Historic cities dot the shores of the Mediterranean Sea . On a cruise that takes in its highlights , you ’ ll see many of Spain , France and Italy ’ s best bits . Although Spain ’ s beaches bask in heat and its markets are alive with activity and the salty aromas of the bountiful sea , the days here are often surprisingly quiet . Quieter than the nights — which are a riot of music , song and laughter from sunset until dawn . Dinners start at 11pm , drinks start at one . The dancing kicks off at three and the streets fill with returning revellers as the sun starts to rise . It ’ s a country with endless energy and opportunities for funloving travellers . Whether exploring urban Barcelona or hedonistic Ibiza , you ’ ll be glad to have a cruise cabin to recover in after any Spanish evening . Next stop : Spain ’ s northern neighbour , whose French Riviera has long represented the epitome of glamour , wealth and ostentation . It ’ s the favoured haunt of film stars and yacht-bound billionaires , a quintessentially French destination bathed in warm Mediterranean light . You ’ ll get a glimpse at the glitz of the Riviera style as you pull into Cannes on your luxury cruise . Finally Italy ; this cruise route makes stops at some of its greatest ancient wonders , including its resplendent Renaissance art . It will take you within reach of Naples ’ fragrant street food and the exquisitely carved buildings lining Rome ’ s streets .