From stays in historic châteaux to museum-hopping to visits to UNESCO landmark sites, stellar onshore experiences abound throughout the Mediterranean.
From stays in historic châteaux to museum-hopping to visits to UNESCO landmark sites, stellar onshore experiences abound throughout the Mediterranean.
The multitude of dining options, amenity-laden suites and unparalleled service aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection make it easy to forget about the incredible experiences that await onshore. However, overnight stays in ports like Istanbul, Barcelona and Livorno, Italy (the gateway to Tuscany) offer the perfect opportunity to explore these remarkable destinations in greater depth. Extend your adventure by immersing yourself in the culture, cuisine and charm of these iconic locations before, after or even mid-way through your voyage.
Istanbul, Turkey
The five-star service continues at The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul. Located in the Dolmabahçe area overlooking the Bosphorus, this dazzling property delights guests with its array of restaurants, including Atölye Anatolian Kitchen and Nobu, its rooftop infinity pool and spectacular spa, featuring a Turkish hammam. Walking distance to many of the city’s top attractions, it’s the perfect base from which to explore icons like the Byzantine Basilica of Haghia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the grand project of Sultan Ahmet I, and the colorful Grand Bazaar.
Livorno, Italy
The gateway to Tuscany can easily be accessed when the yacht stays spends an overnight in Livorno. After a day of exploring, retreat to your suite on board or spend a night ashore, be it in a historic château surrounded by vineyards, a modern villa in ancient Lucca or a hilltop hotel in the medieval city of Siena. Art and architecture fans can immerse themselves in the wonders of Florence, which is just a few hours from Livorno. Spend a day museum-hopping between the Uffizi, the Galleria dell'Accademia and the Bargello, then visit the Pitti Palace and the Duomo. Wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss a night in Maremma, home to acclaimed wineries such as family-run Argentiera, where you’ll be treated to a cellar tour and tasting.
Barcelona, Spain
The tallest hotel on the coast, Hotel Arts Barcelona delivers panoramic city and beach views paired with exceptional service and some of the best dining venues in the city. Feel like a local as you walk the tree-lined La Rambla and admire the striking works of renowned architect Antoní Gaudi. Eat your way through the restaurants of La Boqueria Food Market and be sure to order the fried eggs and mushrooms at El Quim, made famous by Anthony Bourdain. Visit the Gothic Quarter and Museu Picasso, then return to the hotel for sunset gin and tonics on the rooftop.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
The Moorish-inspired Ritz-Carlton, Abama, sits above a virgin stretch of coastline in the town of Guia de Isora. Its clifftop setting soaks in unrivaled views of the Atlantic, Mount Teide and La Gomera, the second smallest of the Canary Islands, and feels like a true oasis of tranquility. Choose between rooms located in the buzzy Citadel section of the resort or the more secluded Retreat. The adventurous can set out to hike the trails of Anaga Rural Park or UNESCO-listed Teide National Park. Upon return, treat yourself to a yoga class or massage, or ride the funicular to a private beach and lounge in a sunbed.
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Visiting Palma de Mallorca is like stepping into a beautiful blend of history, culture and Mediterranean charm. The capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma offers a captivating mix of old and new. You can wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of the old town, marveling at stunning landmarks like the majestic La Seu Cathedral and the Almudaina Palace. The vibrant marina is perfect for a relaxing stroll, and the nearby beaches provide the ideal spot for sunbathing or taking a refreshing swim. Palma's lively cafés, tapas bars and local markets invite visitors to savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine while soaking up the island’s laid-back atmosphere.
