Europe - Western Cruises 2025/2026

Europe - Western Travel Guide

Europe - Western Cruises Things To Do

• 
  Belem Tower

  Belem Tower in Lisbon, Portugal, was originally constructed as a 16th century fortification. It's officially known as the Tower of Saint Vincent and is considered the ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. There are five floors with the Governor's Hall, the Chapel, the Audience Hall, the Kings' Hall, and the Roof Terrace.  

  Best Time To Visit

  Belem Tower is open all year long, but the summer is considered the best time of the year since the weather is more preferable. If you can, head here first thing in the morning to beat the crowds.   

   

  You Should Know

  The tower was constructed from 1514 to 1520 and was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. To reach the upper floors, you'll have to use a small, narrow spiral staircase. If you don't like heights or tight spaces, there's still plenty to see on the ground. The tower is open from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. from October through April, and it stays open an extra hour from May through September.
• 
  Anne Frank House

  You simply can't be in Amsterdam without paying a visit to the Anne Frank House. This incredible museum contains sobering exhibits about World War II and the hardships that the Frank family endured. It opened in 1960 and is a nonprofit organization.  

  Best Time To Visit

  The Anne Frank House is open all year, though operating hours are typically shorter in the winter months. Admission costs €12.50 for adults, €6.50 for children 10-17, and €1 for children 0-9.   

   

  You Should Know

  Throughout the museum, you'll see original pages from Anne's diary, pictures of her family and friends, and the hinged bookcase leading to the secret annex. Photography is not allowed to preserve the integrity of the museum's original items. The House is full of steep stairs that those with difficulty walking may have a hard time traversing.
• 
  Castle Hill

  One of the best views in Nice, France, can be found from Castle Hill. The Castle of Nice was built as a citadel for military purposes. You'll find the ruins of the defensive walls, an elevator built right into the rock, and a beautiful artificial waterfall. This site essentially divides the city of Nice in two: the eastern port side and the western Old Town side.  

  You Should Know

  You can reach the top of Castle Hill either by elevator or by staircase. Don't miss the Bellanda Tower, home to the Maritime Museum. It's a reconstruction of a former castle bastion and was the home of composer Hector Berlioz. He wrote the famous "King Lear" overture there! Behind the public toilet, there's a small path that leads you to two fascinating historic cemeteries (one Jewish, one Catholic).  
• 
  La Sagrada Familia

  Perhaps the most well-known attraction in Barcelona is La Sagrada Familia, which translates to "Holy Family." This incredible cathedral began construction in 1882 under Antoni Gaudi, whose influence can be seen all throughout Barcelona. The cathedral's main claim to fame is the fact that it still remains unfinished, though it is scheduled to be completed in 2026.  

  Best Time To Visit

  La Sagrada Familia is less crowded from October through March. Also, early morning is the best time to get a beautiful view of the sun coming through the stained-glass windows.   

   

  You Should Know

  Since you'll be visiting a Catholic church, dress appropriately. Clothing may not be see-through, your shoulders must be covered, and your pants or skirt must come down to at least the mid-thigh. In addition to La Sagrada Familia itself, the site also houses the Gaudi House Museum for an in-depth look at the painter's life and works. Admission costs €26 per person, and children 11 and under enter for free.
• 
  Van Gogh Museum

  While you're in Amsterdam, take some time to experience the Van Gogh Museum. This is the largest collection of Van Gogh artwork in the world and is located right in the heart of the city. You'll find stunning famous pieces like "Sunflowers" and "Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat."  

  Best Time To Visit

  The Van Gogh Museum is suitable year-round since it is an indoor attraction. It's typically less crowded in the early mornings before 11 a.m. Adult admission (18+) is €19 per person. Children enter for free.  

   

  You Should Know

  In addition to the permanent exhibit, the Museum also hosts various rotating exhibits with artifacts and information about. Van Gogh's life. If you're traveling with kids, don't miss the Children's Museum! There's a unique treasure hunt for the younger guests to enjoy. In addition to the entrance fee, the Van Gogh Museum does accept and appreciate donations.
• 
  Warnemünde Lighthouse

  First constructed in 1836, the Warnemünde Lighthouse is a unique attraction for visitors to Germany. It's made of white glazed bricks and stands about 120 feet or 37 metres high. The tower provides an absolutely unmatched view of Warnemünde and the Baltic Sea. If the lighthouse looks familiar, it's likely because some believe it was used on the promotional poster for the movie Shutter Island!  

  You Should Know

  Entry to Warnemünde Lighthouse is incredibly affordable at just €2 per person. Once you're done exploring the lighthouse, you can head into town for a delicious lunch and souvenir shopping. To get to the top of the lighthouse, you'll need to climb a granite spiral staircase.
• 
  Belfry of Bruges

  Right in the heart of Bruges, Belgium, you'll find the stunning Belfry of Bruges. This medieval bell tower is one of the city's most widely recognized symbols and has formerly housed the municipal archies and a treasury. It also served as an observation post to look out for fires and other dangers.   

  Best Time To Visit

  The Belfry is open daily from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Admission costs €12 per person with discounts available for seniors older than 65 and youth up to 25. Children up to 5 enter for free.  

   

  You Should Know

  The journey to the top of the Belfry is 366 steps and ends with a stunning view of the city. The Belfry was originally constructed in the 13th century but was expanded throughout the 14th and 15th centuries. This destination is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• 
  Rijksmuseum

  For a taste of Dutch art and history, visit the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. You'll find works from Rembrandt, Vermeer, and countless other famous Dutch painters. The total collection of artwork and historical pieces totals more than one million items!  

  Best Time To Visit

  The Rijksmuseum welcomes guests all year long. Admission costs €20 per adult, and children 18 and under enter for free.   

   

  You Should Know

  The Rijksmuseum was founded in 1798 and was originally located in The Hague. It was moved to Amsterdam in 1808. This museum is the largest art museum in the country and was the most visited museum in the Netherlands in 2013 and 2014 with 2.2 and 2.4 million visitors, respectively. In addition to the Dutch works, the museum also has a small collection of Asian pieces on display in the Asian pavilion.

Europe - Western Cruise Packages

• Getting There

  Setting sail to Western Europe offers a unique perspective on this diverse and historically rich region. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the vast stretches of the Mediterranean and North Seas to the south and north, this area is a jewel accessed easily by sea. Most cruise ships embark from major coastal cities such as Barcelona, Lisbon, or Southampton, offering you a smooth voyage to these shores.
  
  Upon reaching Western Europe, the approach by sea is nothing short of spectacular. Cruise ships navigate through strategic waterways and docking points, providing panoramic views of iconic coastal cities. Ports like those in Marseille, Antwerp, and Hamburg have been gateways for explorers and traders throughout history, and now they welcome modern travelers looking for their own European adventure. With state-of-the-art facilities, these ports are designed for seamless disembarkation, placing you right at the heart of each destination, ready to begin your exploration the moment you step ashore.

• The Perfect Time for a Western European Cruise

  Summers in Western Europe, while beautiful with warm, bright weather, can be quite crowded, particularly in popular Mediterranean destinations. Cruising during the summer months often means navigating through bustling ports and dealing with higher temperatures. Winters, though charming and festive, especially during the holiday season, can be chilly, requiring cruisers to prepare for colder weather.  
  
  Spring and autumn, however, are the real sweet spots for cruising in Western Europe. These seasons allow cruisers to enjoy lush spring blooms or the rich autumnal colors that transform the landscapes, enhancing the scenic cruising experience. Whether you're exploring Renaissance art in Florence during the spring or watching an autumn sunset by the Seine in Paris, these seasons provide a serene and picturesque backdrop for your cruise.  
  
  For those who prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of peak tourist times, off-season cruising also presents cost-effective options and a more authentic experience, as towns and cities revert to their natural rhythms. Ready to set sail on your Western European cruise adventure? These seasons offer the perfect opportunity to explore this diverse and culturally rich region in a comfortable and relaxed manner.

• Why Book a Cruise to Western Europe?

  If you've ever dreamed of exploring the best of Western Europe, there's no question about it: booking a cruise is your ticket to a hassle-free adventure through this culturally rich region. Imagine unpacking just once and settling into a comfortable, floating hotel with endless amenities and entertainment options at your fingertips. Cruises offer unmatched value for your money, bundling accommodation, transportation, and mouth-watering dining into one affordable package, not to mention the array of onboard activities that cater to all ages.
  
  However, the benefits extend far beyond convenience and cost-effectiveness. Cruises give you unique coastal views of Europe that traditional land-based travelers miss out on. Picture gliding past the Norwegian Fjords or witnessing the stunning cliffs of the Mediterranean coast, all from the comfort of your deck chair. These are the exclusive vistas that only sea travel can provide.
  
  Moreover, cruises often include stops at ports that are gateways to exclusive experiences and expeditions. Perhaps it's a private tour through the vineyards of Bordeaux or a closed-group visit to lesser-known historical ruins; these carefully curated excursions are designed to immerse you in local cultures and landscapes.
  
  Also, there's the unparalleled ease of travel. Forget the constant packing and unpacking, the rush to catch trains or the hassle of navigating roads in a foreign land. Your ship handles the logistics, leaving you free to unwind, explore, and absorb the diverse tapestry of Western European culture. So, when it comes to discovering Western Europe, cruising is not just a choice; it's an opportunity for an adventure that's as relaxing as it is enriching.

• Experience the Flavors of Western Europe

  One of the joys of traveling through Western Europe is the opportunity to indulge in the many different flavors, each telling a story of rich cultural heritage. Western European cuisine, with its diverse palate from hearty German stews to fresh Mediterranean produce to delicate French pastries, promises a delightful journey for your taste buds.
  
  Start by savoring the world-famous Spanish tapas or the classic Italian pizza and pasta, each dish oozing with centuries of perfected flavors. Don't skip on trying the quintessential fish and chips in a cozy British pub or treating yourself to Belgian chocolates and waffles that melt in your mouth. And, of course, accompany your meals with unique regional beverages, from the finest French wines and spirited Irish beers to Portugal's sweet, smooth port wine.
  
  For food experiences that are more than just dining, visit local markets like La Boqueria in Barcelona or Borough Market in London. They offer not only fresh, local produce but also a taste of everyday life and traditional foods. Or, for a touch of sophistication, book a seat at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants across Western Europe for a meal that's nothing short of a culinary revelation.

• Immerse Yourself in Western European Culture

  This region is filled with customs and festivities, all set against the backdrop of centuries-old architecture and contemporary arts. It's where tradition meets modernity, and every country has a unique story to tell.
  
  You'll find yourself swept up in a whirlwind of color and music if you time your visit with renowned festivals such as Spain's vivacious 'La Tomatina' or Germany's legendary 'Oktoberfest.' Over in Ireland, the streets come alive for 'St. Patrick's Day,' a festival of parades and vibrant green attire, celebrating the nation's heritage and culture.
  
  Culture extends beyond festivities, though. Respect for local customs is key to immersive travel. Simple gestures, like accepting an Italian's offer of a home-cooked meal or respecting the customary quiet of a Spanish siesta, pave the way for genuine cultural exchanges.
  
  Art enthusiasts will find their haven in cities like Paris or Amsterdam, home to galleries that host everything from the Renaissance masters to quirky contemporary works. Literature buffs, on the other hand, can tread the cobblestones of Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's birthplace.

• Ready to Book Your Western European Cruise?

  Dreaming of diverse cultures, stunning scenery, and historical wonders? A Western European cruise awaits! Imagine unraveling centuries of history, feasting on culinary delights, and reveling in vibrant festivals, each day presenting a new adventure.
  
  This isn't just a trip; it's a seamless journey of unique experiences. From Spain's spirited fiestas to Italy's architectural marvels, Western Europe promises an eclectic mix of excitement. And what's better? A cruise offers hassle-free travel, merging luxurious accommodation with top-tier cuisine and entertainment.
  
  Cruising eliminates the usual travel hurdles, replacing them with comfort and convenience. It's everything you need in one package, leaving you to focus on creating unforgettable memories.
  
  Ready for the journey of a lifetime? Dive into Western Europe. Each port of call is a burst of life waiting to be explored. Don't wait any longer; your dream cruise is just a booking away.

Europe - Western Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Western Europe Ocean Cruise?

  A Western Europe ocean cruise takes guests through some of Europe's most exciting port cities. There's a wide range of destinations throughout Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Belgium, and more. The typical cruise lasts 7 or 8 days and allows you to explore tons of historical sites and beautiful artwork.

• What’s Included on a Western Europe Ocean Cruise?

  The price for your Western Europe ocean cruise will include your state room, all meals, and planned daily excursions. If you have a day entirely spent on the ship, there will be ample on-board entertainment. Depending on your cruise line, you may also be able to book extra excursions or tours, as well as air travel to and from your departing city.

• What’s the Best Cruise for a Western Europe Ocean Cruise?

  Western Europe ocean cruises are a staple selection for many of the world's most well-known cruise lines. Popular options include Norwegian Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean, and Viking Cruises. If you're looking for a smaller-scale, more luxurious experience, popular companies include Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America, and Cunard.

• How Much Does a Western Europe Ocean Cruise Cost?

  Your cruise cost will vary depending on the length of the cruise, the company, and the port cities. For instance, a 4- or 5-night cruise with a standard line will typically cost around $500 per person, while a longer cruise with the same line may cost $800 per person. If you choose a luxury cruise line, it's not surprising to find cruise costs of $1,000 or more per person.