The 5 most beautiful cities in the Eastern Mediterranean

The Eastern Mediterranean is a true paradise for cruise lovers who want to discover the beauty of the Mediterranean coastal landscapes as well as the cultural treasures of ancient and modern cities. From historic sites to breathtaking views and charming old towns, there is plenty to explore. Here we present the five most beautiful cities in the Eastern Mediterranean that you should definitely visit on your cruise trip.

1st Venice

Venice, the world-famous lagoon city, is a true masterpiece of architecture and an unforgettable experience. We love Italy and we love this destination in the eastern Mediterranean. As soon as you arrive, a fascinating picture of narrow alleyways, canals and bridges connecting the city is revealed. The houses stand on wooden piles, which protect them from the constant flooding – a unique and impressive detail. Venice thrives on water, and gondolas and vaporetto water buses are the main means of transportation.

Did you already know?

• Venice consists of around 118 islands, which are connected by more than 400 bridges.
• The famous Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal is one of the oldest bridges in Venice and was opened in 1591.
• St. Mark’s Square, often referred to as the “living room of Venice”, is not only the largest square in the city, but also one of the most famous in the world.

The old town is particularly impressive with its historic buildings and the world-famous St. Mark’s Square, which is dominated by the striking St. Mark’s Church. The narrow streets invite you to discover them, and on the various islands, such as Murano and Lido, you can enjoy life away from the tourist hustle and bustle. Even though a cruise in Venice often only lasts one day, it is worth spending a few days ashore to really immerse yourself in the charm of the city and explore the lagoon and its islands.

2nd Kotor

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro is known for its breathtaking beauty and impressive natural scenery. The steep mountains that rise dramatically from the sea provide a breathtaking backdrop for the harbor where cruise ships drop anchor. The view from the boats of the old town, which is surrounded by a mighty city wall, is spectacular.

Did you already know?

• The Bay of Kotor is often referred to as “the southernmost fjord in Europe”, although geologically speaking it is not a fjord.
• Kotor itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
• The fortress of San Giovanni, which towers 1,200 meters above the city, was built in the 9th century and offers an unforgettable view of Kotor and the bay.

The medieval old town of Kotor is a veritable labyrinth of narrow alleyways, old churches and historic buildings. A highlight is the hike to the San Giovanni fortress, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay and the surrounding mountains. This strenuous but rewarding hike is a must for anyone with a passion for history and nature.

3. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is one of our favorite destinations in the eastern Mediterranean. The old town is surrounded by a mighty city wall, which is more than 20 meters high in some places. A walk along this wall offers a breathtaking view of the azure blue sea and the charming red roofs of the city.

Did you already know?

• Dubrovnik was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 and is considered one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Europe.
• The city walls of Dubrovnik stretch over 2 kilometers and are home to 16 towers and 3 fortresses.
• The old town of Dubrovnik was one of the main filming locations for the famous TV series “Game of Thrones” and represented the city of “King’s Landing”.

The entrance to the old town is through an imposing gate, which is reached via a drawbridge – a reminder of times gone by. Numerous sights await in the old town, including the magnificent Sponza Palace and the Jesuit church. There are also numerous picturesque alleyways that invite you to take a stroll. Dubrovnik was not only an important trading city, but also a cultural center that has gained additional fame in recent years through the series “Game of Thrones”.

4. Istanbul

Istanbul is a true cultural melting pot that symbolizes the connection between Europe and Asia. The impressive mosques with their domes and minarets stand out when looking at the silhouette of the city. The Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in particular are world-famous landmarks that should not be missed on any visit.

Did you already know?

• Istanbul was once known as Byzantium before it was named “Constantinople” by Emperor Constantine in 330 AD and became the capital of the Byzantine Empire.
• The Hagia Sophia was the largest church in the world for 1,000 years and later became a mosque and is now a museum.
• Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents – Europe and Asia.

Istanbul has a long history and was once the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The city is divided into two parts: the European and the Asian part. The historic part of the city on the European side is particularly exciting, with many sights such as the Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar. If you’ve had enough of the historical sites, you can experience a less touristy but no less fascinating side of Istanbul on the Asian side. The city is a very exciting destination on a cruise in the eastern Mediterranean.

5th Oia (Santorini)

Santorini, one of the most famous Greek islands, is famous for its picturesque white houses with blue roofs and breathtaking views of the volcano. The island got its crescent shape from numerous volcanic eruptions. Santorini has become one of the most popular destinations in the eastern Mediterranean for cruise ships and can sometimes be overcrowded in high summer. The town of Oia in particular, which is located on the steep cliffs of the island, is a magnet for photographers and travelers looking for the perfect postcard motif.

Did you already know?

• Santorini is the result of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history, which took place around 3,600 years ago and shaped the island.
• Oia is famous for its spectacular sunset
• The white houses of Santorini are not only picturesque, but also functional. Their thick walls help to reduce the heat in summer and the blue roofs protect them from the sun.

Oia offers an unforgettable view of the turquoise sea and the surrounding islands. At sunset, the city is transformed into a true play of colors. Even though many cruise ships only visit the island for a short stop, it is worth planning a longer stay. So you can really enjoy the authentic Greek flair and the breathtaking landscape.