a blue and red logo for barter 's travelnet

Why the Mediterranean with Norwegian Cruise Line is the Best Way to Explore Europe

Anna Mc Carthy • 12 November 2024

The Mediterranean region has long been a dream destination for travellers, filled with rich history, diverse cultures, and breath taking landscapes. But planning a Mediterranean vacation can feel overwhelming with so many cities and attractions to choose from. Fortunately, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a solution that combines ease, comfort, and an unforgettable travel experience. Here’s why cruising the Mediterranean with NCL is the perfect way to see Europe’s wonders, from iconic cities to hidden gems.


See Multiple Destinations Without the Hassle

One of the greatest advantages of a Mediterranean cruise with NCL is the opportunity to visit multiple cities, countries, and islands—all without the need for constant packing, flights, and train schedules. With a cruise, your hotel travels with you, so you can wake up in a new destination each morning. Imagine sipping coffee on your private balcony while approaching the cliffs of Santorini or the shores of Barcelona—each port offers a fresh perspective without the travel headaches.

A woman happy to be in Greece overlooking the Famous white Greek buildings and blue roof houses in Greece

Experience Iconic Landmarks and Local Cultures in One Trip

A Mediterranean cruise allows you to tick off some of Europe’s most famous landmarks and immerse yourself in diverse cultures along the way. For example:


  • Barcelona, Spain: Visit the breath taking Sagrada Familia and walk through the colourful streets of the Gothic Quarter.
  • Rome, Italy: Explore the ancient ruins of the Colosseum, the Vatican, and Trevi Fountain—all in a single day.
  • Santorini, Greece: Wander through whitewashed villages with stunning views of the caldera.


NCL’s shore excursions give you the chance to dive into each location, offering curated experiences led by knowledgeable local guides. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or scenic views, there’s something for everyone.


A Relaxing and Luxurious Onboard Experience

After a full day of exploring, return to the comfort and luxury of your NCL ship. Norwegian’s Mediterranean cruises feature ships like the Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Escape, and Norwegian Getaway, each offering world-class amenities. From award-winning Broadway shows and spa services to gourmet dining, there’s plenty to enjoy on board after a day of sightseeing. Norwegian’s freestyle cruising lets you dine and explore the ship on your own schedule, making it easy to unwind, recharge, and prepare for your next adventure.

Inside tone of the specialty dining restaurants onboard Norwegian Cruise Line NCL

Discover Lesser-Known Ports and Hidden Gems

In addition to visiting famous cities, NCL’s Mediterranean cruises often include stops at smaller, lesser-known ports that reveal a more intimate side of Europe. Some examples include:


  • Kotor, Montenegro: A hidden jewel nestled between dramatic mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Kotor’s medieval old town and fortified walls offer a unique historical experience.
  • Corfu, Greece: Known for its lush landscapes and turquoise waters, Corfu has a fascinating mix of Venetian, French, and British cultural influences.


Enjoy Smooth, All-Inclusive Travel Planning

Planning a European trip can involve coordinating flights, hotels, transportation, and meals, which can be costly and time-consuming. An NCL cruise simplifies everything, bundling your accommodations, meals, and even entertainment into one price. The all-inclusive nature of a cruise makes budgeting easier, as you can manage all of your travel costs upfront. Norwegian even offers add-ons like drink packages, specialty dining options, and Wi-Fi plans to enhance your trip, letting you truly customize your Mediterranean adventure.


A Perfect Blend of Relaxation and Adventure

A Mediterranean cruise strikes the ideal balance between adventure and relaxation. While you’ll have the chance to explore bustling cities and ancient ruins, you’ll also enjoy serene sea days to unwind and take in the spectacular ocean views. Many travelers enjoy starting the morning with a port excursion and then relaxing by the pool or at the spa in the afternoon. The flexibility of NCL’s freestyle cruising means you can create the perfect mix of activity and downtime.


A hallway with a green wall and a bench sauna

Discover Europe Effortlessly with Norwegian Cruise Line

A Mediterranean cruise with Norwegian is an incredible way to explore the cultural and scenic wonders of Europe. From the diverse range of destinations and excursions to the luxurious onboard amenities and freestyle cruising approach, NCL provides a travel experience that’s as seamless as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or an experienced traveler, exploring Europe by sea allows you to experience the best the Mediterranean has to offer—without the hassle.


Ready to embark on your Mediterranean adventure? Start planning with Norwegian Cruise Line and get ready to experience Europe like never before!

Fireworks are exploding over a city skyline at night.
by Luis Braya 12 February 2025
Riviera Travel's themed river cruises offer travelers the opportunity to combine their passion for specific subjects with the serene experience of river cruising. These specialized journeys are designed to immerse guests in their interests, whether it be music, art, history, or nature, all while traversing Europe's most scenic waterways. What Are Themed River Cruises? Themed river cruises are curated voyages that focus on particular areas of interest. They provide guests with tailored experiences, including expert-led excursions, onboard lectures, and activities that align with the chosen theme. This approach allows travelers to delve deeper into their passions in the company of like-minded individuals, all within the comfortable and luxurious setting of a river cruise.
6 February 2025
New destinations from cork IN 2025 With three airlines announcing exciting new routes from Cork to Izmir , Turkey , Bilbao , Spain , Bordeaux , France , & Dalaman , Turkey . There's never been a better time to take off from everyone’s favorite airport. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a thrilling solo adventure, a fun-filled getaway with friends, or a memorable family holiday, Cork airport’s new summer destinations offer something for everyone. iZMIR, tURKEY SunExpress is launching a new direct flight from Cork Airport to Izmir, Turkey , for the summer of 2025. This service will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays & conclude in October 2025. Izmir is a vibrant coastal city in western Turkey, located on the Aegean Sea. Known for its rich history, modern vibe, and beautiful scenery, it's the third-largest city in Turkey and a major port. It boasts a warm climate, with summer temperatures averaging between 27°C and 34°C , making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking sun. The region is home to significant cultural sites like the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary . Additionally, Izmir offers a rich culinary scene, including a variety of local wines. A Holiday to Izmir is best suited for families seeking a mix of history, Beach time, and cultural experiences, with kid friendly activities & attractions like Ephesus and the numerous waterparks in the area. Izmir is also a fantastic destination for a romantic getaway with your significant other. The scenic coastal views, charming streets & sunset along the Kordon promenade make it an ideal choice. While Izmir is not known for its big party scene it makes the perfect for solo travelers seeking a peaceful & relaxing holiday. Izmir is a perfect blend of serenity and vibrant experiences that makes it a versatile destination, appealing to those seeking relaxation or cultural discovery. Click here to contact one of our agents & start planning your trip to Izmir!
There is a small town in the middle of the ocean.
by Amy Kelly-Obi 15 January 2025
where to holiday in 2025? Ryanair has just unveiled a new route for 2025 from Shannon airport to Madeira ,Portugal. Commencing on March 30th Ryanair will fly two times a week to this dazzling new destination. Madeira, a vibrant green island positioned in the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Portugal’s most captivating regions. Celebrated for its incredibly diverse culture & breathtaking nature. From its dramatic mountains, breathtaking coastlines and botanical life Madeira is Portugal’s secret island paradise. reasons to go to madeira Madeira is a year round destination Being cradled between Europe & Africa and being almost 1000 kilometers from Portugal’s mainland, Madeira offers charming climate throughout the year. With average temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees. Making it an ideal destination to soak up some winter sun & visit all year round.
A group of people are sitting at a table in a restaurant onboard celebrity cruise.
by Luis Braya 20 December 2024
How Barter's Travelnet and Celebrity Cruises Can Help? Planning a family vacation can be overwhelming, especially when coordinating travel for a large group. At Barter’s Travelnet, we believe family travel should be stress-free and full of unforgettable memories. That’s why we’re thrilled to highlight Celebrity Cruises , which offers exceptional cruises tailored to multigenerational families. Whether you're dreaming of tropical beaches or cultural cities, Celebrity Cruises' seamless blend of luxury, value, and family-friendly activities ensures there’s something for everyone.  Here are our top tips for planning a large family cruise, so all you need to focus on is enjoying the journey.
by Anna Mc Carthy 5 December 2024
Planning a holiday that pleases everyone in the family can feel like an impossible task. Kids want endless entertainment, adults crave relaxation and fine dining, and grandparents may dream of cultural exploration or quiet moments. Enter Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) , the ultimate solution for family and group travel. With a fleet of innovative ships, diverse itineraries, and activities for all ages, NCL makes it easy to create memorable experiences together—while still allowing everyone to enjoy their vacation. Family-Friendly Staterooms Traveling with kids often requires more space, and Norwegian has you covered. From interconnecting staterooms to spacious suites, there’s an option for every group size. Interconnecting Rooms: Ideal for families, these allow parents and kids to stay close while maintaining privacy. The Haven Suites: For those seeking luxury, The Haven offers multi-room accommodations with exclusive perks like a private pool and concierge service.
7 November 2024
solo traveling is not as intimidating as it might seem Do you want to embrace independence and explore on your own, without worrying about matching vacation days or schedules with your usual travel partner? Have you been wanting to try solo travel for a long time but feel too scared and you don't know where to start? Well, I’m here to tell you solo traveling is not as intimidating as it sounds and much easier than you might think! Luckily, solo traveling is becoming more common
A group of people are doing yoga on a cruise ship.
by Luis Braya 1 November 2024
If you're dreaming of a transformative escape that combines luxury, relaxation, and rejuvenation, Celebrity Cruises might just be your ideal getaway. Known for its modern amenities and focus on wellness, Celebrity offers an array of experiences designed to help you unwind, recharge, and truly enjoy every moment of your journey. Here’s what makes a Celebrity cruise the ultimate wellness escape. The Sea Thermal Suite: A World of Relaxation at Sea Step into the Sea Thermal Suite, an exclusive space designed to melt your stress away. Here, you'll find a variety of therapeutic environments that each offer unique health benefits. Imagine detoxifying in the Turkish Hammam, boosting circulation in the Crystalarium, or unwinding in a heated tile lounger while gazing at the ocean views. The suite includes experiences like the Salt Room, which promotes respiratory health, and the Rainfall Water Therapy Room, which lets you experience refreshing showers with soothing lighting and sounds. Each space has been carefully crafted to restore balance to your body and mind.
by Anna Mc Carthy 17 October 2024
Luxury at Sea: Discover Norwegian Cruise Line’s "The Haven" For travellers seeking the ultimate cruise experience, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers something truly special: The Haven. Hidden away on NCL's premium ships, The Haven promises personalised service, unparalleled comfort, and a private escape within the larger cruise experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in five-star luxury, The Haven elevates your journey to a whole new level. What is The Haven??
A train track going through a forest at sunset.
by Pia Pflanz 4 October 2024
Sustainable Travel Can Be Easy, Comfortable, and Affordable When you think of sustainable travel, what comes to mind? Cycling 200km with heavy luggage? Walking everywhere - literally everywhere - in the city you’re visiting? Taking a fully packed bus for 20 hours straight without air conditioning? Well, I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way! There are many ways to travel sustainably on a budget without sacrificing comfortability. With a steady rise in travel, more people are booking vacations not just once but multiple times a year. Imagine the impact if everyone considered alternative options instead of choosing their usual style of travelling! Let’s explore what sustainable travel really means and why you should consider it! What Is Sustainable Travel?
by Anna Mc Carthy 26 September 2024
Solo cruising is a great way to experience the freedom and fulfilment that comes with travelling alone. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers an experience created especially with solitary travellers in mind, whether you're an introvert seeking peaceful reflection or a social butterfly hoping to meet like-minded adventurers. Here are some reasons why NCL is the best cruise line for those travelling alone, whether you're thinking about taking a solo cruise for the first time or you're an experienced traveller searching for something new. Studio Cabins: Designed with Solo Travelers in Mind One of the biggest challenges for solo cruisers on most cruise lines is the cost. Typically, single travellers are charged a "single supplement," which means they pay nearly the same as two people sharing a room. But NCL has an innovative solution for this with its Studio Cabins. Available on several ships, these cabins are not only budget-friendly but also thoughtfully designed for the solo traveller. Cosy yet modern, Studio Cabins feature everything you need in a compact space—comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and ambient lighting that creates a relaxing atmosphere. Plus, these rooms have access to an exclusive Studio Lounge, where solo travellers can socialize, enjoy a cup of coffee, or even plan excursions together.
More posts
Share by: