Explore historic cities and gorgeous islands on this holiday
Imagine exploring the sun-soaked Mediterranean, visiting so many new destinations, from the hidden shores of Ibiza to the turquoise waters of Sardinia.
Then, back on board your sleek and stylish ship, you can look forward to fantastic food and drink and dazzling entertainment.
With a P&O Cruises holiday, you can travel in style and have your pick of immersive itineraries. Plus there are hundreds of authentic shore experiences on offer.
Step aboard the freshly refurbished Britannia. The P&O Cruises flagship is celebrating her 10th anniversary this year – think glamorous interiors, new experiences, upgraded spaces, and mouthwatering menus.
You'll feel like you're staying at a boutique hotel - one where you can dine on gourmet delights, escape to the spa, or chill by the pool.
Plus, catch blockbuster films and vibrant shows, before dancing the night away at The Live Lounge or The Limelight Club.
With Britannia's 14-day Mediterranean Islands itineraries, there's no need to deal with the hassle of airports. Just step on board Britannia at Southampton and get ready to explore sun-kissed shores.
Set sail on her summer Mediterranean journey and you can combine fascinating destinations on the Spanish mainland with Balearic beauty and a slice of Sardinian living.
First, you might head to Cadiz, one of Europe's oldest cities. Stroll through the historic cobblestone streets, stopping for a local sherry to watch the world go by as the sound of flamenco fills the air.
From Cadiz, you also have the option to visit beautiful Seville, where you can wander its characterful cobbled streets, visit the historic Alcazar royal palace or settle down and indulge in some tempting tapas.
Mallorca's mix of golden beaches, secluded coves, ancient ruins, and fantastic cuisine makes it a standout destination.
You can meander through the old town of capital Palma, stopping at a local food market for an ensaimada – a freshly baked spiral pastry beloved by locals.
The Med isn't the only part of the world you can explore with Britannia; the P&O Cruises flagship visits the Norwegian Fjords during spring into summer, and the Caribbean in late autumn and winter.
Some itineraries will then whisk you to Sardinia, where you can get a flavour of the island's rich Carthaginian and Roman history, or combine a coastal hike with time spent on a pristine white-sand beach.
It could be followed by a day in Ibiza, where you might choose to go off-roading, enjoy a catamaran cruise and barbecue, or even zip across to dreamy Formentera by boat.
Then, a visit to the grand Roman amphitheatre of Cartagena could await, before you sail on to spot the birds and monkeys of Gibraltar. You might also opt to learn flamenco, explore by e-bike, or hop on a cable car to the very top of the Rock for incredible views before setting sail back to Southampton.
Between each sparkling Mediterranean destination, you'll savour every moment you spend on Britannia.
From the second you step on board, a world of choice unfurls before you. Indulge in foodie delights and delicious drinks at the ship's incredible 27 bars and restaurants, from casual eateries to elegant fine-dining experiences.
Catch thrilling cabaret performances, spellbinding shows, or rib-tickling comedy at eight entertainment venues, as well as enjoy live music in elegant bars or dance the night away.
During the day, soak up the sun on deck and relax by one of four swimming pools. For a little extra, you could pamper yourself at the spa or master the culinary arts with a class at The Cookery Club on Britannia, in association with Marco Pierre White.
Younger family members will adore the dedicated kids' clubs and play areas, while sporty types can look after their fitness at the impressive gym.
So if you're looking for a holiday that has it all, step aboard Britannia. Freshly refurbished, it's ready to show you the very best of the Med's sun-soaked coastline.
*Accurate at the time of publication. Early Saver price of £1,599 per person is based on two adults sharing a PF grade Inside cabin on cruise B617. Prices are subject to availability and may go up or down. Early Saver bookings are made at the relevant cabin grade and a cabin number is allocated by P&O Cruises prior to departure. Dining preferences are not guaranteed. Shuttle buses in ports are an additional cost. Early Saver prices apply to new bookings only. These terms and conditions vary, where relevant, the applicable booking conditions which are otherwise unchanged.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
38 minutes ago
- Wales Online
Holidaymakers to Spain face £2,500 fines if they break one drinking rule
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Britons eyeing a Spanish retreat this summer are being cautioned about potentially hefty fines of up to £2,500 ($3,000) for drinking-related infractions as Spain tightens its grip on tourist behaviour. As the peak holiday season draws near, travel gurus are pressing Brits to familiarise themselves with Spanish laws to sidestep unpleasant fines during their trip. Fines of up to €750 await those guilty of hosting "unauthorised gatherings" and blasting music at high volumes. Valencia's authorities are poised to impose penalties from €1,501 to €3,000 for setting up unapproved tents and encampments. Several Spanish beaches have also been designated as non-smoking zones, risking fines up to €450 for smoking, while fines for beachside or promenade drinking can range from €1,501 to €3,000. Spain is intensifying its crackdown on public alcohol consumption, with mass bans across streets, parks, and beaches, according to the Express. Those found flouting the rules by drinking in public could see fines soaring up to €3,000. Specific regions in Majorca including Llucmajor, Palma, and Magaluf have additionally put an end to alcohol sales from 9:30pm until 8am and have restricted promotional booze deals like happy hours. Spain has also implemented daily visitor limits at certain beaches in the Balearic and Canary Islands. Platja d'Aro, in Costa Brava, has announced fines up to €1,500 for appearing in public "with clothing representing human genitals" as part of a clampdown on stag and hen parties from the UK. The bylaw specifically prohibits individuals from appearing "on the public thoroughfare without clothing or only in their underwear or with clothing or accessories representing human genitals or with dolls or other accessories of a sexual nature". There is also new information required for those wishing to book accommodation or hire cars. Data collected by hotel owners, private rental providers and car hire companies will now be shared with the Spanish Ministry of Interior to enhance the country's national security. Visitors will now need to provide their: Gender Nationality Date of birth Home address Landline phone number Mobile phone number Payment details and method Relationship to any children in the travelling party under the age of 14. Chris Harrington, Managing Director at travel experts hoppa, said: "Spain is introducing a wave of new travel regulations in 2025, following record-breaking visitor numbers. These new regulations have been put in place to manage mass tourism and public behaviour, and are extremely important to follow. "Failure to adhere to new regulations could result in holidaymakers being fined hundreds of euros, with more serious offences potentially attracting fines between €1,500 and €3,000. "To assist holidaymakers in enjoying their trip without incurring any unexpected charges, we've compiled a list of the 4 regulations you should be aware of." Chris added: "Spain is an incredibly popular tourist destination for British holidaymakers. But it's more important than ever to be mindful and respectful when holidaying. "By travelling with awareness of the local culture and regulations, you can contribute to a positive travel experience for yourself and others. Before travelling, it is a good idea to check the Spanish tourism board and ensure that you are abiding by the rules of the municipality you are visiting." Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now Find the weather forecast where you live
Daily Mirror
2 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Brits avoid Spain after protests and warn ‘we won't go if we're not wanted'
A number of travel company bosses have reported dealing with clients who have made the decision to go elsewhere, following major overtourism protests last weekend Some holidaymakers are dodging destinations in Spain due to concerns about overtourism protests. Off the back of a string of high-profile, coordinated marches and actions across Spain, Portugal, and Italy at the weekend, potential visitors have decided to go elsewhere. A number of travel company bosses have reported dealing with clients who have made the decision to go elsewhere. Jet2holidays chief executive Steve Heapy told Travel Weekly: 'Media coverage has ramped up over the past 24 hours and it simply enforces the perception that holidaymakers are not welcome. It worries people, simple as that." Ryan Lambton, a Hays Travel personal travel consultant, said: 'I've had a few customers message [to say they] are now reluctant to book.' Karl Douglas, co-owner of Beverley Travel, added: 'We've had people saying, 'We don't want to go somewhere we're not wanted.' People will choose somewhere they're going to be made welcome.' Sandra Mutter, director at Andara Travel, said bookings to Dubai and Jordan were strong, but the protests in Spain, and Majorca in particular, seem to have had an "impact." Caroline Thorne, head of travel at East of England Co-op Travel, told the publication that overtourism protests were a bigger talking point with customers than the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Last year, the UK was the main country of origin for international tourism in Spain in 2024. In 2024, more than 18 million British travelers headed south for a trip to Spain. Meanwhile, France ranked in second place that year, accounting for around 13 million foreign visitors to Spanish territory. Following a sharp dip during the coronavirus pandemic, visitor numbers to Spain bounced back, hitting a record high of around 84 million in 2024. Tourism operators in Spain have been keeping a close eye on booking numbers since overtourism protests erupted at a significant scale in 2023. Despite some minor dips in hotel figures in some destinations, demand for travel to the sun-drenched country does not seem to have been badly impacted. Across holiday hotspots, campaigners fed up with rising house prices, low wages, and crowded public squares targeted tourists with water pistols and chanted for change. The protests last weekend were part of a coordinated action laid on by groups across several countries, who are united in their dislike of the current tourism model and who are now demanding change. Major protests hit the streets of several key Spanish holiday areas this weekend, with campaigners using water pistols against unsuspecting tourists in Barcelona and on the Spanish island of Majorca on Sunday. If you are planning a holiday somewhere sunny this summer, it's helpful to know where the protests are taking place and who the protesters are angry at. Check out our guide to the four major disruption hotspots.
Daily Mirror
2 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Uncrowded European city two hours away where a glass of wine costs £1.70
The lesser-known city is rich in history and ideal for a quick break in Europe if you're travelling on a budget. Many of Europe's favourite holiday destinations have seen growing backlash to the unsustainable amount of tourists received each year. Not only is it unenjoyable for local residents, crowds and increased prices aren't all that fun for holidaymakers either. There's no shortage of European cities to explore, and while Paris, Barcelona or Venice might be hard to beat, that doesn't mean lesser-known destinations should be overlooked. Plus, venturing off the beaten track often means you get more for your money, and don't have to spend hours in queues waiting to visit attractions or sit down for a meal. Portugal, a country adored by many Brits and boasting some of the world's most stunning beaches and cities, welcomes an impressive influx of tourists each year and many flock to well-known cities like Lisbon and Porto. It's also the reason both cities are witnessing a growing backlash against tourism, and even the island of Madeira has recently addressed the issue. But Portugal is also home to a lesser-known city that was even named Europe's Emerging Tourism Destination at the World Travel Awards, often dubbed the Oscars of the tourism industry. Situated just an hour north of Porto, Braga is a historically rich city often described as the Rome of Portugal thanks to its religious roots. Originally a Roman city named Bracara Augusta, this underrated city welcomed just 639,000 visitors in 2024, but that doesn't mean it hasn't got plenty on offer for tourists. Home to the oldest cathedral in the country, Braga Cathedral, it's considered an important religious site that's also known as the City of Bells, with 30 churches located in the city. Its most famous site, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, complete with an elaborate baroque stairway and view overlooking the city. In a piece for The Independent, Matt Dennis revealed that during his recent visit to Braga, he enjoyed a glass of Vinho Verde, a wine native to northwest Portugal, for a mere £1.70. Braga offers a refreshing, and affordable, escape from the throngs of tourists that flock to Lisbon and Porto, both of which welcomed over 5 million visitors last year. The walkable city centre, steeped in rich history including Roman ruins, is dotted with Baroque palaces and charming plazas, perfect for leisurely exploration on foot. Reaching Braga is straightforward - fly into Porto from most UK airports with Ryanair, easyJet or British Airways offering direct flights. A return flight in September can be as cheap as £21, with the weather still comfortably warm at around 20C. For those who prefer not to drive, a transfer from Porto to Braga costs approximately £6 and takes about 40 minutes, with several bus operators providing direct services from the airport.
