Eastern Europe Cruises

Eastern Europe is a captivating region that offers a rich mosaic of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Known for its beautiful architecture, diverse traditions, and hearty cuisine, Eastern Europe is truly a treasure trove awaiting exploration. Fun fact: this region is home to some of the world’s oldest cities, such as Prague and Budapest, each with a unique charm and story to tell! A cruise through Eastern Europe allows you to visit iconic destinations, such as the enchanting city of Prague, the majestic mountains of Romania, and the stunning coastlines of the Baltic Sea, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of life aboard your ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Eastern Europe

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 4 that include itineraries featuring Eastern Europe. The Sky Princess and Sapphire Princess are particularly popular, known for their variety of onboard amenities such as themed dining experiences, impressive entertainment, and luxurious staterooms. The Sky Princess offers additional unique activities like Movies Under the Stars, where you can enjoy freshly made popcorn and catch a film as you sail. Departures typically occur from Southampton or Copenhagen, providing accessible entry points for your Eastern European adventure.
• Holland America Line boasts a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 focused on itineraries that take you to Eastern Europe. The Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam stand out for their culinary programs and cultural enrichment options, providing guests with an opportunity to learn about local customs during their journey. Departures are commonly from Rotterdam or London (Dover), ensuring easy embarkation for your exploration of this diverse region.
• Norwegian Cruise Line features a fleet of 20 ships, with 3 focusing on routes through Eastern Europe. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star are known for their freestyle cruising concept, enabling guests the flexibility to dine and enjoy activities at their leisure. These cruises typically depart from Southampton or Reykjavik, ensuring a smooth transition into your action-packed cruise holiday.
• Cunard operates a fleet of 4 luxurious ships, with 2 offering itineraries that explore Eastern Europe. Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are both famed for their elegance, opulent accommodations, and fine dining experiences that reflect the traditions of classic ocean cruising. Departures are most commonly from Southampton or Rome, providing a refined embarkation point for your travels through this gorgeous region.
• MSC Cruises consists of a fleet of 23 ships, with 1 vessel offering itineraries that visit Eastern Europe. The MSC Poesia is particularly loved for its variety of onboard entertainment, with spectacular shows and a variety of dining options to choose from. The ship’s stunning promenade allows for beautiful ocean views while you relax. Most cruises depart from Warnemünde or Copenhagen, ensuring guests can enjoy the local attractions before setting sail.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Eastern Europe

• Oceania Cruises includes 8 ships, with 2 that offer itineraries focusing on the enchanting landscapes of Eastern Europe. The Vista and Regatta are known for their luxurious accommodations and exquisite culinary experiences, showcasing a mélange of international and local delights. Departures typically take place from Miami or Rome, ensuring a splendid entry into the beauty of Eastern Europe.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries that explore Eastern Europe. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward create intimate cruising experiences emphasised through local immersion and late-night port stays. Most departures occur from Lisbon or Stockholm, allowing smooth transitions into fascinating local cultures.
• Seabourn adjusts its luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 2 that feature itineraries to Eastern Europe. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Ovation are renowned for their exceptional service and premium amenities, including gourmet dining and all-inclusive offerings creating an intimate cruising experience. Departures generally take place from London or Barcelona, ensuring a sophisticated start to your journey through Eastern European charm.
• Explora Journeys consists of 2 ships, both offering itineraries featuring the allure of Eastern Europe. The EXPLORA I and II are crafted for luxury and wellness, emphasising high-quality amenities and diverse dining options. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Athens, creating a delightful entry into your explorations of Eastern Europe.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries that include Eastwind destinations. The Balmoral and Bolette are highly appreciated for their warm hospitality and traditional cruising experience. Most departures typically occur from Newcastle upon Tyne or Southampton, providing fantastic embarkation options for UK cruisers.

Top Harbours and Activities in Eastern Europe

• Copenhagen, Denmark – The capital city is known for its charming canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. Visit the iconic Nyhavn district and take a boat tour through the picturesque waterways, or explore the ancient Rosenborg Castle. Don’t forget to sample local delicacies like open-faced sandwiches and the famous Danish pastry!
• Stockholm, Sweden – A stunning archipelago city, Stockholm is filled with beautiful sights and rich culture. Explore the historic Gamla Stan (Old Town), visit the remarkable Vasa Museum showcasing a preserved 17th-century warship, or enjoy fika at a local café—an essential Swedish tradition involving coffee and pastries.
• Tallinn, Estonia – This enchanting medieval city is known for its well-preserved cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture. Wander around the picturesque Old Town, visit the historic Toompea Castle, or explore the charming shops and cafes lining the streets. Don’t miss trying traditional Estonian dishes, such as black bread and herring.
• Helsinki, Finland – Renowned for its design and architecture, Helsinki offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Visit the stunning Helsinki Cathedral, wander through the market square, or explore the beautiful Suomenlinna Fortress located on an island just a short ferry ride away. Be sure to sample local specialties, including salmon soup and rye bread.
• Oslo, Norway – The vibrant capital of Norway, Oslo is known for its beautiful fjord and green parks. Explore the Viking Ship Museum to discover ancient maritime history or visit the Munch Museum for impressive art collections. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade and sample local seafood at one of the city’s many eateries.

Best Times to Cruise to Eastern Europe

The weather in Eastern Europe varies significantly throughout the year, making each season an entirely different experience. From January to March, temperatures often range from -5°C to 5°C, making it a peaceful period for winter activities and sightseeing with lower tourist numbers. Spring (April to June) welcomes milder temperatures from 10°C to 20°C, a perfect time for blooming flowers and outdoor festivals. The summer months (July to September) can be warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, attracting numerous visitors eager to explore the cities. Autumn (October to December) sees temperatures cooling back to around 5°C to 15°C, showcasing stunning foliage across the region and offering unique local harvest festivities.

Costs of Cruising to Eastern Europe

A one-week cruise to Eastern Europe generally ranges from £700 to £1,500, depending on the cruise line and selected accommodations. Luxury cruises typically start from around £3,000 and may vary based on desired amenities and services. When dining onshore, expect to spend about £10 to £25 at local restaurants, while drinks usually cost between £3 and £6, allowing you to enjoy the region’s diverse culinary offerings without breaking the bank.

With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and inviting cultures, Eastern Europe awaits your exploration. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting region!