Europe Cruises
A European cruise is your key to unlock the history, culture and cuisine of the world’s best destinations. Take your pick of Northern Europe’s Baltic cities and Scandinavian Fjords while the Mediterranean offers some of the ancient world’s most iconic places such as the pyramids of Egypt, Coliseum of Rome and temples of Athens. Many people enjoy cruising to Europe conveniently from the UK while fly cruises are also available. River cruises are an option too with the Rhine and Danube the perfect way to see the inland cities of Budapest and Vienna for the perfect city break.
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Types of Europe Cruises
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Sail across the famous Bay of Biscay and sample the charm of western France and northern Spain on a European cruise. Discover Portugal's glorious coastline and explore the vibrant cities of Lisbon, Biarritz and Bordeaux. Or you may decide to journey to tulip covered Holland, cosmopolitan Brussels or the delightful Channel Islands on a European cruise. Wherever you cruise to, you are certain to experience European charm, variety and relaxation. Also please take a look at our amazing Med cruises, Norway & Fjords cruises and Baltic cruises.
On a European cruise there is a great deal of variety available to you. You could take a luxury cruise with the Cunard Queen Victoria or you could go on a Voyages of Discovery cruise with the onboard lectures and experts talking about the destinations of the cruise. P&O Cruisesitineraries incude short breaks, 7 and 14 night cruises from Southampton and fly cruises to the Med. Try a Europe river cruise, an excellent way to visit the towns and cities of Europe whilst exploring the continents fascinating rivers. Frequent port calls allow you to explore each exciting destination in depth. River Cruises are a great way to explore new and exciting destinations.
With so many exciting things to see and do, European cruise appeal to most people. So whether you are a first time cruiser or looking for a family cruise, Europe is the place for you. For those wanting to see a little more on their European cruise, you can opt for a cruise & stay holiday where you can spend a little more time exploring.
Top European Cruise Destinations and Shore Excursions
European cruises to Italy
Italy was made for romance with sumptuous landscapes, fascinating history, culture and cuisine that just about seduces everyone. Explore the canals of enchanting Venice and gaze at beautiful churches or Renaissance art, or why not take a shore excursion to Rome and enjoy a walking tour around this historic city, packing in the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon and, of course, the Coliseum.
European cruises to Holland
The land of wooden clogs and tulips, Holland is beautiful, calming and colourful, and nowhere more so than Amsterdam. Here you can soak up the exquisite 17th-century architecture, romantic canals and interesting shops. Before you leave, don't forget to sample the traditional local cheeses in the vibrant street markets.
European cruises to Russia
Russia offers a wealth of history, enormous diversity and many cultural traditions. Escape to the past in St. Petersburg with its vast, crystalline squares and palaces, offering a glimpse of the once glittering imperial Russia. St Isaac's Cathedral, Peterhof, Catherine Palace and the Hermitage are all a must for your list. Alternatively, revel in the awe-inspiring art collections in Moscow while sampling some of the delicious local cuisine.
European cruises to Greece
Discover Athens, the centre of the ancient world and the birthplace of civilization, before exploring the gorgeous Greek islands. Visit the many fallen columns and architectural masterpieces, or sample the vibrant Athenian lifestyle with its quaint restaurants and lively nightlife. However, a real highlight is a trip to the site of the original Olympic Games at Olympia or a cable car ride to the top of the cliffs in Santorini for the amazing seascape vistas.
European cruises to Portugal
The Portuguese capital of Lisbon offers a unique combination of diverse cultures and architecture in a laid-back atmosphere. Legendary cafes and art nouveau shops will tantalise you away from your sumptuous ship for a day's exciting excursion. A river cruise will take you down the Douro, showcasing the beautiful scenery that this country has to offer as you taste the famous Port wine along the way.
European cruises to Spain
Cruises to Spain offer a fantastic range of culture, such as the Gothic Cathedrals of Barcelona or the designer boutiques of Cadiz. The Iberian treasures also include the Atlantic coastline of Bilbao where you can visit the Guggenheim while for the sun worshippers there are the beautiful beaches of Alicante or Palma. European cruises to Spain take you through Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture and from stunning landscapes to vibrant cafe culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cruises affected by the Iran War?
Most of Europe is unaffected. Some itineraries touching the Eastern Mediterranean, Gulf or Red Sea have seen changes, but Western and Northern Europe cruises are operating as normal.
Which region is cheapest for a Europe cruise?
Short Northern Europe sailings from Southampton tend to be the most affordable way to cruise Europe, starting from around £320 per person for 5 nights.
Which is the prettiest river cruise in Europe?
The Rhine and Danube through Germany, Austria and Hungary are consistently rated among the prettiest river cruise routes in Europe.
What is a Baltic and Scandinavia cruise?
A longer Northern Europe itinerary combining Baltic capitals such as Stockholm and Copenhagen with Scandinavian ports in Norway, typically running 10 nights or more.
What is the best month to go on a European cruise?
May, June, September and October offer the best balance of good weather and lighter crowds across most of Europe. July and August are hottest and busiest.
Are cruises to Europe worth it?
Yes. Cruising is a practical way to see multiple European countries and cities in one trip, without arranging separate flights and hotels between them.
Which cruise line is best for Europe?
MSC Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and P&O Cruises are among the most established across Europe, covering everything from the Mediterranean to the fjords.
Which celebrity cruise ship is considered the best in Europe?
Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond are both well regarded for European sailings, offering a more premium, adults-focused style than mainstream family lines.
Is it safe to go on a European cruise right now?
Yes. Mainstream European cruises, including the Mediterranean, Baltic and Norwegian fjords, are operating as normal, with no current FCDO advisory against travel.
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