4 European Cruise Ports You Have to See to Believe

Taking a European cruise vacation gives you the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful and scenic places in the world. You can visit multiple amazing destinations — all in a single trip. 

Are you looking for a more unusual travel destination for your next vacation? Soak up Europe's most unforgettable scenery and experiences with Norwegian. Marvel at staggering views of the Alps. Explore fields of lavender. Discover incredible architecture and art.

You'll have plenty of opportunities to check off fantastic bucket list experiences when you take a Norwegian cruise to Europe. Don't pass up the chance to explore these awe-inspiring European ports on your next cruise vacation.

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, which is a stunning island located at the edge of the Arctic Circle. Iceland is at the top of many people's bucket lists, and for a good reason. A cruise to Iceland gives you the chance to see incredible landscapes of fire and ice. Reykjavik is the gateway to Iceland's best sights. You can easily access Iceland's most popular attractions from this cruise port. 

Spend a day at the Blue Lagoon, a fantastic geothermal spa set among an otherworldly landscape of black lava. Melt tension away in the warm and steamy aqua water while you marvel at the idyllic scenery. 

You can also take an excursion to the Golden Circle, one of Iceland's most popular treks. You'll stop at Thingvellir National Park, Iceland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site. The national park, valued for its beauty and fascinating geology, is also one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones. You'll find plenty of things to discover in the park. You can walk between two continents at Everyman's Gorge. Visit the Öxarárfoss waterfall, one of the prettiest waterfalls in Iceland. Explore the distinctly beautiful countryside of green pastures and lava formations as you drive the Golden Circle to the various sites. 

2. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a truly spectacular city full of beauty and mystery. Multicolored cliffs soar high above the Aegean sea. Whitewashed buildings sit perched on top of the cliffs that plunge straight into the turquoise sea. 

If you enjoy history, you'll love exploring the cruise port of Santorini. Some people believe that the island is the lost city of Atlantis. Santorini's caldera was formed when the largest volcano in history erupted. Historians speculate that the eruption destroyed the town. You can see the island's history everywhere you look, from the raw cliffs of lava that plunge deep into the sea to the famous black sand beaches.  

You won't be disappointed with the number of activities that Santorini offers. Enjoy a picture-perfect sunset from your balcony. The red and orange colors that reflect off the cliffs are truly spectacular. Take a stroll along the Red Sand Beach, one of the most remarkable beaches in Europe, or visit Oia, a charming Greek village that is perched high on a ridge above the city. Bring your camera to capture the spectacular views of the caldera and sea below. 

3. Bergen, Norway

Take a Norwegian European Jewels cruise and explore the coastal town of Bergen. Bergen, Norway has a good mixture of natural beauty, fascinating culture, and distinguished history. Surrounded by fjords and hills, Bergen is the gateway to the breathtaking Norwegian fjords. Hop aboard the Fløibanen funicular to climb 1,000 feet above the sea and enjoy sweeping views of the city and the surrounding fjords.  

Bergen dates back to the Middle Ages and is an integral part of seafaring history. Explore the scenic port city and check out the charming medieval architecture that is abundant. Take a walk along the narrow, cobblestone streets and view the wooden houses that line Bryggen Wharf. These historic houses have been wonderfully preserved and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Watch ferries dart around the fjords or check out the numerous art museums to learn more about Norwegian history. Stop by the outdoor Fish Market for fresh seafood and local farm fruit. Before departing, make sure you pick up a couple of souvenirs at one of the many Norwegian artisan workshops in Bergen.  

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia is a beautiful, delightful European cruise port. Get ready to experience amazing scenery, fascinating history, and European charm on a Norwegian cruise to Dubrovnik. As an important trading center during the Middle Ages, Dubrovnik is a critical place in European history. The fortified walls that surround the city, ancient stone buildings, and many museums all attest to the city's medieval past.  

Visit the famous Dominican Monastery, which has one of the best collections of Renaissance paintings in Europe. The Monastery houses some of the essential jewelry, paintings, and artifacts from Dubrovnik. These items date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.  

If you are a Game of Thrones fan, then you'll want to venture to the fictional capital of the Seven Kingdoms — King's Landing, located in Dubrovnik's Old Town neighborhood. Don't miss Gibraltar, an 11th-century fortress that overlooks the sea. The stone battlements appeared in the fictional Battle of Blackwater Bay.  

Are you cruising for a honeymoon or anniversary? If so, then take a day trip to one of the many local wineries in the Konavle Valley. Check out the beautiful and romantic Croatian countryside as you drive through the valley. 

RELATED CRUISES:
7-Day Greek Isles Cruise from Athens

Norwegian Cruise Line offers many itineraries to Europe. Reserve your Norwegian Cruise to Europe today. The Norwegian Cruise Line website provides one convenient place where you can explore European Cruise itineraries and dates, book shore excursions, and choose onboard activities.