Europe

European Cruise Guide

European Cruise Guide

A European cruise is a captivating voyage through the heart of the continent, offering a rich tapestry of culture and history. You'll explore iconic cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen, each with its unique charm. These cruises provide a convenient way to experience Europe's diverse landscapes, from the stunning fjords of Norway to the enchanting Baltic capitals. It's a journey that promises a taste of Europe's finest offerings in one unforgettable adventure.

Barcelona
Civitavecchia

Key European Cruise Information

Ships & Cruise Lines

The variety of ships sailing European waters ensures there is a perfect match for every type of traveler. Mega-ships from lines like Carnival and Costa Cruises are floating resorts, packed with amenities like water slides, multiple specialty restaurants, and Broadway-style shows. These vessels are ideal for families and multi-generational groups who want a mix of destination exploration and onboard fun. In contrast, smaller, more intimate ships from lines such as Azamara, including the Azamara Journey, Quest, and Pursuit, offer a boutique experience. Their smaller size allows them to dock in ports inaccessible to larger vessels, like the heart of Portofino or smaller Greek isles, offering longer stays and overnight calls that allow for deeper immersion into the local culture.

Regardless of size, ships on European itineraries are well-equipped for destination-intensive cruising, with an average length of 9 nights. Onboard programming is often tailored to the region, with cruise lines like Celebrity and Cunard offering enrichment lectures on European art, history, and wine. Spas provide a welcome retreat after a long day of walking on cobblestone streets, and dining often incorporates local flavors and ingredients. These ships serve as a comfortable and convenient home base, eliminating the stress of inter-city travel and allowing passengers to wake up in a new, exciting destination each day, ready to explore.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Best Time to Cruise

The primary European cruise season spans from April to October, peaking in the summer months of June, July, and August. During this peak season, travelers can expect long, sunny days and warm to hot weather, perfect for exploring coastal towns and enjoying the Mediterranean sun. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to travel. Major attractions will be crowded, and cruise fares and airfare will be at their highest. Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of sunscreen. This period is ideal for those who prioritize hot weather and don't mind sharing the sights with many other tourists.

For a balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better value, the shoulder seasons of April - May and September - October are often considered the best times to cruise Europe. In the spring, the countryside is in full bloom, and temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing. In the fall, the summer heat subsides, the sea is still warm enough for swimming, and you may encounter local harvest festivals. Prices for cruises and flights are typically lower than in summer. Packing layers is key during these months, as mornings and evenings can be cool. A light jacket and a small umbrella are wise additions to your luggage.

Cruising in the off-season, from November to March, is less common but offers a unique experience for the right traveler. While many routes shut down, some cruises still operate, particularly in the Canary Islands where the weather remains mild. You'll find the lowest prices and can explore iconic cities and museums without the crowds. However, you must be prepared for cooler, wetter, and often unpredictable weather in the Mediterranean. Pack warm clothing, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes. This season is best for budget-conscious travelers who are more focused on history and culture than on sunbathing.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Who Should Go

European cruises hold immense appeal for history buffs, foodies, and culture enthusiasts who want to see multiple countries without the logistical hassles of trains and hotels. With a median price around $161 per person per day, it's a value-conscious way to visit iconic cities like Barcelona, Marseille, and the gateways to Rome. It's particularly well-suited for active adults and couples who enjoy walking and discovery, as most port days involve significant time on foot exploring historic centers, often over uneven cobblestone streets. While families can enjoy the experience, the port-intensive nature and focus on history might be tiring for very young children. Travelers with good mobility who want an efficient, enriching, and broad overview of Europe will find it to be an ideal vacation.

Conversely, a European cruise may not be the best fit for everyone. Travelers seeking a purely relaxing, stationary beach vacation might be happier at a land-based resort. The pace can be demanding, with early morning arrivals and full days of touring that can be exhausting. It is also not typically the cheapest option for solo budget backpackers. Furthermore, travelers with significant mobility challenges should research itineraries and shore excursions carefully. While cruise ships themselves are highly accessible, many of Europe's historic sites and old-world towns, such as those accessed from Civitavecchia or Portofino, can present obstacles like stairs, steep hills, and a lack of elevators. This vacation is for the doer and the explorer, not necessarily for those who want to completely unwind and stay put.

Last updated on June 20, 2025

Best European Cruise Deals

21 Night Trieste to Rome cruise
August 25, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Trieste Trieste Dubrovnik Kotor Corfu Cephalonia Rome Florence Toulon Palma Mallorca Valencia Barcelona Sardinia Corsica Messina Naples Rome
$4,089
$195 per day
Suite
11 Night Barcelona to London cruise
October 13, 2025
11 Night Voyage du Vin
CruiseScore™ (4.57/5)
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Barcelona Palma Mallorca Cartagena Cadiz Vigo La Coruna London
$2,349
$214 per day
Suite
7 Night Venice to Venice cruise
August 23, 2025
Costa Deliziosa
S M L XL
Venice Bari Souda Bay Mykonos Olympia Venice
$298
$43 per day
Inside
7 Night Rome to Rome cruise
July 14, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Rome Toulon Sardinia Messina Naples Rome
$669
$96 per day
Outside
21 Night Rome to Athens cruise
September 25, 2027
Enchanted Princess
S M L XL
Rome Rome Florence Corsica Sardinia Valletta Kotor Dubrovnik Split Trieste Split Kotor Corfu Olympia Crete Santorini Rhodes Limassol Ephesus Athens
$1,613
$77 per day
Balcony
12 Night London to London cruise
December 4, 2025
12 Night Spain & Portugal Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.38/5)
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
London Cadiz Malaga Barcelona Alicante Lisbon London
$1,249
$104 per day
Outside
12 Night Rome to Lisbon cruise
November 1, 2025
Norwegian Epic
S M L XL
Rome Florence Naples Messina Ibiza Barcelona Cartagena Malaga Cadiz Casablanca Lisbon
$1,651
$138 per day
Suite
14 Night Rome to Barcelona cruise
August 4, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Rome Marseille Sardinia Messina Naples Rome Florence Nice Corsica Valencia Barcelona
$1,325
$95 per day
Outside
14 Night London to London cruise
November 30, 2025
14 Night Canary Islands Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.62/5)
Cunard Queen Anne
S M L XL
London Funchal La Palma Tenerife Las Palmas Lanzarote Lisbon London
$1,309
$94 per day
Inside
3 Night Hamburg to London cruise
April 17, 2026
3 Night Grand Voyage
CruiseScore™ (4.15/5)
MSC Virtuosa
S M L XL
Hamburg Paris London
$139
$46 per day
Inside

Last Minute European Cruises

21 Night Trieste to Rome cruise
August 25, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Trieste Trieste Dubrovnik Kotor Corfu Cephalonia Rome Florence Toulon Palma Mallorca Valencia Barcelona Sardinia Corsica Messina Naples Rome
$4,089
$195 per day
Suite
7 Night Venice to Venice cruise
August 23, 2025
Costa Deliziosa
S M L XL
Venice Bari Souda Bay Mykonos Olympia Venice
$298
$43 per day
Inside
7 Night Rome to Rome cruise
July 14, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Rome Toulon Sardinia Messina Naples Rome
$669
$96 per day
Outside
14 Night Rome to Barcelona cruise
August 4, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Rome Marseille Sardinia Messina Naples Rome Florence Nice Corsica Valencia Barcelona
$1,325
$95 per day
Outside
14 Night London to London cruise
August 17, 2025
14 Night Spain & Italy Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.79/5)
Cunard Queen Anne
S M L XL
London Cadiz Alicante Florence Rome Cartagena Gibraltar London
$1,379
$99 per day
Inside
10 Night London to London cruise
August 19, 2025
Norwegian Dawn
S M L XL
London Edinburgh Invergordon Belfast Liverpool Dun Laoghaire Cork Portland London
$849
$85 per day
Inside
11 Night Hamburg to Hamburg cruise
September 24, 2025
11 Night Northern Europe Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.26/5)
MSC Preziosa
S M L XL
Hamburg Bergen Molde Trondheim Ålesund Vik Stavanger Oslo Hamburg
$849
$77 per day
Inside
14 Night Trieste to Rome cruise
July 28, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Trieste Zadar Split Valletta Sorrento Rome Marseille Sardinia Messina Naples Rome
$1,391
$99 per day
Inside
14 Night London to London cruise
September 13, 2025
14 Night Northern Europe Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.28/5)
MSC Virtuosa
S M L XL
London La Coruna Cadiz Malaga Alicante Palma Mallorca Barcelona Valencia Lisbon London
$1,087
$78 per day
Inside
14 Night Rome to Rome cruise
September 1, 2025
Cunard Queen Victoria
S M L XL
Rome Florence Toulon Palma Mallorca Valencia Barcelona Sardinia Corsica Messina Naples Rome
$1,579
$113 per day
Inside

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

Monthly European Cruise Prices

Overall European Cruises are fairly expensive compared to other types. European Cruises scheduled during the peak months of spring and summer are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$163
Feb
$185
Mar
$252
Apr
$263
May
$212
Jun
$220
Jul
$232
Aug
$236
Sep
$207
Oct
$197
Nov
$224
Dec
$213

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