10 Things I Wish I Knew BEFORE Going on a Mediterranean Cruise

We had an amazing Mediterranean cruise - but as prepared as we were, there were still some things I didn't know! If you're planning a European cruise, this video is for you!
We recently went on a Mediterranean cruise, and yes, I made some cruise mistakes! In this video I share our cruise experiences in cruise ports of call, on excursions, cruise packing mistakes & more. I've included Mediterranean cruise tips so that you can be ready & prepared for your cruise in Europe.
Our cruise onboard Princess Cruises Enchanted Princess began in Barcelona & ended in Rome. Whether you're a first time cruiser or this is your first Mediterranean cruise, this video is full of helpful cruise tips, tricks & advice.
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ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
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[@LifeWellCruised]

Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/

[@MiaHessMusic]

I'm sure someone wrote this but if you are going in certain churches and some musuem, you need to bring a shirt or wrap so your arms are covered. And some places won't let you in if your shorts are higher than knee length. Men too. No tank tops.

[@Beachdudeca]

Great information

[@Michele-ot8bh]

Yes , especially in Catholic countries and Muslim ones. Shoulders need to be covered and in Muslim ones-knees/legs also.

[@elisaastorino2881]

Yes indeed. Many times I've seen people refused entry to churches in Italy.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes!! I think I need a part 2 😂

[@m.m.4645]

All should be well known Get to know the countries you will be visiting

[@sarahthomas8201]

When we did our Mediterranean cruise we booked personal tour guides at each of our ports of call. It was incredible and well worth the cost. They told personal family stories and took us to their favorite restaurants, shops, markets, coffee shops, etc. It truly made our trip an unforgettable experience!

[@neilabeckles906]

Could you please share the site where you got the tours?

[@sarahthomas8201]

It’s been several years. I know we used Eyes of Rome (in Rome obviously) Not sure if they still work there but Emiliano for the Vatican and we Francesco for the Forum and Colosseum were fantastic. Can’t remember the companies we used in Sicily and Turkey…

[@sarahthomas8201]

We did the Godfather Tour in Sicily and Ephesus in Turkey. Both excellent.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s amazing!

[@peanutpett]

While getting there 2+ days early is great, its not something everyone can do. My wife and I on our cruise in 2022 trained ourselves a little the entire we before we left by waking up at 2-3 am every morning and going to bed very early every morning to get closer to Barcelona time. We still got there 2 days early but i think the pre-trip sleep schedule adjustment really made a big difference.

[@susanscott8023]

Thanks for your tips :) I would like to add this one: carry a "potty pack", a snack-size plastic zipper bag with toilet paper. I usually tear mine into 2-square sections and fold them before putting them in the bag. These have been a lifesaver! Also, we did find one restroom where we needed 50 cent pieces rather than a Euro, so be prepared for variations. Finally, not all public restrooms have locks on the door, so pay attention as you approach. It can definitely save some embarrassment from walking in on someone. Eating off the beaten path is definitely the way to go. When we took an excursion to Rome, we asked the guide where she and her friends like to eat. We enjoyed the most amazing carbonara!

[@Frenchiesonthego]

As a european, it's always funny o see how americans seem to see their trip here as some exotic adventure with so much difference. I know it's the same for us when we go across the sea, but the change of point of view always amazes me 🙂 I'm french, I travel or cruise to Italy a lot, so if someone as a question, don't hesitate 🙂

[@annettechamberlain2267]

Thank you for your offer. I might come back into this chat and ask you if something comes up.

[@user-bc3lz7zc3o]

Could you recommend a hotel in Rome travelling with family require 4 rooms. Thank you

[@doktordermedizin]

As I started/left several cruises from Rome I recommend a hotel near /next the main station in Rome. From there you have direct connection by train to the airport (outside the city) and to the harbour. Its perfect to spend some days before or after your cruise. Some hotels are just across the street, so no taxi needed normally. From this point you can use the metro to visit all the great places in Rome and you also can walk by feet. @@user-bc3lz7zc3o

[@ThePandagirl25]

As an American living in the United States, I can say that it seems like a huge adventure to leave the U.S. because many people here never get the chance to travel abroad. I’m 37, and just went on my first cruise ever in March, out out of Miami, and just going from Las Vegas to Miami was an adventure, then going to a couple different Caribbean countries was a journey. I’ve now booked a cruise out of Athens in June, 2025, and yes, it feels like it’s going to be the adventure of a lifetime. I’m excited to get to see places that I’ve only read about in books or seen in movies, and it feels crazy that my son will go to world history class when he gets into high school and be able to say that he’s been to some of the places in his history book; something I could only dream of as a kid.

[@treeofwisdomoracle7863]

How was the cruising in Italy? My husband and I are planning a trip on Royal Voyager of the Seas- Italy, Turkey, Greece for 7 nights.

[@reneeblack2783]

We are doing a 28 day Med/Holy Land cruise next year. So excited 🎉🚢 Athens to Ft Lauderdale!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Lucky you! That sounds amazing 👏

[@wstlndiesel]

Great video as usual! Love it!

[@mitchellbelinda50]

Great tips!!! Thanks for sharing

[@Angiehere-1]

Love your videos!

[@melekahalepuna913]

I totally agree! We did a Mediterranean cruise July 25 - August 5. It was a trip of a lifetime but it was exhausting! We flew in 1 day before and stayed 2 days after and we're so glad we did! I did a lot of research before we left and it was all so helpful!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing!

[@vmarney]

We’re leaving on Oct. 1 for a B2B (2 14-day cruises for a total of 28 days!) and will not only be our 1st Mediterranean cruise, but also our 1st cruise longer than 10 days! Eek, we need tips & suggestions ASAP! We’ve traveled overseas (OFTEN) B4 for 4-week trips for hubby’s work, but never for a cruise. Already booked our flights & now wishing an extra day or so (especially for starting in Athens, since it’s a country/location we have never been… 😟 Help please…

[@aliceb4070]

You provide such great info. Thank you for sharing! 🙂

[@jesskrems3946]

VERY helpful tips - thank you! 😊

[@KMA66]

Excellent video and info, Ilana

[@garyjarvis2730]

Nice review of very helpful hints for first time cruisers as well as seasoned travelers. Thanks.

[@MR-lx6yi]

Great content!!

[@BarbieGirl-cl2uh]

We're planning a Mediterranean cruise and these tips are very helpful!

[@mikebarnes2294]

Thanks for posting this. I am thinking about possibly doing a Mediterranean cruise next summer.

[@singham1708]

Very useful tips, as I'm planning for my first Mediterranean Cruise.

[@gwcrispi]

Go EARLY! We started ours in Civitavecchia. We flew to Rome four days early. Got a lot of Italy time before we even left. You could never see Rome on an excursion day. Stayed in an old hotel right there on the back side of the forums. Next time we won't go in July again. 100+ degrees every day.

[@user-ff3ow9ym5t]

Great! Going in October. Getting excited. Arriving on the 11th cruising on the 13th cruising

[@jazzeywest3236]

Love your tipa. Going to cruise the Meditterean Oct 21 for a 9night cruise. Rome to Spain. So excited! Love all your tips. Will be booking shore excursions soon. Thanks again!

[@cassandrawallace1570]

Hi I’m going in August of 24. Im so grateful for this video my first time taking a cruise of this nature! Great video!👍

[@lindagilgren898]

Our recent Mediterranean cruise started in Athens. We arrived early and booked a Viator all day city tour and the second day a half day food tour. Great intro to the city! We stayed at hotel within walking distance and with a rooftop patio with view of the Acropolis.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Sounds fantastic! Thanks for sharing

[@kimstack4378]

We are going on our first ever cruise next year to the Mediterranean. Enjoyed this video.

[@sweetypatnett6123]

Thanks, I really appreciate you sharing this video. It was very informative and helpful. I will keep these tips in mind.❤

[@vibir1234]

My husband and I are seasoned travelers, but have never been on a cruise. So, in 3 weeks we're going on the Mediterranean cruise with Oceania. Our strategy is to treat it as a tester, so no Rome, Barcelona, or Venice for us (been there), but smaller places like Corfu, Dubrovnik, Trieste to see if we would like to come back and stay awhile there.

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’ll love it!! Enjoy

[@Ljberkow]

Dubrovnik is great. We had an overnight so got to enjoy dinner there and the second day on Lokrum Island.

[@vincenttate8048]

Which one is better 5 or 7 day cruise?

[@laurenschenck5355]

All the food looks so delicious and refreshing and well made and beautiful quality and sounds delicious 💛🏝️🏝️🩵🩵🩵🛳️💛🏝️🏝️💛🩵🩵🛳️💛🛳️🩵🌞🌞🩵🛳️💛🏝️💛🛳️🩵🩵💛🏝️🏝️🛳️🩵🌞🌞🌞🌞🩵🛳️💛💛🛳️🛳️🩵🩵🩵🩵💛💛🛳️

[@songofthespirit2480]

Informative!!!

[@lynnepettit5903]

If you do leave your Passport in the safe on the ship, it is a very good idea to take a copy of it with you in case you miss the ship Sailing time, you will need your Passport in order to go to the authorities.

[@travel_garp]

Thanks for all the great cruise tips ... I recently got back from an Alaskan cruise, and this channel was very helpful during my planning.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad to hear! Glad you enjoyed Alaska

[@suegreco2]

Thank you for the suggestions and information. We’re doing a Greek Isles cruise on RC, June 2024. First time to Europe.

[@trinagunnodwori4861]

Spot on, Ilana! Love this one!! Great tips for the crowded European summers especially balancing and planning the excursions so you can pivot if the tourist spot is crowded!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing! I should probably do a part 2 on ports 😂

[@tedwalford7615]

Thank you! I do intend to take a Med cruise and so really appreciate the tips, most of which I'd not have thought of!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad you enjoyed the video :)

[@suzetteperrin8223]

Love these tips! Especially the one about staggering those excursions. I try to schedule down time too not just excursions!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Smart! Thanks for your feedback 😊

[@kathleenabell5933]

We had the Mediterranean cruise on celebrity a few years ago and a best friend is a TA who came with us - she suggested a personal tour guide at each port and what a wonderful idea. Saves time and we saw sights we preferred, as well as restaurants, beaches - it was honestly magical!!

[@michaels3003]

I saw some offers of private tours in Gibraltar (on a travel website) and they were extremely expensive; one was well over a thousand dollars.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Fabulous!

[@manueldominguez5336]

I agree with you on arriving a couple of days before and leaving a couple days after. We toured Barcelona for a day and a half before we left and and the same for Venice before returning home. We used Viator to get tickets for excursions in Barcelona and Venice and that worked great. We toured La Sagrada Familia and it was awesome.

[@lorifoers6924]

Great tips thanks!! 33 days to go for our mediterranean Cruise woohoo!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Lucky you!!!

[@barbaralazier8352]

I have a Mediterranean cruise in my near future, your tips are invaluable

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad this was helpful

[@andrewfernandes-ream4511]

Flying to Barcelona tomorrow for a Mediterranean cruise. Thanks again for the tips.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Enjoy!

[@coonpoon1]

Your tips are always so helpful and upbeat! We are doing our 1st cruise Oct 1 for a 28 day cruise from Athens and ending in Rome. Our trip is very port intensive and your tips will be very valuable, Thanks. We have watched your channel for months in preparing for this momentous trip, honestly your awesome!

[@LifeWellCruised]

What a fabulous cruise! You’ll have to give me your tips when you’re done 🛳️😉👏

[@Milyme83]

Merci belle vidéo ! Tres généreuse

[@lindabuchele6093]

I got a new Travelon bag for our 12 night cruise and I tried it out in London for size, comfortbility, and overall use. It is great, and I can’t wait to use it on our cruise.

[@salliestewart4713]

Your balancing is our #1 trip we took😊

[@nothingpersonal878]

Welcome home Ilana 🇨🇦. Very informative video again. Any chance of a part 2?

[@LifeWellCruised]

Sure!! Lol i think about the ports. Any suggestions welcome

[@greengoosehobbies]

The wife and I LOVE hop on hop off buses…. Such a great way to see the city you’re visiting!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing

[@Cindyvktravel]

Great ideas. We are going on Sun Princess for 19 days to the Med in March. Very excited about that one.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s going to be such an amazing cruise!

[@JulnCass]

Just wanted to say I love your channel! I've watched other channels but I'm really drawn to yours..I feel you are very personable..very informative. I am going on my 4th cruise in November..I've been on carnival 3 times but this will be my 1st time on princess. I just love all your tips and stories!

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’re so sweet! I’m so glad my videos resonate with you. I appreciate you watching

[@JulnCass]

@@LifeWellCruised always! Have great day

[@dawnmonk8494]

Thank you so much for the info! We are doing a 10 day Mediterranean cruise in October!

[@judyjones4667]

Me too.

[@deniseheadlee3055]

We have our Mediterranean cruise booked for October 2024…. We have planned into our itinerary to arrive three days before and to leave 3 days from debarkation. Thank you for the video.

[@andrewryan2962]

Great video, we are on the Enchanted on the 21st Oct so this series is really getting us a bit excited.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yay! I’ll have a review & packing info soon

[@najah820]

Best video! It's helped guide what my family will be doing on our upcoming cruise out of Civitavecchia. Overall, I don't want to set my expectations much higher than great food, sight seeing and shopping. The historical sites...sure. Not really my thing but want to experience the culture more.

[@miltongee1627]

In 2022 and 2023 I went on a Mediterranean cruise leaving out of Rome. The city is civitavecchia. The port is 1 hour away from Rome by train. The pizza is a bargain very simple and very good. Florence has 2 different port. There is 2 major things to do. In Florence the statue of David which is very far from the port and you need to book the tour in advance. The leaning tower of Pisa is very close to the port laspezia. If it is at the other port. It is very far away and more expensive. Thank you for your video. It bring back great memories.

[@doktordermedizin]

For the Americans and Canadians who probably only come to Florence once in their life: I recommend the oldest pharmacy in Europe Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella (Via della Scala 16), here you can find great perfumes and cosmetic products in a very nice atmosphere. It is located above the Hotel Croce in Malta, relatively centrally.

[@annamariarizzo2184]

Hi Ilana, welcome back. Great video! Your tips are right on the money. A European cruise is quite intensive and your tips will help people balance out their vacation. Your tips will help others from experiencing European burn out and have a more pleasant trip. Thanks for sharing. AnnaMaria

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for watching & taking time to comment:)

[@annamariarizzo2184]

@@LifeWellCruised You have established a channel that is way above the rest. What I love is that you always present information in a positive manner. Your tips are practical and easy to implement. I can always learn something new from you. There is more to cruising than just boarding the ship. With proper planning and organization it can be enjoyable. I am a frequent cruiser so much of this I had to learn on my own. Your channel is helping others to be able to avoid cruising pitfalls and have a wonderful cruise. Best of luck and continued success with your channel. Thanks for sharing your family’s cruises. Love your pics. Looking forward to your next video. AnnaMaria

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@annamariarizzo2184 you’re very kind! TY :)

[@ChristianLehrer]

At Barcelona, in early May, we had booked tickets for Sagrada Familia with Nativity Tower and Park Güell almost two months in advance. Glad we did as both were sold out the day our cruise visited. Royal Caribbean docked late, we got the shuttle to Christopher Columbus and were very lucky to get a cab to Sagrada, the tickets are timed entry both for Sagrada and the Towers. Allow extra time as we barely made it. We walked up to Park Güell, not realizing how uphill it was. Again, we made our tour on time, but it was tight. We wandered a bit afterwards and got a cab back. Return cab overcharged me a port surcharge, not due on fares to port, just from the port! We actually could have walked/metro but doing both sites made for a busy day. Returning to Barcelona in Nov and booking my tickets today. Thanks for a great video! 🙂

[@rkenzie5235]

4:39 thank you for this tip!! I’m so focused on doing all the excursions I need to remember to relax. My itinerary has a lot of port days..but I love sleep and relaxing! 😂

[@helenorgarycrevonis2022]

In Europe you must have petty cash- euro, many places do not take credit card, - gelato for example, also the risk of your credit card number stolen are a lot less when paying cash. Keep in mind - not much cash- you could be robbed, and do not ware any expensive watches and jewelry. Also, keep aware of the surroundings at all times, yes its nice to sight see, but global awareness is the key, especially in port cities. Make sure to learn a bit of location before going out so you can be aware as to the particular part of town you are at.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good point

[@gee12ramona]

I LOVE your topper!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thank you 😊

[@pamgriner3624]

As always...great info. After taking many Caribbean cruises (your videos are excellent help to be prepared for them), we are taking our first Viking trip down the Danube next year. Looking for tips about everything and especially what to wear.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Lucky you! Comfortable shoes :)

[@staceygilbert8651]

We’ve just completed the Viking Grand European. We had an amazing experience. There was no “set” dress code - no need to dress up for dinner - most people wore what they had on the rough the day. The included walking tours were excellent (guides ranged from 22 to 70 years old, so a vast array of experience).

[@maryminoff4353]

Thanks this is helpful we are going next Oct first time

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s amazing

[@AVITUB]

Thanks for your recommendation. We will take a Med cruise from Civitavechia (MSC Seashore) for a week next month.

[@champ1238]

Doing this cruise next month flying from Canada going 3 days ahead of time to Barcelona and staying 3 days after in Rome. Enjoy your videos you have great information for traveling.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Amazing! You’ll love it

[@bustopninja4520]

Great stuff as usual! Rome is tough...if you're not ready, it's mess in the summer. Switching gears...VAT refunds that's funny; most people won't take time but if you spend a lot it's worth it!

[@elisaastorino2881]

I made 2 trips to Rome in the summertime (not cruises) and never made that mistake again. Summer is a bad time to visit Europe in general.

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’re right. It’s quite hot too, but so worth visiting! Lol, the VAT refund only took a few minutes to process

[@sergekeenan]

We are on our first cruise leaving from Barcelona this Saturday. Your information and videos has been so helpful. We just need to book our excursions in Italy. Its so confusing with so many excursions on offer.

[@HollyPlake]

I haven’t been on a Mediterranean cruise. A few years ago, my family and I went to England and France (not cruising). At a little ATM in a small town in France, I was able to get money out with my ATM card and there was only a $4.00 USA charge when I got back home. I would say if you have an ATM card do not exchange money at airport wait until you see an ATM.

[@kathyjennings5014]

Great tan!

[@bebreyes4766]

Love love your videos! Was on Med cruise this May out of Barcelona! Got there day of cruise from California USA. 15 hrs! So tired missed day of embarkation activities! So now I’m wiser going on Med cruise out of Barcelona with great itinerary that included Portugal! And now I’m so much smarter! Going 2 days before! Thank u for your tips! You are so precise and cheerful! I Like your outfits too! Do you show where you buy some of them? Love seeing your family! You’re so cute! Thank you!!!!! ❤❤❤

[@LifeWellCruised]

Oh no! Thanks for sharing your experience. I left some links to my clothing in the video description:)

[@CarboneCat]

For Europe, it’s better to avoid the month of August as everyone are on vacation and destination like Spain and Italia are full of tourists. For the Sagrada Familia, it’s best to visit it on the morning as it’s less crowded. Avoid any restaurants on the Rambla as they are bad. Don’t hesitate to ask the concierge at the hotel for restaurant suggestions.

[@kellyr4479]

That’s not always true. My Mediterranean cruise was from July 29- Aug 7. We got to Barcelona 3 days before our cruise and didn’t find it too busy at all. We also stayed an extra week in Rome and Venice. Rome wasn’t busy at all either and the only time Venice was busy was when people from the cruise ships were there, and then it was only busy at St Marks square. The weather wasn’t bad either. I think it got into the mid 90’s just one day.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing! We were told by some restaurants that it was less busy in mid-late august as many local people were on holiday. Just either way, but it truthfully wasn’t as bad as I expected

[@manonsinclairladyofblairad9675]

We like to just walk and take side streets to find a restaurant. We found some amazing ones, almost like a hole in the wall it was so small and we had the best meals!

[@vmarney]

@@LifeWellCruisedSometimes it’s more difficult to find availability for tours & such, because most of the locals go on ‘holiday’…

[@lindaprosise7533]

Thank you so much for your ideas! we are planning a Mediterranean cruise in October going thru Kusadasi down to Israel so excited! We are arriving in Athens 2 days before.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Very exciting! I’m sure you’re going to Ephesus, but make sure you do the Terrace Houses while there, very interesting

[@twilson355]

I saw you in Livorno getting on the bus but I was in the wrong line…I was on NCL. You really helped us get ready for our first cruise so, thank you!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Lol, too bad I didn’t see you too! Hope you had a great cruise

[@oldgoldtopgoldtop6039]

I see they changed our stop on upcoming from Lespezia to Liverno. Any tips for Liverno? Florence and Pisa require some travel time but currious what you did.

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@oldgoldtopgoldtop6039 there’s a nice lunch in Tuscany

[@taunichurchill4633]

We did a Med cruise in 2017 starting in Barcelona thru Italy, France Majorca Spain and back to Barcelona. We did 3 excursions in Italy recommended by several people on Cruise Critic and had a great time! We stayed 3 nights in Barcelona prior to the cruise at a VRBO apt with lots of fun restaurants and attractions nearby. Since we were ending our trip in Barcelona, there was no need to stay again, we flew home the day we disembarked. I took 5 days off after we got home to recoup. 😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

Love that! True time after a cruise can be helpful

[@Angiehere-1]

Been there 3 times. Going back in October 2023!

[@julieolson9832]

We have a Viking Athens to Istanbul cruise booked for 2025. We're also doing the four day pre-cruise extension in Greece. Looking forward to it!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Amazing 👏

[@coachab100]

Recommend going to Europe in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), not June, July, August. It will be less crowded, not as hot, and cheaper!

[@LifeWellCruised]

I’m sure that’s true. That said, people have different reasons for travelling in summer, vacation time ect. We also love summer vibes

[@Puglover130]

That’s good to hear. First ever cruise booked for Mediterranean, April ‘24

[@vmarney]

We leave Oct. 1 & curious what to expect as far as weather/temp.

[@coachab100]

@@vmarney it should be nice depending on where in Europe….Southern Europe could be still warm or maybe a sweater or jacket.

[@vmarney]

@@coachab100 we start in Athens & we mostly sail through Greece & Italy & also includes Turkey, Crete, Tel Aviv, & Cypress. It’s two 14-day B2B’s. 1st half is RT to/from Athens & 2nd half is Athens to Rome. (Rome & Tel Aviv are the only 2 places we’ve been during previous work travels-any places that are ‘not to be missed’ in your opinion?

[@raisafrancisco7323]

Hi, Ilana! Yes, a Mediterranean cruise can be exhausting and all your tips and recommendations are very valid. I flew one day before my last Mediterranean cruise and I got a little disappointed. My cruise was leaving from Barcelona and, as I was sailing on the Norwegian cruise, they booked my flights. I thought I was going to get to Barcelona on Saturday morning and enjoy the entire day in the city plus the next morning before sailing. Well, the flights they booked for me arrived in Barcelona at 4:30 pm so I had cancelled the excursions that I had planned and I only had time to enjoy the surroundings of the hotel (it was in a great location as you mentioned) and the next day I did a Hop On Hop Off with a stop at Park Güell before taking a taxi to my cruise. From now on, I will fly 2 days before no matter what.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing. It’s truth flight delays can happen & we can really use an extra day

[@petros7929]

We just came back from a Mediterranean cruise, but opposite of yours. Your suggestions are spot on! We spent 3 days in Rome and glad we did to see the sites. A lot of walking and crowded where you really needed the extra time due to long lines. Fortunately for us, we did all the excursions before we left which included viator local tour companies and some with Celebrity. I applaud you for doing the Rome after the cruise. Our was Barcelona, but our main focus was La Sagrada Familia which we enjoyed. It was super crowded and taxi service was not available due to a bicycle competition that Saturday that was country wide and most of the main avenues were closed. We were also prepared with having Euros, which we purchased at our local bank here in the states before we departed. The exchange rate was probably better if you just went to an ATM at the airport, but since we wanted to focus on how to get around the airport and our ride to the B&B, it really helped greatly not to worry about that. Again, great post cruise review!!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing this

[@najah820]

Appreciate the Euros tip. Still wondering how we want to manage that.

[@stevekerr1386]

Thanks for the great tips. Planning to go in 2025.

[@laurenschenck5355]

I am so glad you had amazing fun Meditation crusie and incredible magical place xoxo 😘 🩵💛🏝️🏝️💛🩵🩵🩵🏝️🏝️🏝️💛🛳️🌞🌞🌞🛳️🩵🏝️🏝️🏝️💛🛳️🩵💛🏝️🏝️🏝️🩵🛳️🛳️🩵💛💛🏝️💛🩵🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🩵💛🏝️💛🌞🌞🌞🛳️🩵💛💛🏝️🏝️💛🩵🛳️🌞🛳️🩵💛🏝️💛🛳️🛳️

[@francesgill8621]

Holland provided us with a free canvas bag in our cabin at my recent Canada New England cruise. When I went to the med last summer we flew into Athens the day before the cruise but our flight was delayed 6 hours which eliminated time for sightseeing except our nice taxi driver did give us a quick city tour on the way to our hotel. On our last day in Rome I scheduled a debark tour, which was very good.

[@salliestewart4713]

I am re watching this. We go in june but booked 2yrs ago. Same start end in venice.

[@laurenschenck5355]

SO EXCITED!! Xoxo 😘 💛🏝️🏝️💛💛💛🩵🏝️🏝️🏝️🩵💛💛🩵🏝️🏝️🏝️💛💛🩵🏝️🏝️🏝️🩵💛💛💛🏝️🏝️💛🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️💛🩵🏝️🏝️🩵💛💛💛🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🏝️🏝️🏝️

[@marinaroach6364]

Just got back from a British Isles Cruise. Your recommendations were spot on for that as well. My add on is to bring medications from home. We ended up with Covid as did most of our ship. Having the test and medications was really great. Also know what money your ship is on. Ours was on dollars and we had a lot of room service once we were sick so we were able to tip. I wish someone had told me not to hook a tour in every port. We were exhausted.

[@jbees1824]

Definitely comfortable and supportive shoes or sandals. The cobblestone streets in many European cities are killer on the ankles!

[@LifeWellCruised]

True

[@francesgomez1156]

Hi llana, love the video, we’re planning on going on a Mediterranean cruise in 2025

[@jackeldon8766]

We also did a Barcelona to Rome cruise last month, and booked our skip the line tour tickets in advance with The Tour Guy/The Roman Guy. Fantastic tour guides, highly recommended!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Sounds great!

[@sdega315]

Great tips! My wife and I are thinking about a Med cruise in 2024.

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’ll love it!

[@dobees8183]

I'm taking my first cruise ever next Monday! I can't wait, but I'm also very nervous with a sort of hurricane that just hit us in SoCal and potential covid restrictions! Anyway, I've been watching all your vids, 10/10 all the way! Thank you so much!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Have an amazing cruise!

[@Angiehere-1]

I like your fishnet tote bag!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thank you

[@rhonyathrasher9632]

I booked a Med cruise just yesterday but was cancelled today due to a mistake fare according to NCL, so now I am trying to find another one with a similar itinerary that I can afford. Thank you as always for the tips! Once I get over my disappointment I will continue my search.

[@LMFuqua]

I loved this but would love one of these for Asian destinations especially Japan.

[@loriwelln7321]

Me too we have Japan booked April 2024 🎉

[@LMFuqua]

@@loriwelln7321 June 2024 for us

[@LifeWellCruised]

I’d love to do that cruise

[@lynnleipold2617]

Thanks!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks so much! ☺️

[@katem4365]

Thanks for this Ilana! I appreciate the level of details you share. I was told not to wear running shoes to London, UK as Brits don't wear them....my feet were killing me from all the walking. So from then on, I wear whatever I am comfortable in which is usually a nice blazer, jeans and sneakers! I also think we overlook the 1st and last days on cruise itineraries unless we are experienced. Imperative to arrive and depart w enough time to enjoy those two ports which often get overlooked. Might as well spend time in them as we do "pay" for them in the cruise fare.

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’re so right! These days “comfort” is in style, but even if it wasn’t, it’s still best 😂

[@sharonrout8165]

I'm a Brit and I have never heard about us not wearing trainers (running shoes), I would always wear trainers when travelling around London.

[@rosemarysmith5967]

​@sharonrout8165 some is how things have changed, but I'll say in general who wears runners, and what type compared to what one may wear in Canada or the USA varies. I was working with Girl Guides and lived in my hikers or black walking shoes rather the. runners.

[@mrsprivate1678]

Don’t know who told you about the shoes I can guarantee no one is going care or even notice what you are wearing on your feet . I’m British and always wear trainers when I am walking a lot comfort is more important to your feet than what a stranger you are never going to see again thinks . I never really notice what anyone is wearing unless it’s something that takes my eye and I may think to myself I wonder where they got that from .

[@anngratton1855]

We leave Barcelona on the 21 for a Med cruise on Celebrity Reflection. So excited and am breaking in my new travel runners now ❤!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Enjoy!!

[@caroleweston7563]

The cruise port at Barcelona is very close to the city centre but Rome is about 50 miles away and Florence is more like 60 miles from the cruise port.

[@alicefrancini5769]

Good advice, especially about prebooking tours. Also, some cruise ports are actually an hour or more drive away from your destination, Florence and Rome in particular. So if you're planning on exploring on your own, do some research so you're not "exploring" a shipping port.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Absolutely!

[@patriciachirgwin3238]

I must agree with you about the chores! We did a 25 day around the Mediterranean cruise a few years ago, and during it we had seven days on the trot when we had tours that required us leaving the ship at some ungodly time in the morning! We could have cancelled one or two of the tours, but we weren’t sure we will ever return to those places and wanted to see the sights, but boy it was exhausting! Many of us were thrilled when we had a sea day after that seventh, on the trot, touring day! If I had it to do again, I would definitely choose an afternoon tour or do something privately on one or two days. It was a fantastic cruise, all the same. Apologies for not warning you about the cost of water and toilets. In the UK, you may find you have to have some small coinage (20 or 50p) for public toilets, although some are free. Love the video!❤️

[@LifeWellCruised]

Lol thank you for sharing

[@1997nick]

One of the best tips I can say is...go during the quiet season (winter) in the Mediterranean. Less crowds, cooler weather, and better opportunities to see the sights.

[@DebSs1]

I'm booked for one year from now, and I booked the same hotel in Barcelona!

[@user-kz7nm9xw6i]

There are some cities that are a hour plus drive from the port like Rome, Florence, Venice or Athens. Sure, there are excursions but I you don’t really get enough time. So if those cities are on your bucket list, I suggest picking a cruise with them as your embarkation/disembarkation port so you can spend more time there.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good advice

[@doktordermedizin]

I once made the mistake of taking a day trip to Rome and Athens. This is pure stress! 2 hour bus ride or more if there is a traffic jam, you have very little time in the city and I overestimated the public transport system there: the bus just didn't come and we couldn't visit many of the sights or not for long enough because we had too much time on our hands spent on arrival.On our next trip there will be stops in Rome and Athens, but I will stay on board or do small activities in the surrounding area. Instead, I have Rome and Athens as the start and end of the trip and can plan my days there according to my own taste without stress.Florence is also a case in point; here it is better to only go to Pisa if you only have one day.@@LifeWellCruised

[@davidlodato9276]

Good timing! We are in the process of planning our first Mediterranean cruise in the fall of 2025!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Excellent!! Great cruise 👏

[@robertfrank5839]

My wife and I are planning our first med cruise June 2024! Theres so much to plan 😅

[@Angiehere-1]

We leave Oct. 30, 2023 on the Beyond. It’s a transatlantic!

[@vmarney]

We leave on Oct. 1 2023 for 28 days-so excited, yet nervous about the length…. We will be sailing with Holland America.😊

[@Angiehere-1]

@@vmarney I can’t leave my pets that long. I have feral cats that depend on me. Enjoy your trip!