What Cruise Line Goes to Italy Discover Top Picks for 2024

Several top cruise lines, including MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean, offer exceptional 2024 voyages to Italy, with stops in iconic destinations like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Whether you’re seeking luxury, family-friendly amenities, or budget-conscious options, these lines provide diverse itineraries—ranging from Mediterranean highlights to Greek Isles combos—ensuring unforgettable Italian adventures. For 2024, MSC Cruises leads with the most extensive Italy-focused routes, including embarkation from Genoa and Civitavecchia.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises offers luxurious Italy itineraries with premium dining and cultural excursions.
• MSC Cruises provides affordable Mediterranean routes, including multiple Italian ports.
• Norwegian Cruise Line features flexible schedules and diverse Italy-focused shore excursions.
• Royal Caribbean combines Italy stops with innovative onboard activities and family-friendly options.
• Viking Ocean Cruises specializes in immersive, small-ship experiences along Italy’s scenic coastlines.
• Book early to secure prime 2024 Italy sailings, as demand is high.

Why Italy Should Be on Every Cruiser’s Bucket List

Picture this: You wake up to the gentle sway of the sea, the scent of salt in the air, and the first glimpse of a sun-kissed Italian coastline. Maybe it’s the pastel-colored houses of Cinque Terre clinging to the cliffs, the ancient ruins of Rome rising from the horizon, or the golden domes of Venice shimmering in the morning light. Italy isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling, a feast for the senses, and one of the most sought-after cruise destinations in the world. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, the question “what cruise line goes to Italy” is one that pops up often—and for good reason.

Italy’s charm lies in its perfect blend of history, culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. From the Amalfi Coast’s winding coastal roads to the bustling piazzas of Florence and the romantic canals of Venice, every port feels like a scene from a movie. And the best way to experience it all? By sea. Cruising to Italy allows you to wake up in a new city each day, unpack once, and let the Mediterranean do the rest. But with so many cruise lines offering Italian itineraries, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re diving deep into the top cruise lines that sail to Italy in 2024, what makes each unique, and how to pick the perfect one for your travel style.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Italy in 2024

1. Royal Caribbean International – Big Ships, Big Adventures

Royal Caribbean is a favorite among families and thrill-seekers, and for good reason. Their massive, innovative ships—like Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas—offer a theme-park-at-sea experience with rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and even robotic bartenders. But don’t let the size fool you—they also know how to deliver an authentic Italian experience.

Royal Caribbean offers several Mediterranean itineraries that include stops in Italy, such as:

• 7-night Western Mediterranean: Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Florence/Pisa (Livorno), and Cannes
• 8-night Adriatic & Greek Isles: Venice (overnight), Kotor, Corfu, Athens, and Split

What sets them apart? Their “Cruise Planner” tool lets you book shore excursions, dining, and entertainment in advance. For example, in Naples, you can pre-book a guided tour to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, or a cooking class to learn how to make real Neapolitan pizza. The only downside? Port days can feel rushed due to the number of guests, so plan your excursions wisely.

2. MSC Cruises – Italian Roots, Global Reach

MSC Cruises is an Italian company at heart, so it’s no surprise they offer some of the most authentic Italian itineraries. Their ships, like MSC Grandiosa and MSC Seaside, are modern, elegant, and often feature Italian design touches—think Murano glass chandeliers and onboard piazzas with espresso bars.

MSC sails frequently from Italian ports like Genoa, Civitavecchia, and Venice, making it easy to start your cruise in Italy. Popular 2024 routes include:

• 7-night Western Med: Genoa, Marseille, Barcelona, Palma, Civitavecchia, Naples, and Messina (Sicily)
• 7-night Adriatic: Venice, Split, Dubrovnik, Corfu, and Bari

One standout feature? MSC’s “Fantastica” experience, which includes flexible dining times, free kids’ clubs, and priority boarding. They also offer “MSC for Me”—a smart app that helps you navigate the ship, book shows, and even find your way back to your cabin. A pro tip: Try the onboard Italian restaurant, “Eataly,” for a taste of authentic pasta and regional wines. Just note: English is widely spoken, but you’ll hear more Italian on board than with other lines.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Freestyle Cruising with a Side of Italy

NCL is known for its “freestyle cruising” concept—meaning no assigned dining times, no formal nights, and the freedom to do what you want, when you want. If you value flexibility, this might be your ideal match.

Their Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Breakaway ships sail to Italy on select summer and fall itineraries. For example:

• 10-night Mediterranean from Barcelona: Marseille, Genoa, Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Civitavecchia (Rome), Naples, Messina, Valletta, and Palma
• 7-night Greek Isles & Adriatic: Venice, Kotor, Corfu, Athens, and Mykonos

NCL’s strength? Their wide variety of dining options—from Italian trattorias to steakhouses and sushi bars. In Livorno, you can book a full-day shore excursion to Florence, including a guided Uffizi Gallery tour and a Tuscan wine tasting. The downside? Their ships can feel crowded in peak season, and some passengers report inconsistent service. But if you’re looking for freedom and fun, NCL delivers.

Smaller, More Intimate Options: Luxury and Boutique Lines

1. Regent Seven Seas Cruises – All-Inclusive Italian Elegance

If you’re dreaming of a luxurious, stress-free Italian escape, Regent Seven Seas should be on your radar. Their ships—like Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Splendor—are all-inclusive, meaning your drinks, gratuities, shore excursions, and even business-class airfare are covered in the price.

Regent’s 2024 itineraries include:

• 10-night Amalfi & Riviera Escape: Civitavecchia, Naples, Amalfi, Taormina (Sicily), Valletta, and Barcelona

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• 14-night Grand Mediterranean: Venice, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Athens, Mykonos, Istanbul, and Santorini

What makes Regent special? Their “Unrivaled Space at Sea” philosophy means smaller crowds, larger cabins (all with balconies), and a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly 1:1.5. In Amalfi, you might get a private boat tour of the coast, while in Taormina, a guide takes you through ancient Greek ruins with views of Mount Etna. The catch? Prices are steep—think $10,000+ per person for a 10-night cruise. But for those who want to travel in style, it’s worth every euro.

2. Viking Ocean Cruises – Cultural Immersion at a Leisurely Pace

Viking is the go-to for travelers who love history, culture, and a more relaxed pace. Their ships, like Viking Star and Viking Orion, carry just 930 guests, so it never feels crowded. And their focus on enrichment—think onboard lectures, cooking demos, and destination-focused entertainment—makes them ideal for curious minds.

Popular Viking itineraries in 2024 include:

• 12-night Italian Sojourn: Rome, Sorrento, Amalfi, Taormina, Valletta, and Barcelona
• 14-night Adriatic & Greek Odyssey: Venice, Split, Kotor, Corfu, Athens, and Santorini

Viking’s standout feature? Free shore excursions in every port. In Rome, you’ll get a guided tour of the Colosseum and Vatican Museums. In Sorrento, a lemon grove tour and limoncello tasting. They also include beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. One thing to note: Viking doesn’t have casinos or Broadway-style shows—this is for travelers who want to explore, not party.

3. Azamara – Overnight Stays and Hidden Gems

Azamara, now part of Royal Caribbean Group, specializes in “destination immersion.” Their ships, like Azamara Quest and Azamara Pursuit, carry around 700 guests and often stay overnight in ports—perfect for experiencing Italy after dark.

2024 highlights:

• 12-night Amalfi Coast & Tuscany: Civitavecchia, Naples, Amalfi, Sorrento, Livorno, and Monte Carlo
• 11-night Adriatic & Ionian Escape: Venice, Kotor, Corfu, and Athens

Azamara’s “Destination Immersion” program includes late-night departures, cultural events, and even “AzAmazing Evenings”—private concerts or performances in iconic locations. For example, in Venice, you might attend an opera in a historic palazzo. They also offer “Cruise Global, Connect Local” shore excursions, like a truffle hunt in Tuscany or a pasta-making class in Bologna. The downside? Limited onboard entertainment and fewer dining options than larger lines.

What to Expect in Italian Ports: A Port-by-Port Breakdown

Rome (Civitavecchia) – The Eternal City

Most Rome cruises dock in Civitavecchia, about an hour from the city center. The port is well-connected by train, bus, and private transfers. Must-see: The Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. Pro tip: Book a private transfer or guided tour to avoid long lines and get the most out of your limited time.

Naples – Gateway to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

Naples is gritty, authentic, and full of character. From here, you can visit:

• Pompeii and Herculaneum (ancient Roman cities preserved by Vesuvius)
• Mount Vesuvius (hike to the crater!)
• Amalfi Coast day trips (Positano, Ravello, Sorrento)

Warning: Naples can be chaotic. Stick to organized tours or hire a local guide for safety and efficiency.

Florence/Pisa (Livorno) – Tuscan Treasures

Livorno is a functional port, but the real draw is the 1.5-hour train ride to Florence. Don’t miss: The Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Duomo. For Pisa, the Leaning Tower is a quick visit—plan for 2-3 hours max. Tip: Take the early train to Florence to avoid crowds.

Venice – A Floating Masterpiece

Venice is one of the most magical cruise ports—ships glide right into the lagoon. But it’s also crowded. Best times to explore: Early morning or late evening. Book a gondola ride, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and wander the backstreets to find hidden gems. Note: Venice has a tourist tax for day-trippers (€5), which is often included in cruise excursions.

Messina (Sicily) – Island Vibes and Ancient Ruins

From Messina, you can visit:

• Taormina (clifftop town with Greek theater views)
• Mount Etna (Europe’s tallest active volcano)
• Ancient Greek ruins in nearby Syracuse or Agrigento

Tip: Sicilian cuisine is a must—try arancini, cannoli, and fresh seafood.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your Style

Family Travelers: Royal Caribbean or MSC

Both offer kids’ clubs, family-friendly cabins, and plenty of onboard activities. Royal Caribbean wins for entertainment (think water slides and surf simulators), while MSC stands out for its Italian flair and affordable pricing.

Romantic Getaways: Regent or Viking

Regent’s all-inclusive luxury and Viking’s cultural focus make them ideal for couples. Think sunset dinners, private excursions, and intimate onboard spaces.

Adventure Seekers: NCL or Azamara

NCL’s freestyle approach lets you customize your trip, while Azamara’s overnight stays and unique excursions (like truffle hunting) add a sense of discovery.

Budget-Conscious Travelers: MSC or NCL

MSC often has promotions like “Kids Sail Free,” while NCL’s “Free at Sea” perks (free drinks, specialty dining, or excursions) can save hundreds.

Culture Enthusiasts: Viking or Azamara

Both prioritize education and immersion. Viking’s free excursions and Azamara’s “AzAmazing Evenings” bring history to life.

2024 Italy Cruise Itinerary Comparison Table

Cruise Line	Sample Itinerary	Ship Name	Best For	Price Range (per person, 7 nights)
Royal Caribbean	Barcelona → Rome → Naples → Florence → Cannes	Symphony of the Seas	Families, thrill-seekers	$1,800 – $3,500
MSC Cruises	Genoa → Marseille → Barcelona → Rome → Naples → Sicily	MSC Grandiosa	Families, budget travelers	$1,200 – $2,800
Norwegian Cruise Line	Barcelona → Rome → Florence → Naples → Sicily → Malta	Norwegian Epic	Flexible travelers, couples	$1,500 – $3,200
Regent Seven Seas	Rome → Naples → Amalfi → Sicily → Malta → Barcelona	Seven Seas Voyager	Luxury travelers, all-inclusive seekers	$8,000 – $15,000
Viking Ocean	Rome → Sorrento → Amalfi → Sicily → Malta → Barcelona	Viking Star	Cultural explorers, history lovers	$4,500 – $7,000
Azamara	Venice → Kotor → Corfu → Athens → Mykonos → Santorini	Azamara Quest	Adventure seekers, immersive experiences	$3,000 – $5,500

Final Tips for Booking Your Italian Cruise

So, what cruise line goes to Italy? The answer depends on you—your budget, travel style, and what you want to experience. But here are a few final tips to help you decide:

• Book early: Italian cruises sell out fast, especially in peak season (June–August). Early birds get the best cabins and pricing.
• Consider shoulder season: May or September offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
• Pack smart: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Italy’s cobblestone streets and hills are tough on feet.
• Use the cruise line’s app: Most lines have apps for booking excursions, checking dining times, and navigating the ship.
• Don’t over-schedule: It’s tempting to pack every port with tours, but leave room to wander, relax, and enjoy la dolce vita.

Italy by sea is more than a vacation—it’s a journey through time, taste, and beauty. Whether you’re sipping espresso in a Venetian café, marveling at Renaissance art in Florence, or hiking an ancient volcano in Sicily, the memories will last a lifetime. So pick your cruise line, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with Italy—one port at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise line goes to Italy with the best Mediterranean itineraries?

Majestic cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offer exceptional Mediterranean routes with stops in iconic Italian ports like Rome (Civitavecchia), Venice, and Naples. These lines feature 7- to 14-day itineraries, combining Italy with Greece, Croatia, and France for a well-rounded experience.

Which luxury cruise line goes to Italy and includes exclusive shore excursions?

Luxury options like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn provide all-inclusive Italian voyages with curated excursions to Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily. Their smaller ships dock closer to city centers, offering a more intimate and immersive experience.

Are there budget-friendly cruise lines that visit Italy in 2024?

Yes! Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises are great value picks, with affordable fares and frequent departures from Italian ports. Their 2024 schedules include Rome, Florence, and the Cinque Terre, often bundled with drink packages or onboard credits.

What cruise line goes to Italy and also explores the Greek Isles?

Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises are top choices for dual-destination sailings, combining Italy’s highlights (Venice, Naples) with Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens. Look for their 10- to 12-day “Mediterranean Grand Adventure” itineraries.

Do any family-friendly cruise lines go to Italy with kid-approved activities?

Disney Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line offer Italy-bound sailings with onboard kids’ clubs, character meetups, and teen lounges. Their ports of call often include Rome and Florence, with family-focused excursions like pizza-making classes and Vespa tours.

What cruise line goes to Italy and specializes in cultural or historical tours?

Holland America Line and Viking Ocean Cruises excel in culturally rich itineraries, featuring guided visits to Pompeii, the Vatican, and Renaissance art museums. Viking’s “Italian Sojourn” cruise even includes overnight stays in Venice for deeper exploration.