You only have to have one lovely cruise experience to make this your preferred method of travel. Without question, cruising to Europe could be one of the best decisions of your life.
In total relaxation, you can sail from port to port with ample time to check a lot of destinations off your bucket list. Here are 15 ports of call you may want to set within your sights.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has so much to offer with its rich architecture, impressive culinary scene, and close proximity to the beach.
As a major cruise hub, you’re quite likely to find a cruise line of your choice that makes a stop in this colorful city.
Out of all the Spanish cities, Barcelona is a chart-topper. But, don’t forget that Valencia and Santander are also popular gateways to this cultural mecca.
2. Lisbon, Portugal
Spain garners a lot of attention – and rightly so. But, for something comparable that’s a little bit friendlier on your wallet, give Lisbon a try.
Somehow, it manages to straddle the line between small-town charm and big-city bustle. While here, you’ll want to head for the famous Alfama District, known for its whitewashed buildings and colorful streamers that bedazzle the alleyways.
3. Provence, France
If, instead, you have France on your mind, aim for Provence. The French Riviera is a beautiful gateway to the entire country.
There are two ports – Marseille and Toulon – that provide easy access to what could be a magical few days in the land of lavender.
4. Naples, Italy
Italy has a few ports of call if you’d like to dine in delight and enjoy one of the oldest nations in the world.
Naples has the proud claim to fame of Mount Vesuvius. You could easily get lost back in time while here and – if time allows – even take a quick trip up to Rome for the day.
5. Venice, Italy
To no surprise, a city built over water is also a major port of call. With twisting canals, world-class restaurants, gorgeous cobblestone streets, and St. Mark’s Square, you’ll be swept away in this historic city.
Although you’ll be tasting some of the finest cuisine in the world while in Italy, we still have a cheat sheet for you for the best foods to enjoy when you’re aboard your ship.
6. Florence, Italy
Last call for Italy. It’s worth mentioning that Florence is also within reach if you’d like to cruise to Italy on your next vacation.
As the gateway to some of the world’s finest art collections, wine, and food, a trip to the Tuscan hills will provide everlasting memories.
7. Santorini, Greece
Do you prefer Italian or Greek mythology? You might not bump into a Cerberus these days, but you can still absorb all their local lore and history.
Witnessing those fresh-faced, white-washed buildings in Santorini atop sapphire blue waters is something you’ll never be able to erase from your memory bank.
8. Valletta, Malta
For such a tiny island nation, Malta welcomes a lot of visitors, year after year. If you’ve made it to Italy or Greece, Malta may be within reach, given its location to the south of Sicily.
Filled with medieval architecture and other masterful sights like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Malta will prove that you’re a world away.
9. Dubrovnik, Croatia
For something a little more unique than the ever-popular Alaskan and Caribbean cruises, consider something like Croatia, tucked neatly into the Adriatic Sea.
Dubrovnik has a beautiful feel to it, much like Venice and Valletta with its winding streets, old stone buildings, and fortress-like stone wall.
10. Dublin, Ireland
If you have it in your heart to experience the famed warmth of an Irish welcome, Dublin is your port of call.
There are other ports in Ireland, such as Cobh – where the Titanic famously sailed out of. But, Dublin’s a great starting point when you’re ready to be immersed in this ancient and musical culture.
11. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s not just the place where Potterheads unite. People from all over the world fill the streets of Edinburgh all year ‘round for its rich history and unique architecture.
Edinburgh Castle is a sight to behold, as is the famous Victoria Street that’s often the focal point for photos. Edinburgh is one of those cities where it’s well worth a walking tour to really get a sense of the history that still lives on today.
If, indeed, Edinburgh is the winner, check out this list of the top 25 things to do in this mystical, magical city.
12. Southampton, England
With all that Celtic history coursing through your veins, you might want to hop over to England, as well. Did you know there’s a lovely little port down in Southampton?
Like Scotland, the train system in England is superb. You could easily use Southampton as a port of call to visit one of the finest nations in the world.
Consider how London, the Stonehenge, and all the royal palaces will only be a hop, skip, and a jump away.
13. Bergen, Norway
Just above Scotland, you can aim for Bergen, Norway. The Scandinavians have some of the cleanest, safest cities in the world – and some of the best scenery in the world.
Many of its main cities and towns are safe destinations for female solo travelers.
As you cruise through a few fjords and stroll the colorful streets of Bergen, you’ll be glad you sailed this far north. While you’re there, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the trolls that inhabit the Bergen forests!
14. Copenhagen, Denmark
Speaking of clean, safe, and colorful cities – see if you can arrange a cruise that makes Copenhagen one of its ports of call.
Like Bergen, its buildings along the harbor are colorful and cheery, offering the perfect welcome. Although this is Hans Christian Andersen land, don’t forget to take a photo beside the famous Little Mermaid statue down by the water.
15. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is another city in this corner of the world well worth sailing to. Filled with canals, culture, and art museums like the famous Van Gogh Museum, your days will be both full and memorable.
Set Sail On Your Dreams
All of Europe is your oyster, especially if you love to cruise. With multiple entry points to some of the most enthralling countries in the world, you can design a wonderful trip around your favorite ports of call.
Whether you set your sights on Spain, Portugal, or Scotland, we have a destination guide to help you with one of the best parts of the trip – the planning stage! We hope to see you all aboard a Norwegian cruise line someday!