Top 5 European Cruise Destinations

There are so many new and exciting places around the world we can travel to thanks to the efforts of the many different cruise line companies. Cruise lines work hard to find the best ports of call, provide amazing food on board and keep travelers entertained while at sea. No matter where you want to travel around the world, chances are, there is a cruise ship that makes its way to that port, including several ports in Europe.Here are some of the top cruise destinations in Europe:

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Rome, Italy
Royal Caribbean
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132
(866) 562-7625
www.royalcaribbean.com

When cruising to Rome with Royal Caribbean, you will discover this destination has just about everything any cruise traveler could want out of a destination. You will find everything from romance to history and a unique culture filled with life and amazing Italian cuisine. This European destination offers lots to see, including the Pantheon, Roman Forum, Vatican, Colosseum and Trevi Fountain. But that is just the beginning of the many things you can see and do while docked in Rome. You will be in the heart of some of the world's most amazing history and will have access to some of the largest collections of art while exploring the Vatican Museum.

Related: Top Cruise Vacations for Families

Barcelona, Spain
MSC Cruises
6750 N. Andrews Ave., Suite 100
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
(877) 665-4655
www.msccruisesusa.com

You will be in the heart of some of the hottest nightlife Europe has to offer while taking a cruise with MSC Cruises to Barcelona. This country just calls for those looking to experience life to its fullest. However, there is more to Barcelona than just one all-night party. In fact, you will have plenty of laid-back adventures available during your visit. You can explore the gothic district, see La Segrada Familia and take a stroll through La Rambla, where you will see some amazing architecture and landscapes.

Cruise excursions are available through MSC Cruises, including those that will take you to some of the area's finest art museums, designer restaurants, hottest bars, exquisite galleries and unique boutiques and shops.

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Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Princess Cruises
24305 Town Center Drive
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
(800) 774-6237
www.princess.com

Believe it or not, there is more to taking in Amsterdam than just the famous red light district. Your cruise with Princess Cruises to this destination in The Netherlands will give you access to a vibrant city filled with canals, historic homes and unique coffee shops that are perfect for people watching. While in Amsterdam you must visit the Van Gough Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House. There is so much to see and do at this destination, you will quickly discover why Amsterdam has been a cultural center in Europe since the Middle Ages. Just close your eyes and imagine what it was like walking down the streets 700 years ago when they were first built and imagine taking a cruise down the canals before exploring the colorful flower markets. Those are just a few reasons behind the amazing experience you will have taking a Princess Cruise to Amsterdam.

Related: Best Cruises For Couples

Athens, Greece
Cunard
24303 Town Center Drive, Suite 200
Valencia, CA 91355
(800) 728-6273
www.cunard.com

Cruise to a land where history lives and you can explore endless historic sites without ever being able to see it all. Because there is so much to see and do during your Cunard cruise to Athens, you will just have to make plans to come back and sail to this historic destination again and again. Must-see sites in Athens include the Acropolis, the Acropolis museum, the National Archeological Museum and the Parthenon. While walking down the streets you are sure to experience a unique culture and get a feeling of what life was like in ancient Greece.

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Venice, Italy
P&O Cruises
Carnival House
100 Harbour Parade
Southampton
SO15 1^st
(843) 374-0111
www.pocruises.com

P&O Cruises will take you into the heart of Italy where you can explore breathtaking sites in Venice. You can enjoy a gondola ride through the canals while sipping on a glass of wine or find yourself a quaint outdoor café where you can sit back, relax and people watch. Just make sure that while in Venice you stop by and see the Piazza San Marco, the St. Marks Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. No matter which port your ship docks at you will be close to everything Venice has to offer, including historic buildings and quiet cobbled streets, making this destination one of the easiest to navigate through when exploring on your own.

When planning your next cruise, consider traveling through Europe and exploring the top destinations available to cruise travelers. You will be able to see new sights, experience history up close and have an amazing time aboard your cruise ship.

Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.