The Mediterranean is often visited at the peak of summer, when waterfront tables fill quickly and the afternoon heat can turn even a short walk into an undertaking. Return in winter, however, and those who do discover something very different: quieter cities, festive traditions, easier sightseeing and the luxury of slowing down.

It is precisely this quieter side of Europe that Oceania Cruises has built its first full winter Mediterranean season around. From Nov 2027 to March 2028, Oceania Allura will sail 17 voyages ranging from nine to 26 days, from Barcelona in the west to Istanbul in the east. 

Across these sailings, the itineraries let guests revisit favourite European cities at a gentler pace while discovering smaller ports many larger cruise lines skip, with the added ease of only having to unpack once.

It is ashore that the difference winter makes becomes most apparent. For travellers used to seeing Europe at its busiest, the appeal of winter lies in what falls away. In Rome, Piazza Navona ...