The Mediterranean is a romantic holiday destination with its warm climate, sun-kissed beaches, world-class cuisine and its teetering oceanside villages and towns.
This is why millions of people all over the world choose the region as their holiday spot and one of the most romantic ways to explore the area is to go on one of the luxury Mediterranean cruises that leave the UK on a weekly basis.
In this guide, we look at the most romantic cruise destinations for couples, from the Greek islands and Italy to Croatia and Montenegro. To help pick the most romantic destinations in the Mediterranean we’ve contacted some expert travel bloggers.
Santorini and the islands of Greece
Recommended cruise: Santorini cruises
Paula and Gordon are expert travel writers who share their experiences through their blog Contented Traveller. The pair highly recommends the islands of Greece and, in particular, Santorini.
“It would have to be the islands of Greece, and yes, probably Santorini. Actually, it could be anywhere in this amazing country. It is worth every accolade, as Greece exudes history, culture, amazing food, and just damn nice people.”
Recommended romantic activity
If you are looking to spoil your other half whilst in Greece, Paula and Gordon recommend taking them to a local taverna.
“Eating and drinking at a local taverna, watching the world go by; looking at amazing views, and probably one another as you realise how wonderful life is.”
Italy
Recommended cruise: 9-night Italy cruise
An unsurprising choice on our list is Italy. A country where you'll be swept away by quaint seaside villages, pastoral countryside, idyllic islands, dramatic mountains, and ancient historic cities such as Rome.
The country is regarded as the most romantic destination by Wibke Carter of Eating Italy, who offer non-touristy, food-related experiences.
“Undoubtedly, one of the most romantic destinations in the Mediterranean is Italy. In Bella Italia, it all comes together: ancient culture and traditions, natural beauty, tempting food and drink, and a seducing language. The Italians have love in their DNA so much that even their capital Roma means love (Amor) spelt backwards.”
Recommended romantic activity
Wibke Carter says loved-up couples are spoilt for choice in Italy.
“There are endless romantic attractions and activities in Italy but don't miss watching the world float by from a gondola in Venice or pop that important question on top of the Spanish Steps in Rome. Tour the Amalfi Coast in a convertible vintage car and experience an unforgettable sunset over Florence's skyline from the Piazzale Michelangelo.”
Côte d’Azur, France
Recommended cruise: French riviera cruises
Janice Chung, who after travelling to France over 30 times has set-up a blog called France Travel Tips to advise people what to do in the country, recommends heading to the Côte d’Azur.
“The Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. After all, this is the area where film star Grace Kelly met her future husband, Prince Rainier of Monaco. Couples will have their pick of top-rated restaurants and local bistros where seafood will be one of the highlights. Scattered all along the coast are picturesque towns and ports. There’s the casino in Monte Carlo, the international film festival in Cannes, the promenade along the beach in Nice, the Calanques (narrow inlets with white cliffs) near Cassis, and the yachts in Saint Tropez.”
Recommended romantic activity
Janice adds, “While sunbathing, water sports and hiking are particularly popular in the south coast, one of the most romantic things to do is drive along one of the three mountain roadways (corniches) which run along the coastline. They present spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, one can make a stop in Eze, located between Nice and Monte Carlo. It’s a hilltop town renowned for its views, medieval village, and exotic, tropical garden and is well worth the visit.”
Spain
Recommended cruise: 7-night Spain voyage
Lauren Aloise grew up in an Italian American family where three-hour meals were the norm. After ten years in the restaurant industry, she moved to Spain where she launched a popular Spanish food blog and the award-winning food tour company, Devour Tours.
She believes Spain is the most romantic destination in the Mediterranean, “Spain is undoubtedly one of the Mediterranean's gems. From a stop in awe-inspiring Barcelona to see Gaudí's masterpieces to a traditional paella on the beach in beautiful Valencia, this is a romantic region for travellers to enjoy. Nature lovers will enjoy the local beaches, many of which are small cove beaches that allow for a quiet and intimate day in the sun.”
Recommended romantic activity
Lauren Aloise, adds, “For a truly romantic experience, I'd recommend a private food or wine tour with your beloved. From the famous Cava cellars of Catalonia to the hip and trendy tapas bars of Barcelona, there is a tour for everyone in the Spanish Mediterranean. “
Montenegro
Recommended cruise: Kotor cruise
Drew Seaman, the writer behind popular travel blog Drive on the Left, recommends Montenegro and its majestic mountains and breath-taking beaches.
“Our pick for a romantic destination in the Mediterranean would be Montenegro. It is often overlooked by its more popular neighbour Croatia, but it has the same stunning coastline with far fewer people. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge together.”
Recommended romantic activity
Drew adds, “In Kotor, you can hire a private boat and do a tour of the jaw-droppingly beautiful Bay of Kotor. The perfectly clear water and rugged, mountainous landscape are simply amazing. If you want to be a little more active, you can hike up the hill behind Kotor Old Town and catch a perfect sunrise over the bay.”
Opatija, Croatia
Recommended cruise: 7-night Croatia voyage
The coastal town of Opatija may not be a familiar holiday destination to some, but according to Sarah-Jane Begonja, who runs the Chasing the Donkey travel blog, it is the most romantic destination in the Mediterranean.
“Opatija has been a favoured vacation place for European nobility since the 19th century. And, nothing has changed today, except that the everyday man can now enjoy it. Opatija is a lovely town which boasts a long seafront promenade, perfect for a romantic sunset walk. In Opatija, you can also enjoy wonderful green parks, and some of Croatia's finest restaurants and cafes, such as Bevanda.”
Recommended romantic activity
“Head to Bevanda, which is regularly voted in the top places to eat, as well as having arguably the best view of any restaurant in Croatia. Positioned at the water's edge, here you'll find classic Croatian cuisine with a hint of modern touches. Seafood rules the menu and I suggest you try the local Kvarner scampi for a taste of the region.
“Positioned amidst the mountains and the sea, Opatija is home to many wellness hotels that all feature spas & wellness centres which add to the romantic vibe.”