The Mediterranean has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking the perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Windstar Cruises visits some of the most enchanting Mediterranean destinations, and what makes these voyages truly exceptional are the shore excursions that await you at each port of call.   

From ancient castles in Greece to exploring the famed blue grottoes along the Sicilian coast, these are some of the most exciting shore excursions Windstar offers in the Med: 

Concierge Collection: Castle & Liotrivi Olive Oil Factory | Monemvasia, Greece

Monemvasia is a medieval marvel located off the east coast of the Peloponnese. As you walk along the narrow, cobbled streets around the famed Monemvasia Castle, you may feel like you’ve traveled back in time. After exploring the charming city, your adventure continues with a visit to the Liotrivi Olive Oil Factory, a meticulously restored mansion. Here, you’ll step into the heart of tradition as you explore the old olive mill, learning about the age-old art of producing extra virgin olive oil. You’ll then enjoy traditional bread baked in a wood-fired oven, along with a delectable array of local delicacies, which will be served under the shade of ancient olive trees on the patio. To complete this sensory journey, savor the wines of Monemvasia, whose flavor lends them a unique and unforgettable character. This shore excursion is available on the Treasures of the Greek Isles and Adriatic Archipelagos & Greek Goddesses cruises. 

The Game of Thrones Tour | Dubrovnik, Croatia

Game of Thrones fans will take delight in this tour, which visits the very spots where iconic scenes from the hit HBO series were filmed. Highlights include the Pile Gate, where King Joffrey faced a riot, and the unforgettable Lovrijenac Fort, the site of the Battle of Blackwater in King’s Landing. Dubrovnik’s rich history is also on display, and the tour culminates on the bustling Stardun, the main city street, where you’ll have the chance to further explore this enchanting town on your own. This shore excursion is available on the Classic Italy & Dalmatian Coast, Star Collector: Croatia to the Cote d’Azur, and Vatican & Croatian Coastlines Tour cruises. 

Concierge Collection: Salt Spa | Piran, Slovenia

Experience the unique wonders of Slovenia’s Secovlje Salina Nature Park, where salt production has shaped a distinctive landscape over the centuries. Nestled in the heart of these salt fields is the Lepa Vida Thalasso spa, which uses only natural materials and eschews chemical treatments in favor of seawater. Explore the healing power of traditional thalasso therapy amidst this soothing setting, treating yourself to a rejuvenating salt pan mud wrap and a 20-minute massage, which are included in the excursion. The pools are filled with highly concentrated salt water, known for its ability to enhance blood circulation and fortify the body’s defenses. This shore excursion is available on the Adriatic Icons & Venetian Treasures cruise.

Concierge Collection: Taormina & The Blue Grotto by Boat | Giardini Naxos, Italy

Taormina is one of the most beloved towns in Sicily, and your guided tour begins with a walk along the charming cobblestone streets to the Palazzo Corvaja, a 15th-century architectural gem. A short stroll takes you to the breathtaking Greco-Roman theatre, Taormina’s iconic landmark, dating back to the 3rd century BC. You’ll then board a boat at the port of Giardini Naxos and head into the legendary Blue Grotto. This mesmerizing sea cave has a blue glow that illuminates the water, and it makes for an incredible photo op. After the cave exploration, you’ll have the chance to take a swim in the waters off Isla Bella, and you’ll also be treated to a plate of almond cookies. This shore excursion is available on the Classic Italy & Dalmatian Coast and Vatican & Croatian Coastlines Cruise Tour itineraries. 

Concierge Collection: Mount Etna by 4x4 | Catania, Italy

This thrilling shore excursion takes you on a 4×4 tour of majestic Mount Etna, which is one of the most photographed stratovolcanoes in the Mediterranean. You will make a number of stops to witness the vast lava flows and the pathways carved by the eruptions of 2002, showcasing the raw power of this active volcano. You’ll explore the intriguing Lava Cave, an underground marvel with a length of approximately 2,854 feet and varying diameters of 16 to 26 feet. Following your thrilling morning, savor the local flavors with a typical Sicilian lunch. This shore excursion is available on the Sicilian Splendors and Star Collector: Cruising on the Rivieras cruises.

Castle & Gulet Cruise | Bodrum, Turkey

This shore excursion offers the perfect mix of history and relaxation with a visit to the Bodrum Castle and a leisurely cruise aboard a traditional wooden “gulet” boat. The Bodrum Castle was built by the Knights of Rhodes using stones sourced from the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Inside the castle, you’ll explore the Sunken Boat Museum, where underwater artifacts from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages are on display, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime history. Then, it’s time to board the gulet, which has sailed these waters for centuries. As you cruise along the Bodrum Peninsula, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in pristine coves, and you’ll enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch featuring regional specialties. This shore excursion is available on the Cultural Gems on the Azure Aegean: Turkey & Greece and Aegean Sea Odyssey cruises. 

Explore Deeper in the Mediterranean on one of these, or other exciting Shore Excursions with Windstar Cruises.