Virgin Voyages Mediterranean Itinerary Tips & Ports

We’ve sailed several times with Virgin Voyages in the Caribbean, but this time we finally gave ourselves the chance to experience the Virgin Voyages Mediterranean itinerary, and wow, it was a whole new adventure.

Sailing the Mediterranean with Virgin Voyages has a completely different vibe compared to departing from Miami.

From the process at the port of Barcelona to the charm of each stop, Cannes, Ajaccio (Corsica), Palma de Mallorca, and Ibiza, everything feels unique and unforgettable.

In this post, we’ll share what you can expect, the little details we wish we knew before sailing, and the best things to do at each port so you can make the most of your limited time ashore.

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How Many Days Is This Virgin Voyages Mediterranean Cruise Itinerary?

Virgin Voyages offers several itineraries sailing from Barcelona, typically running from May to September, which are the warmer months along the Mediterranean coast.

When colder weather starts, the Mediterranean home Valiant Lady ship is usually repositioned to the Caribbean to continue sailing during the winter months.

The itinerary we chose was a 7-night sailing from Barcelona:

Note: If this is your first time sailing from Barcelona, make sure you read my guide with tips on how to get from Barcelona Airport (BCN) to the cruise port.

Before boarding the Virgin Voyages ship for our Mediterranean trip, we spent one day exploring Barcelona and managed to see some of the city’s most iconic architectural landmarks.

For a visual walkthrough of our 7-night sailing from Barcelona, including the train ride to Monaco, exploring Napoleon’s home in Ajaccio, and our overnight experience at the Ibiza cruise port, check out my video below.

Mediterranean Cruise Port Security Process

As with every other Virgin Voyages cruise port, when you get off and back on the ship, you must pass through a security checkpoint.

You’ll need to scan your belongings and show your Virgin Voyages bracelet, not only when boarding the ship, but also at the local port security screening. This means there are always two layers of security before reboarding.

Tip: We recommend carrying your passport when you leave the ship, just in case you lose your Virgin Voyages red wristband or if a medical emergency requires you to stay at the port.

If this is your first time cruising, check out my post What to Know Before Going on a Cruise, where I cover everything from choosing the right trip to preparing for boarding day, enjoying your time on board, and smoothly handling disembarkation.

1. Cannes Cruise Ship Port

The first stop of the Virgin Voyages Mediterranean itinerary is Cannes, France. This is a tender port because the ship is not allowed to dock directly at the Cannes cruise port.

Instead, you’ll be transported to the Cannes cruise terminal on a Virgin Voyages lifeboat.

Booking The Virgin Voyages Tender Ride

We booked in advance because we had planned to take a train from Cannes to Monaco.

Our Experience with Tendering In Cannes

Tender Ride Tips

Can You Walk Cannes From The Cruise Port?

When you disembark the tender in the Cannes cruise port, you’ll be dropped off at the Josephine Baker Pier.

If you’d like to enjoy the French beach, there’s a spot right by the pier to dip your toes in the Mediterranean.

We found that it’s safe and very pedestrian-friendly to walk around the port area without needing a taxi. Since the Cannes cruise port is so close to the town, you don’t have to go far to experience the vibe of Cannes.

What To Do In Cannes From Cruise Ship?

Cannes is world-famous for the Cannes Film Festival, which actually happened to be taking place during our visit. Although we noticed several festival activities, we didn’t get the chance to spot any celebrities.

We strolled past the Cannes public beach and the marina, which was filled with beautiful and expensive yachts.  Along the marina, we also saw several restaurants with both indoor and outdoor seating, offering perfect views of the water.

If you’re a shopaholic, this is going to be your favorite port. We spotted Zara, Mango, and Sephora. For more upscale shopping, you can head to Boulevard de la Croisette, where you’ll find Chanel, Prada, Dior, and Dolce & Gabbana, all on the way to the train station.

We spent most of our Cannes port day in Monaco, but when we returned, we walked through the beautiful streets of Cannes, which gave off such a luxurious and upscale vibe.

2. Ajaccio Corsica Cruise Port

The second stop on our itinerary was one day in Ajaccio, Corsica, a French island in the Mediterranean and famous for being Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace.

That morning, we woke up to a beautiful view of Ajaccio’s architecture. Mostly Mediterranean-style with baroque influences, very charming with warm terracotta tones, which made the whole town feel inviting and picturesque.

Where Do Virgin Voyages Dock In Corsica?

The Virgin Voyages cruise docks in Ajaccio, a picturesque historic town on the west coast of Corsica.

We were so glad we had chosen the Sea Terrace cabin because we were able to enjoy the view both when we arrived and when we departed.

One of the reasons we picked the Sea Terrace cabin was for the red hammock and balcony, which let us enjoy our morning coffee with an ocean view.

Note: If you’re trying to decide which cabin is best for you, check out my detailed Virgin Voyages cabin guide.

Ajaccio Cruise Port Things To Do

In Ajaccio, the ship docks directly at the port, which makes it one easy stop on this Mediterranean itinerary.

As soon as you disembark, you’ll pass through a simple security gate, and then you’ll already in town. No Uber or taxi is needed because most of the popular spots are walkable from the port.

Is Ajaccio Corsica Safe For Tourists?

The town is small, charming, and incredibly safe to explore on foot. We walked almost everywhere, wandering through the narrow streets, small shops, cafés, and local markets without ever feeling unsafe.

The Ajaccio Market

Right outside the port security area, we found the Ajaccio Market. It’s a small market, so you won’t spend much time here, but you’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, olives, and oils. It’s a great spot to try regional products.

Little Train Of Ajaccio, Corsica

If you’d like to explore beyond the old town and see a great view of the Ajaccio coast, we recommend the Little Train of Ajaccio (Petit Train d’Ajaccio).

This small white train offers two circuits and runs Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM and offers two circuits:

The little train tickets can be purchased online or at the departure point located at Place Foch. Many cruise travelers recommend it as an easy way to see more of Ajaccio and its beautiful coastline without navigating on your own.

Napoleon Bonaparte House, Ajaccio

We headed to the Napoleon Bonaparte House, and we recommend making this your first stop, since the line was already long by the time we left the museum. If more than one ship is in port, it gets even busier.

Napoleon Bonaparte House

The entrance is tucked into a small alley. Although Napoleon didn’t spend all his life here, this house is famous for being his birthplace. It features original furniture and decoration, and we learned so much about Napoleon’s family life that we hadn’t known from history books. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta Ajaccio Corsica

Next, we visited the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, located just behind the Napoleon House. This cathedral is a great example of Baroque architecture.

From the outside, it looks simple, with a yellowish-cream facade and green doors and windows. But inside, you’ll find an impressive blend of marble and gold. This cathedral is also famous as the place where Napoleon was baptized.

Cardinal Fesch Street, Ajaccio (Rue Cardinal Fesch)

Our last stop was Rue Cardinal Fesch, a picturesque and lively pedestrian street lined with souvenir shops, boutique hotels, restaurants, and cafés. It’s also where you’ll find the Fesch Museum, which houses a fine art collection created by Napoleon’s uncle, Cardinal Fesch.

We didn’t have time to go inside since we had a dinner reservation back on the Virgin Voyages ship, but this museum is a must for anyone who loves Italian Renaissance and religious art, or who wants to dive deeper into Napoleon and Corsican history.

Vegan Ajaccio Corsica

If you’re vegan and looking for a bite to eat in Ajaccio, you’ll be happy to know there are a couple of great plant-based options within walking distance of the port:

3. Palma De Mallorca Port Guide

Palma de Mallorca is a small island south of Barcelona and part of Spain. This port quickly became one of our favorites during the itinerary. Once you get off the ship, you’ll need a taxi to reach the main attractions since most of the popular spots aren’t within walking distance of the port.

We had no trouble finding a taxi when leaving the port, as there was a line of cabs waiting outside. However, we did experience some delays getting a taxi back. Most were already occupied, and we had to walk a couple of blocks to find a taxi stand.

Tip: Plan a little extra time when returning to the ship so you don’t feel rushed.

What To Do In Palma De Mallorca Cruise Port

There’s so much to do here that one day feels too short. As for safety, we felt perfectly comfortable exploring on our own. We took a taxi to the cathedral, then spent most of our time walking around the old town. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of narrow alleys connecting one street to another.

Note: In front of the cathedral, you’ll see many street vendors offering fake brand-name purses and soccer shirts. We spotted the local police keeping a close eye on this area and asking vendors to leave, so be careful if you decide to buy anything, as you could run into trouble.

Palma De Mallorca Cathedral (La Seu)

Our first stop was the Cathedral of Mallorca, a breathtaking Gothic structure that dominates the view. Parts of the interior altar were tasked to be restored by Antoni Gaudí, but were not completed because of the contractor and the death of the Bishop.

When you walk inside, you’ll notice Gaudí’s architectural influence on elements that give you a hint of the style you’ll see at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

Inside, take at least an hour to appreciate the details of the stained glass and ornamentation. On one side of the cathedral, there’s also a courtyard where you can admire the architecture from ground level.

Note: You can also purchase a separate ticket to access the roof, where you’ll climb a spiral staircase of 215 steps (not recommended if you’re claustrophobic), but the views of the town and cathedral arches are unforgettable.

Royal Palace Of La Almudaina, Palma

Next to the cathedral, you’ll find the Royal Palace of La Almudaina. This palace has been the official residence of Spanish monarchs since the 14th century and still serves as an official royal residence today when the king visits Mallorca.

This was one of our favorite stops because of its architecture, original decorations, and immense courtyards. Walking through the spacious stone rooms and seeing the arched interiors truly feels like stepping back in time.

Tip: Admission is free for European Union citizens on Wednesdays and Sundays from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM (6:00 PM in winter).

Beautiful Streets In Palma De Mallorca: Carrer De Jaume II

After exploring the palace, head over to Carrer de Jaume II (Jaume Street in English), a pedestrian street in the heart of the old town. This 200-meter alley is lined with souvenir shops, jewelry boutiques, cafés, and ice cream parlors.

Despite being busy with both tourists and locals, the pace is slower here, with people strolling, shopping, and just enjoying the moment.

The Impressive Can Forteza Rey Structure (left) and picturesque streets by the Palma de Mallorca Plaza Mayor (right)

Beyond the shops, this street is also a chance to appreciate Palma’s old town architecture. At the north end of the alley heading to the Plaza Mayor, you’ll find the striking Can Forteza Rey, a modernist house designed by jeweler Lluís Forteza-Rey.

Inspired by Gaudí’s work in Barcelona, its colorful mosaics and intricate details make it a true architectural gem.

Vegan Restaurant Palma Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca has some delicious vegan spot options worth trying, which are within walking distance from the Can Forteza Rey.

4. Virgin Voyages Ibiza Cruise Port

The last port of our Virgin Voyages Mediterranean itinerary was Ibiza, and this stop was unique because Virgin Voyages stays overnight here. That extra time is perfect because it gives you the chance to experience the world-famous nightlife that Ibiza is known for, while also enjoying its calmer, charming side during the day.

When we disembarked at night, we immediately found a taxi area at the port and grabbed a local cab to head into town.

Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Ibiza

The Virgin Voyages ship docks at the Ibiza Cruise Terminal, which is about 2 miles from Ibiza town.

What To Do In Cruise Dock In Ibiza

Unfortunately, you’ll not find much to do right at the port itself, so you’ll need to either:

Tip: On the second day, the ship departs earlier than at other ports, so always track the ship time before heading out.

Night Club Ibiza

Ibiza is world-famous for its clubs, and this overnight stop lets you experience them first-hand. Each club has its own vibe and music style, and some of the most popular include:

We decided to go to Hï Ibiza, which many people consider the club experience in Ibiza.

Here’s what to know about Hï Ibiza:

When we entered, there was a full security checkpoint (they checked my purse), and then the space opened into different areas:

The atmosphere was electric, but also very crowded. If we went again, I’d splurge on the VIP area because the general ticket gets packed, and at some points, it felt overwhelming.

The headliner DJs usually start around 3 AM, but honestly, by then, we were too tired to wait. Still, it was an unforgettable experience, and if nightlife is on your bucket list, Ibiza delivers.

To get back to the cruise, we easily found taxis waiting outside the club.

One Day In Ibiza Town

The next morning, we explored Ibiza in daylight, and it was a totally different vibe. While the nightlife is wild, daytime Ibiza Town feels calm, charming, and full of history.

From the port, we hopped on the complimentary shuttle bus that dropped us near the marina, just a short walk from the old town.

Ibiza Town is mostly pedestrian, with narrow cobblestone streets, local shops, tapas bars, and plenty of cafés to stop and enjoy the view.

Tip: It gets hot during the day, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes (there are hills to climb if you head toward the castle walls).

We visited in May, at night it was cool and breezy, but during the day it was surprisingly hot, so dress in layers if you’re visiting in spring.

Ibiza Old Town Vegan

We stopped at L’Apéro, where we enjoyed roasted asparagus, fries, and of course, a glass of Spanish wine.

Overall Virgin Voyages Mediterranean Itinerary

I’ve heard people complain about the limited time in each port, but here’s the truth: if you don’t plan ahead, you will feel rushed. That’s why we always research in advance and create a rough plan for what to see, where to eat, and how to get around.

Doing this not only allowed us to enjoy each stop to the fullest, but also gave us a taste of places we now want to return to on a dedicated trip. Each port had something unique: the glamour of Cannes, the charm of Corsica, the history of Palma, the nightlife of Ibiza.

I hope this guide helps you plan your own Virgin Voyages Mediterranean itinerary adventure. And if you want to maximize your experience onboard the ship itself, don’t forget to check out my Virgin Voyages Onboard Guide.