Western Europe Cruises

Explore the Wonders of Western Europe with CruiseAway

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures, **Western Europe** is the ideal cruise destination. Sailing through this captivating region lets you effortlessly explore iconic cities, picturesque countryside, and coastal gems. Cruisers often marvel at landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the canals of Amsterdam, and the medieval architecture in Prague. Fun fact: Did you know that the Louvre in Paris is the largest art museum in the world? Packed into these bustling cities and charming towns are treasures waiting to be discovered! Booking a cruise offers an unforgettable way to experience it all with ease and comfort.

Must-Visit Harbours in Western Europe

When you cruise to **Western Europe**, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of stunning harbours. Here are five not-to-miss ports:

• Barcelona, Spain: The vibrant heart of Catalonia offers a stunning fusion of art, culture, and cuisine. As your cruise docks in Barcelona, don’t miss **La Sagrada Familia**, Gaudí’s masterpiece, and the bustling streets of **Las Ramblas**. Insider tip: Stroll through **Park Guell** for a magical view over the city and snap some unforgettable photos!
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: Your port to the Eternal City! While here, visit the extraordinary **Colosseum**, marvel at the art in **Vatican City**, and indulge in authentic Italian pizza near the Trastevere neighborhood. Pro tip: Make sure to buy your attraction tickets in advance to skip the long lines!
• Southampton, England: Known as the gateway to London, Southampton is rich in maritime history. Explore the **SeaCity Museum**, take a short train ride to London for must-see sites like the **Tower of London** and **Buckingham Palace**, or wander around the waterfront area for a taste of local life. If you have a bit more time, check out the nearby **New Forest National Park** for beautiful walking trails.
• Marseille, France: A vibrant Mediterranean port city, Marseille is known for its rich cultural history and stunning coastal views. Explore the old port and check out **Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde** for spectacular panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to try some Bouillabaisse — a local fish stew that’s a delight for seafood lovers!
• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Famous for its picturesque canals and artistic heritage, Amsterdam invites you to explore the **Van Gogh Museum** and the **Anne Frank House**. Rent a bicycle and cycle through **Vondelpark** for a truly local experience. Insider tip: Don’t miss out on the evening canal cruise for a different perspective on the city’s beautiful architecture!

The Best Times to Cruise Western Europe

When planning your cruise to **Western Europe**, consider the time of year you’ll be traveling. The ideal cruising seasons are typically **April to June** and **September to October**, offering mild temperatures around **15°C to 25°C**. These months provide the perfect opportunity to explore without the hustle and bustle of peak summer crowds. During the summer, temperatures can soar to **25°C to 30°C**, but be advised—the influx of tourists can result in busier attractions and higher prices.

Cost of Cruising in Western Europe

When it comes to cost, a one-week cruise to **Western Europe** generally ranges from **$1,800 to $3,500**, while a two-week adventure can set you back **$3,500 to $6,500**. For luxury options, anticipate starting prices around **$5,000** for a one-week cruise. The most budget-friendly time to cruise is during the shoulder seasons of spring or late autumn, while prices peak during **July and August**. For food, budget approximately **$20 to $40** per meal, depending on whether you’re dining in a local café or enjoying a fine restaurant experience.

Major Cruise Lines Operating in Western Europe

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships** and **15** sailing to **Western Europe**, the **MSC Poesia** and **MSC Magnifica** are prominent. Departing mainly from **Genoa** or **Marseille**, this cruise line is known for its family-friendly amenities, diverse dining options, and fantastic onboard entertainment. Families and couples alike can enjoy excellent services and experiences tailored to all ages.
• CroisiEurope: Boasting a fleet of **38 ships**, **29** of which navigate to **Western Europe**, the **Mona Lisa** and **L’Europe** are popular choices. Departures often occur from **Strasbourg** or **Amsterdam**, placing cruisers right at the heart of European heritage. CroisiEurope is unique due to its river cruise offerings, which provide an intimate experience and deeper exploration of small towns and cities connected by the rivers.
• Holland America Line: This renowned cruise line has **11 ships** with **five** visiting **Western Europe**. The **Nieuw Statendam** and **Rotterdam** frequently operate here. Departing mainly from **Sydney** or **Rotterdam**, Holland America Line is known for its rich history of service excellence and destination-focused experiences that appeal to those who enjoy cultural immersion.
• Cunard: With a fleet of **four ships** and **three** cruising to **Western Europe**, celebrated vessels like **Queen Victoria** and **Queen Mary 2** deliver an extraordinary level of service. Operating from ports like **Southampton** and **Civitavecchia** (Rome), Cunard is famed for its refined luxury and elegant onboard ambience, making it a top choice for those seeking a distinguished travel experience.
• Princess Cruises: With an expansive fleet of **17 ships**, **10** sail to **Western Europe**, including **Sun Princess** and **Sky Princess**. Cruising mainly from **Southampton** or **Barcelona**, Princess Cruises is renowned for its exceptional service, unique itineraries, and diverse dining options that cater to all tastes. Whether it’s utility or indulgence you seek, Princess offers something for everyone.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking River Cruises: With a massive fleet of **63 ships**, **53** sail to **Western Europe**, including the **Viking Gefjon** and **Viking Idi**. Most often departing from **Amsterdam** or **Basel**, Viking River Cruises stands out for its intimate atmosphere, allowing passengers to experience small towns and scenic beauty along Europe’s picturesque rivers, resulting in a truly immersive experience.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Featuring **11 ships**, eight of which cruise to **Western Europe**, the **Viking Saturn** and **Viking Jupiter** are popular picks. Departing often from **Barcelona** or **Civitavecchia**, Viking Ocean Cruises focuses on culturally rich expedition-style cruising with inclusions like fascinating shore excursions and onboard lectures, enhancing the overall travel experience.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury cruise line operates **six ships**, with **five** that visit **Western Europe**. The **Seven Seas Splendor** and **Seven Seas Voyager** frequently depart from ports including **Civitavecchia** and **Barcelona**. Regent Seven Seas is known for offering an all-inclusive luxury experience where fine dining, unlimited shore excursions, and premium beverages are all part of the package, ensuring cruisers feel pampered.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of **eight ships**, **seven** sail to **Western Europe**, including the **Sirena** and **Vista**. They frequently depart from **Barcelona** or **Southampton**, renowned for their culinary excellence with dinner menus crafted by renowned chefs, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients, making mealtimes a spectacular affair.
• Silversea: Comprising **13 ships**, **eight** cruise to **Western Europe**, including **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Ray**. Departing mostly from **Lisbon** or **Civitavecchia**, Silversea offers a highly personalized all-inclusive experience, with nearly one staff member assigned per guest, ensuring top-notch service tailored to individual needs.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re considering a cruise to **Western Europe** but want to explore other stunning options, consider these regions:

• Northern Europe: Offering breathtaking landscapes, fjords, and historic cities, Northern Europe provides a unique blend of scenic beauty and cultural treasures.
• Southern Europe: With warm weather, gorgeous coastal towns, and rich history, Southern Europe is perfect for sunseekers and cultural explorers alike.
• The Mediterranean: A classic destination boasting beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exquisite cuisine, this region is perfect for cruisers wanting a taste of several different cultures.
• British Isles: The islands offer striking landscapes, historical landmarks, and charming towns, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
• Spain: Renowned for its rich culture, delicious food, and colourful festivals, Spain is not just a single destination, but a voyage filled with diversity!

It’s clear that a cruise to **Western Europe** can offer incredible experiences, exploring rich cultures along the way. Why wait? Book your memorable trip with **CruiseAway** today and set sail for your European adventure!