Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond - The Points Guy (2024)

Prospective cruisers often ask me what the best European cruises are, but that question is difficult to answer because Europe is massive. It encompasses some 45 countries and includes such cruise regions as the Mediterranean, the Baltic and Northern Europe, the British Isles and the Canary Islands.

While cruisers are spoiled for choice in this part of the world, it can be difficult to know where to begin when researching voyages.

To help you out, I've narrowed down my favorites for the best cruises to Europe for different types of travelers, including families, couples and solo travelers.

Note: Pricing was accurate at the time of publication. Fares are subject to change without notice.

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Best European cruises for families: Disney Fantasy

Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond - The Points Guy (1)

Disney Cruise Line is great for kids; if you're planning a cruise in Europe with children, Disney Fantasy is a logical choice for the best European cruise for families.

Character meet and greets, awe-inspiring nighttime entertainment and fun dining experiences mean your kiddos will never be bored. The ship's stellar kids clubs go above and beyond with a likeness of Andy's room from "Toy Story" and Star Wars flight simulators. They can even go to the Marvel Super Hero Academy, where kids can train to become protectors of the universe.

Disney Fantasy is not the line's newest ship, meaning it's a bit more manageable in terms of both size and price. It's not the oldest, either, so families will find more things to do on board than on the line's smallest vessels.

Ashore, Disney's family-friendly excursions will take you to laze on the beach, explore museums and learn about history.

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In May 2025, Disney Fantasy will begin three- to 12-night cruises to Western Europe, the British Isles and the Mediterranean. Cruise fares start from $362 per person, per night, for a windowless inside cabin. You can visit ports like Glasgow, Scotland, and Liverpool, U.K., on cruises from Southampton, U.K.; you can also visit Florence and Rome (Civitavecchia) on Barcelona sailings.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Best European cruises for couples: Viking Star

Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond - The Points Guy (3)

If you're a couple seeking an upscale Mediterranean or Northern Europe experience that offers real value and a chance to reconnect with your partner, look no further than Viking.

The line's Viking Star sails various Northern Europe and Mediterranean itineraries, and the European ports the ship visits offer plenty of opportunities for you to feel the love. Take a pizza-making class together in Italy, or get a little giggly at a wine tasting in Greece.

Viking includes at least one free shore excursion per port in its fares. That means you can wander Europe's romantic cobblestone streets, hand-in-hand with your sweetie, without paying a penny extra.

While fares aren't the cheapest you'll find, you'll get a lot for your money. In addition to the tours, Viking includes Wi-Fi, specialty dining, and beer and wine with lunch and dinner in its prices.

Plus, all cabins on Viking's ships have balconies, which is great if you want some fresh air but feel like keeping to yourselves. Complimentary room service is available 24/7, so you can order dinner to your cabin for a charming alfresco dining experience for two.

Want even more ways to pamper yourselves together? Check out the phenomenal thermal suite in the ship's spa; they offer saunas and steam rooms, tile loungers and aromatherapy rooms at no extra charge. Or, splurge on a couples massage, which will leave both of you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Even better, Viking ships don't allow children on board. It's a great excuse for you and your significant other to rekindle the romance without other passengers' kids ruining the vibe.

Through 2025, Viking's Northern Europe and Mediterranean sailings range from seven to 28 nights. The ship visits ports such as Barcelona; Rome (Civitavecchia) and Venice, Italy; Athens and Santorini, Greece; Istanbul; Bergen, Norway; and Reykjavik.

Fares start from $400 per person, per night for a balcony cabin on a Western Mediterranean itinerary.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Best European cruises for seniors: Seabourn Sojourn

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If you're a senior traveler who loves great food and excellent wine, one of the best luxury European cruises you can book is a cruise to the Canary Islands on Seabourn's Seabourn Sojourn.

The small ship carries fewer than 500 passengers, and you won't find raucous parties or tons of children. Instead, you'll be met with stellar service, gourmet food, a room with a view (all cabins have at least a window), and relative peace and quiet. The long itineraries are ideal for wealthier passengers with lots of time to travel.

Seabourn Sojourn's voyages to the Canaries span 12 to 26 days and visit the islands of La Palma, Gran Canaria and Madeira; they also visit Lisbon. Fares start from $314 per person, per night for a suite on a March 2025 sailing. Extras like Wi-Fi, gratuities and alcohol (including the in-room minibar) are rolled into the fares.

Related: Best cruises for seniors who love to travel by sea

Best for solo cruisers: Norwegian Epic

Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond - The Points Guy (5)

When Norwegian Epic debuted in 2010, it introduced Norwegian Cruise Line's first cabins for solo travelers. Designed with single beds and a bit less square footage, these so-called studio cabins are clustered around an exclusive lounge reserved for solos. Special activities allow folks traveling alone to mingle and make new friends.

Since Norwegian Epic began sailing, nearly all of the line's new ships — Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva — have been built with accommodations for one, which don't charge occupants a single supplement. However, it's Norwegian Epic that has a presence in the Mediterranean and Greek Isles, offering solo cruisers a chance to explore Europe on a ship with cabins just for them.

On board, passengers have plenty of choices for activities and dining. In addition to the usual cruise-ship offerings — pool games, dance parties, game shows, trivia and movie screenings — Epic offers many fun diversions. Options include an adults-only beach club at the back of the ship, spa treatments, a bowling alley and even gaming lessons (the latter three for a fee).

The vessel sails six- to 12-night voyages, round-trip from Rome (Civitavecchia), calling on ports that include Naples and Florence (Livorno), Italy; Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza, Spain; Marseille and Cannes, France; and Mykonos and Santorini, Greece, among others. At press time, studio fares started at $161 per night for a 12-night sailing. The voyage includes a two-night pre-cruise stay with tours of Rome and features port calls on Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu, Greece; Valletta (Malta); and Sicily, Naples and Florence (Livorno), Italy.

Related: The best cruise lines for solo travelers

Best European party cruises: Virgin Voyages' Resilient Lady

Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond - The Points Guy (6)

If your Europe bucket list includes the Greek islands, you don't want to sail with children and you enjoy a lively party atmosphere, you can't go wrong with Virgin Voyages' Resilient Lady. The third ship in the line's fleet, Resilient Lady offers some of the best cruises to the Greek Islands and other places in the Mediterranean.

Expect a casual vibe where passengers dress up like mermaids, crew dress up like drag queens and performers look like real people. Toss in an onboard tattoo parlor, a food court (it's not a buffet), free fitness classes and an app that lets you order Champagne to wherever you are on the ship; you get a product that has turned the cruise industry on its head.

Wild nights on board include raucous and sometimes raunchy theater shows, impromptu dance parties and Scarlet Night — a poolside bash reminiscent of a rave where everyone's dressed in red. If you attend enough daily activities, you might even be invited to a secret nighttime tour of the crew bar, drinks included.

The ship offers a regular program of seven- to 11-night voyages. Prices start from $174 per person, per night for an inside cabin on an eight-night cruise to France, Italy and Greece in April 2025.

Related: The best adults-only cruises to try if you can't stand being around kids on vacation

Best European cruises for 'wow' factor: Hurtigruten's Richard With

Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond - The Points Guy (7)

Looking for a sailing that no other cruise line offers and one that will make everyone on TikTok and Instagram jealous? I'm putting my money on a line you've likely never heard of: Hurtigruten.

The line began more than 130 years ago as a way for Norway's residents to move themselves and cargo up and down the Norwegian coast. It continues today as both a means of transportation and a way for cruisers to experience the country's culture.

On the cruise line's Norwegian Coastal Express route, Hurtigruten's Richard With ship calls on more than 30 ports in just six or seven days (depending on itinerary). Some are quick stops in the middle of the night while cargo is loaded and unloaded, but you could get off the ship in each port if you really wanted to. That in itself makes this itinerary buzzworthy.

Still need convincing? These voyages also cross into the Arctic Circle and sail into Geirangerfjord (northbound from Bergen to Kirkenes) and Trollfjord (southbound from Kirkenes to Bergen). The route affords absolutely breathtaking views and, of course, bragging rights.

The two routes can be combined into longer 13-day sailings, meaning you'd sail round-trip from Bergen and see all the fjords. Seven-night northbound itineraries from Bergen to Kirkenes start at $137 per person, per night for an inside cabin.

Bottom line

Ultimately, the best cruise to Europe is a bit subjective in that it depends where in Europe you'd like to go and what your travel style is. Be sure to weigh a combination of destination, price and onboard vibe when deciding which is best for you and your travel party.

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Best European cruises: 6 ships that stand out across the pond - The Points Guy (2024)

FAQs

Which cruise line is best for the Mediterranean? ›

  • #1. Viking Ocean Cruises. #1 in Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean. ...
  • #2. Seabourn Cruise Line. #2 in Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean. ...
  • #3. Celebrity Cruises. #3 in Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean. ...
  • #4. Oceania Cruises. ...
  • #5. Royal Caribbean International. ...
  • #6. Azamara. ...
  • #7. MSC Cruises. ...
  • #8. Costa Cruises.

What is the top tier cruise line? ›

Each one travels to beautiful destinations and is sure to offer you the experience of a lifetime.
  • Seabourn Cruise Line. ...
  • Silversea Cruises. ...
  • Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. ...
  • Viking Ocean + Expedition Cruises. ...
  • Azamara Cruises. ...
  • Oceania Cruise Line. ...
  • Celebrity Cruises. ...
  • WindStar Cruises. Best for: An intimate experience.
Jun 14, 2024

Which cruise line is best for northern Europe? ›

Here are some of the most popular cruise lines that feature Northern Europe cruises:
  • Cunard. The iconic ships of Cunard provide a sophisticated means of travel through Europe. ...
  • Explora Journeys. ...
  • Seabourn. ...
  • Silversea.

What is the number one cruise destination in the world? ›

The Caribbean is the world's most popular cruise destination, and little wonder. Vibrant cultures, music, gorgeous beaches, watersports galore and tropical sunshine are the ingredients for a dream cruise for many. Because there's so much to do, the Caribbean suits anyone; families, honeymooners and groups of friends.

What month is the best time to cruise the Mediterranean? ›

For many people, visiting the Mediterranean is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But with so much to see and (typically) a limited amount of time to take it all in, maximizing your Mediterranean vacation is a must. Learn why September and October is, without a doubt, the best time of year to cruise the Mediterranean.

What is the cheapest month to go on a Mediterranean cruise? ›

Similar to those trying to avoid crowds, the best time to cruise to the Mediterranean for cost savings is during the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to November), when there is a slightly higher chance of rain and cooler weather.

Which cruise line has the highest customer satisfaction? ›

Here are the top cruise lines for customer service in 2024, according to the survey:
  • Viking.
  • Holland America.
  • Celebrity.
  • Disney.
  • Seabourn.
Feb 25, 2024

What is the number one cruise ship line? ›

The best cruise lines in 2023. Norwegian Cruise Line ranked as the best cruise line in the world, according to Condé Nast Traveler. Norwegian Cruise Line ranked as the top cruise line this year. It is the third-largest cruise line in the world by passengers, according to Cruise Market Watch.

What is the most luxurious cruise line? ›

  • #1. Viking Ocean Cruises. #1 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines. ...
  • #2. Seabourn Cruise Line. #2 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines. ...
  • #3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises. #3 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines. ...
  • #4. Oceania Cruises. #4 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines. ...
  • #5. Silversea Cruises. #5 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines. ...
  • #6. Azamara. #6 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines.

What is the best time to cruise in Europe? ›

The European River cruising season runs from March through December, though the best time to take a river cruise in Europe is during the late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October).

Is Viking the best cruise line? ›

Viking was named “Best Ocean Cruise Line” in its class by Money magazine for exceeding expectations in cost, cleanliness, customer satisfaction and overall value.

What is the busiest cruise port in Europe? ›

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a leading tourism destination and one of the most popular cruise ports in Europe.

Where is the most beautiful place to take a cruise? ›

World's Most Scenic Cruise Itineraries
  • Baja California & the Sea of Cortez. ...
  • French Polynesia. ...
  • Antarctica. ...
  • New Zealand. ...
  • Panama Canal. ...
  • Norwegian Fjords. ...
  • The Hebrides Islands, Scotland. ...
  • Chilean Fjords. What You'll See: Spend two to three weeks cruising between Buenos Aires and Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile.

What is the best cruise line for adults? ›

The 10 Best Cruise Lines for Adults [2024]
  • Viking Ocean + Expedition Cruises.
  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
  • Seabourn Cruise Line.
  • Celebrity Cruises.
  • Holland America Cruise Line.
  • Royal Caribbean International.
  • Princess Cruises.
  • Silversea Cruises.
Jun 14, 2024

What is the best way to see the Mediterranean coast? ›

Private Yacht Charters. Mediterranean yacht charters offer an exclusive way to cruise the Mediterranean, with your own cruise director and hand-picked fellow travelers. Mediterranean cruise group bookings aboard small ships enable bespoke, intimate adventures, making them perhaps the best way to see the Mediterranean.

Where do you start a Mediterranean cruise? ›

The classic Eastern Mediterranean cruise sails out of Athens or Istanbul and visits a mix of historic places (Delphi, Greece; Ephesus via Kusadasi, Turkey; the Greek island of Rhodes) and sun-drenched islands (Mykonos and Santorini, Greece).

Which city is the major port for the Mediterranean cruises? ›

Port of Barcelona, Spain

The Port of Barcelona is the largest port in the area serving cruise ship traffic, although it also occupies one of the first places in terms of container traffic. Asia is the main origin and destination of the containers channeled by the Catalan port, with 42% of exports and 75% of imports.

What are the best cruise lines in the Mediterranean 2024? ›

These include Viking Ocean Cruises, Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Holland America, Crystal and Azamara.

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