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MediterraneanOverviewSail to the heart of romantic cities, picturesque harbors and noble monuments of antiquityIts name means "center of the world." In classical times, its coast defined the limits. Even today, cultures radiate like spokes from its turquoise hub. Unique as they are, each is subtly flavored with the same salty essence at the seaward end. Spaniards, French, Italians and Greeks all share a common character along the Mediterranean coast. It’s a special part of the world that we love to sail in, and we think you will too. Featured Ports
Malaga, SpainOften little more than a gateway to the Costa del Sol for sun-seeking vacationers, Malaga is a most interesting city in its own right. First settled by the Phoenicians, Malaga was held by virtually every ruling power in the Mediterranean at one time or another. Two Moorish fortresses, the 11th-century Alcazaba and the 14th-century Castillo de Gibralfaro still stand sentry above the harbor. Malaga was the birthplace of Pablo Picasso as well as the Malaguena style of flamenco. During your time here, you may wish to sample some of the sweet Malaga wine and excellent tapas for which the city is noted. Explore Codé Nast Insider Tips for Malaga 
Barcelona, SpainBarcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is said to have been founded by the Phoenicians, and was once the rival of the powerful states of Venice and Genoa for control of the Mediterranean trade. Today, it is Spain's second largest city and has long rivaled, even surpassed Madrid in industry and commerce. The medieval atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter and the elegant boulevards combine to make the city one of Europe's most beautiful. Barcelona's active cultural life and heritage brought forth such greats as the architect Antonio Gaudi, the painter Joan Miro, and Pablo Picasso, who spent his formative years here. Other famous native Catalan artists include cellist Pau Casals, surrealist Salvador Dali, and opera singers Montserrat Caballe and Josep Carreras. Barcelona accomplished a long-cherished goal with the opportunity to host the Olympics in 1992. This big event prompted a massive building program and created a focal point of the world's attention. Explore Codé Nast Insider Tips for Barcelona 
Bordeaux, FranceBordeaux is the starting point for many exciting excursions into the surrounding wine country. The patricians of Bordeaux have always been merchants and shipbuilders. Under the Romans the city had a flourishing trade with Spain and Britain. In 1154, as a part of the dowry of Eleanor of Aquitaine, it became English and remained so until 1453. In the 18th century, Bordeaux prospered from the slave trade, and later in commerce with French colonies in Africa. Since Roman times the quality of the region's vines and wines has been zealously maintained. Explore Codé Nast Insider Tips for Bordeaux 
Lisbon, PortugalThe great period of "the Discoveries" accounted for phenomenal wealth brought back from India, Africa and Brazil by the great Portuguese navigators. Gold, jewels, ivory, porcelain and spices helped finance grand new buildings and impressive monuments in Lisbon, the country's capital city. As you sail up the Tagus River, be on deck to admire Lisbon's panorama and see some of the great monuments lining the river. Lisbon is one of Europe's smallest capital cities but considered by many visitors to be one of the most likeable. Spread over a string of seven hills, the city offers a variety of faces, including a refreshing no-frills simplicity reflected in the people as they go unhurriedly through their day enjoying a hearty and delicious cuisine accompanied by the country's excellent wines. Explore Codé Nast Insider Tips for Lisbon 
Venice, ItalyThe first settlement of the marshy islands in the lagoon was for protection from barbarian tribes that terrorized mainland farms and villages. Island living quickly led to the development of skills in handling boats, then ships. Maritime trade conducted by shrewd merchants brought great wealth, which permitted the building of palaces, churches and monuments. The city became the center of the vast Venetian empire, its name forever summoning visions of grandeur, magnificence, richness, graciousness and beauty. Although later linked to the mainland, first by a railway bridge built in 1848 and then by a motor causeway in 1930, this island city will always be considered the "Queen of the Sea." There are no cars in Venice; all transportation is by boat or on foot along the time-worn, cobblestone streets and across some 400 bridges that span the city's 177 canals. Enchanting Venice truly offers an atmosphere that exists nowhere else. Explore Codé Nast Insider Tips for Venice <a href="/images/cruise-vacation-onboard/Med_xlarge.jpg" title="Click to view map" class="greyboxMap">View Map</a>Go beyond with a Seabourn Journey before or after your cruise. Compliment your holiday, Seabourn style, with a multi-day tour to inland attractions. All Seabourn Journeys are fully escorted and include deluxe hotels, transportation, and city tours. To book your Seabourn Journey, please call 866-755-5619 or 206-626-9179. Explore Seabourn Journeys offered in specific ports of call. |
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