https://my.pocruises.com/api-mc/mc-getCruiseSummary/v1

The Mediterranean is famed for its agreeable climate, compelling coastlines and delicious cuisines; not to mention its world-renowned art and architecture. A Mediterranean cruise holiday offers something special to discover at every port.&nbsp;

OFFER ENDS 26 AUGUST 2025

Please correct the errors below and try again.

You’ll shortly receive an email from us to confirm your sign up. Please click on the link contained within this email to start hearing more from us. If you are unable to find this email in your inbox, please check your junk mailbox.

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/mediterranean-fly-2026

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/mediterranean-fly-2027

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/mediterranean-fly-2028

2026

2027

2028

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/mediterranean-2026

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/mediterranean-2027

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/parent/destinations/mediterranean-2028

All prices displayed are per person based on two adults sharing the lowest grade of cabin available within the applicable cabin type, unless stated otherwise, and are subject to availability. For full T&amp;Cs click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pocruises.com/deals/promotion-terms-and-conditions">here</a>.

/content/dam/po/content-fragments/en_GB/forms/email-offer-signup-form

Title* 

First name*

Last name*

Email address*

Email Offer Consent

Your dream cruise might only be an email away...

A long Mediterranean cruise from Southampton typically takes around three to four weeks. These itineraries sail in both directions; however, shorter Mediterranean cruises are available if you’re prepared to fly. If you sail on a 4-week Mediterranean cruise or a 3-week Mediterranean cruise, your holiday will start and end in Southampton. If you book a Mediterranean fly-cruise, you’ll fly to meet your ship directly in the Mediterranean.&nbsp;

How long is a Mediterranean cruise?

We are pleased to be able to offer return flights from several UK air cities on all holidays which start and end in Valletta: Belfast Int., Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Glasgow, London, Manchester and Newcastle.
The flight from the UK to Valletta varies between 3 hours and 15 minutes to 4 hours.

How long is the flight to the Mediterranean?

While not as fast as flying, cruising to the Mediterranean only takes a couple of days on average. You’ll spend the first night and day of your cruise crossing the English Channel and the Bay of Biscay, then it’s just a case of sailing between ports once you arrive in the Mediterranean, which mostly happens overnight while you’re asleep! 
 
This is the case for our month long Mediterranean cruises, which sail roundtrip from Southampton, but we do also offer Mediterranean cruises where you can fly directly to your ship in the Mediterranean, cutting out the sail from Southampton entirely.

How long to cruise from Southampton to the Mediterranean?

The best months to cruise the Mediterranean are May to October. 
 
If you like the weather to be warm (but not too hot) than May-June or September-October are the best months to visit. As these months fall outside of the school holidays, you’ll also find fewer tourists around. 
 
If taking a swim in the sea is something you’d like to do in the Mediterranean, then you’d be better off visiting in September or October when sea temperatures are warmer – especially in destinations like Greece and Italy. 
 
If you’re looking for the most sunshine and the hottest temperatures, the best time to visit the Mediterranean would be July and August. As these months coincide with the school holidays, however, you will encounter higher tourist numbers.

What are the best months to cruise the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean Sea spans twenty sovereign countries in Southern Europe, the Levant and North Africa regions, in addition to two island nations located in it (Malta and Cyprus). On a P&amp;O Cruises Mediterranean cruise holiday you can sail to countries including; Spain, Gibraltar, France, Monaco, Montenegro, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Malta and Turkey.

What countries are in the Mediterranean?

Euros: Spain, France, Monaco, Montenegro, Italy, Malta, Greece, Croatia
Gibraltar Pound (and Euros often accepted unofficially): Gibraltar
Lira: Turkey

What is the currency in the Mediterranean?

Spring
&nbsp;
Springtime is a wonderful season to explore the Med. The temperature is likely to be comfortably warm, with bright days and clear skies. As it isn’t the high season there’ll be less visitors, so easier to soak up the glorious sights.
&nbsp;
Summer
&nbsp;
The Med, quite simply, is made for the summer. Long, hot days ideal for beach basking and al fresco eating. Sea conditions during this time are the smoothest too.
&nbsp;
Autumn
&nbsp;
The weather begins to cool down, and there is a greater chance of rain. Much like the springtime it’ll be quieter than in the summer months, ideal for discovering the region’s rich history, art and culture. &nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Winter
&nbsp;
Generally temperatures will be a lot colder, however some places like Malta can experience temperature highs of 21?.&nbsp;

What is the weather like in the Mediterranean?

If you fancy learning a bit of the local lingo before your Med holiday, here are the countries you may visit and the languages spoken:
&nbsp;
Croatia: Croatian
&nbsp;
France: French
&nbsp;
Gibraltar: The official language is English, but most also speak Spanish
&nbsp;
Greece: Greek
&nbsp;
Italy: Italian
&nbsp;
Malta: Maltese and English
&nbsp;
Monaco: French is the official language, but many of the population also speak Italian
&nbsp;
Montenegro: Montenegrin
&nbsp;
Spain: Spanish is the most widely spoken official language, but some regions also speak: Catalan, Galician, Basque and Occitan
&nbsp;
Turkey: Turkish

What languages are spoken in the Mediterranean?

During the daytime in the summer months, you can pack as you would if you were home: t-shirts, short, dresses, sunhats, sunglasses, flip-flops and water shoes.
&nbsp;
During the cooler months, light layers and a light jacket would be a sensible addition. As the Med is a sight-seeing hotspot, a comfy pair of walking shoes is recommended too.
&nbsp;
Depending on the dress code on board, you have two choices of what to pack for the evenings. Nights where the dress code is Evening Casual, you can pack your best shirts, dresses and smart, dark denim. For nights where the dress code is Black Tie, make sure to pack your best tux, suit or cocktail dress.
&nbsp;
There are some venues on each ship where dress codes don’t apply, so make sure to check your Horizon paper that’s delivered to your cabin each day to check where these are, as they vary ship by ship. For those travelling on family-friendly ships, dress codes also don’t apply to children aged 17 and under. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
For more information on our on-board dress codes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pocruises.com/what-to-wear">please see here.</a>

What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise?

The countries of the Med span several different time zones. On a Med holiday with us you’re likely to spend your days in the following time zones:
&nbsp;
Central European Time (CET) and one hour ahead of the UK: France, Monaco, Spain, Gibraltar, Italy, Croatia, Montenegro and Malta
&nbsp;
2 hours ahead of the UK: Greece and Turkey

What time zone is the Mediterranean?

Packing for a Mediterranean cruise is all about balancing comfort, style and convenience.
If you’re planning on exploring off your ship, you’ll need footwear you can easily walk around in. As many Mediterranean streets are cobbled, we recommend supportive flats with a thick sole or trainers with a good grip.
Cotton is a good fabric for daywear as it regulates temperature and can help to keep you cool. As its likely to be sunny on your visit, we also recommend packing sun lotion and after sun, a sunhat and sunglasses.
Swimwear is a must if you’re planning on taking a dip in the sea or swimming in your ship’s pools. As your ship is also equipped with a gym and sports courts you may want to bring a little workout wear so you can use these facilities – or take part in an activity like table tennis or a dance class. You should also pack some eveningwear options if you’d like to dress up on your ship’s Celebration Nights on board.
Other than this, it’s essential to bring any medications you need for your time away, as well as everyday items like toothpaste, a toothbrush, and chargers for your electrical devices. You may also want to pack some Euros to use on the days you go ashore and – most important of all – you’ll need to pack your boarding passes and your passport!

What to pack for a Mediterranean cruise?

We are pleased to be able to offer return flights from several UK air cities on all holidays which start and end in Valletta: Belfast Int., Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Glasgow, London, Manchester and Newcastle.
For cruises between Valletta and Tenerife, flights are available from Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Glasgow, London, Manchester and Newcastle. We use a range of charter and scheduled carriers. If you want to extend your holiday to make the most of Malta, we can tailor your flights. Either book one of our City Stay hotels or you can make your own arrangements. All flights are subject to availability.
Please note:&nbsp;Most airlines do not include complimentary catering on their short-haul flights. You will be able to purchase snacks and refreshments on board the aircraft. Most airlines are able to cater for specific dietary needs and special meals for children and infants. If you have any such requirements, we recommend that you liaise directly with the airline to ensure that your needs are adequately catered for.

Which UK airports can I fly from to the Mediterranean?

Visas aren’t required for Mediterranean holidays with us on stays shorter than 90 days. However you’ll need to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay. Further official travel advice can be found on the government website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice">https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice</a>

Will I need a visa for the Mediterranean?

Frequently asked questions about the Mediterranean

Reasons to visit

You’re spoiled for choice on a cruise across the Mediterranean. From the hallowed halls of Seville’s grand Alcázar and the Roman ruins of Ephesus, to the dome of the Duomo of Florence and 12th century city walls of Dubrovnik, you can journey through the ages and watch the architecture gracefully change from city to city. With ornate archways of palaces and cathedrals, red roofs and whitewashed walls of seaside villas, the architecture of the region delights at every turn.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Seville's Alcazar Real with Courtyard of the Maidens"}}

Dining in the Med is a daily dream for your taste buds. You can tuck into tapas and petiscos in Spain and Portugal. Mezze in Greece and Turkey. Pizza, pasta and gelato in Italy. Not to mention the wines of the region, from rich reds to fresh whites. Each city boasts its own specialities and flavours so why not explore a local food market, join a cookery class or take a food tour to get a taste for the local cuisine?

{"metadata_en_US":{"alt-text":"Mediterranean tapas"}}

Long sandy stretches or hidden coves, turquoise waters and crystal-clear pools – the beaches of the Med, blessed with warmer temperatures and sunny skies, are eternally appealing. You could hike to a rocky bay in Alicante, opt for water sports in Greece and Mykonos or simply laze on a gorgeous pine-fringed beach in Rovinj. Whatever you’re mood, you’ll find beautiful beaches are typically just a stone’s throw away from each port.

{"metadata_en_US":{"alt-text":"Dalmatia beach, Croatia"}}

Cruise holidays

Find your favourite Mediterranean cruise holiday

Set sail on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure across the Mediterranean.

Eastern Mediterranean escapes that blend ancient wonders with coastal charm.

Explore the Med like never before with our unforgettable shore experiences. Climb to the Acropolis and marvel at the Parthenon in Athens, or kayak along the stunning Adriatic coast in Croatia. For food lovers, prepare your palate to explore the rich local cuisine, savouring authentic dishes like a classic pizza in Naples.

Join Azura in sun-soaked Malta for a 7 or 14-night Mediterranean fly-cruise.&nbsp;

Step aboard and let your holiday begin with a 14-24 night holiday to the vibrant Med.

Where we sail

A combination of fabulous food and wine, glorious architecture and preserved ancient cities.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Rear view of a man walking towards Coliseum, Rome, Italy"}}

Unique cityscapes, golden sands and rolling countrysides. Spain has something for everyone.&nbsp;

Image of castle on cliffside in Dubrovnik

Explore the sparkling seas, medieval towns and rich culture of Croatia.

City of Marseille, France, seen from the old harbor and the good mother.

Glitz, glamour and that certain 'je ne sais quoi', the beautiful ports of France await.

Corfu, Greece. Picturesque village of Paleokastritsa and its beach.

A world of history, culture and sandy white beaches. What's not to love?

The sunshine island packed with culture and an astonishing history.

Turkey promises a perfect blend of culture, adventure and relaxation.

{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Touristic sightseeing ships in istanbul city, Turkey."}}

'We have had 2 weeks of pure fun, laughter and well-deserved family time. Delicious food on board and visited some amazing places.'

'A lovely week on board Azura visiting Taranto, Corfu, Cephalonia and Catania. It was a fantastic experience and I really enjoyed it.'

'Had a wonderful time on board Aurora to the Mediterranean. Absolutely amazing food, staff, ship and ports visited.'

The city walls on the coast of Dubrovnik, Croatia

No matter how many times you visit, the Med rewards the curious with the constant promise of new discoveries. From stumbling across a tucked-away square where you might enjoy a leisurely lunch to unearthing a magical view away from the crowds, it’s a region that feels alive with possibility at every turn.

Brand new Summer 2028 holidays available now

The sunshine ship
Family friendly&nbsp;
A vibrant family-friendly getaway with diverse entertainment, dining options and expansive outdoor spaces.
Cruise type&nbsp;
Southampton round-trip

A social paradise at sea
Family friendly&nbsp;
Fly straight to the sun and enjoy a wide range of entertainment and dining.
Cruise type
Fly-cruise

The indulgent explorer
Mid-sized Arcadia offers timeless style – a worthy home for our epic World Cruises.
Cruise type
Long duration, Southampton round-trip

An Intimate classic
A classic cruising experience with a focus on relaxation, world-class dining and a stylish atmosphere.
Cruise type
Long duration, Southampton round-trip

contemporary glamour
Family friendly&nbsp;
Our flagship offers something for everyone, from fine dining to thrilling shows.
Cruise type
Southampton round-trip

The Parc de la Ligue arabe is an urban park located in Casablanca, Morocco with an area of 30 acres. Its construction began in 1913 designed by Albert Laprade.

How to get there

Start your holiday the minute you step on board. Stress-free travel,&nbsp; no luggage weight limits, and all the exciting on-board activities, from the moment you arrive at Southampton port. You're not travelling by air, you're travelling by hot tub.

On a Mediterranean fly-cruise,you'll be sipping a cocktail and embarking on an unforgettable cruise through the azure waters in no time. Your flights are all taken care of in your holiday price, and we're also including complimentary transfers between Malta International Airport and your P&amp;O Cruises ship in Valletta. Still have questions? Head to our <a href="/help-hub.html">Help Hub</a>.

Shore experiences

Ships

Explore our Mediterranean cruise destinations

Sign up to hear from us

Yes, we sail to lots of places straight from Southampton, where your ship will return to at the end of your holiday.&nbsp;

Can you go on a cruise without flying?

As much as you want. There’s no limit to the baggage you’re allowed to bring on board with you. Can’t decide which pair of shoes go with your dress for Celebration Night? Bring them all!

How much baggage can I take on a no-fly cruise?

A no-fly cruise is a holiday that starts and ends on your ship in Southampton. If flying isn’t for you, you can embark at one of the cruise terminals in Southampton before you set sail and disembark in the same place at the end of your holiday.&nbsp;

What is a no-fly cruise?

There are lots of places you can discover without having to step foot on a plane. You can explore places closer to home on our <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/short-breaks">Short Breaks</a> and <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/british-isles">British Isles</a> cruises or head to the sunshine of the <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/canary-islands">Canary Islands</a>, <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/mediterranean">Mediterranean</a> or the <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/caribbean">Caribbean</a>. You can even experience the natural wonders of the <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/norwegian-fjords">Norwegian Fjords</a> or the magic of <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations/scandinavia">Northern Europe and Scandinavia</a> on-board our ships from Southampton.

Where can you sail to on a no-fly cruise?

Get to know us

https://www.pocruises.com/frequently-asked-questions

https://www.pocruises.com/request-a-brochure

Support

https://www.pocruises.com/manage-my-booking

https://www.pocruises.com/deals/promotion-terms-and-conditions

https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-destinations

https://www.pocruises.com/new-to-cruising/whats-included

Useful links

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy/privacy/cookies

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy

https://www.pocruises.com/company-information

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy/consumer-protection

https://www.pocruises.com/essential-information/safety-and-security

https://www.pocruises.com/legal-and-privacy/booking-terms-and-conditions

Footer Bottom

Stay connected

sm-Facebook

sm-Instagram

sm-Youtube

sm-Pinterest

AbtaLogo

AtolLogo

https://www.pocruises.com/account/my-details

https://www.pocruises.com/account/my-preferences

https://www.pocruises.com/login/pay-balance

https://www.pocruises.com/my-account/brochures/request-a-brochure

Avatar menu

On board

Discover cruising

Help

https://www.pocruises.com/deals/cruise-deals

Mediterranean cruise holidays

Reasons to visit the Mediterranean with P&O Cruises

Amazing architecture

Mediterranean delights

Stunning seashores

Brand new Summer 2028 holidays available now

Explore our Mediterranean cruise destinations

Mediterranean cruise ports

Turkey

Turkey

Your journey to a Mediterranean haven

Sail from Southampton

Seamless skies to seas

Find your favourite Mediterranean cruise holiday

Featured Mediterranean fly cruises

Featured Mediterranean cruises

Inspired Mediterranean itineraries

Mediterranean shores: Beyond the horizon

Shore experiences

Explore the Med on your favourite ship

Arvia