Europe - All Cruises 2023/2024

Europe - All Travel Guide

Europe - All Cruises Things To Do

• 
  Copenhagen, Denmark

  For a true taste of Danish culture, Copenhagen is a unique and authentic destination. You may be interested in the iconic Tivoli Gardens amusement park, or you can experience the home of the Danish Parliament inside Christiansborg Palace. Everywhere you turn, you'll see colorful houses, welcoming locals, and the unmistakable Little Mermaid statue.   

  Best Time To Visit

  For the best combination of suitable weather and affordable prices, it's recommended to visit Copenhagen from March to May or from June to August.  

   

  You Should Know

  If you have a full day to explore Copenhagen, rent a bike! It's an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around that will help you blend in with the locals. You can often book a free walking tour of the city if your cruise line doesn't have an excursion set up. The water in Copenhagen is extremely safe and clean, so you can fill up a reusable water bottle instead of paying for a new one.
• 
  Rome, Italy

  Rome has a little something for everyone, making it the ideal destination on your cruise. Take a tour through the historic Colosseum or toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for a wish come true. Explore the beauty of Vatican City while you're in town, too!  

  Best Time To Visit

  Rome is best in the shoulder seasons. In spring, May is the best month, and for the fall, September and October are suitable.  

   

  You Should Know

  Your cruise will likely port in the nearby city of Civitavecchia, but almost all cruises will transport you into Rome. Italy mostly operates on cash, so be sure you have plenty with you and don't have to rely on your credit card. If you want to sample some Italian coffee, don't commit the faux pas of ordering a cappuccino after noon. This is considered strictly a breakfast beverage.
• 
  Athens, Greece

  Interested in history? A visit to Athens is a must-do. Both first-time visitors and those returning to Athens will enjoy sites like the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dine on authentic Greek food, take a traditional dancing lesson, or simply wander the city and get lost in the culture.  

  Best Time To Visit

  Athens is most appealing from March through May and from September through November. Crowds are smaller, prices are cheaper, and the weather is cooler.   

   

  You Should Know

  ATMs are readily available throughout Athens. Even though many establishments will take credit cards these days, it's still nice to have some cash with you just in case. Don't be surprised to find Athenians smoking everywhere you go. Even indoor locations like restaurants and cafes usually see people smoking. Be aware of your belongings at all times, since pickpocketing is becoming more and more common.
• 
  Ibiza, Spain

  Ibiza is one of the best representations of Mediterranean culture. There are plenty of gorgeous beaches for you to soak up the sun, as well as delicious traditional fish and meat dishes at the local restaurants. You can also find several historical sites like Dalt Vila and museums with stunning artwork.  

  Best Time To Visit

  Most visitors enjoy Ibiza in the summer months from late May through October. During this season, temperatures remain in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, perfect for outdoor activities.  

   

  You Should Know

  While Ibiza has a reputation as a party destination, it's actually much more nuanced than it might seem. There's an extensive history and vibrant culture to explore. There's really no standard "dress code" in Ibiza, so you'll see people in all kinds of clothes. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for walking around. To explore the city, you can opt for a bus or taxi. There are no Ubers, but the taxi service does have its own app called Taxi Ibiza.
• 
  Marseille, France

  Marseille has received a designation as a European Capital of Culture, so you know you're in for a treat on your visit. You'll get to explore flavors of Tunisia and Morocco, as well as classic French dishes and experiences. You're just a short trip away from Provence if you have a longer stay in the area.   

  Best Time To Visit

  Peak tourist season in Marseille is from May through August, so to avoid the crowds, try to plan a visit from September to November.   You Should Know If you visit in August, some shops may be closed. Many establishments shut down for a few weeks to escape the heat. Uneven sidewalks and steep staircases call for sensible shoes. Don't miss a trip to Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, also known as "La Bonne Mère" or "The Good Mother." You'll have 360-degree views of the city below.
• 
  Venice, Italy

  Venice is one of Europe's most remarkable and unique cities, so if you have the chance, you should pay it a visit before it's gone! St. Mark's Square is a popular tourist spot that's well worth the visit. Be sure to take a gondola ride for the full experience.  

  Best Time To Visit

  September through November is considered a great time to travel to Venice. It's a bit cooler than in the summer, but there are much smaller crowds to handle.  

   

  You Should Know

  You'll have to navigate the city carefully, so don't bring a big bag with you. Wear comfortable shoes and expect to be getting in and out of boats quite often. Public toilets are incredibly clean, but they do cost a fee to use. To avoid the charge, grab something from a café, and use their toilet. Artisan workshops are the best places to find unique and affordable souvenirs.
• 
  Dubrovnik, Croatia

  Dubrovnik is arguably one of Europe's most underrated travel destinations, but it's completely worth exploring. The old city walls will look familiar to Game of Thrones fans, giving you a stunning view of the iconic terra cotta rooftops. Sample some fresh fish and award-winning wine for your lunch onshore.   

  Best Time To Visit

  As with many European cities, it's recommended to visit Dubrovnik in September and October. Crowds are smaller but water temperatures are still warm enough to take a dip if you choose.  

   

  You Should Know

  Dubrovnik has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Dubrovnik is considered safer than many other European cities, so you don't have to be on edge about walking alone. If you choose to swim, you don't have to worry about sharks, but you may encounter sea anemone or sea urchins.
• 
  Barcelona, Spain

  Barcelona is full of exciting attractions, but you can get a good feel for the city in just one day. The Museu Picasso houses some of the artist's most incredible pieces, and Park Güell is simply not to be missed. Take a stroll down La Rambla to witness everything from local shops to street performers.   

  Best Time To Visit

  May and June are considered the best months to visit Barcelona. There's not as much humidity as there is in the later summer months, and plenty of festivals are ongoing to provide some unique entertainment.  

   

  You Should Know

  Be sure to stop by the Sagrada Familia. This incredible basilica began construction in 1882 and remains unfinished to this day, though it is expected to be completed in 2026. The political situation in Barcelona is unstable, so be wary to discuss politics with the locals without a little research beforehand. Sangria is (perhaps surprisingly) not that popular in Spain, so you're better off ordering vermouth or cava.

Europe - All Cruise Packages

• Summer - June to August - High Season

  It's generally recommended to take a Europe ocean cruise between April and November. This is considered the busiest season (June through August, in particular, is the "high season"), so you'll have a few crowds to contend with, but you'll also have the largest number of ships to choose from. If you're aiming for better weather and are willing to spend a bit more money, this season is ideal.

• Spring/Autumn - April to June & September to October - Good Season

  If you are looking to embark on a Mediterranean cruise, you'll find better temperatures in the spring and fall. In areas like southern Spain, Italy, and Greece, temperatures are almost unbearably hot in the summertime, since these destinations sit so close to the equator. Visiting in the spring and fall will make your experience much more pleasurable.

• Winter - November to March - Low Season

  You would be hard-pressed to find an ocean cruise around Europe in the wintertime. The weather isn't too pleasurable and not many tourists are interested in cruising during these months, so you're not likely to find a cruise in December or January. 

Europe - All Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Europe Ocean Cruise?

  Europe ocean cruises are incredibly popular, so you can find journeys as short as 4 days or as long as 2 weeks. These cruises will likely have a focus, so you can decide what section of Europe you'd like to explore. Some of the most common options include the Mediterranean, Norway and the Fjords, and Scandinavia. 

• What’s Included on a Europe Ocean Cruise?

  Your European ocean cruise will include your meals, stateroom, and onboard entertainment options. Some cruise lines will also offer flight accommodations and port excursions with the price of your booking. 

• What’s the Best Cruise for a Europe Ocean Cruise?

  Europe's ocean cruises can be found on almost any major cruise line. Popular options include Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Viking Ocean Cruises. To decide which Europe ocean cruise is right for you, determine what port cities you'd like to visit, what time of year you want to travel, how long you want to stay, and how much money you have to spend.

• How Much Does a Europe Ocean Cruise Cost?

  Many all-inclusive Europe ocean cruises cost $1,000 to $1,500 per person for a 7- or 8-day cruise. If you select a longer cruise or an upgraded stateroom, your price will increase. Shorter cruises like 4-day options typically cost around $500 per person. Your rate will vary depending on the cruise line and length of the journey you select.