Savouring the Mediterranean’s Golden Season with Explora Journeys

There’s something magical about the Mediterranean in early autumn. The crowds thin, the light softens, and the pace slows to something far more authentic. For me, this is the season when Europe feels like it belongs to the locals again—and when travellers like us can slip into that rhythm.

That’s exactly what Explora Journeys is offering with its curated collection of late summer and early autumn voyages aboard EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, sailing until November 2025. These journeys are designed for those who want to experience the Med at its most intimate—calmer, cooler, and infinitely more rewarding.

Why Early Autumn in the Med?

I’ve travelled through Europe in peak summer, and while the energy is electric, it can also be overwhelming. Early autumn is different. The afternoons are still radiant, but the streets are quieter, the locals more relaxed, and the landscapes take on a golden glow.

Explora Journeys captures this perfectly, with itineraries that linger longer in port, giving you time to savour a late lunch in a tucked-away taverna or wander cobbled lanes without the crush of tour groups.

EXPLORA I: Eastern Mediterranean Immersion

From Athens to Istanbul, Antalya to Venice, EXPLORA I traces a route through Greece, Türkiye, and beyond. Highlights include:

• Katakolo – gateway to ancient Olympia.
• Paphos & Kusadasi – where myth and history collide.
• Mytilene – whitewashed villages and spice-scented bazaars.

My tip: Take advantage of the thoughtfully timed overnights. Having an evening in Istanbul or Athens without rushing back to the ship is a rare luxury.

EXPLORA II: Western Mediterranean Tranquillity

Meanwhile, EXPLORA II explores the Western Med, with departures from Barcelona, Rome, Tenerife, and Lisbon. Think:

• Ibiza beyond the summer crowds.
• Saint-Tropez for afternoon strolls.
• Trapani for earthy Sicilian wines.
• Corsica & Sardinia for timeless island charm.

My tip: Don’t miss the late-season sailings from Tenerife to Barcelona. The volcanic landscapes of the Canaries, paired with Andalusian cities like Cádiz are a photographer’s dream in autumn light.

Why Choose Explora Journeys?

Explora Journeys isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you feel while you’re there. Their ships are designed for unhurried exploration, with a focus on space, privacy, and immersion. For me, that’s the sweet spot: luxury without pretension, and itineraries that give you time to breathe.

Tips

• Timing is everything: Early autumn (September–November) is perfect for Australians—it lines up with our spring, making it an ideal shoulder-season escape.
• Pack layers: Days are warm, but evenings can be crisp. A light jacket will see you through.
• Think local: Use Explora’s Destination Experiences to dive deeper—whether it’s truffle hunting in Tuscany or wine tasting in Sardinia.
• Stay longer: Consider an Extended Journey. Combining itineraries means fewer flights and a richer, more seamless experience.

Final Thoughts

For me, the Mediterranean’s golden season is when the region feels most alive—yet most peaceful. It’s when you can sip wine in a quiet piazza, watch the sun set over volcanic cliffs, and feel like you’ve stumbled into Europe’s best-kept secret.

Explora Journeys has captured that understated magic with its autumn sailings. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the Med without the madness of summer, this is your moment.

Explore itineraries and book your journey at Explora Journeys.