There are hundreds of available ports when you cruise to Europe. Most European cruises are broken down based on the region, and you’ll have multiple port stops on each leg of the cruise. When you cruise to Europe you’ll usually need to choose the region you’re cruising. For instance, Mediterranean cruises are among the most popular and will visit areas in Italy, Spain, Rome, and sometimes the Greek Isles. Northern European cruises will include the Scandinavian areas such as Sweden and Finland. The type of cruise to Europe you’re interested in will determine the best time to go and the price. If you’re considering a European cruise, here are some of the ports that you must see broken down by region.
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Northern European Cruise to Europe Options
For a cruise to Europe in the Northern areas you’ll be able to enjoy the Baltic Sea and Scandinavia. These cruises are typically available from April through December. Anything beyond that is usually too cold to be comfortable on a cruise ship. Most Northern European cruises will last from 7 to 14 nights. There are hundreds of ports in this region, and it would be impossible for a single cruise to cover them all. Here are some of the Northern European ports you should think about before you book a cruise to Europe.
Alesund, Norway
This port is located in the heart of Norway. The town is renowned for architecture that is unique and rich. You’ll be able to fish off the fishing stands in the Atlantic Sea Park, go hiking, visit one of the massive aquariums, and even go diving. If you just want to relax you can walk around the market districts and find plenty of handcrafted items to take home. This port is one of the more popular ones for most of the major cruise lines.
Djupivogur, Iceland
Not many cruise lines will visit this port, but if you can find a cruise to Europe that does you’ll be in for a treat. The town of Djupivogur is on the eastern coast of Iceland. Mt. Bulandstindur sits directly over the town. Many locals believe this has mystical powers, and you’ll find psychics and seers in this area. If you enjoy bird watching this is a great port to explore. The cruise lines that do offer stops here on their Baltic sea cruises usually only stay here for a few hours, but it’s worth exploring if you get the chance.
Kiel, Germany
The port in Kiel is a popular port, and most major cruise lines will offer several excursions here. Many of them go beyond Kiel as well, allowing you to visit more. Kiel itself is a great place for sightseeing. You can visit many museums. One of the most popular museums in the area is the Molfsee. This is an open museum that recreates life in the area from the past 150 years. You can watch weavers, blacksmiths, and potters here. If you want to take a castle excursion you can go to Schleswig and visit the 12th century Gottorf Castle.
Ghent, Belgium
This small port city of Belgium actually offers quite a bit to do. This town is full of quaint cafes and amazing architecture. You can also visit several museums, the St Nicholas Church, St Baaf Cathedral, and more. This is another port city that most cruise to Europe options won’t offer, and if they do it’s only for a few hours. However, if you happen to stumble on a cruise to Europe that offers a stop at this port you should try to go ahead and book it. You won’t regret it.
There are many more ports to visit during a Baltic Sea cruise, but these gems are definitely worth looking in to.
Western Mediterranean Ports
Western Mediterranean cruises will usually visit areas in Spain, Italy, and France, with many of the luxury cruises including Portugal, Morocco, and Tunisia. These cruises usually last from 1 to 2 weeks, and will begin sailing in April through October. If you’re looking to take a luxury cruise to Europe, the Western Mediterranean may be the option. Here are a few of the ports you should try to visit.
Casablanca, Morocco
From Casablanca you’ll be able to take excursions to Marrakesh. Marrakesh is a popular destination for many cruise lines excursions. You can watch old world snake charmers, fire eaters, or get your fortune told by one of the numerous fortune tellers found in the street markets. You can also visit the many palaces and beautifully appointed gardens. If you decide not to make the trip to Marrakesh, you can still enjoy the beautiful government buildings and tropical gardens found throughout Casablanca.
Cannes, France
While you may have only heard of Cannes in regards to the world famous film festival, this port city has much more to offer than just that. There are plenty of museums to visit while on a port stop on your cruise to Europe. You’ll be able to stroll along the beaches, take a sailboat on the deep blue waters, or visit an art gallery. There is plenty to do here, and if you get a chance to visit it will be worthwhile.
Florence, Italy
This is one of the more famous ports on any cruise to Europe. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Tower or Pisa or see the famous statue of David up close and personal, this is the port to stop at. You’ll be able to find galleries that house some of the best known art of the Italian Renaissance, including works by Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. You can also visit the Piazza del Duomo and its Grand Cathedral. The best Mediterranean cruises in the western area will stop at this port.
Lisbon, Portugal
This is another one of the more popular ports of call on a Western cruise to Europe. You’ll be able to stroll through the classic squares and magnificent castles found in Lisbon. If you love taking photos, the streets of Lisbon can offer a wonderful backdrop. You can find excursions to several monuments, including the Prince Henry the Navigator, or the Alfama district. If you are a wine lover, you’ll find plenty of wine tastings in this port city as well.
There is plenty to do when you cruise to Europe. You could conceivably take a cruise each year to Europe and still see something different on each. If you happen to be taking a cruise to Europe in the Western or Northern regions, these are just a few of the many ports that offer something unforgettable.
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