Mediterranean holidays conjure images of strolling across Greek beaches – perhaps on one of its dreamy islands, like romantic Mykonos or Santorini, with its volcanic landscapes. 

You might prefer to nibble tapas and sip rioja on a buzzing Barcelona plaza, or sail across a lagoon in the region where paella was created, outside of Valencia. Experience it all on Mediterranean cruises to Spain, Italy, Croatia, Turkey, Slovenia and Greece.

In Italy, you might find yourself in postcard-perfect fishing villages on the Ligurian Riviera or snapping photos of monuments in Pisa’s Square of Miracles, near La Spezia.

In France, you could splash about in the Calanques near Marseille. Hike past waterfalls in Croatia’s national parks, or explore lesser-visited places such as Montenegro – which houses a bucket list-worthy destination in Kotor – and Slovenia, where you can journey to ancient caves and lakes.

Our Greek island cruises are perfect for travellers who can’t decide between the country’s many enticing destinations. MSC Cruises’ itineraries take in some of the most beautiful spots on the Greek islands. You might get to experience the idyllic coves and beaches of Syros and Corfu, the whitewashed buildings with blue domes in Oia, Santorini, or the site of the original Olympic Games near Katakolon. In Mykonos, book an excursion to see historic Mykonos Town or Kalafati beach and its pristine water.

All our Greek island holidays start from Piraeus. Take advantage of its position just outside Athens and book an excursion to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel famed for its historical monuments.

The best known is the Parthenon, an imposing temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. The tour includes a visit to nearby Plaka, a charming neighbourhood with lively labyrinthine streets.

Few European countries can boast such breathtaking scenery. Discover the natural beauty of fjords, mountains and midnight sun on one of our Norway cruises. 

Norway’s capital, Oslo, is a perfect introductory point, with its cutting-edge art galleries, diverse architecture and top restaurants. Take the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most beautiful train rides, to see the sweeping Norwegian outdoors. On an hour-long journey from Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal Station, you’ll pass the Flåmselvi river, peaked mountains, hand-carved tunnels and thundering waterfalls, such as the 93-metre-high Kjosfossen Falls. 

Other top destinations on a Norwegian fjords cruise are Tromsø, where you can go on a trek with an Alaskan husky, and Hellesylt-Geiranger, from where you can visit Briksdal Glacier, the Troll’s Ladder mountain pass and neighbouring Geirangerfjord. Or, for a taste of city life, head to Bergen.

Croatia has become a bucket list destination for many people – and it’s easy to see why. Its beautiful islands, pebble beaches and clear waters are ideal for those looking to relax by the shore.

History buffs on a Croatia holiday will find plenty to enjoy, too. Split, in the heart of Dalmatia, developed out of a palace built for Roman Emperor Diocletian in 295AD, and you can still see parts of this limestone and marble masterpiece today. The walled Old City of Dubrovnik (also made famous by Game of Thrones) is full of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, palaces and fountains, and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A Croatia cruise is also great for fans of the outdoors. The country boasts eye-popping natural wonders, such as Krka National Park, easily reached from Šibenik and Zadar, and Plitvice Lakes, accessible on an excursion from Zadar.

Embody la dolce vita on one of our Italy cruises, where you can enjoy life’s simple pleasures – good food, a stroll along the coastline, people-watching from a piazza cafe. 

Sample authentic pesto alla Genovese in picturesque Genoa, marvel at the splendours of St Mark’s Basilica, Venice’s most revered temple, or World Heritage Pompeii, an archaeological site offering a snapshot of Roman life. Tour Rome’s ancient wonders – the Pantheon, Colosseum – and reflect on its rich history over a spritz in one of its lively restaurants.  

Explore the charms of Bari’s Old Town and watch the pasta nonnas curl orecchiette by hand. Visit the unmissable Basilica San Nicola and San Sabino Cathedral, and be sure to try the famed focaccia Barese, made as only a local can. If you want to slow the pace, escape to Sardinia and go on a hike of Devil’s Saddle, near Cagliari. 

MSC Cruises will make your holidays in Italy unforgettable.

Scandinavian cruises have something for everyone – incredible landscapes, chic cities and historic palaces. In Copenhagen, visit colourful Nyhavn – a 17th-century former port, transformed into a bustling waterfront hub. Or immerse yourself in the city’s cycling scene and enjoy New Nordic cuisine in acclaimed restaurants. 

Sweden’s Stockholm offers island-hopping, the Vasa Museum and opportunities for hiking and trips to nearby nature sites. Helsinki charms with its lively harbour, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress and traditional saunas. 

Then there’s the ever-popular German capital, Berlin, reached via Warnemünde. Here, explore 17th-century history at Charlottenburg Palace and iconic sites such as Brandenburg Gate.

Explore less-trodden Europe on a Baltic cruise. Tallinn in Estonia is known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, while Gdansk in Poland has both a longstanding maritime history and a fascinating amber industry.

Nature lovers will delight in an Iceland cruise. Each stop is a portal to a fairytale-esque land, and each day a chance to see its wonders – from glaciers to humpback whales. 

Akureyri, a town on one of Iceland’s longest fjords, is known for its dramatic scenery. Experience it at Lake Mývatn, formed from a volcanic eruption, where you can see a lava field and pseudo-craters.

The former fishing village of Seyðisfjörður is a good base from which to explore east Iceland’s wilderness, but it also has a vibrant cultural scene, while historic Ísafjörður in the north-west affords access to mountainous countryside. 

Iceland holidays aren’t complete without a visit to Reykjavík, with its unique shops and impressive buildings, such as the towering Hallgrímskirkja church. Thingvellir National Park, where you can stand between two tectonic plates, is about an hour away, and don’t miss the chance to bathe in warm geothermal waters at the famous Blue Lagoon.