5 magical experiences on a cruise through Europe
Europe truly is best explored on a cruise. Whether you’re getting up close and personal with majestic fjords, charting the labyrinthine waterways or simply taking in the stunning vistas of the Mediterranean, Europe has some of the best cruising on the planet. As cruise lines like Holland America Line venture out on their European cruising itineraries for 2017, we’ve put together five magical experiences you only get cruising the continent.
1. A day in the ancient city – Rome, Italy
What happens when you mix a bustling metropolis with an ancient, open-air museum? You get Rome, one of those cities in which every moment you spend is precious. Start your day with coffee in a piazza before walking (quite literally) in the steps of emperors through one of the city’s many famous ruins. Spend your afternoon in admiration of some of the world’s most incredible art before finishing your day with a rustic Italian meal. From the foods to the sites and the culture, a port stop in Rome is one you should truly relish.
2. A place like no other – Reykjavik, Iceland
Staggeringly beautiful, while at the same time being laid-back and effortlessly cool, Reykjavik is fast becoming one of the most in-demand cruising locations in Europe. And it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re having your breath taken away by the incredible lava fields, majestic glaciers or distinct architecture, the capital of Iceland is a city that’s full of hidden gems that reward travellers lucky enough to visit on a port stop.
3. A taste of the old Mediterranean- Palma de Mallorca, Spain
The hidden jewel of the Balearic archipelago, Palma de Mallorca is one of Spain’s most delightful towns. Tucked away from the main tourist beaches, this oft-overlooked location maintains the sense of rhythm you’d expect from a traditional Mediterranean city with its busy food markets and open air terrazas, while also maintaining a contemporary art and food scene. If you’re lucky enough to cruise here, don’t think twice.
4. The best glass you can buy – Bordeaux, France
Few places have as solid a claim to the title, “wine capital of the world” as Bordeaux, and even if you don’t enjoy the odd glass this vibrant, dynamic city has something to offer everyone lucky enough to visit it on a port stop. Lose yourself in museums, visit the public gardens that line the curving river quays, admire the incredible architecture and sample some of the otherworldly (in a good way) vino that makes this region famous the world over.
5. Like something out of a dream – Venice, Italy
We know, we know, another Italian city, but we just couldn’t leave Venice off our list. Stepping off your cruise into Venice is like walking into a dream and this floating labyrinth is filled with sites designed to draw your attention. Stroll through Piazza San Marco and find a place to sit and admire St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile bell tower. Get lunch at one of an eatery, take a gondola ride through the famous canals, catch the ferry to the island of Lido or simple let yourself get lost in one of the city’s captivating alleyways.
THIS IS SPONSORED CONTENT BROUGHT TO YOU IN CONJUNCTION WITH HOLLAND AMERICA LINE.
Related links:
15 cruise tips approved by the Over60 community
How you can cruise with a conscience
Why you should never sneak booze on a cruise