celebrity cruise mediterranean september 2022

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2022 Mediterranean Cruises

Unforgettable destinations at every turn

• 2022-2023 Cruises

Discover the Magic of a Mediterranean Cruise in 2022

Escape to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast on one of our breathtaking cruises that sail around this world-renowned region of Europe, where you’ll enjoy scenic views, delicious cuisine, and centuries of history and culture at every turn. Our Mediterranean cruises in 2022 visit some of the world’s most beautiful destinations, including romantic ports in Italy, stunning beaches in Greece, idyllic islands in Spain, and cosmopolitan cities in Turkey.

Board our award-winning cruise ship, Celebrity Edge or our newest Edge series ship Celebrity Beyond, and sail around Italy and the Greek Islands. Take advantage of our new overnight stays in Florence, Bordeaux and Istanbul. Book your next vacation now and embark on one of our unforgettable Mediterranean cruises , where you’ll find out for yourself why Celebrity Cruises has been voted the Best Cruise Line in Europe for 10 years in a row.

Itineraries

Our exciting 2022 Mediterranean cruises make it easy for you to experience the best of Europe. Choose from our 7-, 11-, and 13-night cruises around the region, which stop in picturesque destinations all over the glittering Mediterranean coast.

Marvel at ancient landmarks like the Parthenon in Athens and the Colosseum in Rome . Admire masterpieces of art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s Statue of David in Florence and the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Soak up the sun on the golden sand beaches of Palma de Mallorca, and dive into the impossibly blue ocean in Santorini, where you’ll also witness one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ve ever seen.

Cross off must-visit destinations from your bucket list like the Amalfi Coast in Italy and the Parthenon in Greece. In Croatia, discover Dubrovnik’s historic walled city and step inside Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Visit the caved city of Matera, a once-in-a-lifetime experience waiting for you just outside of Taranto, Italy. Or venture out to the island of Delos, the birthplace of the Greek gods Apollo and Artemis, during a port stop in Mykonos.

On a 2022 Mediterranean cruise with Celebrity, you’ll experience unrivaled service and entertainment during your time on board. Enjoy world-class cuisine at any of our restaurants, where you’ll order from menus crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. Spend indulgent afternoons relaxing in the indoor solarium or state-of-the-art spa. Catch thrilling performances at the cutting-edge theater, and enjoy live music in the elegant lounges and outdoor bars. In 2022, let us pamper you while you explore one of the world’s most-coveted destinations.

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Mediterranean Cruises

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Discover the Timeless Beauty & Culture of the Old World

With history spanning thousands of years, glamorous ports, and dazzling scenery, a Mediterranean cruise is the perfect vacation—and there’s no better way to experience cruises to the Mediterranean than with Celebrity. Bask on the beach in Mykonos one day and watch a fiery sunset over Santorini the next. Sip a cappuccino in glorious Taormina while gazing at snow-capped Mount Etna in the distance, or dig into tapas in a sunlit square in Barcelona. Let us show you Europe’s most beautiful places in style on a luxury cruise to the Mediterranean with Celebrity.

Featured Mediterranean Cruises

Italy cruises.

Whether you dream of exploring the glorious Amalfi Coast or marveling at the ancient sites of Rome, Celebrity has the perfect cruise to Italy, with itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 nights. 

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Greece Cruises

Cruises to Greece visit the very best of the islands and cosmopolitan cities on the mainland, including Athens and historic Thessaloniki. Each port bursts with character, from Santorini to Zakynthos, and Mykonos. 

Spain Cruises

Sail from Barcelona and take in Alhambra in Granada, the elegant capital of Palma and Seville, the home of flamenco. On cruises of 7 to 12 nights, you can feast on tapas, taste wines in Rioja, and unwind all in one culture-packed country.

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Why Cruise to the Mediterranean with Celebrity Cruises

Enjoy ancient port cities and glorious scenery on a Mediterranean cruise with Celebrity. You’ll find itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 nights offered by nine of our award-winning ships, including four of our revolutionary Edge-Series ships.  

On board, you’ll be immersed in personalized touches that make every Celebrity vacation special. As you sail from one historic port to the next, indulge in globally inspired menus in up to 12 specialty restaurants. Whatever the occasion, your certified sommelier can pour you the perfect vintage to match the moment, uncorked from a wine list that’s won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 10 years in a row. 

On Edge-Series ships, gaze at exquisite Greek islands or the glamorous Italian coastline, fringed with olive and lemon groves, from the vantage point of The Magic Carpet®, suspended high above the ocean. 

Elevate your vacation to the next level at The Retreat®, with luxurious suite accommodation, access to a private sundeck (on select ships) and tranquil lounge, and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat. And when you venture ashore, you’ll find carefully curated excursions geared to your personal taste, from Destination Highlights to Small Group Discoveries and custom-designed Private Journeys. 

From destination-intensive 7-night cruises to 12-night explorations across this historic region, Celebrity has the best Mediterranean cruise for you. With nine luxurious ships to choose from, including four of our ground-breaking Edge-Series ships, you’ll find the perfect setting as your luxurious home away from home in the heart of the Old World. 

Featured Articles

Best Places to Visit in the Mediterranean

The best places to visit in the Mediterranean feature incredible cultural treasures, idyllic landscapes, and some of the most well-known landmarks in Europe.

Insider’s Guide to the Towns of Cinque Terre

The watercolor towns of Cinque Terre, including Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, are strung along the rugged and impossibly beautiful Italian Riviera.

11 Spectacular Mediterranean Cities to Visit

For remarkable art, ancient history, contemporary culture, and gorgeous beaches, it’s hard to beat these Mediterranean cities.

The 17 Best Beaches in the Mediterranean

The whole of the Mediterranean is fringed with dazzlingly beautiful beaches, and the greatest appeal is that they’re all different.

12 Stunning French Beach Towns to Visit

Gorgeous French beach towns are abundant, thanks to the country’s extensive coastlines along the English Channel to the north, the Atlantic to the west, and the Mediterranean to the south.

The Ultimate Guide to Food in Athens

Athens, the cradle of civilization, boasts an incredible foodie scene ranging from high-end restaurants to the simplest of street food.

11 Best Things to Do in Malta

From the capital, Valletta, to the countryside and coast, there are plenty of things to do in Malta for travelers in search of history, culture, and more.

19 Most Romantic Places in Greece

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Top Mediterranean FAQs

Where do Mediterranean cruises go?

Whether you love art, history, natural wonders, fine cuisine, or all of the above, a Mediterranean cruise lets you experience something amazing at every stop. The Mediterranean region is vast, including many countries each with its own personality, cuisine, and scenery. 

Celebrity’s Mediterranean cruises sail from Athens, Barcelona, Rome, Southampton, and Ravenna (Venice). 

Feel like an old-fashioned movie star on the French Riviera, learn about military history in Malta, explore Biblical history in Israel, and delve back more than 4,000 years in time to Egypt.

How long are Mediterranean cruises?

Mediterranean cruises on Celebrity last from six to 12 nights. Spend seven nights visiting popular ports in Spain, France, and Italy, or longer voyages that include Greece and Turkey. 

When’s the best time to cruise? 

The best time to cruise the Mediterranean will vary depending on your particular interests and schedule. The main Mediterranean cruise season runs from April through November each year, with June to September the peak months. But with Celebrity you can cruise Europe year round. 

July to September is the peak summer season in the Mediterranean, when most Europeans take their summer vacation. April, May, June, later in September, and October are all great months to visit, too. You can sail the Mediterranean with Celebrity right up to November, which is a wonderful time for sightseeing with fewer people around. The best time to head to the far south of the region is from February to April, when the climate is perfect for exploring Israel and Egypt.

What should I pack?

When you’re packing for a Mediterranean cruise, swimwear and beach outfits are essential. You’ll need comfortable shoes for sightseeing, whether this involves walking over uneven cobblestone roads or clambering over the rocky paths of the Acropolis in Athens. 

A good sun hat is essential If you want to visit churches, synagogues, and cathedrals we recommend long pants or skirt and a scarf/shawl to cover your shoulders.  

If you’re traveling at the beginning or the end of the season, the weather could be cool, so bring cover-ups and a light waterproof jacket.

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through coverups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

Each itinerary features one to two “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

What can I see while I’m there?

From the history-lined canals of Venice to the sun-soaked playgrounds of the French Riviera to the iconic architecture of Spain, our array of award-winning Europe vacations offers something special for every discerning world traveler.

Get up close to historic sites like the ancient Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens, and the charming Old City of Dubrovnik. Take stellar photos at the Piazza San Marco in Venice, the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. See Michelangelo’s remarkable Renaissance artwork on the Sistine Chapel ceiling as you tour Vatican City.

In Portugal, experience the spectacular medieval architecture in Lisbon and taste a variety of Port wines in Porto. Explore our port of call in Italy, Trieste, and its ancient architecture, lively cultural scene, and Venetian-inspired coffeehouses. We’re also returning to Kusadasi, and Istanbul in Turkey.

Some of the most beautiful natural sights you’ll ever see may be the view of the whitewashed buildings and turquoise waters in Santorini or the pastel-colored fishing villages in the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

Where are the best beaches?

The Mediterranean is fringed with  dazzlingly beautiful beaches . Here, you’ll find some of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the world, wild dunes, craggy cliffs, rocky coves, and aquamarine shallows on others.

For long sweeps of sand, great watersports, and a lively scene, try Mykonos. If black or red sand intrigues you, head for Santorini. For old-fashioned glamor, visit the beaches around Italy’s Amalfi Coast or the chic beach towns along the French Riviera. 

Sardinia arguably has the most beautiful turquoise water. Ibiza is fringed with pretty coves, some sleepy, some with cool beach bars and DJs spinning tunes all afternoon. 

What is there for families to do on a Mediterranean cruise?

The Mediterranean is fantastic for families. It’s educational, it brings history to life, the shopping is great, the ice cream unsurpassed, and the beaches superb. Mediterranean cultures love kids, too, and children are welcomed everywhere. 

Families can enjoy the Colosseum in Rome, gondola rides in Venice, the old walls of Dubrovnik, and cable cars for stunning city views or off-road buggy experiences. You can also experience Pompeii, the cave houses of Matera, and for soccer fans, Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona. 

Should I book tours ahead of time?

If you are traveling in peak season, we recommend you book your Shore Excursions through My Celebrity Cruises as soon as you confirm your sailing as many attractions around the Mediterranean are extremely popular. 

Booking a shore excursion  with Celebrity also means you’ll be visiting attractions with a professional guide, and on a tour that guarantees to return you to the ship on time. 

Whether you're looking for a private, customizable experience, a carefully curated guided tour with a small group, or an unforgettable trip to iconic local landmarks, we have the right option to discover any destination, granting in-depth knowledge, expertise, and a truly extraordinary experience.

Can I get around with English?

Many languages are spoken around the Mediterranean, from Maltese to French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Turkish, and Hebrew. Most people working in the hospitality industry speak some English.

Do I need a visa?

You will need a passport to travel to the Mediterranean, but the vast majority of countries visited by European cruises do not require a visa. From 2024, Americans, Canadians, and British citizens will be required to register for the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to enter 30 European countries. 

This will be easy to apply for, inexpensive, and is simply a pre-authorization system similar to the ESTA that Europeans need to travel to the U.S. and Canada. Once you have the ETIAS, it will be valid for three years. You should make sure you have at least six months before your passport expires, too.

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12-night Mediterranean & Israel Cruise

September 23, 2022   |   roundtrip rome   |  new celebrity apex.

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* Prices are per person, cruise only, apply to select sailings, based on double-occupancy, reflect any promotional savings, and are subject to change and availability until booked. Prepaid Gratuities option provides for prepaid stateroom, waiter, assistant waiter, and headwaiter gratuities in the amount suggested by Celebrity's guidelines. Gratuities will be applied to the reservation within 10 days of booking date. Guests with Internet Packages will receive instructions for Internet access in their staterooms on the first day of the cruise. Additional terms and conditions apply to offers. To redeem, call 1-800-377-9383 and mention promo code TZOO . Ships' registry: Malta and Ecuador. Please contact The Cruise Web at 1-800-377-9383 for full terms and conditions. The Cruise Web is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions.

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Barcelona Cruise Guide

Cruising the Mediterranean and Beyond

September Cruises from Barcelona

Eight different itineraries on seven ships offered by five cruise lines: September may be on the late-ish side of the Mediterranean cruise season, but opportunities abound for autumnal voyages. Norwegian’s Epic is based in Barcelona throughout the summer while Celebrity’s Beyond and Constellation will be making 8- and 9-night cruises to the western Mediterranean in September.

Royal Caribbean will be sending both Vision of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas out from Barcelona to explore the Mediterranean in September:

Regal Princess ventures forth on the most extensive cruise (or maybe we should say “cruises”) from Barcelona in September, with 7, 14 and 21 day options that may take you as far as Istanbul. Holland America’s Oosterdam also makes a longer cruise in September, from Barcelona to Venice.

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13 Best Things to Do in Portofino

By Carl Pettit

Last updated: April 30th, 2024

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When you set foot upon the Italian Riviera, you’ll quickly discover that there are myriad things to do in Portofino, possibly the most famous village in this exquisitely beautiful corner of Italy.

Explore historic sites like Castello Brown, offering panoramic views of the harbor, or unwind at one of La Piazzetta’s sunny cafés. Shop for designer clothing and admire the gleaming yachts.

In and near Portofino, you’ll always be entertained. Explore the Ligurian Sea by kayak for secluded coves and stunning vistas, and when you’re done, indulge in local cuisine at a waterfront restaurant, where fresh seafood reigns supreme.

Hike to Castello Brown

Castello Brown

One of the most popular things to do in Portofino is hiking up to Castello Brown. Various trails from town lead to this Italian castle , including a path starting near the Church of San Giorgio, which then winds through lush Mediterranean greenery as you gain elevation.

At Castello Brown, a former defensive fortress, appreciate the splendid views of the harbor and coastline before you explore this ancient castle. There’s been a castle here for centuries, with the oldest surviving parts dating back to 1425.

The castle was transformed into a private residence in the late 19th century. It then became the property of the Municipality of Portofino in 1961. Each stone still whispers tales of centuries past, recounting the numerous naval battles witnessed by this enduring stronghold.

As you explore the gardens surrounding the castle, filled with colorful blooms and pathways, take a moment to soak up the atmosphere of your green hilltop surroundings before heading back into town.

Enjoy the Seaside Ambiance of La Piazzetta

La Piazzetta

La Piazzetta, Portofino’s main square, acts as the vivacious heart of this beautiful Italian coastal town , humming with activity. Relax at a chic café here for a morning espresso or stop for a cool treat at a gelateria, savoring the delicious flavors while you relish the lively atmosphere.

From La Piazzetta, you can marvel at the colorful facades of the buildings and observe fishing vessels floating serenely in the harbor. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, close to the town’s shops and boutiques.

Whether people-watching from an outdoor eatery, browsing for souvenirs, or simply enjoying the beauty of your surroundings, La Piazzetta will offer you a slice of quintessential Portofino life.

Relax at Paraggi Beach

Paraggi Beach

One of the best beaches near Portofino , Paraggi is where you should venture if you want to be surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery.

Take a dip in the cobalt waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, or chill out on the sandy shore or a sun bed, the scent of pine trees in the air, to enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

From the beach, you can admire gorgeous views of the rocky coastline, all the more impressive if you rent a kayak and paddle around the tiny bay.

Visit the Church of San Giorgio

Church of San Giorgio

The small and lovely Church of San Giorgio, with its sturdy construction and welcoming yellow façade, should make your list of things to do in Portofino.

This Romanesque church, overlooking the town’s waterfront, has been given shape by its simple yet elegant architecture inside, adorned with black and white checkered floors, white walls, and religious art.

Built in 1154, this sacred space has seen centuries of history and religious devotion. From the church grounds, you can also revel in panoramic vistas of Portofino’s vibrant architecture and the glistening expanse of the Ligurian Sea.

Explore the Abbey of San Fruttuoso

Abbey of San Fruttuoso

Burrowed away along the rugged coastline, just west of Portofino, lies the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a beautiful spot imbued with history and scenic splendor.

Accessible solely by boat or hiking trail, the Abbey of San Fruttuoso will give you a feeling of seclusion and tranquility along with a hard-to-beat seaside locale.

This ancient abbey, brought to life by the Benedictines, dates back to the 10th century. When you arrive, you can admire its Romanesque architecture, as well as its beautiful cloister.

You’ll also get to learn more about the intriguing history of San Fruttuoso, which over the centuries has served as a monastery, a fortress, and even a pirates’ den. After your visit, you can relax on the pebbly beach here and go for a refreshing swim.

Kayak Around Portofino Bay

Portofino Bay

Take a kayaking tour around Portofino Bay, where each paddle stroke unveils awe-inspiring vistas and secret coves waiting to be explored.

As you drift along the clear blue waters, you’ll have the opportunity to investigate remote beaches, sea caves, and rocky cliffs, many of which are inaccessible by land.

While you’re out on the waves, be on the lookout for dolphins and seabirds, as well as colorful fish gliding beneath the surface of the sea.

Kayaking in Portofino Bay will offer you a unique perspective of the Italian Riviera’s beauty from the water. Whether you’re a novice or an expert kayaker, this peaceful bay will provide you with an ideal environment for paddling.

Read: Classic Cities and Towns in the Italian Riviera

Dine Along Portofino’s Scenic Waterfront

Treat yourself to a culinary journey along the postcard-perfect waterfront of Portofino, where each dining experience unfolds in front of harbor vistas, with plenty of gastronomic delights ready to tantalize your taste buds as well.

You can wander over to destinations like Ristorante Puny, where you will be able to savor delectable seafood dishes close to the serene harbor waters.

Cafe in Portofino

For a taste of traditional Ligurian cuisine, head to Taverna del Marinaio, where you can dine on the waterfront terrace and savor the flavors of this region of Italy in a relaxing setting.

And if you’re north of Portofino, in Santa Margherita Ligure, Trattoria dei Pescatori will beckon you with its pleasant dockside setting, presenting you with a menu brimming with fresh Mediterranean flavors and seafood.

Trek to the Portofino Lighthouse

Portofino Lighthouse

Journey to Faro di Portofino, a storied landmark perched atop a dramatic promontory, guiding ships through the rugged coastal terrain. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll be greeted by dramatic panoramas of the Ligurian Sea.

Built in 1917, the Portofino Lighthouse, painted in vibrant white and now fully powered by solar energy, will invite you to stroll along its scenic pathways, where Italian coastal landscapes await you at every turn.

You can hike from the town to the Faro di Portofino and enjoy a drink or snack at the lounge bar next to the lighthouse, offering you phenomenal maritime views.

Experience the Charm of Chiesa del Divino Martino

Chiesa del Divino Martino

In Portofino, a simple yet rewarding activity is visiting the Chiesa del Divino Martino, conveniently located only a few blocks away from the water.

The striped façade, as well as the pretty interior are captivating to behold. This venerable church, dating back to the 12th century or thereabouts, serves as a testament to the town’s historical and spiritual heritage.

Chiesa del Divino Martino Photo by Davide Papalini on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The church boasts a fascinating fusion of architecture and art, from its Romanesque exterior to its lovely interior, which features beautiful frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings.

Inside the church, elegant marble columns rise majestically from the floor, along with vaulted ceilings overhead, bestowing the church with an aura of grandeur not readily evident from the outside.

As you delve deeper into the church, you’ll note art on display depicting stories from biblical narratives and the lives of saints. Chiesa del Divino Martino truly is an idyllic sanctuary for grace and reflection during your stay in Portofino.

Snorkel in the Portofino Marine Reserve

Portofino Marine Reserve

Embark on an enchanting journey beneath the waves in the Portofino Marine Reserve, a sanctuary brimming with marine life. Snorkeling and diving tours are available in town.

Established in 1999, this aquatic park stretches approximately nine miles along the Ligurian shore, encompassing 376 hectares of water. It embraces a variety of habitats, from cliffs to sandy sea beds, offering diverse marine ecosystems to explore.

You can venture into the crystalline depths here where you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of marine life, from snapper to elusive octopuses. Watch in wonder as majestic groupers and glide gracefully through the azure expanses. In May and June, you can spot enormous sunfish here, too.

More than just an underwater marvel, the Portofino Marine Reserve serves as a beacon of conservation, helping preserve the Mediterranean’s natural wonders.

Take a Trip to Colorful Santa Margherita Ligure

Santa Margherita Ligure

In Santa Margherita Ligure , a comune (municipality) between Portofino and Rapallo, you’ll come across a delightful seaside town packed with Mediterranean appeal.

Stroll along the palm-lined promenade, where pastel-colored buildings overlook the Ligurian Sea.

Basilica di Santa Margherita

While you’re in town, you can also stop by the baroque Basilica di Santa Margherita to enjoy its bell towers, frescoes, and sumptuous interior, all reflecting the municipality’s religious legacy.

You can also explore the baroque-themed San Giacomo di Corte Church while you’re in town. Afterward, indulge in Santa Margherita Ligure’s food scene, featuring fresh Ligurian seafood served daily in restaurants and trattorias.

Learn About Liguria at the Museo del Parco di Portofino

Museo del Parco di Portofino

If you’re on the prowl for things to do in Portofino, look no further than the Museo del Parco di Portofino, lush with greenery and idiosyncratic sculptures.

Museo del Parco di Portofino boasts terraces offering wondrous waterfront views, not to mention the park’s impressive collection of outdoor sculptures.

These diverse, large, and occasionally odd-looking sculptures adorn the garden’s pathways and alcoves, adding something of a surreal element to the natural surroundings and views.

Featuring abstract forms and lifelike figures, including humans and animals, each sculpture brings a touch of intrigue to this unique outdoor setting.

Explore the Villa Durazzo

Villa Durazzo, Santa Margherita Ligure

Another must-visit near Portofino is the Gardens of Villa Durazzo, located in Santa Margherita Ligure. Here, you can marvel at methodically manicured landscapes adorned with exotic plants and fragrant blooms.

As you meander along winding paths that lead you through a tapestry of colors and textures, where tall trees provide shade and serenity, you’ll discover gazebos, a large pond, and fantastic terraces that offer broad views of the Ligurian coastline.

Initially tended to by local aristocratic families, the Italian gardens have now evolved into a sanctuary accessible to the public, characterized by botanical expertise and amazing panoramas.

While exploring, you’ll also encounter Villa Durazzo, a prestigious aristocratic estate. Take a guided tour of the villa to admire its ornate baroque architecture.

The Gardens of Villa Durazzo fuse history, culture, and natural splendor into a romantic destination in Italy that is worth exploring if you have the time.

Experience la dolce vita with Celebrity Cruises on a vacation to glamorous Portofino. Browse Portofino cruises and plan your Italian adventure.

Carl Pettit

Carl Pettit is a musician and writer who has written about culture, finance, food, politics and travel for AFAR, Fodor’s Travel, Yahoo News and many other media outlets. He’s set up permanent camp in more than eight cities (on three different continents) in his life so far, all in an attempt to cure his seemingly incurable wanderlust.

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Russia Deploying Three Cruise Missile Carriers to Mediterranean Sea: Kyiv

R ussia has deployed three more cruise missile carriers to the Mediterranean Sea with a total of 20 missiles, the Ukrainian Navy said on Wednesday.

"As of 07:00 on April 24, 2024, there are no enemy ships in the Black Sea, one enemy ship in the Sea of Azov, and seven enemy ships in the Mediterranean Sea, including three carriers of Kalibr cruise missiles with a total salvo of up to 20 missiles," the navy said on its Telegram channel.

Earlier this month, Lieutenant Commander Dmytro Pletenchuk, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Navy, said Russia has been deploying ships in the Mediterranean Sea, including its Kalibr missile carriers, as part of a tactic to expand its military presence in other regions, not just in Ukraine.

In January, Kyiv's navy said Russia had deployed three ships in the Mediterranean, including two Kalibr carriers. In February, the Ukrainian Navy said there were two Russian ships in the Mediterranean Sea, including one vessel armed with up to eight Kalibr cruise missiles, still according to the Ukrainian Navy.

Newsweek has contacted Russia's Defense Ministry for comment by email.

"We should not forget that there is also a rather complex geopolitical situation there. We should not forget that the Russian Federation sees geopolitical competitors not only in Ukraine. Therefore, they, of course, are trying to spread their military presence in other regions where they have interests," said Pletenchuk in remarks published by RBC-Ukraine on April 21.

Pletenchuk added that Russia typically deploys ships on rotation, and that there is "the simultaneous presence of several units" in the Mediterranean Sea.

"In general, they have a permanent naval operational connection there, so they have been present there for many years. What tasks they perform—that's a different story," he said.

Natalia Humeniuk, a spokesperson for Ukraine's forces in the south of the country, said in early April that Russia has been limiting the use of its sea-launched Kalibr cruise missiles due to logistical issues .

"For the Russians, it is now problematic both to deliver missiles and to service the missile installations that launch the Kalibrs, and to reload with Kalibrs," said Humeniuk in remarks reported by Ukrainian media on April 2.

Humeniuk, who has since been dismissed, said much of the logistics and infrastructure involved in firing the cruise missiles is based in the port city of Sevastopol in annexed Crimea, where Russia stations part of its prized Black Sea Fleet.

The Black Sea Fleet has been targeted by Ukraine as it seeks to reverse Russian President Vladimir Putin 's 2014 annexation of the peninsula. Its flagship, Moskva , was attacked and sunk in April 2022. In September 2023, a missile attack by Ukraine on the Black Sea Fleet headquarters in Sevastopol reportedly killed a number of leading officers and destroyed a Russian submarine.

"It is now very problematic for missile carriers to get there," Humeniuk added.

Do you have a tip on a world news story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about the Russia-Ukraine war? Let us know via [email protected].

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