Sailing the Mediterranean with Viking
Travel writer Mogens Johansen embarks on our 11-day Empires of the Mediterranean voyage onboard Viking Sea and provides his account of what it's like to sail the Mediterranean with Viking.
The Mediterranean boasts enough treasures to fill several lifetimes of travel. From ancient history to vibrant cities and sun-kissed coastal communities, cruising the Mediterranean on a destination-focused and culturally enriching Viking voyage is a truly formative experience.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
The Mediterranean encompasses an incredibly diverse range of countries and cultures, from Italy, France, Croatia and Spain, to Greece and Turkey, as well as Egypt, Morocco and Israel, located on the sea's southern coastlines.
Considered the cradle of Western civilisation, here you will witness the ancient Greek and Roman monuments that bear testament to the ambition of ancient superpowers.
Choose a single, comprehensive ocean voyage exploring multiple countries on one itinerary, such as Viking's 29‑day Mediterranean's Iconic Shores from Barcelona to Istanbul or focus your attention on a country-intensive ocean voyage like the 11‑day Greek Odyssey or 8‑day Italian Sojourn.
Be wowed wherever you sail, from the coloured villages that cling to the hillside coastlines of Italy's Amalfi Coast to the glittering turquoise waters of the Greek Islands and the mighty Bosporus in Istanbul where continental Europe and Asia meet. And the best bit? With Viking's small ships, prepare to get to the heart of the destination by staying longer and visiting smaller ports that larger ships cannot.
TRAVEL GUIDES & TIPS
The best way to experience a destination is with the guidance of a local, and that’s exactly how Viking helps you explore. Here you’ll find our handy destination guides, as well as our top tips to help you plan your visit.
FOOD, BEVERAGES & RECIPES
The flavours and fragrances of a dish can evoke fond memories of travels past, and ignite your imagination for travel in the future. We have curated some of our best-loved recipes, customs, and culinary traditions – and we highly recommend cooking along at home!
CULTURE
Discovering the intricate rhythms and traditions of daily life is a vital part of the travel experience for the curious traveller. From language to religion, every nation has its own unique customs. Here you will discover what makes each destination’s way of life special.
HISTORY
Like you, Viking believes that understanding a destination’s past is fundamental to appreciating it’s present. Here you will find a window into the historical record of the forces that have shaped this destination, and continue to play an important role in the cultural fabric you see today.
ART, MUSIC, FILM & LITERATURE
Appreciating a destination’s art tells the stories of its people, and its soul. It has been said that the basic condition required to appreciate art in all its many forms is a chair, a statement that’s never rung truer than right now. We hope you enjoy this virtual journey into the wonderful world of art, music, films and literature.
CRUISE THE MEDITERRANEAN WITH VIKING
MEDITERRANEAN EXTENSIONS AND TOURS
More days mean more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking voyage. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting locations.