European Cruise Departure Ports

There are many Europe cruise ports to choose from and each as its own flavor. Riveting history and incredible cuisine are givens as you cruise from Europe. Whether you want a convenient jumping off point or an exotic destination to explore, these details will help you pick a port.

The Colosseum in Rome, Italy.

Cruises from Civitavecchia/Rome

Rome is a blend of Renaissance romance and pulsing street life. As tempting as it is to be swept into Rome’s constant bustle, don’t rush it. After you tour the Colosseum and toss coins into the Trevi Fountain, leave time to amble cobblestone streets and sip espresso from a sidewalk café.

Dancing woman on a street in Spain.

Cruise from Barcelona

Consider Barcelona if you want days of exploration before your cruise from Europe. Renowned gothic buildings, sandy beaches and corner tapas bars make it a popular Europe cruise port. Find out more about cruises from Barcelona.

Colorful buildings in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Cruises from Copenhagen

Copenhagen teems with well-dressed locals buzzing past on bicycles. Before a cruise from Copenhagen, check out the Tivoli Gardens—an amusement park in the center of the city. Or train up to the seaside Louisiana art museum to stroll among modern art pieces.

Gondolas on the canal in Venice.

Cruises from Trieste

A cruise from Trieste near Venice is pure magic. Explore off-the-beaten-path Trieste’s historic squares and Adriatic beaches and then make your way to Venice to gondola around domed cathedrals and Gothic palaces.

a guard stands at his post in London, England

Cruises from Southampton

Located on England’s south coast, Southampton is a popular hub for European cruises. Though most visitors use Southampton as a lily pad before their cruise, its interactive Titanic exhibit or Medieval walls are well-worth checking out.

A field of tulips near Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Cruises from Amsterdam

Explore this charming metropolis, known for gabled houses, inviting cafés and a cutting-edge design scene. Bike or boat through Amsterdam’s famous Golden Age canals and buy blooms from a floating flower market. Get more details to cruise from Europe and Amsterdam.

The port of Venice, Italy visited by Holland America Line cruises

Cruises from Venice

A cruise from Venice is dream-like. Float scintillating water past centuries-old churches and palaces, serenaded by gondoliers. Explore family-owned chocolatiers, wineries, glass-making factories. Never want to leave.

the parthenon in athens, greece

Cruises from Piraeus/Athens

Piraeus and Athens will satisfy every travel itch in just one day. View ruins that are thousands of years old. Zip up a hill in a funicular to watch the sun sink over the city. Stroll cobblestone twists and turns to an open-air amphitheater. Dance all night.

Kinderdijk windmills seen in Holland.

Cruises from Rotterdam

Rotterdam stands out amongst all Europe cruise ports. Watch the well-orchestrated bustle of Europe’s busiest port and get up close to influential contemporary buildings. When you’ve had enough of the city grind, take a day trip to see a brilliant tulip display.