Top 5 Mediterranean Destinations Onboard Symphony of the Seas

Roam Rome’s Masterpieces

Few cities in the world rival Rome for its beauty, culture and 28 centuries of history! From the iconic Colosseum – stomping grounds of basher-bearing gladiators – to Michelangelo’s magnificent frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, the Eternal City is endlessly fascinating.

Begin your exploration in Trastevere, a hot-spot of romantic piazzas, ivy-draped alleys and buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, such as the exquisite church of Santa Cecilia. A local foodie district, Trastevere is the place for unforgettable alfresco dining and great people-watching – pastimes Romans take very seriously! Shopping is always on point here too, with a wide variety of bohemian boutiques and art stores lining its winding streets.

A 20 minute walk from Trastevere, Vatican City’s spiritual allure attracts Romans and tourists alike. Check out the Vatican Museums, a wow-worthy complex of 26 masterpiece-laden museums, including the Sistine Chapel. Also try to take in Saint Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world and an impressive feat of architecture. Cap off your Roman holiday with a visit to the Colosseum and the Forum, where trekking through ancient ruins will transport you to toga-wearing times.

Regardless of where you go in Rome and whether you decide to wine and dine your time away, delve deep into history, or do a bit of both, one thing is certain: arrivederci is a word that won’t come easy.

Drink In Barcelona the Beautiful

From the Gothic beauty of the Catedral de Barcelona to Gaudi’s shimmering Casa Batlló, Barcelona is unequivocally one-of-a-kind. The city that captivated Picasso’s heart boasts The Picasso Museum, with five stunning palaces housing the master’s work.

Another must-see attraction is Park Güell, a fantasyland featuring the city’s famous mosaic lizard and a colourful landscape of colonnades, spirals and more. Wish to continue enjoying the outdoors? Barcelona has some great beaches. La Barceloneta is close to the city’s main attractions, and is brimming with water sports and chiringuitos – seaside establishments where locals feast on just-caught seafood.

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without a stroll through the famous La Rambla, a pedestrian boulevard lined with restaurants, shops and street performers. Keep your eye open for human statues: emblematic of Barcelona’s line-blurring whimsy, they serve as playful reminders that not everything is as it may seem!

Say Oui to Marseilles

A melting pot of southern French and North African cultures, Marseilles is the place to explore tantalising cuisines, fascinating history and one of Europe’s most exciting art scenes. The city’s heart is Le Vieux Port (the Old Port), where you’ll find charming historical buildings alongside modern testaments to the city’s recent renaissance – such as the stunning 45,000 sqm museum of European and Mediterranean civilizations (MuCEM), the sleekly redesigned wharves, and the steel-canopied open-air pavilion.

After visiting the museum, take your pick of many outdoor dining options with fabulous views of the city harbour. You’ll savour delicious flavours that fuse ethnicities and combine the freshest seafood, like bouillabaisse, a local standout. And as you enjoy every mouthwatering morsel while taking in the panoramic sights of yachts bobbing atop indigo waters, you’ll fully understand why many consider Marseilles France’s most irresistible destination.

Dive Into Splendid Napoli

What do the awe-inspiring San Gennaro catacombs, Capri’s stunning Blue Grotto and the tragic ruins of Pompei have in common? They can all be readily accessed from Naples, a bustling city full of architectural gems and wonderful dining and shopping.

Naples' churches are a great way to tour its treasures. Check out the 13th century San Domenico Maggiore, an opulent place of worship adorned with intricate gold inlays, towering columns and a dramatic altar. If you take a tour of the sacristy, you’ll visit the room once occupied by St. Thomas Aquinas!

Another transcendent experience involves visiting the San Gennaro catacombs, where the remains of St. Agrippinus, the first patron of Naples, are among those laid to rest.

When you are ready to refuel and refresh above-ground, make your way to the Sanita district and its many cafes and shops. It goes without saying that, to do Naples right, your culinary checklist should include Neapolitan pizza – preferably at a place like L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, where they’ve been tossing up heavenly pies since 1870!

Play Hard in Palma

Although known for its beaches, Palma de Mallorca is an all-round amazing holiday destination offering something special for everyone. Foodies will flip over the indoor San Juan Mercado Gastronomico, with its diverse and delicious offerings – from fresh oysters and champagne to burgers and croquettes. Art aficionados will ahhh over the studios where Joan Miró worked right up to his death in 1983, and will also enjoy touring the adjoining gallery and sculpture garden.

For history buffs, the circular Bellver Castle, once a refuge from the plague, and the spectacular sandstone cathedral of La Seu, 600 years in the making, are top bucket-list picks.

Those in for red-hot nightlife will find Palma suitably steamy. Start the evening in Abaco, a 17th-century palace-turned-bar, ravishingly decorated with sculptures, fountains and caged birds. Then head to La Llotja or Passeig Maritim where many clubs stay open until dawn.

Finally, did we mention the beaches? Everyone agrees on the undeniable need to soak up sunshine and swim in Palma’s top claim to fame!

If you are looking to book a cruise to the Mediterranean in 2023, 2024 or beyond, Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas has the itineraries that make for unforgettable holidays. We look forward to welcoming you onboard!