10 Best European Small Ship Cruises for 2021

Name: Europe Cruises & Tours
Brand: Adventure Life
Rating: 4.9 (288 reviews)

Europe Cruises (1093 Results)

All Europe Cruises

Flavors of Portugal & Spain - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,299

Embark on a Douro River cruise aboard the MS Amavida tasting of some of the regions most famous vintages and culinary delights. Take in the beauty of Porto, Portugal and the Douro River, the enchanting village of Castelo Rodrigo and disembarking at Vega Terron, on the border of Portugal and Spain.

Gems of Southeast Europe

14 Days from $5,099

Fall in love with Southeast Europe and the Danube River on this exclusive 14-day adventure. Start with two nights in historic Vienna, followed by a 7-night cruise aboard MS Amacerto from Hungary through Serbia & Romania to Bulgaria, concluding with one night in Brasov and two nights in Bucharest. Customize your cruise to include hiking, biking, and more.

Southern Cyclades

Athens to Athens
8 Days from $1,810

Experience the traditional charm of the Southern Cyclades Islands on this 8-day cruise aboard the Star Flyer luxurious sailing ship. Discover the magic and mythology of the Greek Isles as you visit the small port towns of Rhodes, Hydra, and the legendary island of Santorini. You'll stop at sun-kissed beaches, ancient ruins, and buzzing modern cities.

Split to Dubrovnik

8 Days from $1,100

Join the M/S Splendid on a spectacular 8-day small ship cruise sailing along Croatia's glorious Dalmatian Coast. Explore some of the most popular islands and villages between Split, Korcula, and Dubrovnik as you are immersed in the culture and enriched by the heritage of this Mediterranean paradise.

Andalusia: Tradition, Gastronomy, and Flamenco

Seville Roundtrip
8 Days from $1,852

This 8-day Spanish cruise aboard the MS La Belle de Cadix showcases the Andalusia region, including stops in Seville, Cadiz, Granada and Cordoba. Local wine tastings, Flamenco music and visits to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Donana Park highlight this itinerary.

Traveler photographing the Jokulsarlon Glacier.

A Circumnavigation of Iceland

Iceland
10 Days from $11,460

On this active 10-day Iceland cruise aboard the National Geographic Explorer, you'll circumnavigate Iceland and witness glaciers, geysers, thundering waterfalls, immense cliffs, geothermal springs, boiling mud pots, and lava-scapes of on dinghies, hiking, or kayaking. Visit Reykjavik, Ísafjördur, Lake Mývatn and Húsavík, Siglufjördur and Akureyri.

Captivating Rhine

14 Days from $5,519

Board the MS Amakristina in Amsterdam for a 14-day cruise of the Rhine River visiting destinations in France and Germany before spending 5 days exploring historic towns of Switzerland. From the vineyards of the Alsace region, to the renowned beer of German breweries, enjoy the local flavors as you hike, bike, or stroll along the Rhine River.

Jewels of the Cyclades

8 Days from $2,690

Embark the Galileo for an 8-day small ship Greek cruise showcasing the Aegean Islands, known for their white-washed villages and ports, bright skies, and crystal seas. Enjoy visits to Santorini and Mykonos and off-the-beaten-track islands such as Paros and Folegandros . Swimming, nightlife, and daily excursions highlight this itinerary.

Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,099

Embark the MS Amakristina for an 8-day Rhine River cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, exploring the most beloved Christmas markets along the shores of the Rhine. These traditional markets are a treasure trove of culture and authentic souvenirs. You also have the option to hike, tour castles, and participate in wine-tasting excursions.

Arctic Saga: Exploring Spitsbergen via the Faroes and Jan Mayen

14 Days from $6,495

This 14-day Arctic expedition aboard Ocean Adventurer cruises across the North Atlantic to explore the awe-inspiring and unspoiled destinations of Fair Isle, the Faroe Islands, Jan Mayen, and Spitsbergen, where hardy wildlife populates dramatic landscapes.

10 Best European River Cruises

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Melodies of the Danube	$4889	13	Nov 6, 2020	This classic Danube River cruise of Eastern Europe starts with two nights in historic and beautiful Budapest, followed by a 7-night cruise from … 0
Captivating Rhine	$5519	14	Nov 7, 2020	Board the MS Amakristina in Amsterdam for a 14-day cruise of the Rhine River visiting destinations in France and Germany before spending 5 days … 0
Enticing Douro	$4199	11	Mar 24, 2021	Taste wines from historic vineyards on this 11-day Douro River cruise aboard the MS Amadouro. After spending 3 days exploring Lisbon, embark on a … 0
Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only	$3099	8	Nov 23, 2020	Embark the MS Amakristina for an 8-day Rhine River cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, exploring the most beloved Christmas markets along the shores of … 0
Paris & Normandy	$4159	10	Mar 16, 2021	Begin your journey with 2 nights in romantic Paris, the “City of Light,” followed by a 7-night roundtrip Paris cruise along the Seine river … 0
From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube	$3988	12	Jun 29, 2021	Explore the enchanting cities of Central Europe aboard the MS Vivaldi on this 12-day Danube River cruise visiting Tulcea, Giurgiu, Belgrade, Novisad, … 0
The Seine Valley	$1310	5	Apr 5, 2021	Board the MS Botticelli in Paris for a roundtrip 5-day Seine River cruise of France, passing through Les Andelys, Rouen, and Honfleur. Though short, … 0
The Beautiful Blue Danube	$1850	6	May 18, 2021	Sail along the beautiful blue Danube and cross four different countries on this 6-day cruise aboard the MS France. Begin your journey in Germany and … 0
Rhine & Moselle Delights	$5799	15	Jul 20, 2021	This 15-day Rhine & Moselle River cruise aboard MS Amaprima takes you from Zurich to Basel to Amsterdam, passing through Germany and France along the … 0
Melodies of the Danube - Cruise Only	$3199	8	Oct 30, 2020	Explore the Danube River on an 8-day cruise from Budapest to Vishofen aboard the MS Amasonata. En route from Hungary to Germany, you will pass … 0

10 Best Luxury Small Ship Cruises in Europe

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Gems of Southeast Europe	$5099	14	Oct 30, 2020	Fall in love with Southeast Europe and the Danube River on this exclusive 14-day adventure. Start with two nights in historic Vienna, followed by a … 0
Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only	$3099	8	Nov 23, 2020	Embark the MS Amakristina for an 8-day Rhine River cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, exploring the most beloved Christmas markets along the shores of … 0
Expedition Svalbard: Longyearbyen to Tromsø	$11900	11	Jul 6, 2021	Join the Silver Cloud on a magnificent 11-day sailing expedition exploring Svalbard, an Arctic territory full of life and color defined by the … 0
Northern Europe & British Isles - London to Reykjavik	$11000	15	Jun 14, 2021	Discover the natural and pristine beauty of Northern Europe's famous glaciers, fjords, mountain ranges, and forests on this 15-day expedition aboard … 0
Edinburgh to Tromso	$9900	13	Jul 26, 2021	Board the Silver Whisper in Edinburgh and sail all the way across the Arctic to Tromso, Norway. f you have ever wanted to really see the authentic … 0
Round-trip Reykjavik	$8600	11	Jul 4, 2021	Join the Silver Whisper on a splendid 11-day journey to see a land of fire and ice. Iceland’s location close to the Arctic Circle and on the … 0
Reykjavik to Edinburgh	$8800	13	Jul 14, 2021	Sail the shores of Iceland and experience the country that travel buffs have been trying to keep secret for years. Beginning in Reykjavik, be charmed … 0
Northern Europe: Lisbon to London	$8300	13	May 5, 2021	This 13-Day cruise from Lisbon to London will lead you to one discovery after another while visiting Portugal, Spain, France and finally Britain … 0
Sicily & Malta	$13770	11	Sep 16, 2021	Savor Sea Cloud’s elegant comfort during afternoons under billowing sails, and enjoy an incomparable Mediterranean adventure that harkens back to … 0
Corsica & Sardinia	$13770	11	May 12, 2021	Each cruise of the Mediterranean aboard Sea Cloud is crafted to offer the authentic experience of sailing a true square-rigger among must-see and … 0

Top European Cruise Destinations

Colorful flowers and brilliant blue skies complement beautiful Greek islands

Mediterranean Cruises

Discover the Mediterranean on a unique small ship European cruise with Adventure Life. Sail the Greek Isles, disembark in cliff-side villages in Italy, and visit European gems unaccessible on large cruise ships.

Croatia

From the coastal city of Dubrovnik, you can explore the city's thousand-year history and explore the Elaphiti Islands. On the Dalmatian Coast, you can plunge into the cerulean waters of the Adriatic at the scenic seaside cities of Split or Dubrovnik.

Greece

Experience authentic Greek culture, cuisine, and history as you enjoy a small ship cruise of the Greek Isles. From the bustling capital city of Athens, discover the ruins of ancient Mediterranean civilizations before departing to the sun-kissed shores of Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Kythnos, Paros & Antiparos, and Crete.

Cologne's famous cathedral at sunset from the Rhine.

Rhine River

Experience the highlights of Germany, Holland, France, & Switzerland as you cruise the Rhine River in style on a luxury riverboat on the Rhine River. Breathtaking landscapes line the riverbanks as you visit the historic towns of central Europe, where castles, Gothic architecture, cathedrals, and medieval charm characterize the rich culture.

Danube River

The history and culture of Eastern Europe radiate on a river cruise of the tranquil and scenic Danube, passing through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine and Moldova. With opportunities to delve into countries once shrouded by the iron curtain, you'll explore castles, palaces, cities & small towns.

Norway Cruises

Norway is your gateway to the Arctic. From Svalbard to the Barents Sea, you'll learn about fascinating Scandinavian culture & how it has developed throughout the centuries. Norway is also a common departure port for cruises that visit Iceland & Greenland and track polar bears and whales across glaciers and around ice floes.

Explore Europe on Small Ship Cruises

Baltic Sea

Cruise the Baltic Sea, a part of Europe seldom seen by even the most storied travelers. From the fascinating archaeological sites to the enchanting cultures that you will encounter along the way, a cruise through the Baltic Sea is a relaxing way to experience northern Europe. Our featured cruises explore a number of countries, so if there are …

Douro River

Embark on a luxurious cruise down the Douro River exploring ancient wine regions, terraced hillsides, and sleepy fishing villages of Portugal and Spain. Hike and bike your way through the rolling valleys, sample regional wines from the age-old vineyards, and enjoy walking tours of the charming towns, like Lisbon & Porto.

The gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral towers over the streets of Paris

France

Paris? Nice? Oui! Cruise down the Rhine or Rhone rivers discovering some of France's finest scenery or sail to Normandy and Bordeaux. Cruise the French Riviera exploring Nice, Cannes and even sail on to Italy and Spain.

Germany

In the geographic heart of Europe, Germany is a great destination for a classic river cruise, with the Rhine, Danube, Moselle and Main Rivers. Medieval castles keep watch over ancient villages just a short trip from Europe's most modern cities, like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt. Cruises also visit Switzerland, Amsterdam, France and Netherlands.

Iceland

From the capital city of Reykjavik, explore Iceland's otherworldly glaciers, fjords, volcanoes & hot springs on a small ship expedition cruise deep into the Arctic. And remnants of the Norse & Viking cultures that were originally established here centuries ago can still be seen even today.

Ireland

Experience the luck o' the Irish on the "Emerald Isle" on a cruise with Adventure Life. Explore the Atlantic cruising from Norway to Portugal exploring the British Isles.

Italy

The sun-kissed shores of Italy make for the perfect small ship cruise of Mediterranean Europe. Depart from Civitavecchia by Rome and explore the historic Vatican City, Venice, Sardinia, Sicily, Corsica, Greece, Malta, and even France & Spain. Ruins, monuments, and history come to life on these explorations of Italy!

Portugal

A visit to the capital of Lisbon is the highlight of any European cruise, but venture to Porto and cruise down the Douro River for a glimpse into ancient vineyards and terraced hillsides forgotten in time.

Russia

Adventure Life's cruises visiting Russia give you an all access pass to some of the most remote Arctic regions of the top of the world. Breathe in the Aurora Borealis sailing Kamchatka, Siberia's Forgotten Coast and even venture to the North Pole.

Scandinavia

Zip up your parka & grab your scarf, as you set out to explore Scandinavia. Cruise through the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean, visitingNorway,Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark & Greenland. Upon these frozen countries, distinct ways of life have developed around the glaciers & frigid waters that characterize Scandinavia. One of the …

Seine River

Embark on the small cruise ships MS Renoir or MS Amalegro in Paris to explore the vineyards and castles of the Seine River Valley. Ports of call like Giverny, Les Andelys, Honfleur, Duclair and Jumièges highlight the culture, art, and fashion of France, with opportunities to hike, bike, and enjoy walking tours of these small towns and scenic areas.

Park Guell, unique houses designed by Gaudi in Barcelona

Spain

Start your exploration of Europe on a classic Mediterranean or river cruise from Spain. Discover classic Madrid and Barcelona before embarking on a Mediterranean cruise to Portugal or France. Or, combine your trip to Spain with a river cruise on the Douro River also visiting Portugal.

Sheep walking on the road in the British countryside.

United Kingdom

Explore the British Isles on a cruise with Adventure Life. The UK is a key destination of our European cruises visiting Ireland, France & Portugal, Iceland & Scandinavia.

European Cruising Tips & Travel Guide

All Europe Articles

The Best of Europe
No matter which part of Europe you want to visit, Adventure Life is ready to help plan your dream vacation with some of the best cruises and expeditions out there.

The Arctic: Get ready to explore the frigid North in style as you set out through these icy waters to see the fjords of Iceland, Greenland, and the legendary Northeast Passage across the northern coast of Russia, where Aurora Borealis can be seen.

Scandinavia: Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and Denmark comprise this northerly region of Europe, where Arctic wildlife like polar bears, seals, and whales swim in these remote waters.

The British Isles: Take a walk into Europe's medieval past as you explore the hauntingly beautiful castles that dot the rolling hills and highlands of Scotland & England; stroll along the quiet beaches of Wales; Get a taste for authentic Gaelic culture in Belfast, Northern Ireland; or experience the "luck of the Irish" in the green pastures of Ireland itself.

Western Europe: Breathe in the fresh Paris air as you tour this enchanting French city, or see the harrowing beaches of Normandy and the French Riviera at Nice. In Germany, the Rhine River will take you through the towns of yore, adorned by ornate castles & impressive cathedrals. A tour of the Iberian Peninsula will acquaint you with the world-renowned art and architecture that characterizes Spain & Portugal.

Eastern Europe: For half of the 20th century, a wall hid these bewitching countries from the Western world, but now you can experience all Eastern Europe has to offer as you explore the unique cultures that surround the Black Sea, like Russia, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Slovakia, the Ukraine, and other hidden gems of this part of Europe. The melodies of the Danube River will delight you as you navigate deeper into the heart of Europe's lesser known sites & attractions.

The Mediterranean: This expansive sea borders the southern coasts of Europe and the northern tip of Africa and is known for its temperate climate, delicious food, and excellent beaches. Visit the heart of the ancient Roman empire as you explore Italy, or see the ruins of the myth-ridden Greek empire as you cruise the Greek Isles. From Sicily to the Dalmatian Coast, a Mediterranean cruise is a mix of pure relaxation, fascinating arhaeological sites, and some of the best cuisine you'll ever taste.

Get Inspired to Cruise the Best of Europe in 2021

European River Cruise Highlights

The multiple rivers flowing through Europe provide the perfect mode of transit for intimate travel experiences throughout various countries! River cruises also eliminate the stress of finding public transportation or driving. This brief overview of the Rhine, Rhone, Danube and Main rivers can help guide you in selecting your best river cruise option.

Best time of Year to Cruise Europe

Europe is an incredible destination all year long. However, there may be better months to visit based on your personal interests & preferences. Weather, activity options, & festivals are just a few of the factors that could determine when you travel. Here is some insight into best times for a Europe river cruise.

Cruising Italy

This boot-shaped peninsula is a country almost every traveler longs to visit! Ancient history, rich culture, world-renowned cuisine, & iconic landmarks are just a few of the reasons travel to Italy is so appealing. Our brief introduction to the geography, culture & attractions of this popular destination will help prepare you for your own Italy experience!

Cruising Europe Christmas Markets

Explore the enchanting Christmas Markets throughout Germany, Austria and Hungary on your Europe river cruise. Drink hot mulled wine as you meander through these traditional street markets. This is sure to be a charming, festive way to spend the holiday.

Witness the Changing of the Guard in Athens

Cruising the Legendary Greek Isles

Often called the cradle of western civilization, Greece maintains a rich culture that has evolved over thousands of years and has influenced people throughout the world. With so much history and deep-rooted traditions, travel to this destination evokes a truly unique sense of cultural romance.

Introduction to Cruising the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is one of the most culturally rich & beautifully scenic destinations in the world. From ancient history & social influence, to exquisite cuisine & breathtaking landscapes, this region is a must-see for any seasoned traveler! Discover for yourself why it is included on almost every person's bucket list.

Norwegian Cruises - Gateway to the Arctic

Norway is a country full of striking natural beauty, rich culture, adventure opportunities, and intriguing history. It is sometimes overlooked by travelers but is definitely a destination that should not be missed! Before you begin your travels, learn a little more about what this charming "Land of the Midnight Sun" has to offer visitors.

Europe's Top River Port Cities

Amsterdam - The beginning of legendary cruises up the Rhine River, or explore the canals of Holland & Belgium.

Budapest - Is Hungary's capital on the Danube River known for its striking architecture & hot baths.

Vienna - Home of legendary musicians whom leave their mark on Viennese culture to this day.

Frankfurt - Home to one of Europe's major airports, many fly into Frankfurt then cruise on the Rhine.

Porto - Portugal's namesake is at the mouth of the Douro River and famous for Port wine.

Paris - Sail northwest on the Seine River or fly into Paris to access the Rhone River, Burgundy, Loire Valley and Strasbourg - gateway to the Rhine.

Berlin - Is visited on cruise to the nearby and lesser known Elbe River, Berlin is an extension for many cruises to Prague, Amsterdam and The Baltic Sea.

Strasbourg - Is the crossroads of French and German cultures and starting or finishing point for many cruises on the Rhine River.

Basel - cruise the length of the Rhine River from Basel to Amsterdam in

Prague

What kinds of European cruises are there?

River Cruises are quickly becoming the most popular way to explore Europe's ancient and historic interior. Along the Rhine, you'll visit the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and France. The beautiful blue Danube takes you through the countries of Central and even Eastern Europe. The Seine & Rhone Rivers highlight the best that France has to offer. And the Douro takes you along one of the Iberian Peninsula's main arteries through Spain and Portugal.

Mediterranean cruise - aboard a classic sailing schooner or a luxurious yacht - makes for a great way to relax among the sun-kissed isles of the Cyclades, explore the ruins of Greece, visit Croatia, or see all that Italy, Monaco, and Mediterranean France have to offer.

Arctic Expedition Cruise, visiting the northern tip of Scotland, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and even the Arctic fjords of Svalbard (Spitsbergen). Several of these cruises even cruise right across the Arctic Circle to the frigid waters of the Northwest Passage and Baffin Bay on the north continental Canada.