reviews of costa cruise

Costa Cruise Reviews

1 - 10 of 1,513 Costa Cruise Reviews

Sail Date: April 2024

Review for a Europe - Western Mediterranean Cruise on Costa Smeralda

I want to give a fair review although this is the worst of my cruises after their staff refused to return items we lost in the cabin. We ended up on this cruise for the last minute due to change of other travel plans. Before booking I read all the negative reviews of this cruise company and viewed many youtube videos with ship tours, and most of them quite neutral. I thought I knew what to ... Read More

Sail Date: March 2024

Review for a South America Cruise on Costa Favolosa

Costa Fervolosa Cruise. Review Employees: With exception of one on the third floor, at the reception table, all others were sweet, gentle and willing to help. Big kudos to the cashier at the Amarillo Ice Cream and coffee place. He is very gentil. Also kudos to the Indian employees at the cheeseburger joint. They are amazing. The App: The app is a joke. It doesn’t work when you ... Read More

Review for a Caribbean - All Cruise on Costa Serena

Although izzit international cruise, but the food was not international. Terrible food, Food was cold, and cruise was quite old, casino is very small. And we had to queue long time for the food. Food was really bad on the ship. Repeated food for breakfast and lunch buffets. And no assistant to guide us about the room key, coz we are bunch of elderly, don’t know how to read instruction, no ... Read More

Cabin Type: Inside Classic

Review for a Mediterranean Cruise on Costa Smeralda

A complete mess. The food is tasteless, old, yesterday and cold. Breakfast includes yesterday's cold baked potatoes straight from the fridge. Omelet and scrambled eggs are cold and yesterday. Your kitchen food, tragedy and nightmare. There were not even fresh vegetables like fresh cucumbers or fresh tomatoes. There is no buffet. Food is rationed, the chefs do not understand what the customer ... Read More

Cabin Type: Suite with Ocean View Balcony

Review for a Caribbean - All Cruise on Costa Pacifica

We chose this cruise because a group of friends were going and we liked the destination itinerary. Right from the start there were communication issues... the Costa app didn't work for anyone with a US phone. Everyday we were told the app would be working the next day. The only day it worked was our last day in port when we were disembarking the ship. Outside our cabin, we were supposed ... Read More

Sail Date: February 2024

Review for a Middle East Cruise on Costa Toscana

Out of 15 cruises on 5 different cruise lines this one has been the worse and the worst part is a European couple already had warned us on a NCL ship in the Caribbean to stay away from European cruise lines. From Norway them self! Once you take an American cruise you will find the quality of food terrible on the European lines. In Tosca Costana the only salt I tasted was the one I added myself. I ... Read More

9 of us took this cruise from Dubai. The food was terrible with all the inclusive options by buffet. A number of bars were closed including the main pool bar meaning you had to walk down a level and half the length of the ship to get a drink. No waiters around the pools. Buffets completely overcrowded. Rooms were okay and the entertainment was good. It was a five star ship ran like a 2 star ... Read More

Cabin Type: Classic Inside Stateroom

We were on cruise with Friends (8 People), the seating was not as we expected. The costa application did not run for all. Telephone line was not operating. We had one blocked toilet, after steerage cleaning the toilet was dirty… Was changed first departure from Dubai, officially we shall sail at 23.59, but in application they changed timing to 22.59 so we will waiting on back deck to ... Read More

Cabin Type: Classic Balcony Stateroom

Review for a Asia Cruise on Costa Serena

Went on cruise with family on 25/01/2024 to 28/01/2024 First impression was already bad as we were suppose to board on 6pm. However last minute our cruise agent informed us that it will be delayed till 9pm+ It was crowded at the cruise terminal and finally after we boarded it was around 12am+ on the ship. The dumb thing was that they decided to conduct emergency drill practice at 1am+. Did ... Read More

Sail Date: January 2024

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Costa Review

Friday, April 12th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Best for Italian-themed, large-ship cruising for all ages
• 9 ships in the fleet
• Destinations worldwide, but no departures from US ports

Costa Cruises is an Italian-based cruise line that was founded in 1854. It was one of the first companies to offer passenger shipping services and has since grown to become one of the largest cruise lines in the world. Today, Costa Cruises is part of the Carnival Corporation, which also owns several other popular cruise lines.

Plenty of itineraries

Costa Cruises offers a wide range of itineraries to destinations all over the world, including the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and South America. The cruise line has a fleet of nine ships, each with its own unique style and amenities. Costa Cruises caters to a diverse range of travelers, from families with young children to retirees looking for a luxurious getaway, but you'll find your fellow cruisers to be distinctly European on most sailings.

All things Italy

One of the standout features of Costa Cruises is its emphasis on Italian style and culture. Each ship is designed to reflect the warmth and charm of Italy, with a focus on art, music, and cuisine. The ships feature elegant interiors, with plenty of open spaces and natural light. Italian cuisine is a highlight of the dining experience on Costa Cruises, with fresh ingredients and authentic recipes that showcase the flavors of Italy.

No US departure ports

How did Costa do with our comparison cruise: a Caribbean itinerary sailing in March, about a year in advance? There were just four options, one 4-day trip, two 8-day trips, and one 15-day trip. Starting fares ranged from $649 to $1,529 per person, not including taxes, fees, and port expenses. Keep in mind that unless you live in La Romana or Guadeloupe, you'd have to factor in international airfare as well. In fact, for US travelers, every Costa cruise will require an international flight to start: there are no departure ports in the United States. That's not a big deal if you were planning on a cruise in the Middle East or South America anyway, but also not ideal if you live within driving distance of Miami or Galveston, for example, and just wanted a getaway to the Bahamas.

Only water is free

Your base fare with Costa will allow you some of the perks found with our highest-rated cruise lines, like being able to select your cabin and your seating time for the dining room. However, where many cruise lines will give you access to some kind of complimentary beverage, even if it's just lemonade or coffee, everything but water will cost you on Costa ( see what we did there? ). You can either go a la carte, which gets spendy, or purchase the All-Inclusive/Total Comfort fare tier and it will come with a drink package.

Mandatory gratuities

Costa's "service charges" , also known as gratuities, are mandatory and automatically applied to your onboard account. Being an Italian cruise line, those fees are in Euros: $11 per person per night for guests 15+, and half that for children ages 4-14. Unlike some cruise lines that allow you to modify that if you've been unhappy with the service, Costa states that their service fees "cannot be altered" .

Ongoing safety concerns

Our biggest reason for giving Costa a below-average rating is its track record for safety. While it's true that the cruise industry as a whole has had its share of safety incidents over the years, and cruise lines are constantly working to improve their safety practices and protocols to ensure the well-being of their passengers and crew, Costa has had several high-profile incidents, the most significant being the Costa Concordia disaster back in 2012 (resulting in more than two dozen deaths). Despite implementing new safety procedures and improving protocols overall, Costa ships still had collisions in 2017 and 2019, though fortunately there was no loss of life resulting from those incidents.

We recommend choosing a different cruise line

For cruising in Europe, Costa is just one of many options to consider. This cruise line has quite a few rivals in that area, and it doesn't really compete with other companies sailing in the Caribbean. Overall, Costa is not one of our favorite cruise lines in any category, and we recommend looking at competitors serving the destination you're hoping to visit instead.

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The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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Costa Smeralda

Debuted in December 2019, the Costa Smeralda accommodates more than 6,500 passengers and 1,600-plus crew members, making it one of the largest cruise ships within Costa's fleet. The ship was the first within the line (and within the Carnival brand, Costa's parent company) to be powered by liquefied natural gas, the world's cleanest burning fossil fuel.

Stateroom options on Costa Smeralda include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Terrazza cabins, plus two different kinds of suites. While Inside and Ocean View cabins provide basic accommodations and amenities (including a television), the Balcony Terrazza and Suite rooms provide more space and a small- to medium-sized veranda with seating.

Outside of their cabins, cruisers have access to 11 dining options. Sushino at Costa is the cruise line's first sushi bistro delighting guests with an authentic Japanese experience. Those interested in learning more about cooking can test their skills in the kitchen lab and get tips from a top chef. When it's time for a cocktail, guests can head to the Aperol Spritz Bar for the classic orange aperitif.

The cruise ship also features a spa, a skywalk that lines the perimeter of the ship's top deck, boutique shops, a pool and a water park complete with a waterslide. Passengers with children between the ages of 1 and 3 can also take advantage of a supervised kids club.

Costa Smeralda sails throughout the Mediterranean. 

Costa Toscana

The Costa Toscana made its debut in March 2022. The ship is powered by liquefied natural gas, aimed at reducing emissions. Cabins feature a bold color scheme of orange, teal, royal blue and white; stateroom options include interior cabins, outside cabins (which include windows), balcony cabins (with small balconies), terrace cabins (with larger balconies) and suites (with balconies and additional seating space).

Costa Toscana can accommodate 6,600 passengers and 1,500 crew members, and the massive ship boasts 11 restaurants, 19 bars and lounges, and 13 swimming pools (some with waterslides) and hot tubs. Costa Toscana also features a spa offering manicures, pedicures and massages, plus a sauna and a gym. Evening entertainment options run the gamut from shows, live music or dancing in the theater to themed lounges. The ship also offers a kids club for children ages 3 to 11 to enjoy supervised activities.

When it's time for a meal, cruisers can take their pick of cuisine options, including favorites like pizza, sushi, crepes, Italian dishes, Japanese teppanyaki and more.

While many recent cruisers appreciated the features on the ship and the variety of dining options, some note that Italian is the primary language spoken on board (including for many shows), which made it slightly more difficult for English-speaking guests to communicate with staff and other passengers.

The ship sails throughout the Mediterranean, with stops at popular ports like Valencia and Ibiza, Spain , and Rome , and in the Middle East, with stops in Dubai and Abu Dhabi . 

Costa Diadema

The 4,947-passenger Costa Diadema first set sail in 2014 as one of the largest ships in the Costa fleet. Foodies will love that in 2016 the ship became the first in the world to produce fresh mozzarella on board. While there are eight restaurants for passengers to pick from, including four specialty venues that require an extra fee, some travelers said slow service and extra charges at dinner tarnished their dining experiences.

Cruisers were more pleased with their staterooms, which come in Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite categories. All include flat-screen TVs and minibars. Suites come with extra perks like butler service and bathtubs. Those looking for even more pampering can opt for Samsara category cabins, which offer exclusive access to the Samsara Restaurant and Samsara Spa.

As far as onboard entertainment goes, guests can enjoy shows in the three-story theater, dance at the disco or play games in the casino. Cruisers also have access to 11 bars and lounges, duty-free shopping and three pools (one of which is equipped with a retractable glass roof).

Cruising clans will appreciate the family-friendly amenities like kids clubs, a baby pool and a water park, plus activities like laser tag. While some passengers reported a good experience overall, many noted that Diadema's public spaces can feel crowded and the service can be disappointing.

Costa Diadema sails to destinations in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.  

Costa Pacifica

Launched in 2009, Costa Pacifica is among Costa's largest ships, carrying up to 3,780 passengers and 1,110 crew members. Those looking for large-ship facilities and entertainment will like the three-story theater, four pools (two of which have retractable roofs) and 11 bars. Families will be happy to find dedicated kids and teens clubs.

When it comes to dining, guests can choose from five restaurants, including two specialty restaurants that require reservations and an additional fee. Some recent cruisers warned of long buffet lines and cuisine that lacked flavor. Reviewers also noted that while the ship was clean, well-designed and a decent value, it felt overly packed in the public spaces.

With a 3-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, the ship offers less personalization compared to smaller Costa ships. On the upside, past guests praised the ship's comfortable accommodations. Although all cabin categories (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) come equipped with flat-screen TVs, minibars and 24-hour room service, those who spring for suites (including wellness-oriented Samsara suites and cabins) are granted additional perks like priority boarding and unlimited access to the spa.  

Costa Pacifica completes a number of transoceanic sailings. It also sails to destinations throughout the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. 

Costa Deliziosa

Launched in 2010, Costa Deliziosa has a capacity for up to 2,826 passengers and 934 crew members. While the ship is large enough to offer a variety of entertainment options, it's still small enough to dock at tighter ports and offer more immersive itineraries than larger Costa vessels. Activities range from the 4D cinema to a Grand Prix simulator. While children play in age-appropriate youth clubs, adults can sip cocktails at 12 bars and lounges or relax in the two-level Samsara Spa.  

When it comes to dining, Costa Deliziosa features five restaurants, including two specialty spots that require reservations and an additional fee. In the evenings, cruisers can take in a show in the three-story theater, dance in the nightclub or relax in the cigar lounge.

In terms of lodging, all cabins come equipped with minibars, flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. While more than half of the staterooms offer private balconies, passengers staying in a Samsara Spa category room receive other benefits like direct access to the spa and complimentary meals in the specialty Samsara Restaurant. 

Costa Deliziosa sails through the Mediterranean from ports in Rome , Marseille and Venice . 

Costa Favolosa

Introduced in 2011, Costa Favolosa caters to families with amenities like a 4D cinema, four pools, a waterslide and designated kids clubs. While younger guests play at Mondovirtuale – a teen hangout outfitted with game consoles – grown-ups can unwind in the library or receive treatments at the Samsara Spa.

As far as lodging goes, Inside staterooms come appointed with minibars and flat-screen TVs. Guests who stay in one of the larger Samsara cabins or Suites receive extra perks, like a reserved table at the Samsara Restaurant. Additional lodging options include Ocean View and Balcony staterooms and Suites.

Despite being one of Costa's largest ships (it holds 3,800 passengers and 1,110 crew members), many recent cruisers remarked that they were underwhelmed by the ship's daytime entertainment and activities. Another point of contention: the subpar customer service.

Still, the ship boasts 13 bars and five dining venues, including two specialty restaurants (reservations are required and additional fees apply). With its high passenger capacity, you should brace yourself for crowds. On the plus side, the ship allows plenty of time at the ports to explore. 

Costa Favolosa sails throughout the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. 

Costa Fortuna

With 11 bars, five hot tubs, four restaurants and four pools (including one with a retractable roof and another with a waterslide), there's no shortage of options for dining, drinking and entertainment aboard the Costa Fortuna. Cruisers on this ship can also take advantage of its casino, onboard shopping, library, outdoor jogging track and wellness center, complete with a gym, a spa and a sauna.

Originally built in 2003, the ship has the capacity for 3,470 passengers and 1,000-plus crew members. Costa Fortuna provides four different lodging options: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite cabins. All staterooms are equipped with minibars, flat-screen TVs and air conditioning. For an additional fee, 24-hour room service is available. Passengers who splurge on a suite will enjoy extras like butler service, invitations to special events, front-row theater seats and priority boarding and disembarkation.

When it's time for a meal, guests can head to the self-service buffet restaurant for light snacks or meals like pizza, pasta and salad, or dine at the Italian restaurant on board and savor traditional dishes. Meanwhile, nightlife venues range from a wine bar to a theater to a nightclub.

Previous passengers offered mixed reviews of this ship: Some said the prices provide excellent value and that the food is delicious, while others bemoaned the extra fees for some dining venues and said the service needs improvement.

Costa Fortuna sails throughout the Mediterranean. 

Costa Fascinosa

Costa Fascinosa first debuted in 2012 as one of the largest ships in the fleet. Carrying 3,800 passengers and 1,110 crew members, the ship offers a variety of dining and entertainment options geared toward both adults and kids.

Families can catch a flick at the 4D cinema or spend the afternoon at the Aqua Park. Additionally, kids can spend time at age-appropriate youth programs and the children's pool, while adults enjoy one of the 13 bars or get treatments at the two-level Samsara Spa.

For dining, guests can choose from five restaurants, including two specialty dining venues that require reservations and an additional fee. Some recent cruisers noted they were disappointed with their wait times in the dining rooms.

In terms of lodging, about a third of cabins offer balconies, and all cabins come equipped with minibars and flat-screen TVs. Guests can also opt for Samsara category staterooms, which offer unlimited access to the spa and aroma diffusers. That said, some recent cruisers describe the ship's staff members as inattentive and caution that the ship's public areas can feel overly crowded.

Costa Fascinosa offers sailings in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe,  and the Caribbean. 

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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• Costa Smeralda

Fodor’s Expert Review

Ship overview.

Operating since 1948, Costa Cruises is far and away the most popular cruise line for Italians.  With a customer base that is more than 90 percent European, Costa is a small player in the U.S. travel market. However, the brand represents a sizeable chunk of hardware for parent company Carnival Corporation, and two of its megaships—the 185,000-ton Costa Smeralda and its 2022 sister ship Costa Toscana—are among the largest cruise ships at sea, eclipsed in size only by Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class vessels. Smeralda is also notable for being only the second-ever LNG-powered cruise ship to hit the seven seas, resulting in lower carbon emissions. Read More

Costa Smeralda plies a Mediterranean circuit connecting France, Spain, and Italy. Passengers can start and end the seven-day loop journey at any of six top ports, offering an international experience without the international price tag. Outfitted out with four swimming pools, a water park with a bevy of slides, casino, stage shows, Costa Smeralda is not much different from the megaship brands known to American cruisers. But while the operation may feel familiar, the Smeralda experience injects a healthy dose of Italian style, especially with the ship’s robust menu of pastas and regional specialties.

For someone who doesn’t speak Italian, a Costa Smeralda cruise provides a gentler immersion into Italian culture than an independent land vacation.  Virtually all guest-facing crew members speak English, menus are available in multiple languages, and shore excursions are segregated by language. Costa further eases the landing by having several liaisons onboard dedicated to non-Italian speaking guests. These ambassadors first meet their dedicated language groups during the safety briefing at the start of the cruise and remain accessible throughout the voyage to smooth over any hiccups foreign guests encounter.

With interior cabins selling for under $1,000 per person, even during summer, Costa Smeralda is a good option for anyone wishing to combine a traditional Italian holiday with a Mediterranean cruise.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

What to expect on board, staterooms & cabins.

Costa Smeralda has the standard array of cabins and suites, all featuring subdued, modern décor.  Standard throughout: queen-size bed (convertible to two single beds), desk with ottoman seat, bathroom with shower, hair dryer, pool towel, 40-inch TV screen (most channels will be European), mini-safe, mini-bar, USB outlet, 110 AC power outlet, telephone. Some cabins are equipped to sleep three or four, with a pull-down berth and/or sofa bed. 

Least expensive options are Interior cabins, which are found throughout the ship and do not have a window—these can be as small as 140 square feet (snug for two).  There are a variety of Sea View cabins with a rectangular window. Sea Balcony cabins start at 146 square feet inside, plus balcony (about 44 square feet), while 106 Sea Terrace units on decks 8 and 9 are larger and have a balcony about twice as deep. Families can spring for the Sea Terrace Premium units, which include an interior covered terrace with day beds (ideal for cool-weather sailings), plus an oversized balcony; these sleep four. There are 28 suites, all located at the four corners of the ship, fore and aft, with wraparound balconies.

As ADA requirements don’t apply to ships not sailing out of the US, information on Costa Smerelda’s accessibility features is somewhat slim. There are special cabins to accommodate those with disabilities, such as no step to get into the bathroom and larger doors to accommodate wheelchairs, and specially equipped cabins can be provided upon request. In addition, Braille m arkings and inscriptions   can be found in elevators and on cabin doors.

Food & Drink

Naturally, Italian cuisine is a focus for Smeralda—Costa claims the ship works its way through 500 traditional recipes from across Italy’s 18 regions, and the wine list is thick with bottles from fine Italian vineyards. The menu for the main dining room, located on decks 5, 6 and 7 aft, might be better described as continental, overall. Typical dinner entrées include such daily changing fare as pasta with sardines, lobster au gratin with vegetable tagliatelle, and pork knuckle medallion confit with cous cous. Select gourmet items are available for an upcharge, such as spaghetti with lobster or grilled Piedmontese Fassona tomahawk steak, and portions on these items are quite generous, often suitable for sharing. There is a vegetarian selection, albeit limited.

Breakfasts are similar to what one finds at European resorts, leaning to breads, cereal, fresh fruit, cured meats ranging from Prosciutto di Parma to Calabrian Nduja, and such cheeses as Parmigiano-Reggiano, Fontina, and the “house” made mozzarella. Hot breakfasts are available, including eggs cooked to order, omelets, pancakes, and steak.

The ship’s 11 restaurants include a bustling buffet, La Sagra dei Sapori, located midship on deck 8, which serves three meals through the day. The packed venue can be a bit of a scramble at 9 a.m., but lunchtime is easier on port days, and dinner is modestly attended. Owing to the pandemic, the buffet is not self-serve, and servers pile plates generously.  

Food options with a surcharge include Archipelago, Smeralda’s gourmet venue, with three menus overseen by noted chefs Bruno Barbieri (who directs Costa’s culinary program), Hélène Darroze and Ángel León.  Ristorante LAB (Taste Laboratory) offers cruisers a hands-on cooking experience under the supervision of Costa’s chefs. Less formal, dedicated pizzaiolos prepare delicious Naples-style pies at Pizzeria Pummid’Oro, starting at 7 euros with dessert. The burger and fries combo at the pool grill, a poke bowl option, gelato bar, Nutella bar, sushi bar, and Il Bacaro, which serve Venetian bar snacks called Cicchetti all involve an upcharge of a few euros.  There’s also a Teppanyaki Restaurant, which offers a copious meal alongside an “acrobatic” show by the chef, for 34 to 48 euros per person. Tip: Before boarding download the app and join the Costa Club.  It costs nothing, and membership generates discounts of 15 to 50 percent off many food and drink items.  

Room service is also available 24 hours, and afternoon tea is served at La Sagra dei Sapori daily at 4:30 p.m.

In addition to bar service available in each dining venue, Costa Smeralda has about a dozen standalone bars spread around the ship. The more unique options include the Campari Bar overlooking the Colosseo, which specializes in cocktails made with the bitter aperitif, including molecular creations; an Aperol Spritz bar serving its eponymous drink and Spazio Bollicine a dedicated prosecco bar. Live music percolates at the Mastroianni Grand Bar, Quelli della Notte Jazz Club, and Il Cielo in una Stanza Piano Bar.

Mixed drinks average $9-12, with beer and most wines by the glass priced somewhat less. Drink packages start as low as $22 per day for wine and beer with lunch and dinner. 

Entertainment

The main show lounge at night is Sanremo Theatre, located in the bow on Deck 6. Here, stage shows feature dance performances and guest musicians, and tributes to performers like Michael Jackson; most shows start at 9:00 p.m. or later. Theme parties are held on some evenings, such as the Bollywood evening, and Voice of the Seas is a singing competition in the style of the TV show “The Voice.” The other evening venue is the three-level Colosseo at decks 6, 7 and 8, midship. Equipped with wraparound LED screens, the ship schedule reveals live music, game shows, virtual bands, acrobats each evening, and a deejay spins Euro tunes at other hours.  

You’ll also find a live jazz combo at Quelli della Notte, a piano bar at Il Cielo in una Stanza with live music and singalongs, while the Mastroianni Grand Bar is the main dance floor offering a variety of musical genres. “That’s Amore” sung Michael Bublé-style is typical. The Beach Club pool is used for Silent Disco on some evenings.

By day, the Piazza Trastevere on Deck 8 forward is used for games, quiz challenges, and cultural lectures. Another venue is the open-air Piazza di Spagna on decks 17-18 aft. The airy space is used for all-ages games with the Animation team and light aerobics, exercise and Zumba led by the gym staff. 

Note that much of the ship’s entertainment is conducted in Italian, but the music needs little translation—even the game shows in Italian can be entertaining for non-native speakers. 

Spa & Fitness

The Solemio Spa sprawls across a good piece of Deck 16. The eye-popping facility includes 16 treatment rooms, a hammam, relaxation rooms, a Thalassotherapy pool with swing chairs, a salt room, and a snow room filled with real snow. A wide variety of treatments are available, at prices comparable to most quality resorts.

The Virtus Gym is accessed through the spa entrance and the overall facility is stocked with well-maintained cardio equipment and weights. Some fitness classes are free, while others such as yoga and spinning classes have an added fee.

Key cruising tips

Health & safety.

Costa Smeralda has a staffed medical facility with a physician available for more serious issues; consultations are charged to an on-board account. Covid protocols are evolving but currently Costa does not require guests to be fully vaccinated and testing procedures have changed several times during the pandemic; masks may be required for indoors areas (except while dining) when case rates warrant. Hand sanitizer stations are everywhere, and restaurant entrances feature high-tech automated hand-washing stations. A selection of cabins are set aside for quarantine guests or crew, as needed.

Designated cabins throughout Costa Smeralda offer accessible features in all accommodation categories. Bathrooms are equipped with either roll-in shower, transfer shower (providing maneuvering clearance and a shower bench), or an accessible bathtub. Elevators and accessible restrooms are available for all public (non-cabin) decks. Transfers to shore can be accommodated at most ports, none of which currently involve tendering ashore.

By day, casual resort wear is appropriate aboard Costa Smeralda. Evenings, “smart casual” wear is sufficient—shorts, poolwear, and tank tops are discouraged at night. Select nights are designated as “elegant” or “black and white,” but this does not seem widely embraced.  Jacket and tie are not required for men (a few tradition-bound guests will be wearing them), but otherwise, collared shirts and slacks for gents, and elegant dresses, skirts or slacks for women are generally fine.

Junior Cruisers

Costa Smeralda attracts a lot of families, especially during summer and school holidays. Several areas are set aside for kids, Squok Club for children ages three to 11 and Teen Zone, for kids up to age 17, and age-specific activities are provided. There is a video arcade at La Sala Giochi and Tutti a Tavola is a dedicated family restaurant next to the Squok Club.

The majority of Costa’s guest-facing crew is from Southeast Asia, and English is a second or third language for all. Most officers and most of the entertainment staff hail from Italy. 

A surcharge is added per passenger, per day to the checkout bill, to cover gratuities for cabin and dining staff. A service charge of 15 percent is automatically added to beverages, drinks, specialty dining, and spa charges. Additional tips are not expected.

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Costa Cruises Costa Toscana Deck Plans & Reviews

Costa Cruises Costa Toscana

Activities & entertainment

• Solemio Spa *
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes *
• Whirlpools (6)
• La Spiaggia Beach Club
• Splash Aqua Park
• Food LAB - Cooking School
• Piazza Del Campo
• Squok Club - Kids Club
• My Moments - Photo Gallery *
• C-Dream - Future Cruise Sales *
• Costa Shop *
• Galleria Shops *
• My Tours - Shore Excursions *
• Arcade Game Room *
• Granducato Casino *
• Outdoor Sports Court
• Volare Skywalk
• Infinity Walk
• Singing Competition
• Poltruna Frau Arena - Theater
• Leonardo Gran Bar
• Onboard Movies
• Production Shows
• Acrobatic Shows
• Magic Shows
• Sushino - Sushi *
• Nutella at Costa - Nutella *
• Pizzeria Pummid'Oro - Pizza *
• Kiki Poke - Poke *
• Green Healthy Food - Healthy Fare *
• Salty Beach Street Food - Street Food *
• Archipelago Restaurant - Gourmet *
• Teppenyaki - Japanese *
• La Maremma - Main
• Il VignetoMain - Main
• Le Anfore - Main
• La Sagre de Sapori - Buffet
• Heineken Star Club & Bistro - Bistro *
• Squok Restaurant - Kids Dining
• L'Argentario - Main
• L'Oliveto - Main
• Bellavista Restaurant - Club and Suite Guests
• Kartell Cafe - Cocktail Bar *
• Campari Bar - Campari Bar *
• Vergnano Caffe - Coffee Bar *
• Il Mattino - Snack & Coffee Bar *
• Aperol Spritz Bar - Aperol Spritz Bar *
• Orizzonte Bar - Scenic Bar *
• Infinity Bar - Scenic Bar *
• La Spaggia Beach Club Bar - Pool Bar *
• Gelateria Amarillo - Ice Cream *
• Ferrari Spazzio Bollicine - Wine Bar *
• Heineken Bar - Beer Bar *
• Granducato Bar - Casino Bar *

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Worst cruise of my life

Worst cruise of my life. Cold food, unhappy staff, bar tenders who have no idea how to mix drinks, baristas that cannot make coffee. Overall week from hell

Date of experience : 24 February 2024

Good morning . We have just returned from a wonderful.holiday on board costa toscana . Our names are alexandra and Alexander Campbell in cabin 5079 Our dates were 21st to 28th Jan. Everything was perfect. Thank you so much tomorrow cabin lady . Kept spotless every day . I would like to.mention specially the waiters who made our trip special with their friendliness and exceptional.manner and service . These people are listed below Please please pass on our thanks and say its from the Scottish guests . In infinity bar the waiter was called Beshoy george bai From Egypt In leonardos lounge The waiters names are Ardian Dwi From Indonesia and another lovely young man from India who we did not get his full name but I can send picture of him . If you ask your staff in Leonardos who had a wee friendly arm wrestle with my husband one evening it was that guy who was fantastic . In argentario restaurant where we had our evening meal the waiters were Shubert and Prizelo from India They were are absolutely first class . Thank them so so much All food,drinks etc on board were great with so much variety and we found all the service we experienced first class. Please send me link to put on costa review to the app please . Thank you Well done costa

Date of experience : 21 January 2024

Not for English speaking people

Not for English speaking people Costa Toscana ship was beautiful , but the experience was awful. The staff doesn’t speak English , they don’t care about you if you don’t speak Italian. We didn’t have a restaurant booked for dinner for 3 days , and no one cared about it . The entertainment is all Italian and Spanish . When we complained about all these we were told they will give us £100 discount for the next cruise. The next cruise will never happen with them and I will never recommend anyone to cruise with them .

Date of experience : 12 June 2023

Excellent service

Excellent service. Very easy to book and yes we will be back. Totally professional and all booked within minutes.

Date of experience : 27 December 2023

In the cache: mandatory tipping

The cruise staff was very kind, but the company's policy of milking the customer under various pretexts is disgusting. 1. If someone does not drink alcohol, for a one-week trip he has to buy a package of soft drinks for 200 euros so that he can be served with a glass of tap water at dinner. You got it right! You are not served tap water, and a glass of still water costs you 3.5 euros. 2. apart from the expenses shown, on the ferry you find out that you have to pay an official tip of 11 euros per day... It is deducted from the card you register with them. 3. The service is quite impersonal. 4 Excursions on land such as short trips are presented bombastically. On the spot, however, you often encounter bored guides, lack of attention and carelessness on the part of the organizers. Burn-out and sadness at crowded and overexploited tourist sites (at least in the case of the Carribbean islands)

Date of experience : 31 December 2022

Terrible website, noisy experience on the ship.

Terrible website : nothing works. The website is a disaster. The webmaster doesn't react. the info.europe@costa adress answers, and this polite person added my personal information for the booking, but not that of my wife and daughter. When I try to pay a few thousands , the master-card app asks me to pay 1€ and doenst give an error, but also no 'payment succeeded'. I hope the trip on the cruise will be a little but better than the website. When I choose 'Belgium' as country , I have to go on in French (a minority in my country speaks French!) I can't choose the main language of my own country. After the cruise, that brought us to many beautiful places in Norway, I am really in need of rest. We did many splendid walks in the fjords, and searched for the paths without masses of people. But back on the ship... The loud announcements in 5 or 6 languages, the music everywhere, in some places you hear 3 different songs at the same time, the acoustics in the swimming pool... the really over-done colors and lights... I'm so happy to be home and relax again. I feel like I spent 14 days on a fancy fair... for the first time in the 50 years I lived i feel overstimulated.

Date of experience : 14 August 2023

Costa cruises staff unhelpful and rude…

Costa cruises staff unhelpful and rude with problems On booked package. Would not use again.

Date of experience : 02 November 2022

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Luxury Travel Blogger – Carmen Edelson

Costa Toscana Review: Costa Cruises Newest Flagship

Cruising is one of the most exciting, luxurious, and convenient ways to travel. The possibility of discovering a new destination every morning without having to pack your suitcase over and over again is what absolutely sold me in the beginning. What if your next journey is on an Italian-style cruise no matter where you are in the world? This is what Costa Cruises has been offering its guests around the world for over 70 years.

Costa Cruises’ newest flagship, Costa Toscana , has sailed for the first time in the waters of the Persian Gulf departing from stunning Dubai to navigate for 8 days to equally marvelous ports such as Doha, Muscat and Abu Dhabi. As a guest hosted onboard the Costa Toscana this month, I enjoyed every minute of this exciting Arabian itinerary, but most of all, I loved everything that this new cruise ship has to offer its future travelers.

At a glance, Costa Toscana is impressive! The ship features world-class accommodation, delicious & varied restaurants, luxury spa treatments, premium sports facilities, exciting live entertainment and more. I had the opportunity of cruising on its sister vessel, Costa Smeralda,  throughout the Mediterranean in 2021 and now both have left me in awe of their sheer scale and quality. Boasting 19 decks and over 1,000 feet in length, the new Costa Toscana is one of the largest ocean liners in the world! It can accommodate more than 5,300 passengers distributed in 2,661 cabins and assisted by nearly 1,700 wonderful crew members. However, its large size also helps for it to never feel extremely full.

Costa Toscana Persian Gulf Route:

Our cruising journey with Costa was an exciting week around the Persian Gulf. We experienced 7 days of fascinating destinations and 1 sea day to fully experience everything this new ship has to offer. Overall, I enjoy having less sea days so this itinerary was ideal for me. We also started and ended in Dubai which was very convenient in terms of flights from the United States.

From Dubai, we cruised to Doha in Qatar, then onto Muscat in Oman, and lastly, Abu Dhabi, before heading back to Dubai. Costa always offers an incredible range of land excursions, and an entire article about the excursions we chose is coming soon. However, a few highlights included a sand dune adventure in the Dubai desert, admiring architectural gems in Doha, visiting one of the most ancient Arab markets in Oman, and visiting jaw-dropping palaces in Abu Dhabi.

Accommodation on Costa Toscana:

We loved our Balcony Cabin from the very first moment we entered. Costa Cruises’ cabins always impress with their thoughtful decor and spaciousness. In this home-away-from-home, you won’t lack anything during your journey from modern amenities to bright and cheerful interiors.

The bed is very spacious and comfortable, perfect for resting after your shore excursions or at sea days. I appreciated the detail in the shower, which has a floor-to-ceiling glass section that allows you to still admire the ocean views while taking a hot shower. You can rely on your roomkeeper at all times as they will be taking excellent care of you, from in-room breakfast to laundry service. The extra living space featured a couch and desk, which mean’t that, thankfully,  your bed isn’t the only option to sit, relax, or work in your room.

But without a doubt, the terrace was my favorite part! There’s nothing better than waking up every day to a new view from your bed or sitting with a refreshing drink and that sea breeze in the privacy of your own terrace. The floor to ceiling sliding glass doors not only allow a glorious amount of light in, but you can easily step outside onto your personal balcony to watch the world go by.

Restaurants onboard Costa Toscana:

When you sail on an Italian cruise, you might expect all the food you find onboard to be Italian, and although Italian cuisine is one of my favorites, the truth is that Costa Toscana offers much more than this. In total, you have an incredible 11 restaurants and 19 bars and lounges to choose from. Here are some of the highlights..

La Sagra Dei Sapori Buffet is an excellent choice for breakfast and lunch with a wide variety of dishes, including Italian charcuterie, pastas, meats, fish, vegetables and drinks. While at dinner, you will always have a seat available in your assigned restaurant, which in our case was the lovely La Maremma Restaurant where we ate most evenings. The portions of the 3 courses were always perfect and I especially enjoyed their fresh pasta and desserts.

For a gourmet experience, I highly recommend Archipelago Restaurant, the very best onboard Costa Toscana. At this fine dining establishment, you can choose between 3 menus created by renowned chefs Hélène Darroze, Bruno Barbieri and Ángel León, which are inspired by different regions of the world. Personally, I selected the French chef’s menu which was inspired by Arabian cuisine and local ingredients, which included 5 courses accompanied by a selection of wines. From start to finish, everything was a delicious masterpiece.

Before dinner, you can stop for a glass of sparkling wine at Ferrari Spazio Bollicine along with striking starred miniature dishes of Chef Edoardo Fumagalli. Another great pre-dinner drink spot is at the vibrant Campari Bar with sleek red interiors and ocean views. In terms of a quick and easy lunch, dinner or takeaway, I’d recommend Sushino at Costa. This is Costa’s first sushi bistro on board and is designed to bring you an authentic Japanese experience. Additionally, in terms of less formal dining, I’d also recommend Pummid’Oro Pizzeria and Heineken Club & Bistro to enjoy either the best Italian pizza or the best hamburger onboard.

As far as fun and interactive dining, they have a state-of-the-art Food Lab for cooking classes where you can enjoy your creations after with an expert sommelier on hand to pair with your dishes. And in terms of fun for the whole family, the Teppanyaki restaurant is a must, offering dynamic cooking shows at your table. You’re truly spoiled for choice with Costa Cruises!

Wellness Amenities on Costa Toscana:

Solemio Spa is an absolute highlight on Costa Toscana. I was very impressed with the salt room, Turkish bath, sauna and multiple relaxation areas, including two zones that were my favorites. First, the Thalassotherapy pool, which has a perfect water temperature and allows you to relax in the bubble beds, and secondly, the snow room, which is not only incredibly fun and unique, but great for you body to switch between the cold and hot temperatures.

I also had a 50-minute facial treatment in one of their beauty rooms, where they first analyzed the characteristics of my skin with a diagnostic software, and then tailored the treatment to fit my specific needs, using products from the British skincare brand Elemis. If you’re looking for more beauty treatments such as a manicure, pedicure, hairdresser, and so on, there’s also the Salon Solemio to help you feel and look your best on vacation.

Unlike other cruise ships, Costa Toscana’s lido deck is enclosed, and for good reason. This allows guests to use the jacuzzis and the pool all year round, even during winter itineraries. Even so, the ship has open-air pools as well. In total, Costa Toscana has 13 swimming pools and hot tubs, plus an aqua park with some fun water slides for all ages! Speaking of different ages, if you have kids from age 3-11, I highly recommend taking them to Squok Club – a fun kid’s club onboard. If you want a date night or afternoon without your kiddos, they will be well looked after here with so many fun and stimulating activities!

Entertainment onboard Costa Toscana:

It’s always show time onboard Costa Toscana! Every night you receive a pamphlet with the next day’s activities and the first thing you realize is that there is not going to be a moment for boredom, especially on sea days. Colosseo is the main venue for concerts and shows, located amidships and distributed in 3 decks. It’s surrounded by bars and restaurants such as Campari Bar, Kartell Cafè and Sushino at Costa to order a drink or a snack.

The Voice of the Sea was one of my favorite shows along with dancing the night away under the stars in La Notte Bianca (the white night), a celebration that is unique to Costa Cruises, plus plenty of other shows, live performances, and DJ sets. For those wanting a break from the music, you can test your luck at the Granducato Casino. This fun space is divided into two sides with numerous slot machines on one, and a variety of gaming tables on the other, including Blackjack, Roulette, and more.

This was my second time sailing with Costa Cruises and so far my opinion has only improved. This Italian cruise company doesn’t disappoint travelers, each time they look for new ways to offer the warmest hospitality. Costa Toscana, in particular, is an impressive new flagship that Costa should be proud of! In addition to all the fun onboard, their itineraries are also a great match for any type of traveler, with a heavy focus on convenience while soaking up the local history and culture. Whether cruising the Mediterranean Sea or sailing along the Arabian coast, Costa Cruises always offers a memorable cruising experience.

Disclosure: I was a guest of Costa Cruises, but all opinions here are my own. 

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6 Fabulous Experiences Cruising With Costa In Europe

A re you ready to hear about some amazing cruise offerings on a lesser-known cruise line? I was the guest of two almost back-to-back European Costa Cruises. To say it was the opportunity of a lifetime would be an understatement.

First, I explored the wonders of Turkey and Greece with my husband. The rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine left us in awe. But the excitement didn’t end there. Shortly after, I hopped on the Italian line’s newest flagship vessel, Costa Toscana , accompanied by my daughter and business partner, Taylor. With Rome as our starting point, we set sail for an extraordinary journey through France and Spain.

Get ready for an immersive European experience like no other. Let’s delve into six fabulous experiences while cruising with Costa in Europe — which was the adventure of a lifetime!

1. Pre- And Post-Cruising Fun In Rome And Vatican City

It takes so long to get to Europe from the United States that I always travel at least a day before the cruise embarks and stay for a few days after disembarking. You will most likely arrive early in the morning after a whole night of flying from the U.S., so devise a plan to drop your luggage and see as much of Rome as possible.

Having been there a few times, I grabbed a cab and went to the popular neighborhoods to see the biggies like Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Vatican City. Costa Cruises uses the Starhotels Michelangelo Rome , an easy walk to all three, for pre- and post-cruise nights. Either way, before or after your cruise, you will typically arrive in Rome or disembark the ship early in the morning, so you have the whole day to explore.

You must have a timed entry ticket to get into the Vatican Museum . My daughter and I bought ours from a street vendor near the entrance to St. Peter’s Square. We also bought hop-on/hop-off bus tickets and went for the entire loop, which had a multi-language narrated tour. We’d hop off to get food and see something specific. The restaurants near the Michelangelo hotel were close, tasty, and affordable.

• The Rome–Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) and Civitavecchia, the cruise port, are almost an hour apart. Save yourself the headache and price of private transportation and book the cruise line transfers. 
• Vatican City is less crowded toward the end of the day. Book your ticket for then.

2. Seeing Sorrento On Our Own

The first excursion on our Costa Toscana trip was to Sorrento, Italy — a first for me. This city, famous for its juicy lemons and other citrus fruits, is a real gem. Our cruise docked in Naples, and though every driver at the port insisted we go to the Amalfi Coast , Taylor and I hired a cab driver to take us to Sorrento. We had been to the Amalfi Coast in the past, and we wanted to see something new. We chose Sorrento for the scenery and photo ops, which were as good as the Amalfi Coast, but cheaper and closer.

After negotiating a price and standing firm on what I was willing to pay, our cab driver gave us a guided tour along the way, stopping at many pull-outs for us to take pictures. We allowed a few hours to see Sorrento on our own, which included eating a local lunch at Sedil Dominova Bar 2000 and roaming the pedestrian-only streets. Stepping inside the lovely Cathedral of Saints Philip and James is a must. Even the novice traveler could do this Sorrento excursion.

Pro Tip: We paid around $75 per person for 5–6 hours of a private guided tour.

3. Getting My Gaudi On In Barcelona 

I’m a repeat visitor to Barcelona, so the only thing I wanted to do on my trip was see the Antoni Gaudi architectural sites again and get better pictures. Done. I went on a Costa Cruises excursion to the three biggies: Park Güell, Casa Milà, and La Sagrada Familia , which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tickets were provided for entry to the park and Casa Milà, so we didn’t have to wait in lines.

Note: This is an Italian cruise line . Not many Americans are on board, so the English-speaking tours are limited. Some tours have dual groups, such as an English-speaking group as well as tours in Spanish, Italian, or German. If you are concerned about what Costa offers, you can always buy external tours through a third-party site, like Viator, which I’ve used a dozen times or more. 

We could stay with the group in Park Güell , or wander on our own, so I chose the latter. Due to overcrowding, the park’s Zona Monumental is limited in the number of patrons per hour through access points. Apparently, this has been in practice for years, so know before you go. I wandered as much of the 12-hectare property as possible.

This tour was great for those who wish to delve deeper into the incredible works of Gaudi, the greatest architect of Catalan Modernism. We also had about 30 minutes to roam around La Sagrada Familia , allowing time for a coffee and pastry, plus picking up postcards.

Pro Tip: The traffic is thick and congested in Barcelona. It takes quite a bit of time to get to and from the cruise ship port. Keep that in mind if you consider doing a day on your own.

4. Discovering Valencia

I was excited to find Valencia on my Costa cruise itinerary, and I took another organized cruise line excursion to explore this city famous for its paella. We boarded a bus for our ride to Valencia, enjoying the gorgeous flowers and highly ornate architecture along the way. 

Our first stop was a bathroom and snack break at the Mercado de Colón , an Art Nouveau public market that is breathtaking. At Horchatería Daniel , we had a refreshing horchata drink and fartons — confectionery sweets typical of Alboraya, Spain, with a sugary glaze. 

Get ready to explore Valencia and capture some unforgettable moments! This charming city offers a stunning landscape that’s perfect for taking amazing photos. From elegant clock towers to whimsically painted benches and picturesque fountains, you’ll find yourself immersed in beauty at every turn. And that’s not all — be prepared to encounter Disney and Marvel characters posing for paid photo opportunities. Wander through a variety of shops where you can find anything from records to yarn and cheesy souvenirs to exquisite artwork. Valencia truly is a captivating blend of old and new, with a touch of touristy charm and sophisticated flair.

5. Impressed With Aix-En-Provence

Aix-en-Provence, France, wasn’t super crowded when we arrived; it had a comfortable vibe and interesting things to see. We had a stop at the cathedral and walked a mile or more with our guide to learn more about the city’s unique history.

When we broke off for free time, I went straight to the shops to have a meal. By this time of the day, it was getting hectic; we counted four weddings on our walk, so a reprieve of cooling off was necessary. I found, of all places, a cute little American-style hamburger place ( Blend ) that was air-conditioned (it was sweltering that day, and most restaurants only offer sidewalk cafes) and had free Wi-Fi, so I was set. A smash burger and Diet Coke later, I was ready to get back to seeing Aix-en-Provence. 

You’ll find the best selection of pastries, gourmet foods, and candies in Aix-en-Provence. I recommend calissons (diamond-shaped fondant sweets) from Léonard Parli confectionery, for yourself or those you are taking something home to. 

6. Falling In Love With Finalborgo And Noli

European geography is not a specialty of mine, so when my Costa Cruises cruise itinerary mentioned the Savona seaport, I had to look online to even know that it was in Italy. It is also near the city of Genoa. Since I had no expectations or ideas of what to see or do here, I let the cruise line decide for me. 

I ended up on “Finalborgo and Noli, the Middle Ages in Miniature.” I had no idea what that meant, so imagine my surprise when we first stopped at Finalborgo, a historic village in western Liguria with the sweeping sea on one side and medieval walls on the other. It was darling!

Taylor and I strolled around the cobblestoned streets, soaking up the beauty in all the little nooks and crannies. I feasted on a sinfully delicious waffle ice cream sundae and Italian coffee. This is one Italian city you won’t want to miss. And wait, there’s more.

The next stop was to Noli, one of the cutest European beach towns I’ve ever seen. The beaches were full of families and pet owners enjoying their holiday and the warm sunshine. Across the street was a web of curvy roads that led to boutiques, coffee shops, tourist stands, and great people-watching opportunities. 

I couldn’t decipher a bit of what this excursion meant on paper, but it was my favorite stop on this Mediterranean cruise itinerary.

FYI: There are naturist beaches (Punta Crane between Noli and Varigotti, for one) in the area, so be on the lookout, or don’t be — your choice. I’m just alerting you.

Related Reading:

• 10 Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines Our Readers Love
• 11 Reasons Why We Love River Cruises In Europe
• 8 Best Cruise Lines According To Our Readers

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits