What Cruise Lines Go to Europe Top Picks for 2024

Top cruise lines sailing to Europe in 2024 include industry leaders like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Viking, offering diverse itineraries across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Greek Isles. These lines stand out for modern ships, immersive shore excursions, and flexible booking options, making them ideal for first-time and seasoned cruisers alike. Whether you’re drawn to cultural hotspots or scenic fjords, these operators deliver unforgettable European voyages.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Viking Cruises: Best for cultural immersion and mid-size ships.
• Royal Caribbean offers: Largest fleet with diverse European itineraries.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Ideal for flexible dining and freestyle cruising.
• MSC Cruises stands out: Affordable fares with modern, eco-friendly ships.
• Book Cunard for: Luxury transatlantic crossings and classic ocean travel.
• Disney Cruise Line: Top pick for families with kids’ activities.

What Cruise Lines Go to Europe Top Picks for 2024

Europe’s timeless allure—its cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, world-class museums, and diverse cultures—has made it a top destination for travelers for generations. But in recent years, a new trend has emerged: cruising to Europe. More than just a way to get from one city to the next, European cruises now offer immersive cultural experiences, luxury amenities, and seamless access to some of the continent’s most iconic ports, from the canals of Venice to the fjords of Norway. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, the dramatic cliffs of the British Isles, or the vibrant cities of the Baltic, there’s a cruise line that can take you there—in style, comfort, and with unforgettable memories waiting at every dock.

With so many cruise lines operating in Europe, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. From budget-friendly options to ultra-luxury voyages, family-friendly itineraries to adult-exclusive retreats, the choices are vast. In 2024, the European cruise landscape is more dynamic than ever, with new ships, expanded itineraries, and enhanced sustainability efforts. This guide will help you navigate the best cruise lines that sail to Europe, highlighting top picks based on destination variety, onboard experience, value, and unique offerings. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, our comprehensive breakdown will equip you with everything you need to choose the perfect European cruise for your next adventure.

Top Luxury Cruise Lines Sailing to Europe in 2024

For travelers seeking the pinnacle of comfort, service, and exclusivity, luxury cruise lines offer an unparalleled European experience. These lines focus on personalized attention, gourmet dining, spacious accommodations, and curated shore excursions. In 2024, several luxury brands are expanding their European itineraries, offering more immersive and culturally rich voyages than ever before.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas is synonymous with all-inclusive luxury. Their Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Voyager regularly sail through the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the British Isles. What sets Regent apart is its **all-inclusive pricing**, which covers airfare, unlimited shore excursions, premium beverages, gratuities, and even pre-cruise hotel stays. In 2024, Regent is launching new 10- to 14-day itineraries that include lesser-known gems like the Amalfi Coast, Montenegro, and the Greek Cyclades.

One standout feature is their **”Go Local” excursions**, which allow guests to experience authentic cultural moments—think truffle hunting in Tuscany or a private concert in a Venetian palazzo. With a guest-to-crew ratio of nearly 1:1, service is attentive and personalized.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises combines luxury with a strong focus on culinary excellence. Their mid-sized ships, like the Insignia and Allura (launching in 2024), carry just 670 to 1,250 guests, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere. Oceania’s “Culinary Discovery Tours” are a highlight—guests can take cooking classes in Provence, tour a vineyard in Bordeaux, or learn pasta-making in Sicily.

Oceania’s 2024 European season includes extended stays in port cities, allowing for deeper exploration. For example, their 12-day “Mediterranean Treasures” itinerary includes overnights in Barcelona, Florence, and Istanbul. With free specialty dining (including Jacques by Jacques Pépin) and included shore excursions on select voyages, Oceania offers exceptional value for the luxury segment.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea excels in expedition-style luxury cruising. Their fleet includes both traditional ocean liners and expedition vessels like the Silver Endeavour, which sails to the Arctic and remote Norwegian fjords. In 2024, Silversea is introducing new “Cultural Deep Dive” itineraries in the Eastern Mediterranean, featuring expert-led lectures on Byzantine history, archaeology, and regional art.

All-inclusive amenities include butler service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a selection of premium wines and spirits. Silversea’s **Zodiac excursions** and expert naturalists make it ideal for travelers interested in nature and history beyond the typical tourist trail.

Pro Tip: When booking luxury cruises, consider booking a suite with a veranda. The extra cost is often justified by the private outdoor space, upgraded amenities, and priority boarding for excursions.

Best Premium Cruise Lines for European Voyages

Premium cruise lines strike a balance between luxury and affordability, offering high-quality amenities and experiences without the ultra-premium price tag. These lines are perfect for travelers who want a refined experience with excellent service, diverse dining options, and well-curated itineraries—ideal for first-time European cruisers or those seeking a more relaxed pace.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises has undergone a major transformation in recent years, with a focus on modern luxury and wellness. Their Edge Series ships—like the Celebrity Edge and Apex—feature innovative design, including the Magic Carpet (a movable platform for embarkation and dining) and expansive open-air spaces.

In 2024, Celebrity is offering 7- to 14-day Mediterranean itineraries that include ports like Santorini, Dubrovnik, and Marseille. Their **”Celebrity Concierge”** service helps guests book private tours, reserve Michelin-starred restaurants in port, and arrange transportation. The onboard wellness program, including the Canyon Ranch Spa and fitness classes, is a major draw.

With a strong emphasis on sustainability (they’ve committed to reducing single-use plastics), Celebrity is a great choice for eco-conscious travelers.

Holland America Line

With over 150 years of experience, Holland America Line is a trusted name in premium cruising. Their mid-sized ships, such as the Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam, are known for their elegant design, live music (including the popular BB King’s Blues Club), and culinary partnerships with chefs like David Burke.

Holland America’s 2024 European season includes unique itineraries like the “Grand Europe” voyage, which spans 40 days from Amsterdam to Istanbul, visiting 20+ countries. They also offer shorter 7-day Baltic cruises with overnights in St. Petersburg and Copenhagen.

One standout feature is their **”Explorations Central”** program, which provides guests with in-depth destination content, local expert talks, and interactive maps. Families and multi-generational travelers will appreciate the variety of onboard activities, from cooking demos to trivia nights.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises combines comfort with a wide range of activities and entertainment. Their Discovery at Sea program includes partnerships with Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, offering themed activities like stargazing and shark encounters.

In 2024, Princess is expanding its European offerings with new 10- to 12-day “Mediterranean Magic” and “Northern Europe Explorer” itineraries. Their **”MedallionClass”** technology allows for keyless stateroom entry, mobile ordering, and personalized recommendations—making the cruise experience more seamless than ever.

Princess is also known for its excellent dining, including the Chef’s Table Lumière, where guests enjoy a private, multi-course meal with wine pairings. Their onboard enrichment programs, like language classes and art workshops, add depth to the journey.

Pro Tip: Premium lines often offer early booking discounts and free upgrades. Consider booking 12–18 months in advance to secure the best staterooms and pricing.

Family-Friendly Cruise Lines for European Adventures

Traveling to Europe with kids? Family-friendly cruise lines offer kid-centric activities, flexible dining, and intergenerational itineraries designed to keep everyone engaged. In 2024, several lines are enhancing their family offerings with new kids’ clubs, themed entertainment, and educational shore excursions.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is a leader in family cruising, with massive ships like the Icon of the Seas (launching in 2024) and Anthem of the Seas sailing European waters. Their **”Adventure Ocean”** kids’ program is age-specific, offering science experiments, arts and crafts, and even coding classes for teens.

Onboard, families can enjoy water parks, rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and Broadway-style shows. In 2024, Royal Caribbean is offering 7-day Mediterranean cruises with stops in Naples, Barcelona, and Cannes—perfect for combining beach days with cultural exploration.

Their **”Royal Genie”** service (available on select ships) helps families plan customized itineraries, including private excursions and fast-track entry to attractions like the Colosseum or the Louvre.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is a dream for families, especially those with younger children. While Disney primarily sails in the Caribbean and Alaska, they offer select European itineraries in 2024, including 7- to 12-day voyages to the Mediterranean and Norwegian fjords.

Onboard, families can meet Disney characters, enjoy themed deck parties, and watch first-run Disney movies. The **”Oceaneer Club”** and **”Edge”** (for teens) provide age-appropriate activities, from Jedi training to DJ lessons.

Disney’s European cruises often include stops in Copenhagen (home of LEGO and Tivoli Gardens) and Oslo (gateway to the fjords). Their onboard dining features rotating character experiences and kid-friendly menus, with options for dietary restrictions.

NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line)

NCL’s “Freestyle Cruising” concept is perfect for families who want flexibility. Their ships, like the Norwegian Epic and Encore, feature water parks, ropes courses, and family-friendly staterooms (some with bunk beds and separate living areas).

In 2024, NCL is offering 10-day “Mediterranean Escape” itineraries with stops in Rome, Athens, and Mykonos. Their **”Splash Academy”** kids’ program includes games, dance parties, and educational activities. For teens, the **”Entourage”** club offers video games, movies, and social events.

NCL also offers **”Family Suites”** that can accommodate up to six guests, with private balconies and access to a VIP lounge.

Pro Tip: When traveling with kids, look for cruise lines that offer free or discounted fares for children under 12. Also, check if the line provides babysitting services for evening outings.

Expedition and Adventure Cruise Lines Exploring Europe

For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, expedition cruise lines offer small-ship voyages to remote regions like the Arctic, the Scottish Highlands, and the Adriatic coast. These cruises emphasize nature, wildlife, and cultural immersion, with expert guides and low guest counts (usually under 200).

Hurtigruten Expeditions

Norwegian-based Hurtigruten is a pioneer in expedition cruising. Their ships, like the MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, are equipped with hybrid-electric engines and feature science labs, lecture theaters, and observation decks.

In 2024, Hurtigruten is offering 12-day “Arctic Norway & the Midnight Sun” itineraries, with Zodiac landings, kayaking in fjords, and chances to see polar bears and reindeer. Their **”Science Center”** allows guests to participate in real-time research, from birdwatching to water sampling.

Hurtigruten also sails to the British Isles, with itineraries focusing on Viking history, puffin colonies, and coastal villages like the Orkney Islands.

Ponant

French luxury expedition line Ponant combines elegance with adventure. Their ships, like the Le Champlain, carry just 184 guests and feature spacious staterooms, a French-inspired dining experience, and an onboard spa.

Ponant’s 2024 European season includes 10-day “Croatia & Montenegro” voyages, with stops in Dubrovnik, Kotor, and Hvar. Their **”Expert Lectures”** cover topics like maritime history, geology, and local cuisine. Guests can also enjoy guided kayaking, snorkeling, and wine tastings in local vineyards.

Ponant is committed to sustainability, with a goal of carbon-neutral cruising by 2030.

Aurora Expeditions

Australian-based Aurora Expeditions is expanding into Europe with new 2024 itineraries to the Arctic and the Mediterranean. Their ship, the Greg Mortimer, features a hydraulic viewing platform and a fleet of Zodiacs.

Aurora’s “Arctic & Atlantic Odyssey” includes visits to Svalbard, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands, with opportunities to see walruses, whales, and seabird colonies. Their **”Citizen Science”** program encourages guests to contribute to environmental research.

For Mediterranean voyages, Aurora offers “Coastal Croatia” itineraries with hiking, cycling, and cultural tours of historic towns.

Pro Tip: Expedition cruises often require more physical activity. Check the activity level of excursions and pack appropriate gear (waterproof boots, binoculars, etc.).

Best Value and Budget-Friendly Cruise Lines to Europe

Traveling to Europe doesn’t have to break the bank. Several cruise lines offer affordable fares without sacrificing quality, making European cruising accessible to a wider audience. These lines focus on value, with competitive pricing, inclusive amenities, and flexible itineraries.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is known for its fun, casual atmosphere and affordable pricing. In 2024, their Carnival Horizon and Celebration are sailing 7- to 10-day European itineraries, including stops in Lisbon, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands.

While not luxury, Carnival offers a wide range of activities—from comedy shows to water slides—and family-friendly dining. Their **”Carnival HUB”** app allows guests to book excursions, order drinks, and check schedules from their phone.

Fares often start under $1,000 per person for 7-day cruises, with discounts for early booking and group travel.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is one of the fastest-growing lines in Europe, with a fleet of modern ships like the MSC Grandiosa and Europa. They offer 7-day Mediterranean cruises from ports like Genoa and Marseille, with stops in Naples, Valencia, and Tunis.

MSC’s **”Kids Sail Free”** promotion (available on select sailings) makes it a great choice for families. Their ships feature water parks, 4D cinemas, and international dining options.

While not all-inclusive, MSC offers drink packages and excursion bundles to help control costs. Their 2024 itineraries include new routes to the Greek Islands and the Black Sea.

Cunard Line

For a touch of old-world elegance at a reasonable price, Cunard offers transatlantic and European voyages on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria. Their 7-day “Northern Europe Highlights” itinerary includes stops in Amsterdam, Hamburg, and Oslo.

Cunard’s formal evenings, afternoon tea, and ballroom dancing add a classic touch. Their **”Insights”** program features lectures by historians, authors, and celebrities.

While fares are higher than Carnival or MSC, Cunard often includes gratuities and offers early booking discounts. Their transatlantic crossings (7 nights) start around $1,200 per person.

Comparison of Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Europe in 2024

Cruise Line	Ship Size (Avg. Guests)	Best For	Price Range (7-Day Cruise)	Unique Feature
Regent Seven Seas	700–1,200	Luxury, all-inclusive	$4,000–$12,000	Unlimited shore excursions
Oceania Cruises	670–1,250	Culinary, cultural	$2,500–$8,000	Free specialty dining
Celebrity Cruises	2,900–3,200	Modern luxury, wellness	$1,500–$4,000	Magic Carpet platform
Royal Caribbean	5,500–6,500	Families, entertainment	$1,000–$3,000	Water parks, surf simulators
Hurtigruten Expeditions	200–500	Adventure, nature	$3,000–$8,000	Hybrid-electric ships
MSC Cruises	4,000–5,000	Value, families	$600–$2,000	Kids sail free

Choosing the right cruise line for your European adventure depends on your priorities—whether it’s luxury, family fun, adventure, or value. With the 2024 season offering more options than ever, now is the perfect time to set sail. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean to the icy wonders of the Arctic, Europe awaits. Whether you’re sipping espresso in Rome, exploring the canals of Amsterdam, or watching the northern lights from a Zodiac, a European cruise promises unforgettable moments. Use this guide to find the perfect line, pack your bags, and prepare for the journey of a lifetime. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go to Europe in 2024?

Top cruise lines sailing to Europe in 2024 include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises. These brands offer diverse itineraries across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the British Isles. Luxury options like Regent Seven Seas and Viking Ocean Cruises are also popular for European voyages.

Which cruise lines go to Europe with the best itineraries?

For well-curated European itineraries, consider Viking Ocean Cruises (focused on cultural immersion) and Oceania Cruises (known for longer port stays). Holland America Line also excels with themed sailings like tulip time cruises and WWII history tours. These lines balance iconic cities with hidden gems.

Are there budget-friendly cruise lines that go to Europe?

Yes, budget-conscious travelers can choose Costa Cruises or MSC Cruises, which offer affordable Mediterranean and Northern Europe sailings. Norwegian Cruise Line also provides competitive pricing with flexible dining options and shorter 7-day European itineraries.

What luxury cruise lines go to Europe?

Luxury options like Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas offer all-inclusive European cruises with high-end amenities. These lines focus on smaller ships, gourmet dining, and exclusive shore excursions in destinations like the French Riviera and Greek Isles.

Do any family-friendly cruise lines go to Europe?

Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line are top picks for families, with kid-friendly activities and European itineraries featuring stops in Barcelona, Rome, and Copenhagen. Norwegian Cruise Line also caters to families with its “Freestyle Cruising” and onboard water parks.

Which cruise lines go to Europe with unique destinations?

Crystal Cruises and Azamara specialize in off-the-beaten-path European ports like Albania, Montenegro, and the Canary Islands. Hurtigruten focuses on Arctic Europe, including Norway’s fjords and Iceland, with expedition-style sailings.