Impressive benefits from a Mediterranean fly-cruise

Whether you are tucking into a delicious bowl of fresh pasta in Italy, walking down a white-washed road in Greece or soaking up the sun in Barcelona, the Mediterranean offers an abundance of gorgeous hotspots to discover.

And Princess Cruises whisks you away to the Mediterranean quicker than ever before with their tempting fly-cruise offerings for 2024.

The line offers fly cruises straight into Barcelona, Rome or Athens – three iconic cities that you can dive headfirst into, and don’t forget the opportunity to extend your stay pre- or post-cruise.

What’s more, you can take advantage of countless regional flights from all over the UK with Princess Cruises, flying has never been easier. After all, that holiday feeling really kicks in as you lift off in the plane right?

So, discover the countless other benefits of a fly-cruise to the Mediterranean in 2024 and peruse the glorious destinations that are only a flight away.

Minimal sea days, maximal exploration

The perhaps obvious benefit of a fly-cruise, is that you reduce your days at sea significantly.

Of course, you will still be able to enjoy the peacefulness of a sea day or two during a fly-cruise to the Mediterranean with Princess Cruises, but you’ll start as you mean to go, exploring a beautiful destination straight away.

So, you can traverse the likes of the greenest island in Greece – Corfu. There is plenty to see and experience in Corfu, and we recommend exploring the maze of cobblestone streets in Corfu Town as well as browsing old tavernas, cafes and shops.

In particular, Princess Cruises’ ‘City Drive, Old Town & Wine Tasting’ excursion is popular, as you visit the Monastery of Agia Paraskevi, which dates back to the 17^th century, and the Theotoky Estate is where you can learn about three generations of wine and olive oil-making history.

Of course, you will be able to taste the produce accompanied by cheese, fresh bread and olives grown on the estate. You can also take part in a guided tour of Corfu Town – talk about killing two birds with one stone.

Another stand-out city that you’ll visit on many of Princess Cruises’ Mediterranean itineraries is Florence (porting in Livorno).

Florence, also known as the cradle of the Renaissance, which is home to the Duomo, the Uffizi and the Ponte Vecchio.

We love Princess Cruises’ ‘Highlights & Florence On Your Own’ excursion, which combines a guided tour and time exploring on your own.

You’ll begin with a 90-minute coach ride from Livorno to Florence, where you will be guided around landmarks – from the ornately beautiful Church of Santa Croce to the bustling Ponte Vecchio & Piazza Della Signoria – as well as having three free hours to wander the streets and embark on your own discovery.

Kotor, Montenegro, also visited by Princess Cruises on a Mediterranean fly-cruise, is a true gem. Lying at the head of Boka Bay and framed by dramatic limestone cliffs, this bay is Southern Europe’s longest fjord.

Firstly, ensure you investigate the medieval narrow streets where you can gaze up at ancient stone houses, palaces and churches from the 12^th century at every corner.

But then – calling all outdoor enthusiasts – during your time in Kotor embark on the ‘Montenegro Rock Climbing At Via Ferrata’ excursion with Princess Cruises where you can follow the trail on the Uvita Greda mountain peak in Durmitor National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t worry, if you are a newbie you’ll be looked after and everyone is equipped with protective alpine equipment.

Extend your stay with ease

Create your dream getaway with a pre-or-post cruise stay, courtesy of Princess Cruises, of course.

Princess Cruises begins and ends a range of Mediterranean fly-cruises in three hotspots – Barcelona, Rome and Athens.

In Barcelona, fans of art will be in paradise as the city nurtured artists such as Picasso and Dali. Not to mention the impressive architectural scene, with the likes of Park Guell designed by Catalonia’s master architect, Antoni Gaudi. Keep an eye out for the serpentine-shaped bench and the mosaic dragon at the entrance.

Rome (Civitavecchia) houses equally jaw-dropping architectural offerings, think the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and more.

Extend your stay in the ancient capital of the Western World to explore to the full – take your time to explore the magnificent Pantheon or wander the Forum. Or simply sip on an Aperol Spritz while perusing the mouth-watering lunch menu in a bustling square.

And let’s not forget Athens (Piraeus), which is well worth the extra few days stay. Roam the ancient streets of one of the oldest cities in the world and visit the iconic Parthenon and Acropolis – arguably Athens’ most famous sights.

The beauty of a pre-or-post cruise stay is that you can not only explore the destination itself, but you can also take a day trip beyond the city limits to discover stunning beaches and quaint Greek towns.

You can also go beyond the typical tourist attractions in Athens by extending your stay as you have the time to browse the Monastiraki flea market on a Sunday or explore the Parliament building before admiring the National Garden next door – keep an eye out for parrots flying overhead.

Cruise onboard brand new Sun Princess

What could make a fly-cruise better? Why, sailing onboard a new, next-generation ship of course.

You'll remember the moment forever as you arrive in your sunny embarkation port and see the sophisticated Sun Princess for the first time. Nothing beats that new-ship feeling.

And there's plenty to shout about onboard Sun Princess – from the fun-filled Park19. Located on the top-deck, this space features a Sea Breeze Rollglider, which is a first at sea adventure, and something that will be a highlight for all your cruises to come.

Also ensure that you try out the Net Ropes Course, the Infinite Horizon Tilt Wall (for a new, heart-racing view of the ocean), Coastal Climb, Splash Pad as well as The Lookout. Simply look forward to the thrill of exploring a new, innovative ship.

In fact, you'll feel like you are still exploring a port of call while onboard, with the central Piazza mimicking the intricate squares dotted across Europe and The Dome, a deck covering multiple levels, inspired by the terraces of Santorini.

In a nutshell, Princess Cruises explores the Mediterranean like no other – from excursions that cover each destination thoroughly to regional flights to cruise and stay options to a brand-new ship, you just can’t say no.