5 Tips for Visiting Europe on an Ocean Cruise
Andrew Jackson
September 25, 2022
If you're looking for a new and exciting way to visit Europe, look no further than an ocean cruise with Vantage! European cruises offer the best of both worlds — plenty of time to explore fascinating ports, museums, and nature, as well as plenty of time to relax on board and enjoy all the ship’s amenities. Vantage Travel offers some incredible small ship discovery cruises to Europe that take guests to some of the top ports on the continent with comprehensive lectures about local sites and history, luxury accommodations, and world-class service.
Here are our top 5 tips for making the most out of your European cruise vacation
- Be prepared to do some walking. Europe is full of robust, historic cities with a lot to see, which means you'll be walking on your European cruise vacation. Your typical days in port will often include walking tours, museums, and visits to areas that just aren't convenient for vehicles. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes and clothing so you can explore to your heart's content. At Vantage, we will let you know how much walking you can expect ahead of time but being prepared is still always a great idea.
- Try new foods. European cuisine is some of the best in the world, so take advantage of all the delicious food options available on your European cruise. Trying new foods is one of the best parts of traveling, so don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and sample some dishes you've never had before. Many cruise itineraries offer specialty-dining experiences that are definitely worth trying at least once, especially if you are dining with a local family or a famous local restaurant. On a typical day at sea, you will have plenty of gourmet dining choices with flavors from all around the world too, so you'll have ample opportunity to expand your palate.
- Book early. When you book your European cruise early, you’ll have more time to plan and prepare for your trip. You also can take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions, which can save you money on airfare, hotels, and other travel expenses. In addition, booking early gives you the opportunity to select your preferred stateroom before it potentially sells out. Plus, once you're booked and everything is set, you'll have more time to relax and think about all the wonderful things you'll do while cruising. If you have to wait until the last minute, make sure you're flexible with your schedule.
- Travel solo! You don't need a partner, friend, or travel companion to have a great time on a European cruise, despite what you may think. Traveling solo is a great way to meet new people, learn about different cultures, and enjoy some well-deserved "me time", all while experiencing the same level of service and comfort as everyone else on your cruise. Vantage is proud to offer many great perks for solo travelers, including FREE Single Supplements, an industry-leading number of solo-ready cabins, and much more.
- Do some fun research before you go. European cruises offer a wide range of itineraries, ports, and activities, and learning about where you're going ahead of time is a great way to build up some excitement before you go. You can read books, articles, and blog posts (like this one!) to learn about European history and culture, or even watch movies set in European locations. Once on your cruise, you will have onboard and in-port lectures and discussions, as well as opportunities to talk to locals first-hand who can offer even more insights about the places you'll visit.
For more on how you can book a European cruise with Vantage, browse through the many great itineraries on our website or give us a call today. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and help you plan the journey of a lifetime.
Interested in learning more about this product?
Simply provide your email & we'll send you the latest journey news & special offers.