8 cultural cruise destinations in Europe

One of the big benefits of cruising is that you can see much more than you would on a land-based holiday. You’ll stop off at multiple destinations, discover fascinating cultures and communities, and have plenty of time to explore in your own way. And, when you’re not exploring, you can relax aboard your ship, enjoying captivating coastal views and an invigorating sea breeze.

To shine a light on the rewards of cultural cruises, we’ve partnered with Regent Seven Seas Cruises®*, the ultra-luxury cruise line of choice. Aboard these sleek, perfectly sized ships, you can enjoy gourmet cuisine, impeccable service, stylish surroundings, and world-class amenities. And, there are a whole range of immersive cultural activities and experiences to get involved in – both on and off the ship.

So, if you’re keen to make the most of Europe’s captivating, diverse cultures, what are some of the best stops on a cruising itinerary? From the Scandinavian fjords in the far north to sunbleached ruins in the south, here are eight of the best cultural cruise destinations in Europe.

1. Palermo, Sicily

Palermo, Sicily’s characterful capital, has acted as the crossroads of civilisations for millennia. Founded by the Pheonicians in the 8th century, over the years it’s come under Roman, Arab, Greek, Spanish, and Norman rule (to name just five). Everywhere you go you can see glimpses of its chequered past – from Moorish domes and Byzantine mosaics to gothic palaces and crumbling baroque facades. But to really understand Sicily’s culture, you need to explore its food scene.

In Palermo you’ll find some of the best street food in the world, like arancini (deep fried rice balls) and brioche con gelato (ice cream sandwich). Browsing food markets is an essential cultural activity, and the treats you’ll find here are wonderfully unfussy and inexpensive, yet truly mouthwatering. Plus, it’s at these markets where you’ll see Palermo at its most authentic. Cats sleep under stalls, elderly men play chess while sipping Messina beer, and youths whizz past on old vespas.

2. Gran Canaria, Spain

The Canary Islands are known for being an affordable destination for a beach break, whether as a romantic escape or a packaged family holiday. But scratch beneath the surface and this sun-soaked Spanish archipelago may surprise you with its complexity and diversity. On a cruise, you can visit several islands, including Tenerife (the largest), Lanzarote, and La Palma…but it’s arguably Gran Canaria that boasts the richest, most compelling culture.

In the capital, Las Palmas, you can admire colourful colonial architecture, stroll past mansions clad in sweet-smelling bougainvillaea, and marvel at the 15th century twin-towered cathedral in the Plaza de Santa Ana. History buffs can also visit the Casa de Colon mansion, where Christopher Columbus is said to have slept during his 1492 voyage. Meanwhile, the cobblestone streets of the old quarters hide all kinds of treasures, from authentic restaurants and bohemian bars to quirky galleries selling local art.

3. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a small island with a big reputation, and while it may be most famous for its superlative beauty and glorious sunsets, it also offers plenty of culture. The picture-perfect whitewashed villages that cling to the cliffside are home to iconic domed churches, vaulted passageways, historic castles, and labyrinth-like alleyways. Here, you can get a fascinating glimpse into Cycladic culture, history, and architecture. Plus, the views across the caldera from the local restaurants are spellbinding.

In Ancient Akrotiri – Greece’s precursor to Pompeii – you can step back in time 3,600 years. The ash that buried this town came from the same eruption that created the sunken caldera, and here you can learn what life was like nearly four millennia ago. If you’re a wine lover, why not visit a local winery? Santorini wine is Greece’s most celebrated, and sipping a glass of chilled white beneath a blazing blue sky – perhaps with some local olives – is one of this idyllic island’s simplest, yet most rewarding, pleasures.

4. Côte d’Azur

The Côte d’Azur may be more synonymous with glitz and glamour than culture, but this dazzling stretch of coastline is where you’ll find some of France’s most historic towns. Cannes, for example, isn’t just home to a famous film festival. Le Suquet, its medieval old town, boasts pastel-coloured buildings, ancient Roman streets, and an atmospheric bell tower where you can admire views across the town. Watching the sunset at the historic Le Vieux Port is also a magical experience.

Saint Tropez is another town steeped in culture. Its beauty has drawn artists from all over the world, most notably Henri Matisse, and the museums and galleries here are exceptional. The local cuisine is as fabulous as you’d expect; you can tuck into fresh lobster, try refreshing lavender ice cream, and sip cool rosé. In bustling Toulon, why not learn about the city’s naval history, enjoy some quiet reflection in the Old Town’s ancient cathedral, or lose yourself in herb-scented open-air markets?

5. Split, Croatia

Glitzy Dubrovnik might hog the headlines, but Croatia’s second city, Split, has just as much going for it. Not only is it bigger, it’s also older, with a rich history that stretches back to ancient Rome. The emperor Diocletian famously built his retirement palace here, and exploring the 4th-century complex is one of the highlights of a city tour. The UNESCO-listed Old Town is a joy to explore, as is the Cathedral of St. Duje. But Split is home to far more than historic buildings and old-world charm.

Art enthusiasts will want to check out the works of local sculptor Ivan Meštrovic, while history buffs should head to the Ethnographic Museum which gives a fascinating insight into what life in Split used to look like. The food in Split is delicious – although for the most authentic dining experiences, head to a konoba restaurant. Essentially Dalmatian-style tavernas, you can enjoy regional dishes like black risotto and grilled fish in a laidback, local atmosphere.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland might be best known for its otherworldly scenery and natural attractions, but this Nordic island nation also has a rich history and culture. The capital, Reykjavik is an intriguing blend of old and new and, despite its relatively small size, is home to more than 60 museums, exhibition spaces, and galleries. If you want to learn about Iceland’s Viking roots, there are excellent Viking-themed museums, particularly the Settlement Exhibition and National Museum of Iceland.

Music enthusiasts might want to check out the world-renowned symphony orchestra – although taking in a local gig is another excellent way to embrace the culture of the city. Icelandic music has evolved to become its own genre – a beautiful mix of folk and pop – and you might come away with a new favourite style of music. Reykjavik also has a strong food culture, and fish and shellfish are abundant…often washed down by the potent local drink, Brennivin!

7. Lisbon, Portugal

Built across seven steep hills on the western tip of Europe, Lisbon enjoys a truly cinematic setting. Add in the glittering Tagus river, old cobbled alleys, famous tiled façades, and bright yellow wooden trams, and you’ve got one of the most photogenic cities on the continent. But Lisbon is also one of the most historic and cultured, boasting a wealth of UNESCO-listed heritage sites, unique museums and galleries, and a mouthwatering food scene.

Good ways to get a feel for the city are riding the 28 tram and touring the ancient Alfama district, which dates back 1,000 years. If you’re here in the evening, you might be lucky enough to hear the wistful strains of fado drifting out of a nearby bar. Fado music is a deep part of Portuguese culture, and catching a show is a must for first-time visitors. So is eating a pastel de nata, outrageously tasty cinnamon-dusted custard tarts. Afterwards, why not make like a local, and watch the sunset over a glass of vinho verde?

8. Rome, Italy

Few cities rival Rome when it comes to culture. With a history that stretches back 3,000 years, the weight of the city’s turbulent past can be felt as you walk along these ancient streets. From classical ruins and Renaissance palaces to world-class museums and galleries – not to mention the Vatican and Sistine Chapel – it can all get rather overwhelming. Instead of trying to see it all, it’s best to prioritise the sights you’re most curious about.

Despite its history, Rome is also a modern city, and one of the best ways to appreciate its culture is through its food. For an authentic culinary experience, skip the tourist trap restaurants and head to local neighbourhoods to visit traditional, unassuming trattorias. Strolling around and people-watching is another great way to understand Rome. Early evening tends to be the best time; why not sit outside a bar that’s popular with locals, sip an aperitif, and watch the city come to life?

Europe is packed with culture-rich countries, capitals, and islands. There’s so much to see and do that trying to check things off can sometimes seem impossible…that’s why a cultural cruise is often the easiest, and most enjoyable, way to explore.

On a Regent Seven Seas Cruises* voyage, you’ll stop off at some of the most beautiful, important, and historic destinations in Europe. The eight featured in this article are just the tip of the iceberg, and there are plenty more destinations to choose from – from the dramatic Norwegian fjords and craggy Irish coast to sunny Southern Spain and ancient Athens.

On shore, you can enjoy rich cultural experiences and immersive excursions; and on board, you’ll be sailing in consummate style and comfort, with luxurious amenities, unlimited drinks, delicious cuisine, and seamless service.