Cruising through Europe offers a convenient and scenic way to visit multiple countries without juggling flights, trains, or hotel bookings. And contrary to common belief, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here's how to enjoy a European cruise while keeping your budget firmly in check.
Choose the Right Route Some regions tend to offer better value:
Mediterranean cruises (Spain, Italy, Greece): Often have competitive pricing due to popularity
Northern Europe (Norway, Baltic Sea): Beautiful but typically more expensive
River cruises (Rhine, Danube): Smaller ships and more intimate, but can be pricier unless booked well in advance
Look for shorter itineraries (7 days or less) to save both time and money.
Sail During Shoulder Season The best deals often appear in:
Early spring (April–May)
Late fall (September–October)
You’ll avoid peak prices and crowds, and the weather is still generally mild.
Watch for All-Inclusive Perks Some European cruise packages include extras like:
Free shore excursions
Drinks packages
Wi-Fi access
Compare what’s included to determine overall value — sometimes a slightly higher fare can save more in onboard expenses.
Be Flexible With Ports Some embarkation ports have higher taxes and fees. Sailing from less touristy ports like:
Civitavecchia (Rome’s port) instead of Venice
Southampton instead of Amsterdam
...can save you on both cruise costs and airfare.
Fly Smart Use budget airlines or flight comparison tools to get to your departure city:
Book early
Travel mid-week
Consider flying into a nearby city and taking a train to port
Also explore cruise lines that bundle flights with fares for potential discounts.
Trusted Cruise Lines With European Routes
MSC Cruises (European-owned, often lower prices)
Costa Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean (watch for off-season deals)
Wrap-Up A European cruise doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. With smart route selection, seasonal timing, and careful comparison of what's included, you can see iconic cities and coastlines while staying within budget.