European Cruise Lines

The best European cruise lines are those that fulfill your dreams and meet your needs -- it's possible to find a European cruise which offers excellent service and still fits your budget. There are many European cruises which fit these requirements. Each cruise has a unique aspect which will be best for different travelers. When on a cruise you are really taking a vacation with two parts. There is the time spent on the ship and there is the time spent going on-shore. However, with a cruise the time onboard is the majority of the trip so make sure you choose a cruise which has the best onboard amenities. Look for a cruise that offers a nice mix of activities and leisure.

Of course, the time spent off the ship is important too. Before booking a cruise you want to be sure and choose one which stops in interesting locations. A cruise is great because it is as though you are travelling on a luxury hotel (as opposed to staying in a luxury hotel) which takes you to interesting and beautiful locations.

What you experience on your cruise is dependent, in large part, on where you choose to travel. There are so many interesting locations in Europe it is impossible to choose which is the best. Many of the European ports of call provide history, beauty, and culture. However, there are a few spots which seem to be most popular.

If you want to visit Greece, the Greek Isles, and Turkey you will want to select an Eastern Mediterranean Cruise. On an Eastern Mediterranean cruise you will be stopping in ports such as Athens, Greece and Istanbul, Turkey. These cruises also usually stop in Venice, Italy. Most Eastern Mediterranean cruises can be round-trip or one-way. With a one-way cruise your trip will begin and end in different locations; with a round-trip cruise your journey will be circular and end at the same location at which you began.

Throughout your cruise you will have the option of going on shore at many interesting ports of call. The ports of call included in a cruise are unique to each package. At some stops you will be able to disembark and visit the town for an entire day. Some of these stops may include Dubrovnik, Croatia and Hvar, Croatia or Bari, Italy. Another stop which has been popular lately is Malta. Eastern Mediterranean cruises are popular for the beautiful archeology and ancient ruins which you will be able to enjoy. The gorgeous scenery and climate are also a draw. The gorgeous Greek Isles are also part of Eastern Mediterranean cruises.

Western Mediterranean cruises generally include the straits of Gibralter and the southern tip of Italy. Shoppers love this cruise because of the amazing boutique shopping they are able to enjoy. Some of the interesting ports of call on this cruise are Spain, France, and Italy.

Cruise packages vary but, based on the cruise you choose, you may also be able to visit Croatia, Malta, Monte Carlo, Morroco, and Portugal. Within each of these areas you can also find cruises which stop at the specific port of call you are interested in. Carefully consider all of the stops on the cruises so you find one which stops at the ports of call most intriguing to you. Make sure you enjoy the many local cafes, restaurants, museums, and ancient history sites along your journey.

Besides Western and Eastern European cruises there are also cruises through Scandanavia and the Baltics. These cruises offer spectacular scenery and culture. European River cruises which travel through the interior of Europe are also becoming more popular. Wherever your interest lies you will be able to find a cruise.