Marella Cruises – Guide for Mediterranean Medley Itinerary
Marella Cruises – Mediterranean Medley
Travel Guide for Marella Cruises Mediterranean Medley Itinerary
Set sail on a journey through the Mediterranean with Marella Cruises’ Mediterranean Medley itinerary. This cruise offers a mix of historic cities, glamorous coastal towns, and stunning beaches, giving you the perfect balance of culture and relaxation. Departing from Palma, Majorca, you’ll explore Italy, France, and Spain, with stops in iconic destinations like Florence, Monaco, Barcelona, and Valencia.
DAY 1 – PALMA, MAJORCA (EMBARKATION)
Palma, Majorca
Welcome to Palma
Palma is the vibrant capital of Majorca, combining rich history with modern sophistication. This sun-drenched city boasts a stunning Gothic cathedral, a lively waterfront promenade, and charming cobbled streets filled with boutiques, cafés, and tapas bars. Whether you’re interested in culture, shopping, or simply soaking up the island atmosphere, Palma is the perfect place to start your cruise.
Port Area
Port Information
Port Area: Estació Marítima, Palma de Mallorca
Language: Spanish (Castilian) & Catalan
Currency: Euro (€)
Distance to Town: 6 km / 10 minutes by taxi
Facilities: ATM, taxis, shuttle buses, Wi-Fi, tourist information centre
Several ships dock in Palma every day. There are four cruise terminals serving cruise ships docked at the Paraires and Poniente quays and are connected by a network of covered walkways.
The terminals offer amenities like snack bars, cafeterias, offices, toilets, post offices, police stations, telephone kiosks, ATMs, currency exchanges, and luggage storage (in case you arrive early), with buses and taxis readily available outside the terminals.
Outside the port there is a marina-front boulevard and coastal path for walking into Palma city centre (30-40 minute walk).
Depending which berth you dock at there might be quite a walk across a walkway to reach the exit. When returning, look carefully for the signs for your ship so you don’t get lost and end up in the wrong place.
Note: On my two most recent visits in 2024/2025 there has been a lot of construction work around the port entrance.
Language: Spanish
Currency: Euro
Distance to Town: The port is about a 30-40 minute walk from Palma’s city centre. You can also take a bus or taxi.
Accessibility
Palma de Mallorca cruise port offers good accessibility, with terminals adapted for wheelchair users, featuring ramps, Lifts, and accessible toilets, and the city centre is reachable by a flat, accessible route along the marina.
The terminals are accessible via a long marina-front boulevard, making it convenient for visitors to transition from their cruise ship to the vibrant streets of Palma.
The walk along the waterfront is scenic and takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the city centre. Whilst some buses may be accessible this isn’t guaranteed. It is possible to order a wheelchair-accessible taxi.
Palma offers barrier-free routes, allowing wheelchair users to explore major attractions comfortably, however some areas may have cobblestones, which could pose challenges; caution is advised.
Things to Do:
Locally
Palma Cathedral (La Seu)
Palma Cathedral (La Seu): Visit this stunning Gothic cathedral, one of the most famous landmarks in Palma. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the port. La Seu Cathedral (€9, 10 min taxi, €2 bus #1)
Paseo Marítimo (10 min walk from port) – A lively waterfront promenade lined with bars, restaurants, and yachts.
Royal Palace of La Almudaina: A short walk from the cathedral, this historical palace offers a glimpse into Mallorca’s royal history and has fabulous gardens. Almudaina Palace (€7, 10 min taxi, €2 bus #1) – A former Moorish fortress, now a royal residence filled with history.
Take a scenic drive to Bellver Castle for panoramic views.
Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets filled with quaint shops, cafes, and historical buildings. Stop at Plaza Mayor and the Arab Baths
Further Afield
Valldemossa (€2 bus #203, 30 min) – A picturesque mountain village, famous for its monastery and Chopin’s former residence.
Caves of Drach (€16 entry, 1-hour taxi ride ~€75 each way) – Stunning underground caves with an illuminated underground lake.
Getting Around:
Proximity to City Centre: 10-minute taxi ride
Public Transport: Bus #1 (€2) runs from the port to the city centre.
Taxis: Approx. €10 to the centre.
Taxis: Readily available at the cruise terminal; fares vary depending on the distance.
Buses: Local EMT Palma buses provide services to several beaches; schedules and routes can be checked in advance. Route 1 (Portopí - Sindicat) connects the port area with the city centre.
Places to Eat:
There are so many to choose from but here are two examples:
Bar Españya: Described as the best tapas bar in Palma. A popular spot for tapas, located in the city centre.
Forn de Sant Joan: A historic, refined eatery in the heart of Palma, offering Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
Ca’n Joan de S’aigo – Famous for its traditional Majorcan pastries and hot chocolate.
El Camino – A stylish tapas bar serving fresh local dishes.
Beach Day
Palma de Mallorca offers several beautiful beaches within close proximity to the cruise port.
Playa de Palma, Majorca
Closest Beach: Cala Major (5 km, 10 min by taxi or Bus #4, €2) – A sandy beach with calm waters, sunbeds (€15 per day), and beachfront cafés.
Best Beach: Playa de Palma (7 km, 15 min by taxi or Bus #23, €2) – A long sandy beach with watersports, beach bars, and sunbeds (€10 per day).
Here are some top options to consider:
Cala Major
Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 4 kilometres.
Description: A popular beach featuring fine white sand and clear waters, sheltered from wind and waves.
Access: A short taxi ride or a 2.6-kilometre walk from the port.
Note: Can become crowded during peak seasons.
Illetas Beach
Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 6 kilometres.
Description: A picturesque beach known for its clear turquoise waters and upscale beach clubs.
Access: Reachable by taxi or local bus services.
Palma Nova Beach
Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 12 kilometres.
Description: Offers three wide beaches with fine sand and numerous bars and restaurants along the promenade.
Access: A taxi ride costing around €20.
Playa de Palma (El Arenal)
Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 13 kilometres.
Description: A long stretch of sandy beach lined with a variety of eateries and shops.
Access: Accessible via taxi or local bus services.
Cala Comtessa
Distance from Cruise Port: Approximately 9 kilometres.
Description: A small, scenic beach surrounded by pine trees, offering calm waters ideal for swimming.
Access: Best reached by taxi.
Before planning your beach visit, it’s advisable to check the latest local guidelines and beach conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
DAY 2 – AT SEA
A day to relax and explore everything the ship has to offer, and plan your further adventures.
Things to Do on Board
Poolside Relaxation – Sunbathe with a cocktail in hand.
Spa & Wellness – Indulge in a massage or thermal spa experience.
Entertainment & Activities – Enjoy live shows, quizzes, and dance classes.
Gourmet Dining – Choose from buffets, à la carte restaurants, and speciality dining.
DAY 3 – LIVORNO (FOR FLORENCE & PISA), ITALY
Livorno Canal Area
Welcome to Livorno
Livorno, Tuscany’s main port, is often seen as a gateway to Pisa and Florence, but the city itself has a fascinating maritime history, charming canals, and a lively food scene. While the city itself offers canals, seafood restaurants, and markets, most visitors use it as a jumping-off point for Florence’s Renaissance treasures or Pisa’s iconic leaning tower.
Port Information
Port Area: Porto di Livorno
Language: Italian
Currency: Euro (€)
Distance to Town: 4 km / 10 minutes by taxi
Facilities: ATMs, taxis, shuttle buses, tourist information, restaurants
Cruise Port
The cruise terminal at Livorno (Porto di Livorno) is a busy industrial port, with limited attractions within walking distance. Most ships dock at the Porto Industriale, about 4 kilometres from the city centre. A shuttle bus is usually provided by the cruise line to Piazza del Municipio, near the historic core. The terminal itself has basic amenities, such as a tourist information booth, small café, restrooms, and taxi ranks. For independent travellers, shuttle services (approx. €5–€7 return) or local bus number 1 from outside the port gate offer access into town. Be aware that pedestrians are not usually allowed to walk through the industrial port area without transport.
Accessibility
Port Accessibility:
Large, industrial port. Cruise ships usually dock at a distance from the town centre.
Shuttle buses often provided (check with cruise line); most are wheelchair-accessible.
Port area has accessible walkways and ramps, but limited facilities.
Transport:
Taxis may not always have ramps or lifts – pre-book an accessible vehicle if needed.
Public buses in Livorno have low floors and wheelchair access.
Train travel to Florence or Pisa is possible, but not all stations/platforms are accessible – Pisa station is more accessible than Florence’s Santa Maria Novella.
Attractions:
Leaning Tower of Pisa
Pisa: Piazza dei Miracoli (Leaning Tower area) is mostly wheelchair-friendly (except the tower itself, which isn’t accessible).
Florence: Some cobbled streets, but most major attractions (e.g. Uffizi Gallery, Duomo Museum) offer lifts and ramps.
Things to Do
Getting Around
Proximity to City Centre: 10-minute taxi ride
Public Transport: Bus #1 (€1.50) to Livorno city centre.
Taxis: Approx. Around €20 to the centre; €120 to Florence.
Livorno’s city centre is around 4 kilometres from the cruise port, so you’ll need transport to get into town. Cruise lines often offer a paid shuttle service (approx. €5–€7 return) to Piazza del Municipio, near the old quarter. Alternatively, you can take local bus line 1, which stops outside the port gates and connects with the town centre and Livorno Centrale railway station (for trains to Pisa and Florence). Taxis are available at the port but can be expensive – expect to pay €20–€25 to Pisa, and €100+ for a return trip to Florence. If travelling further afield, pre-booked excursions or regional trains from Livorno Centrale offer the most efficient routes.
Port Area & Getting to the City Centre
Port Location: Livorno’s cruise terminal is about 4 km from the city centre.
Shuttle Bus: Many cruise lines provide a shuttle (around €5–€10 round trip or occasionally complimentary) to Piazza Grande or Piazza Municipio.
Public Bus: Take LAM BLU (Blue Line) from the port entrance to Piazza Grande for about €1.50 (tickets from kiosks or bus app).
Taxi: A ride to central Livorno costs around €20.
Locally
Depending where you are docked, the centre of Livorno is walkable. However you will require a shuttle to the port gate from most berths.
Don’t underestimate staying local - for many years I either took an excursion or stayed onboard. On our most recent visit, however, I chose to explore Livorno itself and disovered artisan shops, including a really inexpensive, contemporary jewellery store, and a canal area including a fort.
Coffee at Bottini dell’Olio
Grab a Coffee at Bottini dell’Olio (highly recommended)- Bottini dell’Olio is a historic building transformed into a cultural space, housing the Civic Museum of Livorno and the city’s Public Library. Enjoy (cheap) excellent Italian coffee & pasty in a really cool area. Tip: Free toilets if you need a comfort break.
Fortezza Vecchia (Old Fortress)
A 16th-century Medici fortress guarding the harbour. Walk along its ramparts for views of the port and city.
Entry: Free to explore outside; occasional guided tours inside.
Getting there: A short walk from the shuttle bus drop-off point or a 5-min taxi ride.
Fortezza Nuova (New Fortress)
A star-shaped Medici fortress surrounded by canals, now a public park with great picnic spots.
Entry: Free.
Getting there: A 10-min walk from Piazza Grande.
Venezia Nuova (New Venice District)
Livorno canals (Venice District) – Stroll along the city’s own version of Venice, with waterside cafés and colourful buildings. Reachable via cruise shuttle or local bus, free to explore.
A historic quarter with navigable canals, old warehouses, and picturesque bridges. Take a canal boat tour for a unique view of Livorno.
Boat Tour Cost: Around €15 per person.
Getting there: 5-min walk from Piazza Grande.
Mercato Centrale (Central Market)
One of Italy’s largest indoor markets, selling fresh seafood, meats, cheeses, and wines. Great for trying local delicacies.
Entry: Free.
Getting there: 5-min walk from Piazza Grande or 10 min taxi from port.
Terrazza Mascagni
A scenic seafront promenade with a striking black-and-white tiled terrace, with sweeping sea views.
Getting there: 15-min bus ride from Piazza Grande (LAM BLU bus), or 10 min taxi.
Further Afield
Florence, Italy
Pisa and the Leaning Tower – See the iconic Leaning Tower, cathedral, and baptistery in the Piazza dei Miracoli. Take a train from Livorno Centrale to Pisa Centrale (20 mins, ~€3), then walk 20 minutes or take a local bus. Entry to the tower costs €20.
Florence – Visit Renaissance treasures like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio. Catch a train from Livorno Centrale to Florence Santa Maria Novella (approx. 1h20, ~€10–€12 each way). Entry to most museums ranges from €10–€25, often best booked in advance.
Advance Booking highly recommended for major tourist attractions.
Places to Eat
Trattoria L’Antica Venezia – Traditional Italian seafood dishes.
Il Tegolo – A cosy spot for pizza and pasta.
Trattoria L’Ancora: Authentic seafood and cacciucco (Livornese fish stew).
La Barrocciaia: A casual spot near the market for local sandwiches and wine.
Il Tegolo: A classic Tuscan trattoria serving pasta and fresh fish.
Beach Day
Livorno is not a beach resort, but if you really must have your fix, here are a couple of options:
Closest Beach: Spiaggia della Vela (6 km, 15 min by taxi, free entry) – A sandy beach with clear waters, sunbeds (€10 per day).
Best Beach: Castiglioncello (20 km, 40 min train, €6 return) – Crystal-clear waters, beach bars, and sunbeds (€15 per day).
Read more about Livorno (with photos) here:
DAY 4 – VILLEFRANCHE, FRANCE
Villefranche Photo by Mony Misheal on Unsplash
Welcome to Villefranche
Nestled between Nice and Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the most picturesque towns on the French Riviera. Its pastel-coloured buildings, cobbled streets, and a deep natural harbour make it a favourite stop for cruise ships. The town has a relaxed atmosphere, but with easy access to the glamour of the Côte d’Azur, including Nice, Monte Carlo, and Cannes.
Port Information
Port Area: Villefranche Harbour (Tender Port)
Language: French
Currency: Euro (€)
Distance to Town: 500 m / 5-minute walk
Facilities: Limited facilities at tender dock; restaurants, shops, and taxis nearby
Cruise Port Area
Villefranche is a tender port, so ships anchor offshore and passengers are brought ashore via tender boats to a charming, small port directly in the heart of town. The tender pier opens onto the scenic waterfront promenade, lined with cafés, restaurants, and art galleries. The area is very walkable, with no transport required to explore the immediate old town. There is a small tourist office near the waterfront, as well as access to local buses and the train station for day trips to Nice, Monaco, or Eze. Facilities are limited but include restrooms and a few souvenir shops.
Accessibility
Port Accessibility:
Tender port – cruise ships anchor offshore and passengers tender to the harbour.
Tender boats may not be accessible for wheelchair users depending on sea conditions and cruise line equipment.
Town Accessibility:
Villefranche has steep hills and cobbled streets; not ideal for wheelchair users.
The waterfront promenade is flat and manageable for reduced mobility.
Transport:
Train station is up a hill with steps – not wheelchair accessible.
Buses to Nice and Monaco have wheelchair access (e.g. Bus #100), but pavements and stops can be narrow.
Nearby Attractions:
Nice, France
Nice: Mostly flat seafront, accessible trams and some adapted beaches (e.g. Plage Publique de Beau Rivage).
Monaco: Offers a free accessibility map and lifts to navigate steep areas. Many attractions (e.g. Oceanographic Museum, Prince’s Palace grounds) are accessible.
Things to Do
Locally
Chapelle Saint-Pierre (Entrance €3, 5 min walk) – A beautifully decorated 14th-century chapel featuring murals by artist Jean Cocteau.
Old Town (5 min walk) – Wander through charming narrow streets filled with boutique shops, cafés, and historic buildings.
Further Afield
Hilltop Village of Eze, FrancePhoto by Chelsea Essig on Unsplash
Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice) – Visit the Promenade des Anglais, Castle Hill (free), and the flower market. Wander cobbled streets filled with shops, markets, and gelato stands. Take the train from Villefranche to Nice Riquier (7 mins, ~€2), then walk into the centre.
Eze Village and Fragonard Perfumery – Visit this hilltop medieval village and tour the perfumery. Take the train to Eze-sur-Mer (5 mins, ~€2) then bus 83 up the hill (15 mins, €1.70). (Recommended).
Monaco and Monte Carlo – Explore the Prince’s Palace (€10), Monte Carlo Casino (€17 entry after 2 PM - you can usually go into the entrance foyer for free), the Oceanographic Museum (€16). and glamorous marina. Catch the train (15–20 mins, ~€4) from Villefranche to Monaco-Monte-Carlo.
Monaco
Getting Around
Proximity to City Centre: 5-minute walk from the tender dock.
Public Transport: Frequent trains/trams to Nice (€2) and Monaco (€4).
Taxis: approximately €30 to Nice, €50 to Monaco.
Villefranche is extremely walkable, with the tender port located right in the heart of the town. You can easily explore the waterfront, old town, and nearby beach on foot. For day trips, the train station (Gare de Villefranche-sur-Mer) is about a 10-minute uphill walk from the pier. From there, frequent TER trains run to Nice (7 mins, ~€2), Monaco (15–20 mins, ~€4), and Eze-sur-Mer. Local buses also serve the area but trains are more reliable and scenic. Taxis are limited and should be pre-booked if needed. No shuttle buses are required unless travelling to more distant towns.
Places to Eat
La Mère Germaine – A waterfront seafood restaurant with stunning bay views.
Le Cosmo – A relaxed bistro serving Provençal cuisine.
Beach Day
Closest Beach: Plage des Marinières (800 m, 10 min walk, free entry) – A sandy beach with calm waters, sunbeds (€15 per day), and cafés nearby.
Best Beach: Paloma Beach (3 km, 10 min taxi, €30 for sunbed rental) – An exclusive beach with crystal-clear water and a stylish beach club.
DAY 5 – TOULON, FRANCE
Toulon, France
Welcome to Toulon
Toulon is a historic naval port on the Mediterranean coast, offering a mix of military heritage, Provençal markets, and sandy beaches. The town has a relaxed charm, with a scenic harbour and a lively old town full of fountains and cafés.
Port Information
Port Area: Port de Toulon
Language: French
Currency: Euro (€)
Distance to Town: 500 m / 5-minute walk
Facilities: Shops, restaurants, taxi rank, tourist information.
Cruise Port Area
Cruise ships may dock at the La Seyne-sur-Mer terminal (about 8 kilometres from Toulon) or at Toulon’s own naval port, closer to the city centre. If docking at La Seyne, a ferry shuttle (approx. €2.50 each way) runs from the terminal to Toulon’s old harbour (Port de Toulon) in around 20 minutes. The La Seyne terminal itself has basic amenities, such as a tourist info kiosk, cafés, and taxis. If you dock at Toulon city port, you’ll find yourself near the harbourside promenade, steps from shops, restaurants, and the Provençal market. A small tourist office and public transport links, including buses and trains, are nearby either location.
Accessibility
Port Accessibility:
Cruise ships dock within walking distance of the city centre – flat and wheelchair-friendly.
Port has ramps and smooth surfaces.
Town Accessibility:
City centre is mostly flat, with wide pavements.
Toulon tourist office provides accessibility information and adapted city tours.
Transport:
Public buses and the boat bus (navette maritime) offer step-free access.
Taxis may not be adapted – check in advance.
Attractions:
Mont Faron cable car is not accessible (steps to boarding).
Toulon Opera House and museums like the National Maritime Museum are accessible.
Beaches near Mourillon have adapted areas with ramps and beach wheelchairs in high season.
Things to Do
Locally
Toulon Old Town & Provencal Market – Explore charming squares, fountains and the daily market at Cours Lafayette. Walkable from Toulon port or ferry drop-off.
Cours Lafayette Market (5 min walk, free entry) – A vibrant Provençal market selling fresh produce and regional specialities.
Naval Museum (Musée National de la Marine) (€6, 5 min walk) – Discover Toulon’s maritime history and naval importance.
Further Afield
Mont Faron (10 min taxi, €8 cable car) – Ride a cable car to the top for panoramic views over Toulon and the Mediterranean. Cable Car to Mont Faron – Take the Téléphérique du Faron up the mountain. Reach it by bus 40 from Toulon centre (or taxi), cable car costs €8.50 return.
Line 40 bus which takes 17 min and costs €2. From Cours Lafayette to Téléphérique takes 17 min including transfers and departs every 30 minutes.
Sanary-sur-Mer – A pretty harbour town with shops and cafés. Reachable by train from La Seyne station or taxi (~€30 each way)
Getting Around
Proximity to City Centre: 5-minute walk from port.
Public Transport: best bus is Bus 40 (€2) to Mont Faron cable car.
Taxis: €15 to Mont Faron.
If you dock in La Seyne-sur-Mer, a passenger ferry (€2.50) takes about 20 minutes across the bay to Toulon’s main harbour. Alternatively, local buses (€1.50-2.00) or taxis (approx. €25–€30) are available. From Toulon’s city port, you can walk to the old town, markets, and shops in 5–10 minutes. Toulon train station (Gare de Toulon) is a 15–20 minute walk or €10 taxi ride, offering easy connections to Marseille, Hyères, and Aix-en-Provence. Local buses (operated by Réseau Mistral) also serve key parts of the city. The harbour area is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot if you stay local.
Places to Eat
L’Envie du Sud – Classic French bistro with seafood specialities.
La Table du Vigneron – A traditional Provençal restaurant with local wines.
Beach Day
Closest Beach: Plages du Mourillon (3 km, 10 min taxi or Bus #23, €1.50) – Sandy beaches with sunbeds (€15 per day) and restaurants.
DAY 6 – BARCELONA, SPAIN
Gaudi Serpentine Bench, Park Güell
Welcome to Barcelona
Barcelona is a vibrant city filled with Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, a lively waterfront, and world-class dining. Whether you explore the historic Gothic Quarter, relax at the beach, or visit its famous landmarks, there’s plenty to see and do.
Tips: Barcelona is likely to be your busiest port of call. Independent exploration is easy but it is strongly advised to book tickets in advance and to opt for “skip the line” options to save time, particularly at Sagrada Familia. Safety: Barcelona is generally safe but like any big city pick-pockets can be a problem so be aware and watch your belongings in tourist areas.
Port Information
Port Area: Port Vell, Barcelona
Language: Spanish & Catalan
Currency: Euro (€)
Distance to Town: 2 km / 10 minutes by taxi
Facilities: ATMs, shuttle buses, Wi-Fi, taxis, tourist information
Cruise Port Area
Cruise ships usually dock at one of the Adossat Quay terminals, about 2.5 kilometres from the bottom of La Rambla. A dedicated Cruise Bus (Blue Bus) connects the terminals to Plaça de Colom at the base of La Rambla for about €4 return. The terminal buildings are modern, with Wi-Fi, ATMs, tourist information desks, restrooms, shops, and cafés. Taxis are readily available and cost around €10–€15 to reach the city centre. Barcelona’s port is extensive, but well-equipped for cruise travellers, with easy onward access to the city’s main sights via Metro (Drassanes station) or bus services.
Accessibility
Port Accessibility:
One of the most accessible cruise ports in Europe.
Shuttle buses (e.g. Cruise Bus/Blue Bus) are wheelchair-accessible and connect to the Columbus Monument.
Terminal facilities have lifts and adapted toilets.
City Accessibility:
Pavements are wide and well-maintained.
Attractions like Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and La Pedrera have good disabled access (though some older sections have limitations).
Accessible beach areas (e.g. Nova Icària) with amphibious chairs and accessible toilets.
Transport:
Metro: Most stations have lifts, but check specific station info.
Buses and trams are all wheelchair-accessible.
Taxis: Many adapted taxis available (can be booked through AMB Taxi).
Things to Do
Locally
Las Ramblas (10 min taxi, free) – A bustling boulevard with street performers, markets, and cafés.
Gothic Quarter – Wander atmospheric lanes and historic buildings just off the main boulevard. Walkable from shuttle drop-off at Plaça de Colom.(15 min taxi) – A maze of medieval streets with hidden squares and tapas bars.
La Boqueria Food Market - authentic food market, Las Ramblas
Montjuïc Hill – Home to museums, gardens, and views over the port. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc – Evening light and music show (check if operating). Take the Metro L1 or L3 to Espanya and walk 10 minutes. Free entry.
Further Afield
Sagrada is Familia – Gaudí’s iconic basilica with intricate towers and colourful stained glass. Take the Metro (Sagrada Família station) or taxi; entry is €26, book online.
Park Güell – A colourful, whimsical park designed by Gaudí. Take Metro L3 to Vallcarca or L4 to Alfons X, plus a 10-minute uphill walk. Entry is €10.
La Pedrera, also known as Casa Milà - a renowned building in Barcelona designed by Gaudí. Located at Passeig de Gràcia, 92, it features a distinctive undulating stone façade and wrought-iron balconies. (Adults: from €29).
Getting Around
Proximity to City Centre: 10-minute taxi ride.
Public Transport: Port shuttle (€4) to Las Ramblas; Metro L3 (€2.55) to other areas.
Taxis: €10 to city centre.
Hop on Hop off bus: a good way to cover a lot of ground. Several operators with tickets from around €33 per person. (see my related article for details).
From the Adossat Quay, the Cruise Bus (Blue Bus) runs frequently to Plaça de Colom, next to La Rambla, for around €4 return. From there, most of Barcelona’s highlights can be reached on foot, by Metro (Drassanes station), or local buses. The Metro network is extensive and cheap, with single tickets costing €2.55 or a T-casual 10-journey card for €12.15. Taxis are plentiful, with a typical fare of €10–€15 to the city centre or Gothic Quarter. Hop-on-hop-off buses also depart near the Columbus Monument, offering an easy sightseeing option. For cyclists, bike rental stations and cycle lanes are widely available throughout the city.
Places to Eat
Time Out Market (personal recommendation)
The Time Out Market is a vibrant food venue located on the second floor of the Maremagnum shopping centre in Port Vell—just a short walk from the cruise port. It features 14 kitchens, a full-service restaurant, and four bars, offering a curated selection of local cuisine and drinks. The market also hosts live events and entertainment. It’s easily accessible on foot from the port or via hop-on hop-off bus stops nearby. Great for a few beers and tapas lunch without breaking the bank!
El Xampanyet – Traditional tapas bar near the Picasso Museum, known for its cava and anchovies.
Can Culleretes – The oldest restaurant in Barcelona, serving classic Catalan cuisine in a charming, historic setting.
Granja M. Viader – Family-run café for churros and hot chocolate, a local favourite since 1870.
Teresa Carles – Excellent vegetarian/vegan dishes in a bright, modern space.
Besta – Creative fusion of Galician and Catalan cuisine with a strong focus on fresh seafood.
Beach Day
Closest Beach: Barceloneta Beach (2 km, 15 min walk, free entry) – A lively beach with sunbeds (€10 per day) and beach bars.
Further Afield
Bogatell Beach
Location: About 4 km from the port
Vibe: Cleaner and quieter than Barceloneta, popular with locals
Facilities: Sunbeds, showers, toilets, beach bars (chiringuitos), volleyball courts
Getting There:
• Metro: Line 4 to Llacuna or Poblenou, then a 10-minute walk
• Bus: V27 or H16
• Taxi: ~€10 from cruise port
Nova Icaria Beach
Location: Near Port Olímpic, 3.5 km from the port
Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
Facilities: Bars, restaurants, sunbeds, showers, and beach sports
Getting There:
Metro: Line 4 to Ciutadella-Vila Olímpica
Bus: H16 or V21
Taxi: ~€10 from port
Mar Bella Beach
Location: ~5 km northeast of the port
Vibe: Trendy, inclusive crowd; part is nudist-friendly
Facilities: Water sports, bars, sunbeds, showers
Getting There:
Metro: Line 4 to Selva de Mar
Bus: V27
Taxi: ~€12
DAY 7 – VALENCIA, SPAIN
Valencia, Spain
Welcome to Valencia
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city, famous for its futuristic architecture, lush parks, and delicious paella. It combines historic charm with modern attractions, making it an exciting place to explore.
Port Information
Port Area: Valencia Cruise Terminal
Language: Spanish & Valencian
Currency: Euro (€)
Distance to Town: 6 km / 15 minutes by taxi
Facilities: ATMs, Wi-Fi, taxis, shuttle buses
Cruise Port Area
Valencia’s cruise terminal lies at Muelle de Cruceros within the Port of Valencia, about 4.5 kilometres from the city centre. The terminal offers Wi-Fi, tourist info points, restrooms, taxis, and a shuttle bus service. The port is functional and industrial but well organised for visitor flow. Taxis and buses are available outside the port gates. You can also walk to the nearby Marina de Valencia area (about 20 minutes), which has restaurants, beach access, and a lively promenade.
Accessibility
Here’s a breakdown of accessibility at the port and major sights in Valencia, useful for travellers with limited mobility or anyone needing step-free routes:
Port Accessibility
Cruise Terminal (Muelle de Cruceros): The terminal is modern and mostly step-free, with ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets. Passengers are usually taken from the ship to the terminal via gangways with gradual slopes, but steepness may vary by ship.
Shuttle Bus: Most cruise lines offer wheelchair-accessible shuttle buses into the city (to locations like Plaza de la Reina or near the City of Arts and Sciences), but it’s best to confirm this with your ship’s excursion team.
Taxis: Adapted taxis can be requested at the terminal or pre-booked. Local company RadioTaxi Valencia offers accessible vehicles with ramps or lifts.
Public Buses: The EMT bus fleet is largely accessible, with low-floor entry and ramps, though getting to the stop outside the port requires a short walk or taxi from the terminal.
City Accessibility & Sights
Valencia is a flat and fairly accessible city, with pedestrianised areas and well-maintained pavements, though some older parts of the old town have uneven cobblestones.
Accessible Sights:
City of Arts and Sciences – Fully accessible with lifts, wide ramps and accessible toilets throughout. The Oceanogràfic, Science Museum and Hemisfèric all cater to wheelchair users. Manual wheelchairs are available for free (ID required).
Valencia Cathedral – The main cathedral is partially accessible (some small steps at side chapels), though El Miguelete bell tower is not accessible due to its 207-step spiral staircase and no lift.
Turia Gardens – This sunken park has smooth pathways, accessible entry ramps, and plenty of benches. Ideal for wheelchair users and pushchairs.
Mercado Central – Has wide aisles, step-free access, and is generally easy to navigate with a wheelchair or scooter. Accessible toilets are available.
IVAM (Modern Art Museum) – Fully accessible with lifts, wide galleries, and adapted restrooms.
Getting Around
The cruise terminal is around 4.5 kilometres from central Valencia, so most passengers use a cruise shuttle bus (approx. €6–€8 return) to get into town that drops passengers near the Serranos Towers or City Hall. If you prefer local transport, bus line 4T stops just outside the port and connects to the city centre. The Metro is not directly accessible from the port, but taxis are readily available and cost around €10–€15 to the old town or City of Arts and Sciences. Valencia is bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling lanes and city bike rentals available. Once in the centre, you can explore most key sites on foot. Valenbisi public bikes and EMT buses are useful for getting around locally.
Things to Do
City of Arts and Sciences – A futuristic complex with a science museum, aquarium, and opera house. Take shuttle or bus 95, then walk. Entry to Oceanogràfic (aquarium) is €38, or €45 for a combined ticket.
Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete Tower – Visit this impressive cathedral and climb the bell tower for city views. Take the shuttle or taxi into the old town. Entry is around €9.
Central Market (Mercado Central) – One of Europe’s largest fresh food markets in a stunning modernist building. Free to enter and near many local tapas bars.
Turia Gardens – A sunken park in a former riverbed, great for walks, cycling or relaxing. Runs alongside many city attractions; easily reached on foot from the centre.
Beach Day
Closest Beach: Playa Malvarrosa (4 km, 10 min taxi, free entry) – A wide sandy beach with sunbeds (€12 per day) and restaurants.
Day 8: Palma, Majorca, Spain (Disembark)
Estimated arrival in Palma is 6.00 am. Disembarkation begins after ship is cleared by port, and your disembarkation time will be determined on flight times, hotel transfers etc. You will usually be told your time the day before.
If you are doing a back-to-back cruise it is an opportunity to explore areas you missed on Day 1 (see above).
This itinerary offers a fantastic mix of beaches, history, and cuisine, making it an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure!
Let me know in comments if there is any other information you require. Enjoy!