European Cruises - What Choices Do You Have?
Most people that are idly thinking about one day taking a European cruise generally consider the Mediterranean to be the destination of choice, and with good reason. The Mediterranean is a beautiful destination, with dozens of ports of call in both Europe and Africa, and gorgeous, sunny weather to enjoy throughout the summer months. However, this is just one of the many regions in the vast continent of Europe where you can enjoy a cruise vacation. Here is an overview of some of the options you can choose from when planning a trip:
Western Mediterranean Cruise - The Mediterranean is a vast basin so most cruise companies divide it into two separate regions (east and west) and offer itineraries to one or the other. This option will take you from the southern tip of Italy to the Straits of Gilbraltar. Your options of ports of call are numerous from the Italian or French Riviera, Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Rome or Florence. Enjoy some of the finest cuisine and the best shopping on the globe in this beautiful sun-soaked region of Europe.
Eastern Mediterranean Cruise - See the art and architecture of the ancient world as you visit Athens, sail the Greek Islands, visit majestic Turkey, or the beautiful beaches of Croatia. Shore excursions are available to such exotic destinations as Lebanon, Egypt, or Israel. Whether you are taking a gondola ride through the canals of Venice or climbing the Acropolis to see the Parthenon you will never be bored on this magnificent voyage.
The British Isles - Though not as sun-dappled as the Mediterranean, this region is so rich with history and culture that you’ll barely notice the gloomy weather. Cruise from Dover (London) to Ireland, Scotland and Wales. See ancient ruins, visit the Guiness beer factory for a pint, hike Scotland’s rugged highlands or visit Big Ben, The Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace.
The Black Sea - Though not as popular as other itineraries a Black Sea cruise offers plenty of old world history and culture to those you want more out of their vacation than just a sunny getaway. Sail from Athens or Istanbul, visiting the Ukraine, Bulgaria and Romania along the way.
Scandinavia and Baltic Sea Cruises - Take a northern capitals cruise in the Baltic Sea, visiting Copenhagen, Oslo, Helsinki, Stockholm, and even St. Petersburg, Russia. Spectacular old world sights abound and there is plenty to see and do on the shore excursions offered in the area.
Coastal Norway - The Norwegian fjords have become a massively popular cruise destination in recent years. See massive glaciers and spectacular waterfalls in this magnificent region. If you want to see the fjords in all their glory be sure your cruise takes you to western Norway, visiting places like Trondheim, Bergen and the North Cape. If you are cruising in the summer you can even take a daring adventure cruise right into the Arctic circle.
The Canary Islands - Whether you are visiting Las Palmas in GranCanaria, Funchal in Madiera, or Santa Cruz in Tenerife a Canary Islands cruise will be an experience you will not soon forget. From the beautiful beaches, to the tower snow-capped mountains the scenery and the lush vegetation of the region will take your breath away.
European River Cruises - Rivaling Mediterranean voyages in popularity European river tours offer an incredible way for travelers to see inland Europe, and visit ports of call inaccessible by the ocean going vessels. Whether sailing the Danube, Seine, Saone, Rhine, Po, Elbe or Volga rivers you will be enchanted by magnificent scenery throughout your voyage as the shore is only a few hundred yards away! Best of all your ship is small enough that you can dock in the heart of the cities, towns and villages you visit and in a few short steps can be mingling with the local populace and enjoying their culture, cuisine, and entertainment.
There you have it, an overview of your European cruise options. Europe truly is a region that offers something for every traveler and every taste. No matter what type of vacation you choose you are bound to have a magical time.
Related posts:
- Eastern Mediterranean Cruises - The Highlights
- Your European Cruise - Which One Should You Choose?
- Canary Island Cruises
- Western Mediterranean Cruises
- Planning a European Cruise - Everything You Need to Know
Filed under: British Isles Cruises, European Cruises, European River Cruises, Mediterranean Cruises, Norwegian Cruise, Planning a Cruise