Costa Cruise makes
Western Mediterranean cruises available to anyone who has a desire to see the world via the open waters. If you are ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime, prepare to set sail on this cruise! Cruise the Mediterranean and you will experience the Mediterranean the way it is meant to be experienced. Where do you want your Western Mediterranean cruise to sail to? Whether you want to travel to France, Italy or Malta, with Costa Cruise you will cruise the Mediterranean in style.
Balearic Islands (Spain) Cruise
Due to its strategic position on the Mediterranean, the archipelago of the Balearics has had its far share of invasions over the years: Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs and Catalan-Aragonese.
The constant change of power has very much contributed to forging the look and character of the islands. Minorca, Mallorca and most of all Ibiza and Formentera today are the party islands par excellence, among the most popular destinations in Spain. Palma de Mallorca, capital of the Balearic Islands, not only offers its visitors sunshine, numerous bars, restaurants and shops but also a beautiful harbour and a historical centre.
- Palma de Mallorca – the island´s capital is worth a trip on its own. Very old city where you will find architectural wonders, culture and Mediterranean food.
- Serra de Tramuntana – wonderful range of mountains that run along the north-west coast of Mallorca
- Playa de Palma – Busiest destination on Mallorca.
- Valldemossa – Georges Sand and Frederic Chopin spent some time in this beautiful village
- Soller and Port de Soller – a beautiful town in the mountains that can be reached by a combination of train and tram
- Caves – several caves are open to the public, the Dragon Caves (Coves del Drach in mallorquin) being the most visited
- Beaches – this is what the most people come for. The main tourist areas are on the southern and eastern coast but places may be crowded in high season. More secluded and quiet beaches can be found on the island but expect a difficult route (e.g. cliffs) and minimal parking. A must visit is Es Trenc, near the Colonia de Sant Jordi, but there are also many beaches not that popular worth a visit.
France Cruise
Proud of its origins and jealous of its independence, Corsica is inhabited by people who love the wild beauty of its rugged scenery. In the 17th Century the Genoese made it one of their outposts on their trade routes; their presence in Corsica was so significant that in some parts of the island a dialect is spoken that is related to the old Genoese dialect.
For over twenty years, France has been the world’s most popular tourist destination and it’s geographically one of the most diverse countries in Europe. Superlative and picturesque, sophisticated and simple: there is a lot to be said about this great nation that combines Northern European cosmopolitan chic with the sunny atmosphere of the Mediterranean. The northern coasts on the North Sea are as hard and severe as the sea itself; in contrast, the south is as joyful and colorful as the deep blue Mediterranean.
Its cities contain some of the greatest treasures in Europe, its countryside is prosperous and well tended and it boasts dozens of major tourist attractions, like Paris, the French Riviera, the Atlantic beaches, the winter sport resorts of the French Alps, the castles of the Loire Valley, Brittany and Normandy. The country is renowned for its gastronomy (particularly wines and cheeses), history, culture and fashion.
Gibraltar (UK) Cruise
“Gibal al Tariq”, or “Mount of Tariq” is the original Arabic name for Gibraltar, now a British Dependent Territory, known in ancient times as “Land’s End”. The majority of the population – Spanish, Moroccans, Maltese and Arabs – is employed in tourism, the strength of the local economy. The Moorish Castle dominating the city and Saint Michael’s Cave are well worth visiting.
This is a unique place for the curious traveler. Take time to explore the caves and tunnels especially those not meant for tourists! The inside of the rock is an absolute labyrinth with the secret internal roads and tunnels 4 times longer than those on the surface. Military presence and security in this otherwise deserted area is strong but almost invisible.
Italy Cruise
Italy is a large country in Southern Europe. This peninsula, with a deep blue sea on three sides, boasts a rich gastronomic tradition, a great variety of landscapes and a warm hospitality that is common to this “people of saints, poets and navigators”, the Italians, from north to south.
Together with Greece, it is acknowledged as the birthplace of Western culture. History, culture, art: every city reflects the intricate history that has always made Italy so special for visitors.
Not surprisingly, it is also home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. High art and monuments are to be found everywhere around the country. It is also famous worldwide for its delicious cuisine, its trendy fashions, luxury sports cars and motorcycles, diverse regional cultures and dialects, as well as for its many beautiful coasts, alpine lakes and mountains (the Alps and Apennines). No wonder it is often nicknamed the
Bel paese (beautiful country).
Malta Cruise
The Maltese archipelago, made up of Malta, Gozo and the little island of Comino, is located in the middle of ideal currents, between the coast of North Africa and Sicily. The Greeks thought that this sun-blessed beauty was of divine origin. The Order of the Knights of Malta, one of the most powerful institutions of the Middle Ages, left important artistic and architectural remains on the island.
The ancient capital of Mdina, also known as the Silent City, rests at a high point in the heart of the island. Surrounded by the scenic town of Rabat, this fortress is one of Malta’s finest jewels, boasting architecture, history and a quality cup of coffee with a splendid view. Valletta is similar in that it boasts a rich history, only being the modern capital, it is very much alive and much more modern, serving as both a shopping area during the day and offering an array of museums and cultural sites.
Of particular note is St John’s Co-Cathedral, built by one of the earlier Grandmasters of the Knights Hospitaller. It contains the various chapels of the Knights’ langues, with Caravaggio paintings, tapestries and various relics of immense value to the Maltese heritage. The very floors of the Cathedral are the tombs of the most famous knights of the Order of St John, and a crypt, though off-limits to tourists, hosts the bodies of some of the most illustrious of Grandmasters, including the city’s founder, Jean de Valette. In Gozo, a rural atmosphere is predominant. Billy Connolly purchased a home in Gozo several years ago, owing to the island’s quiet and relaxing nature. Visitors will be interested in taking a look at the impressive geographical feature of the Inland Sea, carved out by the Mediterranean. One is also obliged to visit the Citadel, Gozo’s version of Mdina.
Monaco Cruise
This is the second smallest independent state in the world (after the Vatican) and is almost entirely urban.
Monte Carlo is not the capital of
Monaco but a government district. The country is divided into four areas: Monaco-Ville (the old city), the Condamine (port quarter), Monte-Carlo (business and recreation), and Fontvieille (recreation and light industry). With no natural resources to exploit other than its location and climate, the principality has become a resort for tourists and a tax haven for businesses.
The Principality of Monaco is an independent sovereign state situated at the foot of the Southern Alps and overlooking the Mediterranean. It has land borders with three French municipalities of the Maritime Alps: La Turbie, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Cap d’Ail et Beausoleil. Despite its very small size (it is in fact the penultimate State in the world in terms of surface area, just before the Vatican City), it is considered throughout Europe as a most fascinating and romantic place. The Monegasque economy is dynamic and forward-looking. Even though it has a very sophisticated image, Monaco is a very lively place and the majority of its inhabitants are from other countries.
Monaco is six times the size of the Vatican and the world’s most densely populated independent country. The principality of Monaco offers a great balance of historical and modern attractions. There are various museums and palaces to visit as well as shopping malls and casinos. Monaco also offers relaxation spots along the harbor and even around the attractions. It is relatively easy to navigate Monte Carlo and Monaco if you take the time to learn where the various “short cuts” are. City maps are generally available at most news vendor stands and shops for a small fee.
Spain Cruise
Spain is a diverse country sharing the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal at the western end of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the country with the second-largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, after Italy, and the largest number of World Heritage Cities.
Spain is considered an exotic country in Europe due to its friendly inhabitants, relaxed lifestyle, its cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous folklore and festivities. Among many places worth visiting are Spain’s thriving capital Madrid, the vibrant coastal city of Barcelona, the famous “Running of the Bulls” at Pamplona, major Andalucian cities with Islamic architecture, like Seville, Granada and Córdoba, the Way of St. James and the idyllic Balearic and Canary Islands.
Imagine the vividness of the colors yellow and red, the local pride and the intensity of a culture that once experienced the thrill of discovering faraway lands: Spain is all this and much more. Culture, passion, hospitality and an amazing sense of knowing how to have a good time: every Spanish city, on the coasts or on the islands, inland or in the center of the country, provides a truly unique and thrilling experience.
With great beaches, fun nightlife, many cultural regions and historic cities, Spain makes a great destination for any kind of trip. A country of large geographic and cultural diversity, Spain is a surprise to those who only know its reputation for great beach holidays. There is everything from lush meadows and snowy mountains to huge marshes and deserts in the south east. While summer is the peak season because of the beaches, those who wish to avoid the crowds should consider visiting in the winter as attractions such as the Alhambra and La Mezquita will not be overcrowded.
Tunisia Cruise
There are several ways to enjoy your vacation in Tunisia, including spending your vacation on the gorgeous Mediterranean beaches, or planning a circuit of Tunisia. Although Tunisia is best known today for its beach resort holidays, the country has an amazing heritage with some exceptional archeological remains to be explored.
Little remains of Carthage, but what does is well presented and an absolute must see for every visitor to Tunisia. This great city of the Pheonician and Punic periods dates from the 6th century BC and was the base of a hugely powerful empire spanning the entire south Mediterranean. Its most famous general was Hannibal who crossed the Alps to battle the Romans. Hannibal suffered his first significant defeat at the Battle of Zama in 202 BC, and after over 50 years of being watched closely by Rome, Carthage was attacked in the 3rd Punic War and completely destroyed. The city was redeveloped by the Romans a century later, and Carthage became the capital of the Roman province of Africa. What we see today are the remains of that era.
Both
Monastir and
Sousse are well known as beach resorts amongst sun-worshiping Europeans, but they are also towns with great historical heritage. Monastir has a history back to the time of Hannibal, an especially notable museum and a wonderful ribat (fortified monastery). Sousse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its authentic medina and souk, which should not be missed.
The fascinating cultural make-up of Tunisia is the product of a long history of domination: Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans and French all left their mark on this country, which is a gateway to the Sahara. Its beautiful beaches and archaeological sites every year attract tourists from all over the world, enchanted by the wonderful scenery and the hospitality of the people.
Book your Costa Cruises Vacation with Altair Travel!January 5, 2014/ altair / Cruises & Ships
Costa Cruise makes Western Mediterranean cruises available to anyone who has a desire to see the world via the open waters. If you are ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime, prepare to set sail on this cruise! Cruise the Mediterranean and you will experience the Mediterranean the way it is meant to be experienced. Where do you want your Western Mediterranean cruise to sail to? Whether you want to travel to France, Italy or Malta, with Costa Cruise you will cruise the Mediterranean in style.
Balearic Islands (Spain) Cruise
Due to its strategic position on the Mediterranean, the archipelago of the Balearics has had its far share of invasions over the years: Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs and Catalan-Aragonese.
The constant change of power has very much contributed to forging the look and character of the islands. Minorca, Mallorca and most of all Ibiza and Formentera today are the party islands par excellence, among the most popular destinations in Spain. Palma de Mallorca, capital of the Balearic Islands, not only offers its visitors sunshine, numerous bars, restaurants and shops but also a beautiful harbour and a historical centre.
- Palma de Mallorca – the island´s capital is worth a trip on its own. Very old city where you will find architectural wonders, culture and Mediterranean food.
- Serra de Tramuntana – wonderful range of mountains that run along the north-west coast of Mallorca
- Playa de Palma – Busiest destination on Mallorca.
- Valldemossa – Georges Sand and Frederic Chopin spent some time in this beautiful village
- Soller and Port de Soller – a beautiful town in the mountains that can be reached by a combination of train and tram
- Caves – several caves are open to the public, the Dragon Caves (Coves del Drach in mallorquin) being the most visited
- Beaches – this is what the most people come for. The main tourist areas are on the southern and eastern coast but places may be crowded in high season. More secluded and quiet beaches can be found on the island but expect a difficult route (e.g. cliffs) and minimal parking. A must visit is Es Trenc, near the Colonia de Sant Jordi, but there are also many beaches not that popular worth a visit.
France Cruise
Proud of its origins and jealous of its independence, Corsica is inhabited by people who love the wild beauty of its rugged scenery. In the 17th Century the Genoese made it one of their outposts on their trade routes; their presence in Corsica was so significant that in some parts of the island a dialect is spoken that is related to the old Genoese dialect.
For over twenty years, France has been the world’s most popular tourist destination and it’s geographically one of the most diverse countries in Europe. Superlative and picturesque, sophisticated and simple: there is a lot to be said about this great nation that combines Northern European cosmopolitan chic with the sunny atmosphere of the Mediterranean. The northern coasts on the North Sea are as hard and severe as the sea itself; in contrast, the south is as joyful and colorful as the deep blue Mediterranean.
Its cities contain some of the greatest treasures in Europe, its countryside is prosperous and well tended and it boasts dozens of major tourist attractions, like Paris, the French Riviera, the Atlantic beaches, the winter sport resorts of the French Alps, the castles of the Loire Valley, Brittany and Normandy. The country is renowned for its gastronomy (particularly wines and cheeses), history, culture and fashion.
Gibraltar (UK) Cruise
“Gibal al Tariq”, or “Mount of Tariq” is the original Arabic name for Gibraltar, now a British Dependent Territory, known in ancient times as “Land’s End”. The majority of the population – Spanish, Moroccans, Maltese and Arabs – is employed in tourism, the strength of the local economy. The Moorish Castle dominating the city and Saint Michael’s Cave are well worth visiting.
This is a unique place for the curious traveler. Take time to explore the caves and tunnels especially those not meant for tourists! The inside of the rock is an absolute labyrinth with the secret internal roads and tunnels 4 times longer than those on the surface. Military presence and security in this otherwise deserted area is strong but almost invisible.
Italy Cruise
Italy is a large country in Southern Europe. This peninsula, with a deep blue sea on three sides, boasts a rich gastronomic tradition, a great variety of landscapes and a warm hospitality that is common to this “people of saints, poets and navigators”, the Italians, from north to south.
Together with Greece, it is acknowledged as the birthplace of Western culture. History, culture, art: every city reflects the intricate history that has always made Italy so special for visitors.
Not surprisingly, it is also home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. High art and monuments are to be found everywhere around the country. It is also famous worldwide for its delicious cuisine, its trendy fashions, luxury sports cars and motorcycles, diverse regional cultures and dialects, as well as for its many beautiful coasts, alpine lakes and mountains (the Alps and Apennines). No wonder it is often nicknamed the Bel paese (beautiful country).
Malta Cruise
The Maltese archipelago, made up of Malta, Gozo and the little island of Comino, is located in the middle of ideal currents, between the coast of North Africa and Sicily. The Greeks thought that this sun-blessed beauty was of divine origin. The Order of the Knights of Malta, one of the most powerful institutions of the Middle Ages, left important artistic and architectural remains on the island.
The ancient capital of Mdina, also known as the Silent City, rests at a high point in the heart of the island. Surrounded by the scenic town of Rabat, this fortress is one of Malta’s finest jewels, boasting architecture, history and a quality cup of coffee with a splendid view. Valletta is similar in that it boasts a rich history, only being the modern capital, it is very much alive and much more modern, serving as both a shopping area during the day and offering an array of museums and cultural sites.
Of particular note is St John’s Co-Cathedral, built by one of the earlier Grandmasters of the Knights Hospitaller. It contains the various chapels of the Knights’ langues, with Caravaggio paintings, tapestries and various relics of immense value to the Maltese heritage. The very floors of the Cathedral are the tombs of the most famous knights of the Order of St John, and a crypt, though off-limits to tourists, hosts the bodies of some of the most illustrious of Grandmasters, including the city’s founder, Jean de Valette. In Gozo, a rural atmosphere is predominant. Billy Connolly purchased a home in Gozo several years ago, owing to the island’s quiet and relaxing nature. Visitors will be interested in taking a look at the impressive geographical feature of the Inland Sea, carved out by the Mediterranean. One is also obliged to visit the Citadel, Gozo’s version of Mdina.
Monaco Cruise
This is the second smallest independent state in the world (after the Vatican) and is almost entirely urban. Monte Carlo is not the capital of Monaco but a government district. The country is divided into four areas: Monaco-Ville (the old city), the Condamine (port quarter), Monte-Carlo (business and recreation), and Fontvieille (recreation and light industry). With no natural resources to exploit other than its location and climate, the principality has become a resort for tourists and a tax haven for businesses.
The Principality of Monaco is an independent sovereign state situated at the foot of the Southern Alps and overlooking the Mediterranean. It has land borders with three French municipalities of the Maritime Alps: La Turbie, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Cap d’Ail et Beausoleil. Despite its very small size (it is in fact the penultimate State in the world in terms of surface area, just before the Vatican City), it is considered throughout Europe as a most fascinating and romantic place. The Monegasque economy is dynamic and forward-looking. Even though it has a very sophisticated image, Monaco is a very lively place and the majority of its inhabitants are from other countries.
Monaco is six times the size of the Vatican and the world’s most densely populated independent country. The principality of Monaco offers a great balance of historical and modern attractions. There are various museums and palaces to visit as well as shopping malls and casinos. Monaco also offers relaxation spots along the harbor and even around the attractions. It is relatively easy to navigate Monte Carlo and Monaco if you take the time to learn where the various “short cuts” are. City maps are generally available at most news vendor stands and shops for a small fee.
Spain Cruise
Spain is a diverse country sharing the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal at the western end of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the country with the second-largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, after Italy, and the largest number of World Heritage Cities.
Spain is considered an exotic country in Europe due to its friendly inhabitants, relaxed lifestyle, its cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous folklore and festivities. Among many places worth visiting are Spain’s thriving capital Madrid, the vibrant coastal city of Barcelona, the famous “Running of the Bulls” at Pamplona, major Andalucian cities with Islamic architecture, like Seville, Granada and Córdoba, the Way of St. James and the idyllic Balearic and Canary Islands.
Imagine the vividness of the colors yellow and red, the local pride and the intensity of a culture that once experienced the thrill of discovering faraway lands: Spain is all this and much more. Culture, passion, hospitality and an amazing sense of knowing how to have a good time: every Spanish city, on the coasts or on the islands, inland or in the center of the country, provides a truly unique and thrilling experience.
With great beaches, fun nightlife, many cultural regions and historic cities, Spain makes a great destination for any kind of trip. A country of large geographic and cultural diversity, Spain is a surprise to those who only know its reputation for great beach holidays. There is everything from lush meadows and snowy mountains to huge marshes and deserts in the south east. While summer is the peak season because of the beaches, those who wish to avoid the crowds should consider visiting in the winter as attractions such as the Alhambra and La Mezquita will not be overcrowded.
Tunisia Cruise
There are several ways to enjoy your vacation in Tunisia, including spending your vacation on the gorgeous Mediterranean beaches, or planning a circuit of Tunisia. Although Tunisia is best known today for its beach resort holidays, the country has an amazing heritage with some exceptional archeological remains to be explored.
Little remains of Carthage, but what does is well presented and an absolute must see for every visitor to Tunisia. This great city of the Pheonician and Punic periods dates from the 6th century BC and was the base of a hugely powerful empire spanning the entire south Mediterranean. Its most famous general was Hannibal who crossed the Alps to battle the Romans. Hannibal suffered his first significant defeat at the Battle of Zama in 202 BC, and after over 50 years of being watched closely by Rome, Carthage was attacked in the 3rd Punic War and completely destroyed. The city was redeveloped by the Romans a century later, and Carthage became the capital of the Roman province of Africa. What we see today are the remains of that era.
Both Monastir and Sousse are well known as beach resorts amongst sun-worshiping Europeans, but they are also towns with great historical heritage. Monastir has a history back to the time of Hannibal, an especially notable museum and a wonderful ribat (fortified monastery). Sousse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its authentic medina and souk, which should not be missed.
The fascinating cultural make-up of Tunisia is the product of a long history of domination: Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans and French all left their mark on this country, which is a gateway to the Sahara. Its beautiful beaches and archaeological sites every year attract tourists from all over the world, enchanted by the wonderful scenery and the hospitality of the people.
Book your Costa Cruises Vacation with Altair Travel!
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