What Are the Best Cruises in Europe?
Europe is a dream destination for a cruise: you can experience an incredible diversity of cultures, languages, and landscapes in a short time. Whether you prefer drifting along a majestic river or sailing from island to island, the possibilities are endless. Here’s a selection of the best cruises in Europe, the most renowned cruise lines, and a few tips to make the most of this adventure.
What is the Best Destination for a Cruise in Europe?
The Mediterranean: A Timeless Classic
Wondering what is the best cruise to take? The Mediterranean is undoubtedly the most popular region for cruises in Europe, offering unparalleled cultural and natural richness. A Mediterranean cruise often takes you from Barcelona to Rome, with stops at the Greek Islands, the French Riviera, and Croatia. Each port of call is a dive into ancient history, delicious cuisine, and turquoise seas.
Norway’s Fjords: A Natural Spectacle
For a more contemplative and spectacular cruise, head to Norway’s fjords. Between dramatic mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and charming villages, sailing here is peaceful yet unforgettable. The changing light throughout the seasons offers a unique backdrop, especially in spring and summer.
The Danube: A Royal River
River cruises also have their charm, especially along the Danube, which passes through iconic capitals like Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava. It’s a great option for those who enjoy alternating between relaxing onboard and cultural discoveries onshore—without the risk of seasickness.
The British Isles and Ireland
Mysterious and majestic, cruises around the British Isles offer a timeless escape through towering cliffs, misty moorlands, and ancient castles. From Scotland to Ireland via Wales, each stop is an immersion in history, legends, and the raw beauty of these storied lands.
The Baltic Sea: Between History and Modernity
A Baltic Sea cruise invites you on a refreshing adventure through Northern Europe's finest capitals. From Copenhagen to Stockholm, including Helsinki, Tallinn, and Riga, this refined cultural journey reveals royal palaces, medieval quarters, and cutting-edge museums. The air may be crisp, but the cultural wealth is remarkable.
What Are the Best River Cruises in Europe?
River cruises are loved for their gentle pace and proximity to landscapes. Among the most popular:
The Danube, crossing ten countries and iconic cities like Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade, offers a fascinating immersion into Central Europe’s rich heritage.
The Rhine, with its hilltop castles, vineyards, and picturesque villages between Germany, France, and the Netherlands.
The Douro in Portugal, known for its steep riverbanks and wine estates—perfect for wine lovers.
The Seine, from Paris to Normandy, offering a graceful blend of culture, history, and French charm.
The Elbe, between the Czech Republic and Germany, unveiling bucolic landscapes, baroque towns like Dresden, and a still-authentic atmosphere away from mass tourism.
What Are the Best Cruises for Families?
Cruise lines like MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Royal Caribbean offer ships that are perfectly suited for children, with age-appropriate kids’ clubs, pools, water slides, shows, and even surf simulators or climbing walls. For an even more magical experience, choose Disney Cruise Line, a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company, where fairy-tale shows, supervised activities, and encounters with beloved characters enchant the entire family.
What Is the Best Cruise Line?
Choosing the right cruise line depends mainly on your preferences and the experience you’re seeking! Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking for onboard luxury, there’s a perfect cruise line for you:
Royal Caribbean: Known for its giant ships and wide range of onboard activities, perfect for families and entertainment seekers.
Costa Cruises: Offering an authentic Italian experience with elegant design, refined cuisine, and a festive atmosphere across Mediterranean and European itineraries.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Famous for its "Feel Free" concept, giving passengers great freedom onboard and special facilities for solo travelers.
Viking Cruises: Specializing in river cruises, Viking stands for refinement and comfort, especially along the Rhine or Danube.
MSC Cruises: A European leader offering modern and affordable cruises across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Baltic Sea, blending comfort, elegance, and family-friendly atmospheres.
Ponant: This French luxury company offers intimate cruises on small ships, focusing on off-the-beaten-path itineraries with an emphasis on ecology, gastronomy, and unique destinations.
Hurtigruten: Ideal for adventurers, exploring Norway and the Arctic with a focus on authenticity and sustainability in breathtaking natural landscapes—a must for nature lovers.
What Visa Is Required for a Cruise in Europe?
If you’re embarking on a cruise in Europe, visa requirements depend on your nationality and the ports of call. EU citizens can freely travel within the Schengen Area with a valid ID card or passport. Non-EU travelers may need a Schengen visa depending on their citizenship. Need a Schengen visa Check the website of the consulate of the departure country to apply. No visa needed? Make sure your passport is valid for less than 10 years and covers at least three months beyond your return date. Starting in November 2025, travelers will also need to apply for ETIAS travel authorization.
Which Season for a Cruise in Europe?
European climates vary greatly by region. For the Mediterranean, opt for spring (April to June) or fall (September–October) to avoid the summer crowds and heat. For Northern Europe, summer (June to August) is ideal, with mild temperatures and long daylight hours.
Our Tips for a European Cruise
Select a Balanced Itinerary.
Some cruises offer daily stops, while others alternate between sailing and exploring. Depending on your energy levels and preferences, choose a pace that suits you—whether you prefer relaxation, exploration, or a mix of both.
Book Your Excursions in Advance.
If you plan to visit iconic sites like the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, the Colosseum in Rome, or the Royal Palace in Stockholm during a stopover, it’s recommended to book excursions early through the cruise line or independently.
Check What’s Included.
Not all cruises include the same services. Some packages cover drinks, excursions, gratuities, or Wi-Fi, while others don’t. Always read the terms carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises.
What Travel Insurance for a Cruise in Europe?
Choose reliable travel insurance when applying for a visa or passing through borders with Europ Assistance’s Schengen travel insurance. Recognized and accepted by Schengen embassies and consulates worldwide, it offers medical coverage up to €60,000 in case of illness or accident, along with other benefits.