European Cruises

Why choose a European Cruise

Europe is the destination choice of many tourists, both for its rich culture and its diversified geography and landscapes. And when it comes to traveling through Europe, nothing compares to Europeans cruises. A European cruise will give you the chance of touring the best parts of Europe from the luxury of an all-inclusive hotel slash resort.

Europeans cruises will bring your through all of the European continent, whether is it Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Belgium, the UK, France, any of the small Islands or much more.The beauty of a European Cruise is that you get to see the hot spots in Europe, without the hassle of traveling by car, by train, by bus or by plane. You get to experience the best of what Europe has to offer without having to think about when to get up, when to leave, where to grab breakfast, traffic, finding a place to sleep, etc. And by the best of what Europe has to offer, we certainly mean history, food, arts and natural beauties of Europe. A European cruise is also a good choice for people who are worried about language barriers, and not being able to ask the local people for their way. On your cruise ship, you will be served 100% in the language of your choice, will get the best advices, recommendations, maps and ideas on where to go and what to do when the ship boards in a new port/city. By choosing a European cruise for your next vacation, instead of losing precious time driving or busing from city to city, you will be enjoying a nice drink on the deck, swimming in the pool or relaxing in your bedroom while the boat is bringing you to your next destination. You will come back from a European cruise so relaxed you will want to book your next year cruise right away!

Depending on the European cruise line you decide to go for, you ship can accommodate 100 people or 1000 people. You choice! The ease of traveling will help you get in the spirit of the holidays or vacations right away and for each part of the trip, you will be immersed in a whole new world, with different landscapes, picturesque river towns, elegant cities with rich architecture and a fascinating culture. The worry of many people visiting Europe is to travel with too much or too little luggage. Because there are a lot of changing hotels and road traveling, many are scared of losing their luggage or of forgetting important things as they have to cut down on what to bring and what not to bring to travel light. You will not have to worry about luggage on a European cruise, as your luggage will be safely locked in your bedroom for the whole duration of the cruise.

On a European cruise, you will also enjoy the expertise of numerous travel experts and guides, who will give informal lectures and will lead excursions ashore. Also, on every cruise, a chef will cook you some of the specialty of Europe, but you will also find some of the kids favorites (hot dogs, hamburgers and french fries!). A European cruise is an experience like no one and you will feel treated like royalty, an experience you will never forget!

So don’t wait and treat yourself with a European cruise this year, and enjoy the time of your life!

Diana, freelance writer for European Cruises.

Cruising the rivers of Europe has never been more popular and affordable. If you have never done River cruises in Europe, it is important that you read about them. Simply look through our categories to find out what your preferences are. Then use the services of a specialized website or a specialized travel agent in order to help you plan a vacation that will meet all your needs. Those specialized websites or travel agents that will sometimes promote specific cruise lines, but if you know what you want, you will help them choose the best cruise lines that will suit your lifestyle! If you do not know what types of rivers cruises in Europe you are looking for, learn here what to look for to avoid bad experiences.

What are river cruises in Europe?

River cruises in Europe can cross one or several countries of Europe in a week, 2 weeks, one month and more. The most popular stops are big cities such as Cologne or Budapest. Rivers cruises in Europe use cruise ships that are much smaller than the large cruise ships that sail to Alaska or the Caribbean. On board of any European river cruise ship, you find will always have a restaurant and a lounge bar. Depending on the type and size of European cruise ship, you may find a library, a theater for evening shows and even a swimming pool. European river cruise ships are can usually accommodate 100 to 180 passengers.

Already visited Europe?

River cruises in Europe can bring you totally new experiences, allow you to discover Europe in a totally different way. You’ll visit most of the major European cities, you will discover the charming rural side of different countries. River cruises in Europe will allow you to admire the beauty of the European countryside. Moreover, when you ship will stop at a port, you will be able to visit small villages and mingle with the locals.

Are river cruises in Europe luxurious?

Rivers cruises in Europe are basically like floating first class hotels. They all have a fancy terrace, a great lounge and a 5 stars restaurant. Depending on your budget, you can opt to book a cabin or suites which all come with full size beds and private bathroom. Because they are much smaller than the Caribbean or Alaska cruises, river cruises in Europe are much more intimate, and because the ships go at a much slower pace, you will feel more relaxed.

How fun are river cruises in Europe?

Because passengers have to stay on the boat in between the different stops, and because of the size of the beat and the limited number of passengers, some people are worried about being bored. But river cruises in Europe are extremely fun and have plenty of activities to choose from. On board, you can borrow books, magazines, games, go to the pool, watch shows at night, watch movies, play cards. On land, your choice is even greater, from sightseeing, to hiking or cycling along the towpaths of the canals, you will not have time to get bored. In addition, you can book special tours such as wine tasting tours or even hot air balloon tours!

What type of crowd do river cruises in Europe attract?

Because they are luxurious and more relaxed, this type of holiday attracts travelers seeking a luxurious, unique, relaxing and interesting way to explore the European countryside. If you are looking for this type of holiday, you are likely to love the company of other passengers and to make new friends. River cruises in Europe are ideal for people who enjoy traveling in the company of other people but in an environment that is not too crowded.

I do not know all the different European rivers. Where do I start?

There is a large number of rivers and routes to choose from. The river cruises in Europe can last for a period ranging from several days to several weeks, depending on the number of stops, countries, cities and ports you are looking to visit. Some cruises will preferably stop at some of the most important historic sites in Europe while others will sail peacefully from one village to another, crisscrossing smaller streams.

Find more information about river cruises in Europe at European Cruises.

Unfortunately, too many people have the wrong image of cruises in Europe. Cruises in Europe are a whole new type of excursions and holidays someone has to try at least once in their life.

Some European cruises facts

- First, cruises in Europe (and anywhere else) is not just for retirees. As a matter of fact, most cruises in Europe are even free for children. Parents only need to pay the port taxes for any child.
- Cruises in Europe are not boring, far from that!
- Most of the time, seasickness won’t happen very often, even for people who easily get motion sicknesses. However, if the sea is very rough and there are a lot of turbulence, this can affect people who easily get seasick, and in somes occasions, the others as well. But again, in any types of vacations, you are risking having bad weather.
- The cruise ship is a city by itself with lots of shops, casino, expensive and stylish hairdressers, nightclubs, bars, restaurants, pools, spa, gym, tennis court, basketball court etc.
- The cost of cruises in Europe is usually affordable, especially if you can get a deal. And for how much you will pay and how much fun you will get out of the trip, they are really worth it.
- You will (unfortunately for you ladies) not see a Leonardo di Caprio scream “I’m the king of the world” in front of the boat.

If you are still uncertain about cruises in Europe, here are some additional tips to help you choose your European cruise and prepare for it.

- Often, tip is already added to your restaurant bill. Most of the time, you can change it, but by default, it is important to know that you don’t need to tip more.

- Different cruise lines or cruise ships often target specific crowds : english , french, chinese, young, old. For your comfort and more convenience, it would be better for you to choose a cruise with other passengers that have similar interests and who you will be able to communicate with. Therefore, double check with your travel agent or you do a quick search online before booking your cruises in Europe to make sure that you will not be one english speaker between 1999 other Italian people. Not that you will not enjoy your whole European cruise, but you may miss on the chance on meeting interesting people who you will be able to talk to!

- Last but not least, on board, EVERYTHING is done for you. All you have to do is to have a great and enjoyable time and to let your guide you do the talk and give you some advices on where to go and what to see. And oh yeah, make sure to book a tour with a guide so you won’t feel like you are only looking at a bunch of rocks when you are visiting ruins!

Learn more about cruising the rivers of Europe, the eastern Mediterranean cruise, or about cruises in Europe on European Cruises.

Find what you need to know about cruises to Europe below.

European cruising has never been more popular or affordable. If you’ve never done European cruises before, read the following to help you plan your perfect holiday in Europe, a holiday that with meet all your requirements.

Are cruises to Europe expensive?

Simply do the math. Cruises to Europe are comparable to a stay in a resort. Meals, accommodations, entertainment and many activities are included in the price of cruises to Europe. Because everything is included in your trip, it is therefore easy to stick to your budget. Cruises to Europe are also a great way to visit several different stops all throughout Europe without having to move from hotel to hotel. You unpack and settle in your cruise for the duration of your European cruise and visit Europe in the comfort of you cruise ship room, enjoying a journey that will lead you where you want to go. You will have several chances to get off the boat to explore different cities, do some shopping, visit historical sites, At the end of the day you go back to your floating resort in order to enjoy the exquisite cuisine and first class entertainment before going to sleep.

What about being seasick?

When going on a cruise to Europe, you shouldn’t worry about being seasick. Ships used for cruises to Europe are sophisticated and use the newest technology for cruise ships. They have stabilizers which greatly reduce the unwanted movement of the ship. However, if you are still worried about seasickness, choose a cabin located near the center of the ship where ship movement is less noticeable. You can also talk to your doctor and find out what type of motion sickness medication is available.

Having to stay on the boat most of the journey, will I get bored?

Well… If you start your journey with the intention or being bored or the conviction that you will be bored, you may. For the others, cruises to Europe are basically like big resorts, with lots of activities to do and things to see. Depending on the cruise ship your are on, your options could be rock climbing, ice skating, improving your golf swing, taking a dip in the ship pool, trying your luck at the Casino, working out at the gy, relaxing the whirlpool, surfing the Internet, watching a Broadway style show or simply tanning on the deck of the cruise ship. And you could do all of the above without having to leave the ship once! Crew of cruises to Europe are there to make sure that every passenger is enjoying his or her vacation. If you have any issues or questions, all you have to do is to talk to the cruise director or to any help staff on the cruise ship. Remember that their job is to make you happy so you will come back again next year or refer some of your friends to try cruising through Europe.

Find all you need to know about cruises to Europe on http://www.best-european-cruises.com.

Discover England
If, to you, England is all about pubs, fish&chips and rain, think again. Of course they are a big part of the English culture, but England has a lot more to offer than beer, mouthwatering deep fried fish, and bad weather. Part of the United Kingdom, England shares its land borders with Scotland (North) and Wales. The rest of the country is surrounded by the Irish Sea, the Celtic Seat, the North Sea and the English Channel.

History
England is a country full of history. Now a leader in democracy and freedom ideology, England also have a historical past famous for its kingdoms and empires. The creation of historical significant ideologies (think Magna Carta) and literature that has impacted the world (think Shakespeare) are linked to England. But England is not all about big dreams and great ideologies, it’s also the home of comedies such Monty Python or Mr. Bean, and pop culture, such as the Beatles and more recently Cold Play. England has a diverse culture and more history and museums than you will be able to handle in one trip. So this year, take a cruise to England, and find out what the tea-lovers and football fanatics are all about. Welcome to England.

Throughout your cruise to England, you will notice the Norman Castles, built after 1066.

picture by : laszlo-photo

Cruise to England
To visit the beauties and the picturesque sides of England, why not start with a cruise to England? Most often, England is chosen as the departing or the finishing city of European cruises.

London
Of course, one of the main destination of cruises to England is London, where most cruises depart from. A cruise to England without a London trip is incomplete. Because London is not a port of call per say, cruise ships will stop at other nearby port cities, such as Southampton and Dover, located to the south of London, or Harwich, located to the east of the city. Because London has so much to see, it is best to book a city tour that will bring you to the major attractions, including the Big Ben, the Parliament, the Tower of London and St-Paul’s Cathedral. For cruises passengers who love museums, the British Museum and the National Gallery are two hot spots. Of course, you can simply walk around town, do some shopping at London’s famous store Harrod’s and take pictures in Hyde Park.

Falmouth
Add some magic in your life and embrace yourself in some mythical Arthurian legend at Tintagel Castle when your cruise to England stops at Falmouth port, located on the southwest coast of Cornwall. Tintagel Castle is Cornwall’s most iconic site and is where the legend of King Arthur was born. This historic spot is located in a breathtaking spot, rich in flora and fauna, a paradise for sea birds, lizards and butterflies.

The Channel Islands
When cruising between England and France, chances are that your cruise to English will make a trip to The Channel Islands. The culture of these islands opposes a unique combination of English and French influence and traditions.

Liverpool
Liverpool is home to the Beatles. If your cruise to England stops in Liverpool, visit the hallowed landmarks such as the Eleanor Rigby park bench or the well-known Cavern Club, in which the Fab Four start their career.

Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
Located at the North-East of England, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne was founded around 2,000 years ago. The Tyne Bridge and the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, acclaimed worldwide for its physical and aesthetic look, are worth seeing.

Norman Castles
As your cruise to England advances, you will notice a lot of those Norman castles, which were build the Normans to defend the territory they had conquered after 1066.

If you are planning a cruise to England, you can opt for a Northern Europe cruise, which often features England on their itinerary. Those cruises usually go from May to August and will visit many of the Northern Europe countries. You can also opt for a cruise that focuses on the British Isles only. Finally, if you are planning a Mediterranean cruises or other types European cruises, London is often a starting or an ending point. So you could easily add on a few extra days to visit England to your trip. Remember that most cruise lines will also offer a pre-cruise hotel package in London, making your life even easier!

One of the top destination in Europe is Spain. When people think of Spain, they often imagine the bullfights, the flamenco dancers and and the busy beaches. But Spain is much more than that. It has a diverse culture and landscapes you ought to see. Every region in Spain is unique, and the singularities of the language, culture, cuisine and art lies behind the history of each region. If you are looking into European cruises, make sure to cruise to Spain as well, and discover the uniqueness of every Spanish regions and ports of call.

Cruise to Spain : Barcelona
Many European cruises will go to Barcelona. Barcelona is a favorite Spanish destination.You will find Barcelona to be very lively, with amazing architecture. In Barcelona, visit the Gothic quarter, with parts that dates back to the roman times. There, you can take a walk on famous 1.2 kilometres street long Las Ramblas.  This popular street has a lot of sidewalk cafes, flower stalls and street entertainers. If you like museums, there are also lots to do for you in Barcelona. Young Picasso moved to Barcelona when he was only 14, and some of his work can be found at Palau Berenguer d’Aguilar museum. Visit La Sagrada Familia (or Church of the Holy Family), which Antoni Gaudi has dedicated over four decades his life to.

Cruise to Spain : Seville (Cadiz)
If you cruise to Spain and have the chance to stop in Cadiz, explore the enchanting medieval ruins walls of this city built over 3000 years ago! Take pictures of the spectacular sea views or buzz down to the designer stores. Visit the cathedral of Seville and don’t miss the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Other famous attractions are Parque de Maria Lusia and the elegant Plaza de Espana, a semi-circular square, built for the 1929 Universal Expo.

Cruise to Spain : Vigo
If your European cruise ship happens to stop in Vigo, Spain’s finest fishing port, make sure to visit the port’s most popular historical attraction – the pilgrim city of Santiago de Compostela. Explore the slopes of Monte del Castro and the old fishing quarter also known as Ribera del Berbes.

Cruise to Spain : Bilbao
In the Spanish region of Bizkaia (Biscay) in the Basque country, you will find Bilbao. Located in the middle of2 ranges of hills on each side of the Nervion river, and obviously an important port of call for European cruises. In Bilbao, head to the Guggenheim Museum, the Cathedral of Santiago, the Bridge and Church of San Anton, venture in the countryside to the beautiful region of La Rioja or the Belle Epoque resort of San Sebastian.

Cruise to Spain : Alicante
The city of Alicante is located on the western Mediterranean coastline of Spain. The location of this port of call allows it for year-long great temperatures. Alicante is an inviting place for anyone to begin their exploration of Spain, and is a favourite spot for the locals themselves. Delicious tapas and authentic paella are on the menu!

Bottom line? When choosing a European cruise, make sure to cruise to Spain as well. Experience the relax Spanish way of living, the fabulous architecture and the amazing food.