In what is arguably the hippest of Spanish cities, there’s something to cater to every art-lover’s needs. To make the selection process a little easier when you’ve got limited time in the Catalonian capital, here’s a list of must-see places for the artistically inclined.

An arty guide to Barcelona

<p>If you happen to be in the vibey Eixample on a Saturday, between gallery hopping, make sure you take a peek at the farmer’s market that takes place on Consell de Cent.</p>


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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Feeling inspired?</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Book your next cruise holiday to Barcelona <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/find-a-cruise?ports=BCN">here</a>.</h2>


<p>Edited by Melita Cameron-Wood, Time Out</p>


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Set your sights on Greece

Dreaming of cobbled streets, ancient treasures and sun-kissed shores? On a P&O Cruises holiday to Greece, you can wake up to a new view of paradise every single day

Historic destinations in the Mediterranean 

Looking for a historic getaway that includes sunshine and sea breezes? Choose a P&O Cruises Mediterranean fly-cruise in 2028, and let the world’s ancient wonders come to you.

Culture, adventure, and discovery are a shore thing in the Med

5 sense-sational holiday experiences 

Caucasian couple shading themselves under palm frond in swimming pool

2026 Travel Hotlist

With a new year on the horizon, we’ve got these holidays firmly in our sights. Where will 2026 take you?

Set your sights on Central and Northern Italy

Lush landscapes, cosmopolitan cities and iconic sights: this is the Italy of romantic films, artistic masterpieces and many a daydream. These four Central and Northern Italian ports of call will turn your reveries into reality.

Set your sights on Southern Italy

Discover the vibrant culture, delicious food, and rich history of Southern Italy's most captivating ports with P&O Cruises.

Top things to do in Valletta

Experience the charm of Valletta with P&O Cruises. From historical landmarks to lively celebrations, discover what makes this city special.

2025 Travel Hotlist

From sunny escapes to city breaks, here’s a look at what’s on the horizon for the year ahead.

P&O Cruises 2024 in Numbers

We've crunched the numbers and wow, what a year it's been! Have a look at how our guests have spent their time with us this year...

Paul Ludlow in Lisbon

Our president, Paul Ludlow, looks at why Malta, our beautiful home port for Mediterranean fly-cruises, holds such a special place in our hearts. Watch Paul’s video to learn all about the exciting Maltese projects we’re involved with and how guests can enjoy an unmissable 10% off their shore experiences.

Set your sights on… Morocco and Cape Verde

Did you know we have brand-new cruises to Cape Verde and Morocco included in our Winter 2026/27 collection? As well as an 18-night Cape Verde and Morocco cruise on Arcadia in December, we also have Morocco cruises on Aurora in November and on Ventura in February. 

A perfect day in Dubrovnik

Any day in this captivating Croatian city is a day well spent. From coffee to cable cars, here’s how to get the most out of your time in Dubrovnik

Paul Ludlow shares the latest from Malta

The best places to visit when...you want to relax on a beach

Whether you’re a water baby, sun worshipper or sandcastle-building pro, a day at the beach is always the highlight of a holiday. Soak up some rays, feel the sand between your toes and breathe in the salty tang of the ocean with our guide to some of the best beach escapes for relaxing on shore.

The best shore excursions in Dubrovnik

Nestled along the breath-taking Adriatic coast in Croatia, Dubrovnik is often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ and has been captivating travellers for many years. 

Escape the winter, extend your summer

Want to hold on to that summer feeling? Here are three easy ways to make it happen on a P&O Cruises holiday.

12 Months of holidays

Where will the year take you? We’ve got 12 months of tempting travel inspiration in our handy guide to some of the world’s dreamiest destinations. So whether you’re after a last-minute escape or are planning ahead, a year’s worth of holidays is at your fingertips.

A foodie's guide to Valletta

Perfectly perched in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta boasts a unique culinary scene cultivated over centuries. Flavours from North Africa and all across Europe coalesce to create flavours found nowhere else in the region.

These views are better in real life

Have you ever caught yourself looking through holiday snaps and saying, ‘my camera just hasn’t done it justice’? Pretty as pictures can be, there’s nothing quite like seeing those epic, once-in-a-lifetime sights with your own two eyes. These six wonders are even more picture-perfect in person. 

5 of our best cruises for couples

If you and your other half are seeking a dreamy escape that will leave you with cherished memories, look no further. 

Things to do in Mykonos

Glamorous Mykonos has it all: beautiful beaches, dazzling seas, a vibrant town and nearby mythological sites. Discover the things to do in Mykonos to spark inspiration.

Cruise with ease from Southampton

Your holiday begins the moment you step onboard when you choose to cruise from Southampton. On a no-fly cruise, you can say goodbye to luggage restrictions and navigating airports. Even though you don’t take to the skies, your no-fly cruise holiday will start, and finish, on a high.

5 Chocolate Treats to Enjoy Onboard & Ashore

World Chocolate Day falls on 7 July, and what better way to get in the mood than with a sprinkling of chocolate-themed travel inspiration? Which of delicious treats will you add to your must-do list?

Escape to Monte Carlo

Discover Monte Carlo, the city full of mega yachts and five-star resorts that glitter in the shadows of the Alpine Mountains.

Big screen destinations

To celebrate the opening of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival we have taken a delve into our itineraries to see which big screen destinations you can visit on a P&O Cruises holiday.

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Six great winter escapes

Our winter itineraries offer great escapes to a fabulous range of destinations. We'll start with some sunny adventures around the globe before highlighting our top suggestions for holidays closer to home.

Discover the secrets of Rome

Travel writer Yolanda Zappaterra explores Rome, off the beaten track. Yolanda is a travel, art and design enthusiast who writes for Time Out and Saga magazine, as well as national newspapers. 

Spain and Portugal: the coast with the most

If you’re looking for a holiday that showcases Europe’s most exhilarating cities, Spain & Portugal offer copious sunshine, cultural clout & fabulous food.

Hidden Gems in the Mediterranean

From ‘Byzantine Pompeii’ to the world’s smallest town, there’s even more to the Mediterranean cruise holiday than meets the eye. These six hidden gems offer a new perspective on an old favourite.

Glories of western Italy • Things To Do

From preserved ancient cities and impressive Roman ruins to Renaissance and Baroque art and awe-inspiring architecture, western Italy is a treasure trove of antiquity and here are the best things to do in western Italy.

Five top spots for family fun

Explore five of the best family holiday spots from Madeira, to Tenerife or further afield in Barbados. There's something for every traveller with P&O Cruises.

Your own Greek odyssey

Soak up some epic history and culture as well as glorious sunshine when you holiday in the Mediterranean.

Discover hidden Naples: What to see and do

Delve into one of the most ancient cities in the world for artistic culture, tranquil gardens and culinary delights, says travel writer, Yolanda Zappaterra.

Exploring new territory on a Mediterranean cruise

Guest David George is a self-confessed cruise holiday addict and has visited many destinations around the world on board P&O Cruises ships. But there’s nothing quite like the thrill of visiting a port for the first time, he says.

The pearl of the Adriatic: great things to do in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a highlight of any Mediterranean cruise and makes the perfect summer holiday destination. Local tour guide Maris Marković picks her favourite things to do in this stunning city by the sea.

Five great reasons to love the Canary Islands

Each of the Canary Islands has a distinctive character. Having fallen for their seductive charms, travel writer Yolanda Zappaterra is longing to return. In the meantime, she reveals why she loves their different personalities… Which one you will fall for?

Best Places to Visit on a Mediterranean Cruise

From history and architecture to high culture and stunning vistas, the Mediterranean offer an abundance of attractions.

There’s plenty of culture to discover on a P&O Cruises holiday

Art, history, romance, food and wine – the ingredients of your perfect holiday. Be inspired by new experiences on a culturally rich adventure to enchanting destinations around the globe.

Indulgence in Italy

These ancient Italian cities are rich in natural beauty and boast more heritage sites than anywhere in the world, finds Steven Short

Captivating Corfu - things to do

Corfu is an emerald charm in the Ionian Sea with its historic capital, turquoise waters and verdant countryside. And luckily P&O Cruises fly-cruise holidays can take you straight there, as well as our holidays departing from Southampton.

Our magical Greek islands

We could all do with a little Greek island magic right now. To tempt us further, five local creatives tell why their island home is a constant source of joy and inspiration

Croatia five beauties to steal your heart

We ask travel writer, Rudolf Abraham, what he loves most about Croatia and why the 5 towns are worth a visit on your next  P&O Cruises adventure.

Five bucket-list European landmarks to discover

We’ve identified some of the most incredible landmarks in Europe that you can spot on a P&O Cruises holiday. How many have you visited?

Holiday inspiration: Sunshine hotspots

We're taking a look at some of our favourite sunshine hotspots so sit back, relax and soak up the virtual rays as we check in to the Caribbean, the Canary Islands and more.

Holiday inspiration for the perfect summer

Whether city, beach or a bit of both, get inspired by our top three summer cruise holiday destinations.

The best places to visit in Croatia

Explore the sparkling seas, medieval towns and rich culture of Croatia with a guide to the best places to visit along the Dalmatian coast.

Sea the world on Britannia

Britannia sails the high seas in style, combining the excitement of cruising with the sophistication of a 5 star hotel. We take a look at her many charms.

Authentic Venice

Explore our best shore excursions and activities in Venice, from local favourite restaurants to Murano glass makings. Book your P&O Cruises Italy cruise.

Five romantic destinations

Have you ever wanted to follow in the footsteps of your favourite movie couples? These five romantic destinations – all of which can be visited on P&O Cruises holidays – offer the perfect chance to relive the iconic moments and soak up the amorous vibes of some of the dreamiest settings in the world.

The wanderlust list: 7 top destinations for 2020

P&O Cruises can take you to some of the most exciting places in the world – near and far and everywhere in between. Whether you have your sights set on distant shores or a port closer to home, our list of the hottest destinations for 2020 will help inspire your next epic holiday

Travel through time in Tarragona

UNESCO World Heritage sites, sun-drenched beaches and traditional Catalan cuisine: Tarragona has it all.

Four of Valletta’s most intriguing museums

Malta’s capital city has had a colourful history, and its storied walls are overflowing with tales of heroism and heartbreak from across the centuries. 


An insider’s guide to Time Out Market Barcelona

If you’ve never been to a Time Out Market, then firstly: what are you doing? But secondly: you’re in luck! In the summer of 2024, we opened a brand-new market in the beautiful, sun-drenched city of Barcelona

Our Guide to Fly-Cruises

Thinking of a fly-cruise with P&O Cruises? Learn how it works, what to expect, and how to make the most of your holiday. Start planning now!

What type of Med traveller are you

From tuk tuks to tapas, basilicas to beaches, P&O Cruises shore excursions can help you make the most of your Mediterranean cruise holiday.

Ten ways to embrace sport on a P&O Cruises holiday

The summer of sport has officially kicked off, and we can’t wait to get in on the action. Here are some of our favourite ways to score a win on your next P&O Cruises holiday

Five of the best destinations for swimming and snorkelling

Schools of rainbow-coloured fish, captivating coral reeds, volcanic caves... there's a world of wonder under the seas, are you ready to dive in?

Find the holiday you want on a cruise

Whether it’s paddleboarding in the fjords, sight-seeing on a city break, relaxing on a tranquil beach or dining like the locals… we set the scene for amazing things to happen. So, whatever type of holiday you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find one that ticks all your boxes…

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Magical Christmas holidays in warm or wintry destinations

Fancy some sunshine and sand or wintry wonders? Find out about the amazing destinations we can take you to at Christmas time. 

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Wellbeing and Lifestyle, introducing Kat Farmer

Fashion stylist, author and content creator Kat Farmer is stepping on board some of our sun-soaked cruise holidays to host sessions that’ll help you to find your confidence and your style and how to dress for your shape...

Skincare and makeup travel essentials from Hannah Martin

If you struggle with packing lightly when it comes to your makeup and skincare products, then you’re not alone. World-class makeup artist to the stars Hannah Martin shares some helpful tips to stop over-filling your suitcase (without sacrificing your skincare routine) and lists some of her favourite products to take on holiday…

'There are so many happy memories'- an unforgettable family holiday on Arvia

Guest Nick Williams recently enjoyed a fun-filled Mediterranean cruise with his family on board Arvia. He tells us what they got up to, from family dinners to football stadiums.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Cherry Healey"}}

Wellbeing workshops with Cherry Healey

TV Presenter and documentary maker Cherry Healey is joining us some of our sun-soaked cruise holidays to host sessions that’ll leave you feeling revitalised. Cherry can’t wait to get on board and help you to feel your best…

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Best destinations for wellness experiences

Let us focus your mind on the wonderful wellness experiences that await you on your travels with P&O Cruises - we've picked four of the best destinations that combine unique cultural traditions with rejuvenating rest and relaxation

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Antibes"}}

The French Riviera - Wake up and smell the sunshine

The French Riviera captivates your senses and spirits you away, says local resident and writer Nancy Heslin

An insider's guide to Sitges

Spain’s resident writer Andrew Forbes reveals why sunny-natured Sitges on the Costa Dorada is a true travel gem.

Five wellness experiences for every kind of traveller

Start exploring destinations sooner with a fly-cruise holiday! Find out what a fly-cruise is and the benefits before exploring our cruise holidays.

Get into the summer spirit

Doesn’t it feel amazing to look forward to a summer holiday? Think of all those long sun-splashed days when you can just let go and savour every moment.

Calling all sunseekers!

If you’re feeling the need for the sun’s warm rays but can’t decide where to go, we’ll point you in the right direction. Pack your sun cream and shades for itineraries that take in our favourite sunshine cruise destinations.

Cultural experiences in the spotlight

From flamenco in Seville to jazz in Copenhagen, Anna Crane shines a light on some of the top cultural shore experiences available on a P&O Cruises holiday

Top five Spanish holiday destinations

With its warm sunshine, amazing coastline, tasty food and captivating history and culture, Spain is a popular destination. And no two Spanish destinations are the same so there’s always something new to see, no matter how many times you visit.

Sunshine destinations you’ll love, straight from Southampton

Sail straight from Southampton to the sun. Departing from our home port makes travelling hassle-free.

<h4>Read more about the Mediterranean</h4>

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<h2 style="text-align: center;">From outdoor art markets such as Port Vell Art Market to architectural classics such as Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, this city is a veritable feast for the eyes.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>


Jardines de les tres Xemeneies (Garden of the Three Chimneys)

<h2>1. Jardines de les tres Xemeneies (Garden of the Three Chimneys)</h2>
<p>Located in the former grounds of the <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/ports/barcelona-spain">Barcelona</a> Traction, Light and Power Company Ltd., this urban park is an unmissable attraction for lovers of street art. Its walls are filled with vibrant political and social commentaries, which can be enjoyed as skaters whizz past you and local dance crews practise their routines.</p>


Casa Batlló

<h2>2. Casa&nbsp;Batlló</h2>
<p>This townhouse on Passeig de Gràcia in the barrio of Eixample bears testament to Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí’s fascination with nature. With a reptilian roof, skeletal elements and an overarching preference for curved rather than straight lines, this house feels like a living, breathing work of art.&nbsp;</p>


Museu de l’Art Prohibit (Museum of Forbidden Art)

<h2>3. Museu de l’Art Prohibit (Museum of Forbidden Art)</h2>
<p>Also in Eixample, this place is a haven for censored art. Located in the Casa Garriga Nogués, a townhouse built in 1901 by prolific Barcelona architect Enric Sagnier, visitors will enjoy the elegant setting as much as the collection of controversial artwork, which includes pieces by the likes of Banksy, Gustav Klimt, Franciso de Goya and Pablo Picasso.</p>
<p> </p>


Museu Picasso

<h2>4. Museu Picasso</h2>
<p>Speaking of Picasso, we’d be remiss not to include one of Spain’s most famous artists in our list. Although Picasso was born in Malaga, his family moved to Barcelona in 1896, making the city the backdrop to his formative years as an artist. This collection is housed in five mansions in the barrio of El Born and includes over 4200 works by the artist.</p>


Museo Moco

<h2>5. Museo Moco</h2>
<p>While you’re in El Born, pay a visit to Museo Moco, which you’ll find in Palacio Cervelló, an impressive sixteenth-century aristocratic residence. Home to a range of interactive, digital, modern and contemporary art, this museum has everything from works by greats such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Damien Hirst to a giant hybrid Smurf-Mickey Mouse sculpture (Final Days by Kaws).</p>


Girona and the Dalí Museum

<h2>6. Girona and the Dalí Museum</h2>
<p style="text-align: left;">Just outside Barcelona, in Salvador Dalí’s hometown of Figueres, lies the fabulous Dalí Museum. Based around a former theatre in Figueres, the museum is an opportunity to take in some of the artist’s most towering creations, curated by the man himself, who famously stated that he wanted visitors to feel like they had ‘had a theatrical dream’. If that’s not fascinating enough, this <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/shore-experiences/bcn/girona-and-the-dali-museum">shore experience</a> also gives culture vultures the chance to visit nearby medieval Girona.</p>


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{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Museu de l'Art Prohibit"}}

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Museu Picasso"}}

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Museo Moco"}}

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Dalí Museum"}}

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Colombo is the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka."}}

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Barceloneta Beach in Barcelona with colorful sky at sunrise"}}

Happy romantic couple in Oia, Santorini, Cyclades islands, Greece

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An arty guide to Barcelona

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