Europe Ports« Back to Port Information
| Belgium | Bulgaria | Denmark | Estonia | Finland |
| Germany | Iceland | Ireland | Latvia | Norway |
| Poland | Portugal | Russia | Sweden | The Netherlands |
| Ukraine | United Kingdom | Yugoslavia |
Belgium↑ Back to top
Antwerp
The chief city of Belgium’s Flemish region, Antwerp was renowned for centuries as a center of the diamond trade. More recently, it has become a major cultural center for the continent. Its Royal Museum contains magnificent works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and other old masters.
Oostende (Brugge, Ghent)
Oostende serves as a gateway to the perfectly preserved town of Brugge, where you can enjoy a boat ride on picturesque canals and shop for delicate Belgian lace. Nearby, the medieval city of Ghent, Belgium’s most populous city in the Middle Ages, is home to the Van Eyck brothers’ famous painting “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” and other attractions.
Zeebrugge (Ghent, Brugge)
A trading center on the English Channel for centuries, Zeebrugge is an access port for Ghent and Brugge – a jewel of a town beribboned with picturesque canals and a truly charming medieval beauty. In this region, museums proudly display the glories of the old Flemish masters from Van Dyck to Rubens. Summertime is delightful. You can see when window boxes with colorful flowers and the graceful arcs of windmills.
Bulgaria↑ Back to top
Nesebur
Founded by Thracians and colonized by Greek settlers from Megara in the 6th century, Nesebur is one of the oldest and most picturesque towns in the Balkans. Nesebur’s rich cultural heritage can be seen in numerous Byzantine churches, beautiful old houses or Roman ruins. The town sits on a small peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. Scattered through town are several medieval churches.
Denmark↑ Back to top
Copenhagen
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is an elegant city, rich in history and tradition. One of the city’s most celebrated sights is Tivoli, a unique combination of picture-perfect gardens, lakes and more than a hundred thousand colored lights. Take a stroll down Langelinie Promenade to see the heart of Copenhagen. It runs along the water from the port, skirting the 300-year-old, moated citadel near the celebrated statue of Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid. The surrounding park is home to the Gefion Fountain, Copenhagen’s most spectacular fountain.
Nuuk, Greenland
Nuuk, capital of Greenland, is one of the largest cities in the Arctic region. Some of the oldest traces of life, carbon-based organisms presumed to be algae 3.8 billion years old, were found near Nuuk. The first known human presence was the Saqqaq culture, dating from 2200 BC to 1000 BC. Subsequent inhabitants include the Dorset culture; the Norse, led by Erik the Red; and the Thule culture, Inuit forefathers of the present-day Greenlanders. Finally, in the 16th century, Dutch, Basque and Scottish whalers began to travel to Greenland.
Prins Christian Sound, Greenland
While Greenland is the largest island in the world with more than 1,348,872 square miles, fewer than 60,000 call it home. A massive ice cap over two million years old covers more than 85 percent of the island, sculpting a landscape of intricate fjords and blinding snowfields punctuated by dramatic rock formations. Located on the southern most tip of Greenland, Prins Christian Sund is a 55-mile-long channel a mile wide with mountains rising up 6,000 feet above sea level.
Qagotoq, Greenland
This is one of several ports of call that provide access to Greenland. See entries for Nuuk and Prins Christian Sound, above, for more information on this, the largest island in the world.
Thorshavn, Faroes
More than 600 miles from Denmark’s west coast lie the Faroes, a triangle of 18 windswept islands, 17 of them inhabited. Only 47,241 people and some 70,000 sheep roam these remote lands. Sheer cliffs and waterfalls carve Streymoy, the largest of the islands, where Torshavn is one of the world’s smallest capitals with about 12,470 inhabitants, plus another 4,000 living in the suburbs of Argir and Hoyvik. Visitors find interesting museums, churches, monuments and all the amenities of a modern town as well as a thriving harbor.
Estonia↑ Back to top
Tallinn
Tallinn is the capital of the recently independent republic of Estonia. In the medieval old town, with its winding cobbled streets, there is a marvelous cathedral and Gothic town hall dating from the 14th century. Though lesser known than many other ports in the former Soviet Union, this is one of the most spectacular medieval cities in the Baltic. Walking through Tallinn’s streets, you can imagine living there centuries ago.
Finland↑ Back to top
Helsinki
Finland’s capital is known for its impressive architecture, wide boulevards and beautiful harbor. After a devastating fire in 1808, Helsinki was totally rebuilt, mostly in the neo-classical, Empire style. An impressive example of this architecture can be seen around Senate Square, dominated by the exquisite Tuomio Church (Lutheran Cathedral). The city has wonderful museums, displaying everything from art to architectural design, and a colorful harbor front with a lively market.
Germany↑ Back to top
Hamburg
As Germany’s principal port, Hamburg surprises its visitors with an amazing expanse of parks, lakes and tree-lined canals. These give the city a refreshing rural feel and a sense of openness. Founded over a thousand years ago as a fortification against Viking attacks, Hamburg grew during the Middle Ages and became a leading member of the Hanseatic League. With its impressive historical background and today’s big city ambience, attractions include a great variety of old and modern architecture, historical and art museums, superb shopping and fine dining.
Warnemünde (Berlin)
A small fishing village back in the Middle Ages, Warnemünde today is a fashionable resort with splendid villas along with fishermen’s cottages and captains’ mansions. It is also a Baltic gateway to Berlin, Germany’s capital, among the most exciting cities in Europe. Although much was destroyed toward the end of World War II and the city was divided for 40 years, the reunification of Germany brought on a hive of activities. New building and restoration projects have closed the gaps caused by bombings and Cold War separation. Today you can see a city that dramatically combines palatial Prussian buildings with glamorous new structures.
Iceland↑ Back to top
Akureyri
Akureyri is the largest city in Northern Iceland with 16,000 inhabitants. Its location is at the southern end of the 30-mile-long Eyjafjordur, some 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle. A long valley extends southwards from the fjord. This is one of the most fertile agricultural areas of Iceland with many large farms. High mountains on each side of the fjord and valley offer protection from harsh winds.
Reykjavik
The island’s settlement dates back to 874 when a Norwegian named Ingolf Arnarson arrived at present-day Reykjavik. In 930, the settlers formed a legislature, the Alting, which was the beginning of the Commonwealth of Iceland. From the 10th through the 14th centuries, Iceland developed a literary form, the Icelandic Saga, which spread throughout the Nordic culture and into the English and German languages. It was used to spin stories of the gods, record historic events and glorify heroes. As Iceland’s capital and main center of the country’s population, the city of Reykjavik is a fascinating blend of the traditional and modernism.
Ireland↑ Back to top
Dublin (Dun Laoghaire)
Situated at the wide sweep of Dublin Bay, the capital of the Republic of Ireland enjoys one of the loveliest natural settings in all of Europe. Following centuries of invasions by Vikings, Normans and the English, Dublin became a center of agitation for Irish independence. Today, Ireland’s capital attracts scores of visitors from around the globe with its old-world charm and friendly atmosphere. In addition, some of the world’s greatest literary figures hailed from here including James Joyce, who based nearly all of his writings in his native city; Oscar Wilde, who attended Trinity College; Jonathan Swift, who served as Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral; and George Bernard Shaw, born here in 1856. Located only 15 minutes away from Dublin, Dun Laoghaire serves as a gateway for passengers on larger ships that cannot enter Dublin’s harbor.
Waterford
Arriving at Waterford is spectacular. It is a big event for this small town and the people warmly welcome you. Available for touring is its famous crystal factory. It is also pleasant to enjoy a drive across Ireland’s scenic countryside. Waterford is also conveniently accessible from Cobh.
Latvia↑ Back to top
Riga
This Latvian city offers mementos of a splendid 800-year-old history in the form of medieval architecture and the greatest number of 20th-century Art Nouveau homes in all of Europe.
Norway↑ Back to top
Bergen
This is a classic Norwegian town full of colorful charm. You can wander up narrow streets into the surrounding hills or enjoy Gamte Bergen, the old town, with cobbled streets and wonderful little shops and bakeries. You can also view this wonderful collage of sea, sky and mountains by taking the funicular to the top of Mount Fløien then walk along good paths to enjoy the area.
Honningsvag (North Cape)
The remote fishing village of Honningsvag is situated on the treeless island of Magerøya, Europe’s northernmost point known as the North Cape. Sheer cliffs rise 1,000 feet above the Arctic Ocean and there are some 200 different types of plants that grow here. An eerie light casts a 24-hour glow, a phenomenon that makes this the “Land of the Midnight Sun.”
Oslo
Norway’s political and cultural capital, Oslo was recently selected as the city with the highest quality of life in Europe. It’s not surprising, considering the city’s treasures: beautiful Frogner Park filled with modern sculpture, the emotional power of the Munch Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, together with forested mountains and secluded coves, all within the city limits.
Tromso
The most northern of Norway’s rugged islands, Tromso possesses the true wonders of the polar environment: glistening glacial ridges, the icy clear waters of Lake Prestvatn, even windswept valleys where reindeer roam free. Amidst the beauty, there is fascinating history to be found as well, from ancient northern settlements to signs of sacrificial sites and cults that pre-date Christianity.
Poland↑ Back to top
Gydnia (Gdansk)
Once a tiny fishing village, today Gdynia is Poland’s most important port and the gateway to Gdansk. With its origins going back to the 10th century, prewar Gdansk – or Danzig as it was known then – was forged by years of Prussian and Hanseatic domination. The battles to liberate the city in 1945 resulted in almost total destruction. Gdansk’s historic center was rebuilt with great respect for the past. Today, it represents one of the richest and most lavish complexes of architectural relics in Poland. Entering the historic quarter is like walking straight into a Hansa merchants’ settlement.
Portugal↑ Back to top
Funchal, Madeira
Funchal, the capital of the island of Madeira was founded in 1418 under the reign of King Joao. It is blessed with a safe port and harbour with excellent weather. When the name of Madeira is mentioned almost everyone relates it to the famous wine. However, if you dare to adventure into the heart of this enchanting subtropical paradise, you will discover old forests, green hillside slopes dotted with cozy villages and magic waterfalls.
Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city open to the sea and carefully planned with 18th-century elegance. Cruising up the Tagus River to the ship’s berth, you can already spot three of Lisbon’s famous landmarks: the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belém and the Statue of Christ. The city is divided into two areas: the Baixa, or lower section, with its shops and spacious boulevards; and Barro Alta, or upper city, with its teeming nightlife and other attractions. You can connect between the two areas via the public elevator designed by Gustave Eiffel. Lisbon also serves as a good starting point for picturesque nearby towns such as Sintra and the medieval village of Obidos.
Ponta Delgada, Azores
A hidden treasure, the remote Azores island group lie 900 miles west of Portugal and 2,110 miles east of New York. Ponta Delgada’s stunning Portuguese architecture and luxuriant, flower-filled parks make this city a joy to visit. The scenery outside of the city is equally spectacular. Dramatic rocky cliffs descend to pristine bays where you may find a virtually deserted stretch of gorgeous beach. Extinct craters are filled with turquoise waters, and surrounded by gardens of hydrangeas and greenery that thrive in the rich volcanic soil.
Russia↑ Back to top
St. Petersburg
Peter the Great styled this to be his Venice of the North. Strategically, this city would become for Russia an ice-free port through which its citizens could trade and communicate with the world in all seasons. Italian architects created baroque facades to line the banks of the Neva River. Long, arched bridges join the city’s halves. You’ll want to see the spires of the Saints Peter and Paul Fortress, the blue domes of the Ouspensky Cathedral and, of course, some of the million masterworks of art contained in the Hermitage galleries of the Winter Palace. Especially notable are the partially restored palaces of Russian czars, among the most popular visitor attractions.
Sweden↑ Back to top
Gothenburg
Located at the mouth of the Göta River, Gothenburg is Sweden’s second-largest city and the busiest port in Scandinavia. Arriving by ship, your first impression of this immense port and shipyard may be somewhat misleading, but beyond this development you will soon discover one of Sweden’s prettiest and friendliest cities. Its town center, crisscrossed by canals, allows pedestrians to enjoy the many traffic-free streets.
Stockholm
Founded in the 13th century, Stockholm is Sweden’s strikingly elegant and beautiful capital, spread out over many islands. Entering through its archipelago, you will be greeted by yachts. Moreover, one third of the city’s total land area is devoted to parks. Guided by a strong belief in individual freedom, Sweden is governed by a constitution that is the oldest in use in Europe. The country’s neutrality has allowed it to avoid wars for more than 150 years. Its cities and industries remained intact during both World Wars. An absolute must is the Vasa Museum, containing the salvaged remains of a huge wooden warship that is virtually intact.
Visby, Gotland island
The island of Gotland, with its magnificent walled town of Visby, is one of Sweden’s most popular summer destinations and an outstanding tourist attraction. Already settled in the Stone Age, Visby reached prominence in medieval times when it was annexed by the powerful Hanseatic League. There are medieval fortifications encircling the entire settlement. The actual purpose of these massive walls, built at the end of the 13th century, was not to protect from enemy attacks, but rather to isolate the local population from the city’s foreign traders.
The Netherlands↑ Back to top
Amsterdam
One of Europe’s leading cities, Amsterdam’s rings of canals and traditional Dutch architecture are unmistakable. Rich in art, history and culture, Amsterdam is home to the Van Gogh museum, Anne Frank’s house, and the Rijksmuseum, which houses many works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. This is an excellent walking city, and those so inclined can reach many attractions on foot.
Ukraine↑ Back to top
Odessa
Known for its cultural and historical attractions, Odessa is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Black Sea.” Founded by Catherine the Great in the late 18th century, it later thrived under refugee Cardinal Richelieu. This Ukrainian town is now a center of industry and shipping as well as a popular coastal resort where visitors come to experience its “curative” mud. Many visitors head to the top of Potemkin Steps for the magnificent harbor view. Another point of interest is the Odessa Opera Theatre where famous Russian ballets are performed.
Yalta
Yalta and its surroundings are protected on three sides by mountains. This accounts for the region’s exceptionally mild climate and its reputation as a favored vacation destination. Situated on the southern tip of the Crimean Peninsula, this is the area’s largest and most important resort and as such has catered to pleasure lovers and health seekers for more than a century. Here at the Golden Riviera, Russian aristocracy built their elegant summer palaces and palatial villas that rivaled those of Nice and Cannes. Livadia became the summer residence of the tsars and earned fame as the site of the 1945 Yalta Conference.
United Kingdom↑ Back to top
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast was a big industrial city in the 19th century, famous for its linens and shipyards. It was city of great pride that had been transformed by the Industrial Revolution. Belfast curls around the west bank of the River Lagan. Among the sights are its grand public buildings and a natural geological feature known as the Giants Causeway. Belfast was home to the great Harland & Wolff shipyard that built the Titanic and many other famous ocean liners.
Dover, England (London)
The white cliffs of Dover are famous in song and story. This has become a major cruise terminal and remains a departure point for France for those still preferring cross-channel ferries even following completion of the Chunnel. From here you can visit nearby Canterbury and its cathedral. Dover is also a gateway to the sights of London, including Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and more.
Falmouth, England
Falmouth is located on the Cornish coastline in England’s southwest corner. It is best known for its romantic past of pirates and smugglers. The town boasts a superb natural deepwater harbor, the third-largest in the world and is a bustling commercial port which is strongly influenced by its maritime history. There is a wide range of amenities for the visitor including maritime attractions, beautiful sheltered beaches, quality restaurants, pubs, cafes and shops.
Glasgow, Scotland
About 30 miles east of Greenock, Glasgow is known as the “Second City of the Empire.” One of Britain’s liveliest cities, a recent rejuvenation along with many priceless art collections draws visitors to the city center. From Glasgow, venture out into the rich farmland and salmon streams of the lowlands for the scenic lochs. You can also spend time in the city’s shopping districts and art galleries.
Greenock, Scotland (Glasgow)
Here on the shores of central Scotland is some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe. Stretching before you are the scenic lakes and lowlands around Greenock. This is also a convenient departure point for Glasgow (see entry above).
Edinburgh, Scotland (Leith)
Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. If you have visited Edinburgh previously, you can venture across the moors of Scotland and visit the scenic highlands.
London, England (via Southampton and Dover)
Only the smallest cruise ships can sail beneath the Tower Bridge and dock in the heart of London. Most go to Dover, Harwich, Southampton or Tilbury, which can accommodate large vessels. Stretching for more than 30 miles on either side of the River Thames, London is Europe’s largest city with a diverse population of about eight million and all the cultural and gastronomic attractions you’d expect from a world capital.
Southampton, England
Rich in maritime history, Southampton’s attractions include good restaurants and pubs, conservation walks in the lush, open Common, viewing art that dates back six centuries, and musical as well as theatrical performances. If you have just an hour or two to spare, visit the city’s superb maritime museum which vividly illustrates the port’s glamorous role as one of the leading terminuses for the great ocean liners sailing to North America, South Africa, Australia, and wherever Britons needed to sail.
Yugoslavia↑ Back to top
Montenegro (Kotor)
Montenegro is a country with a lovely coast on the Adriatic, crystal clear rivers, mountains that reach the sky, dense forests, and beautiful lakes. It is bordered on the southeast by Albania. On the south, it is separated from Italy by the Adriatic Sea. Its western neighbors are the republics of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The old town of Kotor is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in this area of the Mediterranean. It has succeeded in maintaining its original form, typical of towns from the 12th through the 14th centuries.
Some content provided courtesy of CLIA (Cruise Line International Association)