How I Traded 7 Hotels & 10 Train Stations for a Balcony & an Aperol

This one-way sailing from Barcelona to Venice was the ultimate Mediterranean sampler—Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia—all without the usual European travel stress. No repacking, no navigating unfamiliar train stations with roller bags, and definitely no €50 taxi rides from airports on the edge of town. Just pure ease. Each day brought a new country, a new coastline, and a new adventure, all while returning to the same cozy stateroom each night.

If you’ve ever chased the dream of $29 intercity flights only to be hit with surprise baggage fees, transportation costs, and hours lost in transit, this is the smarter upgrade. The cruise turned what could’ve been a logistical headache into a seamless, scenic journey. You’re still exploring iconic destinations, but in between, you’re lounging by the pool, sipping cocktails, or soaking in the spa. It felt like real vacation mode, not just sightseeing on a schedule.

Onboard experience

Norwegian Epic hits the sweet spot between vibrant and chill. You’ll find all the fun and energy you want, but it’s just as easy to carve out quiet corners for yourself. My personal highlights:

• Dining: Cagney’s Steakhouse was an indulgent favorite—I still think about those truffle parmesan fries and the silky crème brûlée. You’ll want to make reservations early, especially on formal nights.

• Entertainment: “Burn the Floor” was electric—Broadway-level dancing and music that brought the whole theater to life. Don’t skip it.

• Relaxation: The Mandara Spa’s thermal suite became my daily reset button. Picture this: panoramic ocean views from heated loungers, steam rooms, and hydrotherapy pools. It was my sea day ritual and worth every penny.

Pro tip: Mornings are magic—grab breakfast early on the deck or order in-room dining to enjoy coffee with sunrise views before the ship comes alive.

Ports of call: What I loved

• Barcelona, Spain: I arrived two nights early, which I’d absolutely recommend. It gave me time to adjust and explore Gaudí’s whimsical works without rushing. Dinner at El Nacional—a multi-restaurant food hall—was a tapas dream.

• Villefranche-sur-Mer, France: Took the scenic train solo to Monaco. It was fast, easy, and stunning. I found a quiet harbor café and lingered over a glass of rosé—no schedule, no stress.

• Florence, Italy: Pisa wasn’t calling, so I stayed in Florence. Walked the Duomo, soaked in Renaissance art, and ended with a rooftop spritz. The city is compact, walkable, and perfect for slow wandering.

• Rome, Italy: I’d been before, so I passed on the big sites and did a food tour through Trastevere—charming alleys, local bites, and stories from a passionate Roman guide. If it’s your first time though, get to the Colosseum early—it’s worth the hype.

• Amalfi Coast (Salerno): Ravello was my favorite here—peaceful, elevated views, and fewer crowds than Amalfi or Positano. It felt like discovering a secret garden.

• Messina, Sicily: Easy to explore on foot. I timed it right for the noon performance at the astronomical clock tower—surprisingly cool, especially for a freebie!

• Corfu, Greece: My top pick. I rented a car and drove out to Paleokastritsa Beach. Think lush cliffs, crystal-clear water, and not a tour bus in sight. It was quiet, local, and completely idyllic.

• Kotor, Montenegro: The fortress hike is no joke, but the views are worth every step. Picture postcard-level beauty. Rewarded myself with a cold beer at the bottom—bliss.

• Split, Croatia: Diocletian’s Palace is one of those places where you can just wander for hours. Ended with a leisurely seafood lunch right on the waterfront. Perfect final port.

• Ravenna/Venice, Italy: The cruise disembarks near Ravenna, but I stayed an extra night in Venice—highly recommend. Wandering the canals in the evening, gelato in hand, no cruise crowd in sight… it was the perfect finale.

Unpack once, see nine incredible cities. The ease of settling into your cabin and waking up in a new destination every day is priceless—no packing and unpacking, no scrambling to check out or catch trains. This seamless experience alone makes the journey worth it.

Balcony rooms are 100 percent worth the upgrade. Imagine starting your day with breathtaking sunrises over the Mediterranean, the gentle sea breeze, and uninterrupted views of the coastline as you sail from one historic city to the next. It’s a little luxury that makes every morning unforgettable.

Not every port requires booking an organized tour. Some of the richest travel memories come from wandering charming streets, discovering hidden cafes, and experiencing the local vibe at your own pace. Don’t feel pressured to pack your day with guided activities—sometimes the best adventures happen off the beaten path.

Forget the hassle of dragging luggage over cobblestone streets or juggling hotel check-ins in every city. This cruise style of travel simplifies everything—one home on the water for the whole trip, effortless transitions between destinations, and zero stress about logistics.

Schedule your excursions privately whenever possible. Avoid the crowds, packed buses, and following a tour guide’s flag by opting for private tours. This way, you get personalized attention, flexible timing, and a more intimate experience that lets you enjoy each destination on your own terms.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.