Top 10 Europe Shore Excursions
Home to some of the most stunning cities in the world, Europe has everything for a dream cruise getaway. With shore excursions for everyone, you can enjoy the sun-drenched beaches, or take in the culture of the many history-enriched cities. Explore the architecture, food, art, languages, and culture of a region where every city is different. There are a variety of cruise excursions to choose from in Europe, and many adventures to be had, so pack your bags - your journey awaits!
1. City Tours
Europe boasts some of the most unique and historic cities in the world, and all your cruise stops will offer city tours which are definitely worthwhile. With many ships only spending a day in the ports, a city tour is a great way to see as much as you can in just a few hours. Most of them will be on air-conditioned coaches, and hosted by friendly, knowledgeable tour guides. Some of our favourite cities to take a tour in are Barcelona, Lisbon, and Rome.
Disney Cruise Line can provide you with a European City Tour. Browse through Disney Cruise Line's European Cruises. 2. Amsterdam Canal Cruise, Amsterdam
The history of Amsterdam is intimately connected with water, and has over 165 canals that boast a wealth of history - and still continue to define the city’s landscape today. Floating down Amsterdam’s canals is one of the most memorable ways to discover this city, and make everything appear more magical! You will pass many of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as Munttoren, Schreierstoren Weepers Tower, and Anne Frank's house.
Cruise & Maritime Voyages offer this excursion. Take a look at Cruise & Maritime's European Cruises. 3. Montserrat Tour, Barcelona
You cannot visit Barcelona without exploring the fascinating Montserrat. You will visit the mountaintop monastery where pilgrims come to worship, admire the Patron of Catalonia, and discover the community of monks. Sure to leave a lasting impression, this tour is definitely one for those who want to discover an abundance of European history. You can go up the mountain by 'Aeri' cable car, or the Cremallera 'rack' train; we would recommend the cable car as you get stunning 360° views of the landscape as you head up the mountain.
Carnival Cruises can take you on a fascinating tour of Montserrat. See all Carnival Cruises' Mediterranean cruises. 4. Gondola Ride, Venice
The Gondola is the symbol of Venice, and offers a pleasant and fun way to see the city. As Venice is a city on water, there is no better way to take in all of its spectacular sights than on the canals themselves, allowing you to go under bridges and through tiny, pretty passage ways. There are a range of tours that incorporate a gondola ride, or some cruise lines will offer the gondola ride alone. After a ride on one of these traditional Italian boats, you will no doubt fall in love with the country even more!
Marella Cruises offer this fabulous excursion. Browse through all Marella Cruises Mediterranean cruises. 5. Volcano Hiking and Hot Springs, Santorini
A trip to one of the most violent volcanoes in the world is truly unique, and being able to swim in its hot springs makes it even more exciting. At the start of the tour, you will board a boat that will take you to New Kameni, and from there you will hike to the rim of the volcano to appreciate the views of one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Back to the boat, you will then head to the island of Palea Kameni - where you can swim in the natural warm spring.
Norwegian Cruise Line can take you to explore the volcanos. See all Norwegian Cruise Line's cruises to Greece. 6. The Colosseum, Rome
Built of natural concrete and stone, the Colosseum is an elliptical amphitheatre in the centre of Rome. A guided tour of this famous landmark is an excellent excursion choice if your cruise stops in Rome. Most tours include many of Rome’s other treasured highlights, including St Peter in Chains and St Peters Basilica. After your excursion, you are bound to become a fountain of knowledge when it comes to this fascinating city!
Carnival Cruises offer trips to The Colosseum. See all Carnival Cruises Mediterranean cruises. 7. Discover Monaco and Monte Carlo, Cannes
Monaco has an abundance of colourful arched streets and elegant shopping. Your tour will start with a guided walk of the old town, before heading to Monte Carlo. Named as one of the wealthiest cities in the world, Monte Carlo is home to the most exclusive restaurants, beautiful harbours and, naturally, the best shopping. Your tour will include free time to walk around and take in all the spectacular views in the bright, sunny weather.
Royal Caribbean can expertly show your around Monaco and Monte Carlo. Take a look at Royal Caribbean's Mediterranean cruises. 8. Mont Saint Michel, Cherbourg
Perched on a rocky island in the middle of vast sand banks, the Mont Saint Michel is one of the greatest religious buildings in Europe. The abbey itself stands 250ft above the sea, with greenery and rocks around its exterior. The tour will include a walk around the outside, but the most interesting part is when you enter and discover the secrets of the monks! The excitement does not stop there; when you go into the beautiful village of Mont Saint Michel you will explore old houses and shops, all inbetween twisted passageways.
P&O Criuses can take you on this excursion. Browse through all P&O Cruises in the Mediterranean. 9. Camel Ride and Fire Mountain, Lanzarote
Riding a camel is something everyone should do in their lifetime! It's a fun and unique experience that you can only do in a few places around the world. After your camel ride, you will get a tour of the volcano, where you will be taken around the lava fields and learn the effects that the volcanoes have had on the history of Lanzarote.
Marella Cruises provide this great opportunity. See all Marella Cruises in the Canary Islands. 10. Caves of Nerja, Malaga
The Caves of Nerja are a series of enchanted caverns and home to the largest stalagmite in the world. This is a unique experience that will allow you to explore this fascinating landmark. Hosted by an informative guide, you will be led around the caves whilst being shown the most captivating parts of it. Be adventurous and take this excursion to discover an exclusive Spanish treasure.
Royal Caribbean can show you the Caves of Nerja. See all Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruises.