I just booked a Mediterranean cruise for the family. Kids will be 15 and 10, and our parents are late 70s (but get around very well). The cruise starts in Athens, with stops in Santorini, Mykonos, Ephesus, Malta, and ends in Barcelona.

I think we'll be able to figure out what to do on the cruise stops, but the biggest question is how much time should I allow for Athens and Barcelona? Would two nights (i.e., a day and a half) in each town be enough to see the major attractions?

I don't know what I don't know, so all advice is appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

We did Rome to Athens with a couple of the same stops.

Athens can be done in two hard days. Three was too many for us and we took a day cruise to another island.

Highly suggest private tours when you can and avoid the cruise ship tours.. For Athens we also did Rick Steve's guided tour.

The walks of Italy tour does a great one day Rome tour.

2 days in Athens should be good. The walk up to Acropolis is steep and uneven ground so just be mindful with the parents.

As a travel advisor that specializes in Europe and cruising there as well. If you have not found an advisor to work with my contact info is in my bio. I have planned lots of travel for fellow Texags
One piece of advice that I would most certainly recommend as I do with my tour operators is on the cruise if you are booking outside of the cruise line make sure there is a guarantee back to the cruise ship. Email me with any questions

Planning this exact same trip but in reverse and in October.

I will be following with baited breath

What cruise line ? Def sounds like something I wanna do in the next 5 years

Two nights in Barcelona is enough to see the main sites, but no day trips or allowing for some extra exploring, eating and just hanging out. Barcelona is a fantastic city for just walking around, stopping in cafes and shops and simply enjoying it. I wouldn't describe Athens quite that way.

Also, do get to the top of the caldera and be ready to spend time along there when you visit Santorini.

There are multiple cruise lines that offer itineraries in Greece, and the best fit depends on what you're looking for in terms of experience, amenities, and travel style. Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages to name a few. My contact info is in my bio if for future you would like to work with a travel advisor that specializes in Europe.

Agreed. Barcelona is fantastic and 2 nights is enough to get a good taste, but you will wish you could stay a bit longer.

Thanks to everyone who replied. I'll try to figure out how to post pics and do a write up when we get back.

Here's the cruise, for those who asked.
https://www.celebritycruises.com/itinerary-details/7-night-greece-malta-and-turkey-from-athens-piraeus-greece?pID=AT07M776&sDT=2025-07-12&sCD=AT&sCT=CO&roomQuantity=3&packageID=AT07M776&country=USA