Exploring The Mediterranean: What's The Cost?

The price of travelling to the Mediterranean varies depending on the destination, the time of year, and the type of holiday. For example, a Mediterranean cruise is cheaper in the winter than in the summer, with the average price of a 7-night cruise being $848 per person, compared to $1218 in the peak summer season. The Spanish island of Ibiza is the most expensive Mediterranean destination according to a 2017 study, with Bulgaria offering the cheapest resorts.

Mediterranean cruise costs vary by ship and time of year

The cost of a Mediterranean cruise can vary significantly depending on factors such as the cruise line, ship size and amenities, time of year, and personal preferences.

Cruise Line and Ship Size:

Royal Caribbean, for example, offers a range of cruise ships in the Mediterranean, from their oldest to their newest vessels. The price of a cruise on their newer ships will typically be higher than that of their older ships. Larger ships also tend to be more expensive than smaller ones. For instance, an 8-night Greek Isles cruise on their Vision Class ship, the Rhapsody of the Seas, costs $1658.28 for two adults in an ocean view cabin, while the same cruise on their Quantum Class ship, the Odyssey of the Seas, costs $2998.14.

Time of Year:

The time of year you choose to cruise the Mediterranean can greatly impact the cost of your trip. Peak season, which falls during the summer months of June, July, and August, is the most expensive time to cruise. The highest fares are typically found in July and August, when demand is highest and ships are usually near full capacity. Cruising during the shoulder season, which includes the months of April, May, September, and October, can result in significant savings. For example, a 7-night Western Mediterranean cruise on the Symphony of the Seas in mid-April costs $2999.48 for two adults in an ocean view balcony cabin, while the same cruise in mid-July costs $4338.40.

Winter cruises are the cheapest option, with November and February departures being particularly affordable. Cruising during the winter means colder weather and less time spent on outdoor activities, but it also offers the benefits of cheaper prices, less crowded destinations, and fewer queues.

Personal Preferences:

The total cost of your cruise will also depend on your personal preferences, such as the type of cabin you choose, any extra packages you add on (e.g. drink packages), and any shore excursions you book. These additional costs can vary widely from person to person, even if they paid the same base cruise fare.

Alternative Mediterranean Travel Options:

If you're looking for a Mediterranean vacation but want to explore options beyond cruising, there are a variety of destinations to consider. The Mediterranean encompasses a wide range of countries and offers a variety of experiences to suit different budgets.

For example, if you're seeking a beach vacation, Bulgaria offers some of the cheapest resorts in the Mediterranean, with Sunny Beach providing affordable options for holiday essentials. Spain's Costa del Sol is another budget-friendly option, with the city of Málaga and resorts like Torremolinos and Benalmádena offering reasonable prices.

For those seeking a balance between culture and affordability, Valencia, Spain, provides an excellent combination of museums, beaches, and ancient heritage, with meals in casual downtown restaurants costing around USD $13. Athens, Greece, is another option, offering millennia of history and easy access to nearby beaches, with dining costing as little as USD $13 on average.

If you're willing to venture off the beaten path, the Black Sea Coast offers attractive fares and is becoming increasingly trendy.

No matter your budget and travel style, the Mediterranean has something to offer, whether it's cruising on a grand ship or exploring historic cities and sunny beaches.

Shore excursions can be expensive

The price of travelling to the Mediterranean varies depending on the destination and the time of year. For example, the average price of a 7-night Mediterranean cruise is $848 per person, but during the peak summer season, this can increase to $1218. In contrast, a 7-night Mediterranean cruise during winter can be as low as $430.

When it comes to specific destinations, there can be a significant price difference between popular tourist spots and less-visited locations. For instance, Spain, France, Italy, and Croatia tend to be more expensive during the peak season, whereas places along the Black Sea Coast offer more reasonable deals.

Another way to save money on shore excursions is to opt for group tours. A small-group experience from Civitavecchia, limited to 8 passengers, offers an overview of Rome at a more affordable price. Group tours are also available in Athens, such as a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which allows for flexibility and provides a good orientation to the city.

While shore excursions can be costly, there are strategies to make them more budget-friendly. Booking independently, choosing smaller or group tours, and taking advantage of cancellation policies can help reduce expenses.

Ibiza is the Mediterranean's most expensive destination

Ibiza, a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the most expensive destinations in the Mediterranean. In 2024, it was ranked as the third most expensive destination in the region, surpassed only by Saint-Tropez and Capri-Positano on the Amalfi Coast. Ibiza's accommodation and real estate prices are notably high, with a standard overnight stay in a hotel close to the sea costing around 280-370 PLN per night. The island's popularity as a tourist destination, particularly for its beaches, towns, climate, and nightlife, contributes to the high demand and cost of accommodations.

A basket of typical holiday purchases in Ibiza, including a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, insect repellent, a bottle of beer, and a three-course dinner for two, can cost upwards of £131.02 (€149). This is significantly higher than nearby resorts such as Mallorca, where the average price of similar holiday essentials is £88.98 (€101). Ibiza's dining options range from expensive restaurants to cheaper alternatives. A meal at a high-end restaurant can cost upwards of €30, while a good dinner at a more affordable eatery can be found for a reasonable price.

Ibiza's real estate market caters to both investors and those seeking a permanent residence. Property prices are high, with a two-bedroom apartment in Santa Eularia Des Riu starting at €1 million, and luxury villas with pools costing upwards of €2-3 million. The island's capital, Ibiza, is the most expensive city, with apartment prices starting at €570,000.

Excursions and activities in Ibiza can also be costly, with prices ranging from €65 for an evening cruise to €140 for a catamaran trip to Formentera. Transportation costs should also be considered, as renting a car can be expensive, ranging from €5 for a small city car to €15 for an SUV.

Overall, Ibiza is a sought-after Mediterranean destination with high prices for accommodations, dining, real estate, and activities. Its exclusive reputation and popularity among tourists contribute to the elevated costs associated with visiting the island.

Bulgaria has the Mediterranean's cheapest resorts

Bulgaria: Home to the Mediterranean's Cheapest Resorts

Bulgaria is dotted with luxury beach resorts along the Black Sea Coast, amid the Rila and Pirin mountain ranges. These resorts offer a luxury escape at a reasonable price.

Zornitza Family Estate Relais & Châteaux

This family-run boutique hotel is tucked amid vineyards and rocky peaks in the Tuscan style. It features a winery with a large selection of wines, a spa centre with thermal water pools, an eco-farm, and a golfing terrain. The aEstivum Restaurant offers truffles in everything from salads to desserts, while the Bistro 55 fuses Bulgarian, Asian, and American cuisine.

Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort

Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort is an all-inclusive seaside establishment within walking distance of Sunny Beach, one of Bulgaria's most popular tourist destinations. The resort offers upgraded rooms with panoramic sea views, an indoor and outdoor pool, a gym, multiple saunas, and personalised treatments at the spa. There are four on-site restaurants serving Italian, Asian, and Bulgarian cuisine.

Helena Sands Hotel

Helena Sands Hotel is located near the centre of Varna town, on the northern Black Sea Coast. The hotel features classical architecture, elegant rooms with modern furnishings, and natural colours. The spa offers thermal-water treatments, an indoor and outdoor pool, and a sundeck. There are two restaurants and four bars on-site, and a playground for children.

Duni Marina Royal Palace

Duni Marina Royal Palace is a polished, all-inclusive seaside resort near the ancient city of Nessebar. The upgraded rooms feature refined colours, warm furnishings, and panoramic sea views. The spa offers an indoor and outdoor pool, a jacuzzi, a gym, and multiple saunas. The resort has four restaurants serving Italian, Asian, and Bulgarian cuisine.

Medite Spa Resort & Villas

Medite Spa Resort & Villas offers a pristine rustic style, upscale pools, and balmy thermal waters. Guests can stay in villas with their own hot tubs or opt for brightly coloured rooms with access to a private outdoor pool. The resort features a spacious spa, an infinity pool overlooking the town of Sandanski and the Pirin Mountains, a gourmet restaurant, a lobby bar, and a pool bar. There is also a large outdoor pool reserved for children.

The Vineyards Spa & Resort

The Vineyards Spa & Resort is a gated villa and apartment complex on a lush hilltop in the countryside of Burgas. The architecture features red roof tiles, wooden clapboarding, and stone tiling, while the interiors boast contemporary furnishings and modern amenities. The complex offers various sports facilities, restaurants, and bars.

Other Honourable Mentions

• Grand Hotel & Spa Primoretz
• Maxi Park Hotel & Spa
• Burgas Beach Resort
• Hotel Aqua Paradise Resort
• Balneo Complex & Spa Aquatonik
• BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas
• Omaya Eco Village
• St. Sofia Golf Club Hotel
• Grand Hotel Sveti Vlas

Cheapest time to cruise the Mediterranean is winter

The cheapest time to cruise the Mediterranean is during the winter months. The average price of a 7-night cruise in the winter is $430 per person, compared to $1218 in the peak summer season. November and February cruises are usually the cheapest, with January also being a good option if you want to avoid the Christmas price surge.

While winter cruises are cheaper, there are some drawbacks. The colder weather means less time spent on the top deck and by the pool, and you'll need to pack warmer clothes. It's also not school holiday time, so it might not be the best option if you're travelling with children.

However, there are benefits beyond the lower prices. The cruise destinations are considerably less busy in winter, and you'll rarely have to queue for anything. The ports in the Southern Mediterranean, including Cyprus and Egypt, enjoy bright and sunny days almost all year round. You'll also find that museums and galleries are quieter, and the atmosphere in port cities is relaxed.

If you're looking for a balance between price, weather, and crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are also good options. While prices are higher than in winter, they are still lower than in summer, and the weather is more comfortable for exploring.

Frequently asked questions