AZAMARA MEDITERRANEAN ITINERARIES
Azamara Mediterranean Itineraries: Discover Unique Adventures
The Mediterranean is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, and the Azamara Quest offers a luxurious way to explore it all. In this guide, we dive into the highlights of Azamara’s Mediterranean itineraries, showcasing the experiences that make these cruises unforgettable. We recently cruised onboard Azamara Quest, from Barcelona to Rome, and you can read our Azamara Quest Cruise Review for our thoughts on the cruise, the accommodation and the food onboard!
Why Choose the Mediterranean with Azamara?
Azamara is renowned for its intimate size and exceptional service, providing access to smaller, less-traveled ports that larger ships can’t reach. With overnight stays and extended docking times, Azamara gives travellers the chance to fully immerse themselves in the local culture, cuisine, and nightlife. And it's not just Azamara Quest sailing in the Mediterranaean! The Azamara fleet consists of:
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Extended Time in Port: More Time to Explore
One of Azamara’s standout features is its commitment to longer port stays and overnight dockings, allowing guests to experience destinations at their most vibrant. Unlike traditional cruises that often leave port by evening, Azamara ensures ample time to explore during both the day and night.
Benefits of Longer Stays:
- Evening Exploration: Discover the nightlife, from dining in Michelin-starred restaurants to enjoying local festivals.
- Cultural Immersion: Take part in evening cultural events like live performances, art exhibitions, or traditional ceremonies.
- Leisurely Pacing: With no rush to return to the ship, guests can explore at a relaxed pace, visiting landmarks, local markets, and hidden gems.
Examples of Overnight Ports:
- Venice, Italy: Wander through the city’s romantic canals under moonlight or attend an evening opera performance.
- Mykonos, Greece: Enjoy vibrant nightlife at iconic beach clubs or dine at waterfront tavernas.
- Barcelona, Spain: Experience the magic of a Flamenco show or explore Gaudí’s illuminated architectural wonders.
These extended stays create a deeper connection with each destination, allowing travelers to see places in ways that day visits simply can’t offer.
Featured Itineraries
Western Mediterranean Highlights
- Ports of Call: Barcelona, Saint-Tropez, Florence, Rome, and Amalfi.
- Notable Experiences: Tour Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona, savor Provençal wines in Saint-Tropez, and explore the Renaissance wonders of Florence.
- Duration: 7-10 days.
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Adriatic Coast Exploration
- Ports of Call: Venice, Dubrovnik, Kotor, and Split.
- Notable Experiences: Wander through Dubrovnik’s medieval streets, enjoy panoramic views in Kotor, and relax on Split’s pristine beaches.
- Duration: 8-12 days.
Explore all of Azamara Cruises Venice & Adriatic cruises
Greek Isles and Turkey Adventure
- Ports of Call: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Kusadasi, and Istanbul.
- Notable Experiences: Discover ancient ruins in Athens, witness Santorini’s sunsets, and shop in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar.
- Duration: 10-14 days.
View all Azamara Cruises voyages departing Athens
Discover Less-Frequented Gems of the Mediterranean
Azamara’s itineraries often include unique and less-visited ports, offering guests the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. These smaller, hidden gems are perfect for travellers looking for more authentic and intimate experiences.
Examples of less-visited ports on Azamara:
- Monemvasia, Greece: A captivating medieval fortress town perched on a rocky island, offering a blend of history and breathtaking views.
- Piran, Slovenia: A Venetian-inspired coastal town known for its narrow streets, charming piazzas, and stunning Adriatic views.
- Šibenik, Croatia: A historic city famous for its UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James and its proximity to the stunning Krka National Park.
- Crotone, Italy: A lesser-known gem in Calabria with ancient ruins, a charming old town, and beautiful coastal scenery.
- Propriano, Corsica: A picturesque port town with sandy beaches and access to Corsica's rugged beauty.
- Porto Santo Stefano, Italy: A charming Tuscan seaside village known for its lively marina and fresh seafood.
- Taranto, Italy: A historic city in southern Italy featuring ancient Greek ruins and stunning coastal views.
- Amorgos, Greece: A serene Cycladic island with dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and traditional villages.
- Korčula, Croatia: A quaint island town believed to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, featuring ancient walls and stunning beaches.
- Syros, Greece: An elegant Cycladic island blending neoclassical architecture with idyllic beaches.
These destinations highlight Azamara’s commitment to providing immersive and enriching travel experiences beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
Discover all of Azamara Cruises Mediterranean itineraries
Azamara’s Intensive Cruise Itineraries
For travelers seeking a deeper connection with specific regions, Azamara offers "Intensive" itineraries that focus on a single country or area. These voyages provide an in-depth exploration of local culture, cuisine, and landmarks, with extended stays and more immersive shore excursions.
Example: Croatia Intensive Voyage
- Duration: 10 Nights
- Highlights: This itinerary features stops in some of Croatia’s most stunning destinations, including Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar, along with visits to less-traveled gems like Šibenik and Hvar. Guests can enjoy activities such as exploring medieval fortresses, tasting local wines, and cruising through the scenic Dalmatian coast.
- Benefits: With multiple overnight stays and carefully curated shore excursions, guests have ample time to soak in the region’s rich history and breathtaking natural beauty.
These intensive voyages are perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the surface and truly immerse themselves in the heart of a destination.
AzAmazing Evenings: Exclusive Cultural Celebrations
Azamara’s "AzAmazing Evenings" are exclusive events designed to immerse guests in the culture and traditions of their destinations. These complimentary experiences often take place in iconic settings and feature performances or activities that showcase local heritage.
Examples of AzAmazing Evenings:
- Opera in a Venetian Palace: Enjoy a private opera performance in an opulent Venetian palace, complete with a welcome reception and traditional Italian aperitifs.
- Traditional Flamenco in Seville: Witness an authentic flamenco show in a historic Andalusian venue, celebrating Spain’s vibrant music and dance culture.
- Greek Theater Under the Stars: Experience a classical Greek play performed in an ancient amphitheater, blending history with a unique cultural experience.
These events are tailored to provide unforgettable memories and deepen the connection to the region’s unique identity.
Unique Excursions on Azamara
- Cooking Classes in Tuscany: Learn to prepare authentic Italian dishes.
- Wine Tasting in Santorini: Sip on Assyrtiko wine while overlooking the caldera.
- Historical Tours in Ephesus: Walk through the ancient streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tips for Planning Your Mediterranean Cruise
- Best Time to Cruise: Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Pack Smart: Bring comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, and layers for cooler evenings.
- Extend Your Stay: Consider adding pre- or post-cruise stays in major cities like Barcelona or Athens for an extended vacation.
Discover all of Azamara Cruises Mediterranean itineraries
Azamara Mediterranean Itineraries Conclusion
An Azamara Mediterranean cruise offers a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking breathtaking views, these itineraries promise unforgettable memories. Each ship in the Azamara fleet will also tailor its culinary offering onboard to match the destination - read more about dining on Azamara cruises.
Frequently Asked Questions About Azamara Mediterranean Itineraries
What ports are included in Azamara’s Mediterranean cruises?
Azamara’s Mediterranean cruises visit a variety of iconic and lesser-known ports, including destinations in Italy, Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Turkey, and the Greek Isles. Ports like Santorini, Dubrovnik, Barcelona, Rome, and smaller gems such as Portofino or Kotor offer a rich mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
How long are Azamara’s Mediterranean itineraries?
Azamara offers Mediterranean itineraries ranging from 7-night escapes to extended 14-night or even back-to-back sailings. Many cruises are designed for slow travel, with overnight stays and fewer sea days, allowing guests more time to explore ashore.
Does Azamara visit smaller, off-the-beaten-path Mediterranean ports?
Yes, one of Azamara’s standout features is its ability to access smaller, boutique ports that larger ships can’t reach. These may include towns like Sète, Amalfi, or Syros, giving guests a more authentic and immersive Mediterranean experience.
When is the best time to cruise the Mediterranean with Azamara?
The best time to cruise the Mediterranean with Azamara is between May and October, when the weather is warm and the seas are calm. Shoulder seasons in spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for cultural exploration.
Are Mediterranean cruises with Azamara available year-round?
While Azamara primarily operates Mediterranean cruises from late spring through early autumn, select repositioning or extended voyages may include Mediterranean ports during the winter months. Availability is highest between April and October.
What’s the weather like during an Azamara Mediterranean cruise?
Weather in the Mediterranean is typically warm and sunny during the cruise season. Expect average daytime temperatures of 24–32°C (75–90°F) in summer, with cooler but pleasant temperatures in the spring and autumn. Light clothing, sun protection, and layers for the evening are recommended.
What kind of shore excursions are offered on Azamara’s Mediterranean cruises?
Azamara offers a range of shore excursions tailored to history, food, culture, and active travel. Options include guided walking tours, wine tastings, archaeological site visits, cycling adventures, and exclusive experiences tied to local traditions.
Are AzAmazing Evenings included on Mediterranean itineraries?
Yes, most Azamara Mediterranean cruises include one AzAmazing Evening—a complimentary, immersive event hosted ashore, showcasing local culture through music, performance, or cuisine. These experiences are exclusive to Azamara guests and often held in unforgettable locations.
Can I explore ports independently during an Azamara cruise?
Yes, guests are welcome to explore ports on their own. Azamara’s long port calls and overnight stays make independent exploration easy and enjoyable. The concierge team onboard can offer tips, maps, and local recommendations for those venturing out solo.
Are flights included in Azamara’s Mediterranean cruise packages?
Flight inclusion depends on the package. Many UK-based travel agents and promotions offer Azamara Mediterranean cruises with flights included, but this can vary. Check with your travel advisor or package details when booking.
Is Wi-Fi included during Mediterranean cruises?
Wi-Fi is available onboard all Azamara ships, but it's not included in all fare types. Suite guests often receive complimentary access, and various packages are available for purchase depending on your needs and cruise duration.
What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise with Azamara?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm days, smart casual attire for evenings, comfortable walking shoes for exploring, and swimwear for relaxing onboard. A light jacket or wrap is useful for cooler evenings, and don’t forget sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
Azamara Fleet in the Mediterranean
Select images (c) Tim Faircloth
