Spain & Morocco Cruise 8 netter • Barcelona, Spain • Mariner of the Seas

A cruise from Barcelona is one of the best ways to experience all the brightest jewels of the Mediterranean — but it’s also a great opportunity to spend some time discovering one of the coolest cultural hubs in western Europe. This lively seaside city checks all the boxes — history, culture, amazing food, a thriving art scene and so much more. When you visit Barcelona, you can start every day with a steamy cortado in a charming sidewalk café. After that, the options for adventure are endless. Swim with sharks at Aquarium de Barcelona, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Check out ancient Roman relics at the Barcelona City History Museum, located in the vibrant Gothic Quarter. Make a reservation to see a sultry flamenco show. And when hunger hits, head to Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, a pilgrimage site for foodies. It was a covered market back in the 1200s. Now it’s one of the top food markets in the world and a must-visit stop before your cruise out of Barcelona.

Cruise into Tangier, Morocco, and discover a city where continents meet and cultures blend in spectacular fashion. As your ship docks, you’ll step into a vibrant port city brimming with history, charm, and breathtaking views. Begin at the iconic Kasbah, a hilltop fortress offering sweeping panoramas of the Mediterranean, or explore the Medina, a maze of bustling souks filled with spices, textiles, and handmade treasures. Just a short journey from the port, Cape Spartel offers stunning vistas where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet, while the legendary Hercules Caves invite you to explore their myth-filled beauty. Back at the waterfront promenade, enjoy Moroccan and European-inspired flavors at cafes and restaurants lining the coast. Tangier’s artistic legacy, inspiring writers and painters for generations, adds to its allure. A cruise to Tangier delivers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty, leaving travelers with memories to last a lifetime.

As you depart the ship, you'll become aware of the hubbub: Casablanca is bustling, especially in the port. Head away from that area and into the city center, where you'll find tall Moorish buildings, like the Hassan II Mosque, or Art Deco landmarks, like the Sacré-Coeur Cathedral. From there, walk to where you can enjoy a snack or beverage in Place des Nations Unies — a bustling square filled with restaurants. Not sure what to indulge in? Seafood pastilla and snail soup are not to be missed. After you've filled up, it's time to try your hand at haggling in the souks. Watch the locals at Maarif Market strike bargains over fresh flowers, olives and spices before trying it yourself.

Seville’s distinct personality is intoxicating. Wander its narrow streets and you’ll discover palaces built by Moorish kings in Old Town and lively tapas bars in Santa Cruz. Admire the lavish stylings of Plaza de España, and stroll through greenery at Maria Luisa Park. Stand in Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring. Marvel at Spanish masterworks at the Museum of Fine Arts. Or breathe in citywide views from Torre del Oro.

After your arrive in Málaga, soak in the ancient history at La Alcazaba Moorish fotress and the ruins of the Roman Amphitheatre. Then, unwind on sunny La Malagueta beach or in the orchids and ferns at La Concepcion Botanical Garden. Check out the works of the city's most famous former resident at the Picasso Museum, and savor regional, fresh-caught pescado frito (fried fish) with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Palma de Mallorca is the perfect place to immerse yourself in history and beauty. Go back in time to the 14th century at Bellver Castle, with its mix of Arab arches and Roman-inspired fortification. Catch a wave on the golden sands of El Arenal beach. Then, tuck into cocarrois, a local take on empanadas, or cool off in the quiet gardens and medieval ruins of the 10th-century Arab Baths.

Afternoons in Barcelona are best spent eating Spanish tapas in a cozy bar. Then take a Gaudí-inspired architecture crawl to see modernist wonders like Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, Park Güell and the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Família. Explore medieval dockyards at the Maritime Museum— or throw on an apron and learn the centuries-old art of Catalan cuisine in a chef-led cooking class.