Cruise ships may ply the same waters, but don't assume that all itineraries are created equal. Here, our top picks in ten popular spots around the world—and why we think they're the best.

As the number of available ports grows, cruise lines are competing to add new, more exotic stops, from uninhabited islands to world capitals, indigenous communities, and ancient ruins. We've chosen the following ten itineraries not just for the ports of call but also on the basis of how much time the ships spend in each (typically nine hours or more) and how often they overnight in port. Since these unusual itineraries are more commonly found on smaller ships, we've included some alternatives for cruisers who prefer large ships. We also offer great-value cruises and some with blissful days at sea. So take your pick: Any one of these journeys is sure to be the cruise of a lifetime.

The Mediterranean
Top Itinerary
The Western Mediterranean (Monte Carlo to Rome)

on Regent Seven Seas' Voyager
Length 11 days
Departure November 5, 2008
Cost From $9,995
 

Most Mediterranean cruises are a sort of CliffsNotes version of Europe, skimming the surface without ever delving too deeply. An island-heavy itinerary solves this problem: A single day in Marseille won't give you the full flavor of Provence, but it's plenty of time to tackle Minorca, just nine miles at its widest point. This particular trip—on our readers' favorite medium-size ship, which has private balconies outside all 353 cabins—also includes a late departure from Mallorca, allowing you time to rent a car and explore the mountains, villages, and beaches in the northwest (while avoiding the package tour groups on the east coast). Foodies find the overnight in Barcelona essential, since you can't even get seated in a restaurant until 9 p.m., and a local wouldn't consider dining before 10. On your second day there, get a bird's-eye view of Barcelona either from the Park Güell, full of Gaudí's fabulous mosaics and mystical creatures, or from the monastery atop Montserrat, 35 miles outside the city. In Ajaccio, Corsica, be sure to order the bouillabaisse at a beachside restaurant. When the ship docks in Livorno, many choose to spend the day in Florence, but take care of your shopping early and sightsee in the afternoon—most stores close from two to four.