit of a deja vu chill.

[Hlitner]

Over the years we have probably been to just about every port in Europe (not just the Med). We do not have a "least favorite" Med port but our least favorite in Europe would be Murmansk, Russia!

Hank

[RuthC]

Over the years we have probably been to just about every port in Europe (not just the Med). We do not have a "least favorite" Med port but our least favorite in Europe would be Murmansk, Russia!
Aw, com'on. You didn't think watching the Soviet-style security officers go through their routines for hours upon hours was worth the price of admission?

For those who weren't there---
It took as much time to check back on the ship as it did to check off. We had to pass Russian inspection both ways. When that time, plus the time for whatever other procedures they went through, was added up, it was about twice as long as passengers had ashore.
Maybe more. :rolleyes:

[Cruising-along]

.......

This gave me a chuckle. I've been to Pompeii twice on short tours, like you. I'm planning to go back there when I spend a week in Sorrento in late March. We originally planned to spend a whole day at the site. After doing thorough research, we decided TWO days would be necessary just to see the "selected" sites that we wanted to be sure not to miss! :D.....



LOL Cynthia, after I wrote "4 hours" I thought to myself "no, that definitely wouldn't be enough either"! :D

[baggal]

We did a DIY cruise in Croatia. Ferry from Ancona to Split. Then we used the local Jadrolinija ferries to go down the coast to places like Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnic, and Kotor. Spent a few days in each location. Then back to Italy via the ferry to Bari. We prefer to have multiple days at each stop rather than a few hours.

One of our other favourites is Lisbon...but you really need a few days.

I agree, but unfortunately not everyone has the luxury of time. That's why a European cruise is so wonderful, you're able to get the biggest bang for your buck in terms of time and cost.

[Jacqueline]

Athens is ok the first few times, but i would be happy to never go there again... someone at our table was bitten by one of the many stray dogs that are everywhere. So many cruises go in and of there that it is unavoidable.
Valetta, beautiful, stunning!
Anywhere in Turkey.
Barcelona is unusual and unique
Got robbed in Sicily so not the best memory!
I have done 3 seperate cruises in the Med and think it is such an excellent. Everyplace is worth seeing once.
Most people are takenwith Turkey because it is an excellent place to enjoy the Muslim culture in a secular setting. People are great, food good, culture and history remarkable.

[LindaM]

We did a DIY cruise in Croatia. Ferry from Ancona to Split. Then we used the local Jadrolinija ferries to go down the coast to places like Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnic, and Kotor. Spent a few days in each location. Then back to Italy via the ferry to Bari. We prefer to have multiple days at each stop rather than a few hours.

One of our other favourites is Lisbon...but you really need a few days.

So as not to confuse the OP, Lisbon is on the Atlantic. Not our favorite port---very dirty. Oporto is more charming---also on the Atlantic!

[Arwen]

Do you feel Instanbul /turkey is safe?

Our stop was in Ephesus. It was fantastic and it makes me want to go back and see Istanbul and more of Turkey. I felt very safe there.

[SwissMyst]

So as not to confuse the OP, Lisbon is on the Atlantic. Not our favorite port---very dirty. Oporto is more charming---also on the Atlantic!

Recently in Lisbon for two days and found it to be very enjoyable and a great location to be docked, close to everything. Very good public transportation and highly walkable city. I personally would not call it a "dirty" or unsafe city as of Dec 2011. When were you there - it is a country in economic distress obviously, but this was not apparent in the shops, cafes and street life from what we could see.

[SwissMyst]

......
Got robbed in Sicily so not the best memory!
.......

We had to fend off some very organized pick-pocketers in Palermo, at the local bus stop up to Monreale - very much a place tourists frequent. Where in Sicily did you have your problem? Definitely one needs stay away from crowds or packs of young people who seem to block your progress getting on a bus or similar setting.

[Infi]

Favorites:
Naples (for Amalfi coast)
Athens

Least favorites:
Lisbon (filthy)
Istanbul (bad weather affected the enjoyment of our day here)

[Jacqueline]

Swissmyst,
You jogged my memory! It was Palermo.. Everything exactly as you stated.
My dad was not sufficiently careful. These guys were very very good at pickpocketing. He did not even know that they did it right away.
We probably got lulled into a state of complacency and let our guard down.

[SeaWatch]

Well, it sounds like I can not go wrong with any iteniary! I think Greece in in my future :).
Loved the pics!

[mermaid72]

Eze high in the French Riviera is too lovely, smells great too.... a perfume factory is there.
Monte Carlo, and Nice are nice too!!! Pick out a yacht and villa to rent there. Kotor is an amazing and historical city.

The larger cities are of course, something that must be seen at least once, but be prepared for a fast-paced, exhausting whirlwind of a tour. The smaller towns are more typical of the Mediterranean culture. If I go back, I would stay away from the big cities, just like I do at home!

[PatsyAnne]

I think the Mediterranean ports are all marvelous BECAUSE they are segments of history and I LOVE learning about civilization and THERE is the perfect place. The one that simply "blew me away" was Malta -where a tour took us to the top of the mountain that contained a mausolium that was 8000 years old; THAT enough blew me away but there were carvings/artwork -waves - cut into the limestone. I would have thought that 8000 years ago your biggest quest would be to stay alive....but this artwork was beautiful -if simple. THAT'S what you "see" in the Med - where we came FROM!
Anne
I haven't seen Malta on the ports lately, but that was the surprise for us also. Just wandering around town was rich! We stumbled across St. Paul's Shipwreck Collegiate Church in Valletta and were amazed. (Sorry about italics - I copied something and they want to stay!)

[lcand1923]

Re pickpockets -- I don't care where you are in Europe, you have to be careful about pickpockets. They are so organized that you will lose your purse or wallet without realizing it. A good tip for men, wrap a rubber band around your wallet before inserting it in a pocket. It makes it harder for someone to get it out of your pocket. A good tip for women, leave your purse on the ship. Use some sort of tote bag and bury your wallet under a jacket, water bottle, whatever. Better still for both men and women, wear a money belt under your clothes and have only a limited amount of cash in your pocket. It is rather unnerving to reach into your pocket or purse and find another hand already in there! (True story - has happened to us twice!)

[travelnnana]

I love Rome - though we are looking forward to our 1st eastern Med cruise on the Nieuw Amsterdam in October - last year we took the Noordam - western 10 days - the best thing about that is it embarks and disembarks in Civitevecchia - so one can spend some time in ROme before or after!

[SwissMyst]

Re pickpockets -- I don't care where you are in Europe, you have to be careful about pickpockets. They are so organized that you will lose your purse or wallet without realizing it. A good tip for men, wrap a rubber band around your wallet before inserting it in a pocket. It makes it harder for someone to get it out of your pocket. A good tip for women, leave your purse on the ship. Use some sort of tote bag and bury your wallet under a jacket, water bottle, whatever. Better still for both men and women, wear a money belt under your clothes and have only a limited amount of cash in your pocket. It is rather unnerving to reach into your pocket or purse and find another hand already in there! (True story - has happened to us twice!)

Good tips. Always be the last to board a local bus too. Do not get sandwiched between two groups of people who appear to be hanging around bus stops, particularly if they watch other busses to and then line up when you get ready to get on yours.

The Palermo bus driver just looked away when this was obviously happening to us. Luckily DH was prepared and was able to stop it and this pack of young people just melted away and quickly got off the bus.

DH was so proud of his "pickpocket" proof pants for this trip he got at Magellens that had both two button flap and a zipper on the back pocket.

They had gotten through the two button flap in the jostle getting on the bus, but did not get the zipper undone. I keep trying to tell him nothing in the back pocket, but he was so sure this two-barrier system would work that he did it anyway. Well it ....... almost ...... did not work. :eek:

For me, now I take almost nothing of value that does not fit inside a small money belt at my waist and I operate hands-free. I carry nothing that does not fit into pockets either. Sun glasses around my neck. Lipstick, tissues and wipes in pockets. If I keep everything "tied down" it is less likely I will go off and forget it too, which is as annoying as getting it pick-pocketed because you know who to blame. :o

[Storylady]

DH was so proud of his "pickpocket" proof pants for this trip he got at Magellens that had both two button flap and a zipper on the back pocket.

They had gotten through the two button flap in the jostle getting on the bus, but did not get the zipper undone. I keep trying to tell him nothing in the back pocket, but he was so sure this two-barrier system would work that he did it anyway. Well it ....... almost ...... did not work. :eek:

:o

Your husband was very lucky. We had a speaker on board the Maasdam before our port call in Barcelona. He gave us a view of Barcelona from a natives point of view. He also talked about the art of pick pocketing in Barcelona. And he mentioned that they sometimes just use a knife an slice open the pocket to get what is in it.

[Storylady]

Our favourite ports on the Rotterdam 12 day Ancient Discoveries Oct. 2011 visiting; Athens, Piraeus, Rhodes and Gythios in Greece, The Pyramids of Cairo Egypt, Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee & Nazareth in Israel, Ephasus Turkey and Rome Italy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtVKXPeSJQ
MV Rotterdam Spanish Charms 15 day Cruise highlights Nov.2011 sailing from Rome Italy to Corsica France, Barcelona-Cartagena-Malaga Spain, Tangier Morocco, Funchal Portugal and Fort Lauderdale USA.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMTI61gFq9U

Enjoy

NB

Thanks for sharing. I saw the first video on the HAL blog and was looking forward to seeing your production of the 2nd one. You do an incredible job of film editing. Many of your ports of call brought back fantastic memories of our visits to the Mediterranean.

[Willsot]

Eze high in the French Riviera is too lovely, smells great too.... a perfume factory is there.
Monte Carlo, and Nice are nice too!!! Pick out a yacht and villa to rent there. Kotor is an amazing and historical city.

The larger cities are of course, something that must be seen at least once, but be prepared for a fast-paced, exhausting whirlwind of a tour. The smaller towns are more typical of the Mediterranean culture. If I go back, I would stay away from the big cities, just like I do at home!

I agree. I think Monte Carlo was our favorite stop because we loved going to Nice and Eze. Breathtaking vistas along that coastal drive.

[magandab]

I'm far more of a natural beauty lover, than a city lover. My two favorites were Cephalonia and Dubrovnik for sheer beauty. Oddly, while I enjoyed Santorini - it was a thrill seeing the photos of a lifetime in person - it was so crowded that it was hard to enjoy it as much as I had hoped.

[magandab]

Here are a few photos. Dubrovnik's old walled city - the gorgeous water colors in Cephalonia - Lake Melissani, and underground lake with amazing colors.

[Cruising-along]

Your husband was very lucky. We had a speaker on board the Maasdam before our port call in Barcelona. He gave us a view of Barcelona from a natives point of view. He also talked about the art of pick pocketing in Barcelona. And he mentioned that they sometimes just use a knife an slice open the pocket to get what is in it.

So true. The only safe place to keep your things, IMO, is in a money belt around your waist under your clothing. I'm afraid too many tourists are unaware sitting ducks and don't realize the lengths the pickpockets are willing to go.

We watched a special about pickpockets and even though we've always been extra careful, we were amazed at what they can do without you having a clue until it's too late.

[SeaWatch]

Anyone have thoughts on HAL dropping Mykonos and adding Lesbos and Argostoli for their summer 2013 N Amsterdam cruises?

[hamrag]

Rather than repeat anything a number of people have said, a further two ports which we have found to be amazing....the island of Rhodes, Greece and also Kotor, Montenegro - the sail in/out to this port is incredible, like a Norwegian Fjord in the Meditteranean! Not sure if anyone has mentioned Monte Carlo, Monaco also a true gem.

[Taxguy77]

Sailling in and out of Venice is a very pretty sight. One of the most surprising ports for us was Dubrovnik. A beautiful town which we enjoyed very much.

That saves me from picking some. You picked two of the best!

[SwissMyst]

....
We watched a special about pickpockets and even though we've always been extra careful, we were amazed at what they can do without you having a clue until it's too late.

The art of distraction goes hand in hand with their hand in the pocket. That is where they can be so good and so effortless. Wish you had a link to that special - do you think it is available somewhere online? Sounds good.

[localady]

I really want to thank everyone for adding to this thread. :D This afternoon, DH and I booked a 24 day cruise on the Nieuw Amsterdam for this October, and I am thrilled at all the good information from my HAL cruiser buddies. I trust your experiences and value your insights!!
Thank you!!:D

[Cruising-along]

The art of distraction goes hand in hand with their hand in the pocket. That is where they can be so good and so effortless. Wish you had a link to that special - do you think it is available somewhere online? Sounds good.

Oh I wish I did, sorry. :( It was a few months ago, most likely either on the History channel or National Geographic channel.

[maranelloboy05]

My only med cruise so far was on NCL, but I loved Monaco. I'm a big Formula 1 fan so the chance to walk the circuit was incredible. For our stop in Naples we jumped on the ferry to Capri and it was fantastic as well. I did however just book the Nieuw Amsterdam for the 12-day Mediterranean Tapestry cruise next May which includes both of these great ports and many others, can't wait.

Monaco

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5068/5553294045_28a41af557_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/maranelloboy05/5553294045/)
IMG_4044.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/maranelloboy05/5553294045/) by Chris Schlumpf Photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/maranelloboy05/), on Flickr

Capri

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7051/6773396658_8879c305e2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/maranelloboy05/6773396658/)
IMG_4584.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/maranelloboy05/6773396658/) by Chris Schlumpf Photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/maranelloboy05/), on Flickr

[SwissMyst]

..... For our stop in Naples we jumped on the ferry to Capri and it was fantastic as well. I did however just book the Nieuw Amsterdam for the 12-day Mediterranean Tapestry cruise next May which includes both of these great ports and many others, can't wait.



Try also jumping the ferry next time for Procida, which is only one hour away from where the ship docks in Naples - very small, walkable, scenic and often used as a movie set. Far less touristed than the other islands and easier to get around because it is so small. Wonderful restaurants. Well worth it.

Rick Steve's (Mediterranean Cruise Ports) has a great walking tour of Naples which too often gets overlooked because of the grit (substantial!) around its edges. But if you follow his walking tour you may end up falling in love with this city like we have and go back as often as we can now. Great food, fabulous architecture, hidden piazzas, pedestrian walking streets, street market bargains and elegant Italian label shopping, rich museums, incredible art, historic byways and opulent vistas up funky trams to the tops of her hills.

[jtl513]

!
I know exactly where you were when you took this pic, as I have virtually the same shot. :)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5068/5553294045_28a41af557_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/maranelloboy05/5553294045/)

[Bellair]

Thanks for sharing. I saw the first video on the HAL blog and was looking forward to seeing your production of the 2nd one. You do an incredible job of film editing. Many of your ports of call brought back fantastic memories of our visits to the Mediterranean.

You are very kind. Look out for the next Caribbean cruise highlights in March on the Maasdam

Regards

Noel

[maranelloboy05]

Try also jumping the ferry next time for Procida, which is only one hour away from where the ship docks in Naples - very small, walkable, scenic and often used as a movie set. Far less touristed than the other islands and easier to get around because it is so small. Wonderful restaurants. Well worth it.

Rick Steve's (Mediterranean Cruise Ports) has a great walking tour of Naples which too often gets overlooked because of the grit (substantial!) around its edges. But if you follow his walking tour you may end up falling in love with this city like we have and go back as often as we can now. Great food, fabulous architecture, hidden piazzas, pedestrian walking streets, street market bargains and elegant Italian label shopping, rich museums, incredible art, historic byways and opulent vistas up funky trams to the tops of her hills.

We'll definitely be going back Capri, but I think we're going to try to add Positano this time, it's somewhere I've always really wanted to go.

I know exactly where you were when you took this pic, as I have virtually the same shot. :)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5068/5553294045_28a41af557_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/maranelloboy05/5553294045/)

It's a beautiful spot, isn't it?

[travelnnana]

Our favourite ports on the Rotterdam 12 day Ancient Discoveries Oct. 2011 visiting; Athens, Piraeus, Rhodes and Gythios in Greece, The Pyramids of Cairo Egypt, Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee & Nazareth in Israel, Ephasus Turkey and Rome Italy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYtVKXPeSJQ
MV Rotterdam Spanish Charms 15 day Cruise highlights Nov.2011 sailing from Rome Italy to Corsica France, Barcelona-Cartagena-Malaga Spain, Tangier Morocco, Funchal Portugal and Fort Lauderdale USA.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMTI61gFq9U

Enjoy

NB

Loved you videos - Thanks for sharing!

[travelnnana]

Athens is ok the first few times, but i would be happy to never go there again... someone at our table was bitten by one of the many stray dogs that are everywhere. So many cruises go in and of there that it is unavoidable.
Valetta, beautiful, stunning!
Anywhere in Turkey.
Barcelona is unusual and unique
Got robbed in Sicily so not the best memory!
I have done 3 seperate cruises in the Med and think it is such an excellent. Everyplace is worth seeing once.
Most people are takenwith Turkey because it is an excellent place to enjoy the Muslim culture in a secular setting. People are great, food good, culture and history remarkable.

I agree with you on Athens - were there 10 years ago - Acropolis - great! - but dirty city

[numbersix]

We'll definitely be going back Capri, but I think we're going to try to add Positano this time, it's somewhere I've always really wanted to go.


You will LOVE Positano--it is beyond gorgeous!

[Baatman]

Wow -- tough question. There are few Mediterranean ports that are "duds". Some have more history, some have more scenery. I prefer the Eastern Mediterranean to the Western, mostly because I'm a huge history nerd and the traces of Roman, Greek and other civilizations are more visible in the Eastern ports than the Western ones.

I also tend to prefer larger cities to smaller islands, and I will pick a museum or a great ruin over pretty beaches and scenery any day.

I suppose my least favorite port I've visited so far would have to be Corfu. Just not much there of interest to me.


Most Favorite: Rome (Civitavecchia) -- there is so much to see here that a week can barely scratch the surface. Works best as a port when your cruise begins or ends there, allowing you to spend extra days sightseeing. Even with only a day, you can see a lot. Public transportation via train is cheap and easy if you are a do-it-yourself type.

I have a zillion photos; a few of my favorites:

The Pantheon, the most perfectly preserved building from ancient Rome (exterior and interior):

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Nn36mEBoeKM/TsnUPrMWzyI/AAAAAAAADgk/PR8ZzqIaBT4/s576/P1040304.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zSBjdK7nln8/Tsk2zk7oypI/AAAAAAAADX4/N92VenXXaeo/s512/P1040163.JPG



And of course, the Colosseum (outside and inside):

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BU9mObldfgo/TslwHXecTGI/AAAAAAAADf8/a8AUHzrsx7g/s576/P1040290.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mKplIi36W1Y/TeJ_axZ2GMI/AAAAAAAABdQ/PfqQIKTsy34/s640/IMG_0444.JPG




Two of Rome's most famous fountains: Trevi (above) and the Fountain of the Four Rivers at Piazza Navona (below):

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-qJQ5GnogXcA/TeY-kM4KTQI/AAAAAAAABuk/5RTi-QdjMGM/s576/IMG_0380.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t9PPGdGblvg/TsxssZcKSyI/AAAAAAAADpM/SJhuEIEn8zM/s512/P1040548.JPG

Great pictures..thanks.

[lkmamom]

You are very kind. Look out for the next Caribbean cruise highlights in March on the Maasdam

Regards

Noel

Oh my gosh, thank you soooooo much for sharing your videos. We have traveled to some of the many places you have filmed, and it brought back beautiful memories. And others, not visited, well now I want to go!!!!! The good and the bad, I have sat here totally contented watching your cruise highlights but my laundry remains undone :o Thank you Thank you!!!!!
Linda

[jpver]

Do you feel Instanbul /turkey is safe?
Yes Istanbul is safe. It is a magnificent city. We took 4 days in advance of our cruise to visit.... and we regret... that we did not take 3 days more!
No problem will be for a next cruise departing/arriving from Istanbul