5 of the Best European Cruises for a Summer Getaway

Summer is on the horizon and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has a selection of European sailings designed for every type of traveller.

Whether travellers are looking to bask in the sunshine whilst exploring the scenic Greek Islands and the world-class gastronomy of the Mediterranean, or guests prefer to escape the heat in cooler climes, taking in the historic architecture of Poland or the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, there is a variety of cruises available within a few hours from the UK.

Each of the below sailings are available to book with NCL’s Free At Sea™ package, ensuring a seamless experience with an all-inclusive feel. The package includes:

• Premium open bar (unlimited spirits, cocktails, and wines)

• Speciality dining package

• Wi-Fi access

• Shore excursion credits

  

Mediterranean: Nice, Florence & Amalfi Coast (Salerno) - 7-day Cruise on Norwegian Epic

• Inside cabins starting from £740pp

• Dates: Sunday 14 June - Sunday 21 June 2026, Sunday 27 June - Sunday 4 July 2027 (for more dates see NCL website)

Guests can wander the cobbled streets, admire the colourful architecture, and take in the incredible views in Villefranche-sur-Mer, a scenic town on the French Riviera, or relax on one of the nearby perfect beaches. On the west coast of Tuscany, the delightful city of Livorno provides the freshest seafood, magnificent fortresses, and gorgeous coastal vistas, along with numerous cafes and shops to explore. Further south, near Messina, guests can journey back in time by visiting the two charming medieval villages of Taormina and Castelmola, perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the sea.

Northern Europe: Akureyri & Stavanger - 7-day Cruise on Norwegian Star

• Inside cabins starting from £1,370pp

• Dates: Sunday 2 August - Sunday 9 August 2026

For those looking for a cooler escape from the heat of summer, travellers can sail aboard the Norwegian Star to take in the dramatic landscapes, rich cultures, and historic treasures of Northern Europe. Guests can take a scenic drive from Akureyri to Husavik for a whale watching tour, with potential sightings of Humpback, Minke, and Orcas, before returning to shore to visit the unique Husavik Whale Museum. Next, they have the opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring natural beauty surrounding Isafjordur on a guided tour that delves into the region's culture and history.

Mediterranean: Italy, France & Greece - 9-day Cruise on Norwegian Viva

• Inside cabins starting from £2,100pp

• Dates: Wednesday 24 June - Friday 3 July 2026, Friday 30 July - Sunday 8 August 2027 (for more dates see NCL website)

This itinerary would be perfect for those already holidaying in Barcelona as from there, guests will be sailed across the Mediterranean to explore the lively cafés, bars, and charm of the port of Livorno, and to take a sun-drenched day trip to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Piazza del Duomo in Florence. Travellers can go on an excursion, to drive along the winding roads of Corfu en route to the stunning 19th-century Achilleion Palace, taste Croatian wine, and people-watch at The Riva, Split's buzzing seaside promenade.

Mediterranean: Spain - 7-day Cruise on Norwegian Dawn

• Inside cabins starting from £785pp

• Dates: Sunday 16 August - Sunday 23 August 2026

This cruise is perfect for those travellers looking to see more of Spain whilst still being able to experience something different, as this sailing also stops in Tangier, Morocco and Lisbon, Portugal. Holiday-makers begin their trip strolling down the historical streets of the Barri Gotic, and visiting famous churches like Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, before ending their journey having witnessed the home to The Rolling Stones, and walked the cobblestone of Lisbon streets past its gothic architecture.

Baltic: Germany, Sweden & Poland - 9-day Cruise on Norwegian Sun

• Inside cabins starting from £1,985pp

• Dates: Sunday 26 July - Tuesday 4 August 2026

Vacationers could choose this 9-day journey through the Baltic Sea, beginning in the quaint but vibrant city of Helsinki and ending in the captivating coastal city of Copenhagen. This voyage centres around Northern Europe's history, culture, and understated beauty. In Tallinn, Estonia, guests can explore medieval Old Town or the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Nynäshamn, Sweden, lets travellers dive into Stockholm's royal past with a Royal Palace visit or a Swedish culinary tour. Gdańsk, Poland, offers scenic excursions to sights like Oliwa Cathedral, the Green Gate, and the Nowy Port lighthouse. The final stop, Copenhagen, Denmark, invites visitors to stroll along Nyhavn harbour or explore Amalienborg Palace.