Editor’s Note: Our rankings are based on the number of future cruises with a stop at port destination as of Nov. 2021 (via our affiliate partner CruiseCritic.com). So now without further ado – let’s get to the list!
#10 – Venice, Italy
When you think “Europe” and “water” – Venice immediately comes to mind. Located in northeast Italy along the Adriatic Sea, Venice is popular for gondola rides along its extensive canal network, unique bridges and amazing photography opportunities. See Venice Cruise Deals.
#9 – Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is the second-largest city in the German tourist haven of Bavaria. The city is a popular river cruise destination due to its medieval-styled portions of the city and traditional German cultural and culinary offerings. You’ll frequently find Nuremberg on cruise itineraries with a couple of other destinations on this list. See Nuremberg Cruise Deals.
#8 – Marseille, France
Marseille is a prominent port city in southern France along the Mediterranean Sea. In addition to being France’s oldest city, Marseille is well-known to experienced cruisers as it lies on the popular Mediterranean route from Italy to Spain (or Spain to Italy) and has a large port facility. See Marseille Cruise Deals.
#7 – Cologne, Germany
Cologne’s appearance on this list might be a surprise to some who are unfamiliar with the western German city. But Cologne is the largest city on the Rhine River, has lots of restaurant & nightlife options, and one of the most photogenic cathedrals in Europe. See Cologne Cruise Deals.
#6 – Athens (Piraeus), Greece
It’s pretty crazy to think if this same list were written 2,000 years ago – Athens would be on it! This eastern Mediterranean/Aegean destination is the cradle of Western civilization and accessed through the port of Piraeus to the southwest of Athens proper. Make sure to see the Acropolis! See Athens Cruise Deals.
#5 – Vienna, Austria
Vienna is Austria’s capital and largest city and a major river cruise port on the Danube. Vienna is known for its beautiful palaces, great food, and longstanding connection to the fine arts. Mozart, Beethoven, & Haydn all called Vienna home. See Vienna Cruise Deals.
#4 – Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Ever-popular Rome comes in at a respectable 4th place – Italy’s highest rank on this list. But it’s important to note that Italy is hampered by the # of great port cities it has…Naples, Genoa, Florence and others didn’t even crack the Top 10. See Rome Cruise Deals.
#3 – Budapest, Hungary
Aaahhhh….Budapest! One of the most popular cities on the Danube River cruise route, Budapest is Hungary’s capital and largest city. Make sure to have your camera ready as you pass through Budapest – the waterfront Hungarian Parliament Building is amazingly photographic, day or night. See Budapest Cruise Deals.
#2 – Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona shoots to #2 on our cruise port list due to its inclusion on most Western Mediterranean cruise itineraries. Barcelona offers up culture in spades…with everything from architecture to art to shopping to outstanding dining and nightlife. See Barcelona Cruise Deals.
#1 – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Our top European cruise port is Amsterdam, capital of the Netherlands. Amsterdam ranks highest largely due to its location along the North Sea with proximity to the English Channel and European river cruise routes. One of Europe’s most charming cities known for its scenic canal-front houses, the city offers up a great art museum scene. See Amsterdam Cruise Deals.
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