Tammy Whiting, our Disney Cruise Line expert, shares 10 of her favorite ports to visit in Europe in 2025. Disney Cruise Line is visiting more than 40 European ports next year, with some great options. Here are Tammy’s top 10.
1. Stavanger (or Mekjarvik), Norway – Disney sometimes ports in Stavanger, and sometimes ports at Mekjarvik, which isn’t far from Stavanger. Stavanger is one of our favorite ports in Norway. While there, we took a grueling hike to Pulpit Rock (aka Preikestolen). While the word “grueling” certainly doesn’t sound enticing, that 8-kilometer hike (ascending almost 1,200 feet) took us to one of the most spectacular views of fjords that I’ve ever seen. It’s 100% worth the climb.
2. Valletta, Malta – We’ve been to Malta a few times, and it’s an incredibly picturesque and walkable town. The architecture is grand in scale and stunning to view. We’ve also taken Segways through town and out to the beautiful cliffsides. Make sure you are up on deck for the sail away! The views of this city are simply wow.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ranked among the top cities in the world, Amsterdam is a place that travelers should see at least once. A city full of canals and excellent food, Amsterdam is easily walkable. The Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum are not to be missed! If you’re there during tulip season, a trip out to the tulip farms is also worthwhile.
4. Mykonos, Greece – Disney’s itineraries in Greece have a few great stops, like Athens and Santorini. I picked Mykonos for this list because it’s exactly what you picture when you think of Greece, with the white buildings with blue shutters and doors. The ship docks near a beach, and shuttles run over to the city. Although Mykonos is a tourist destination for sure, I could wander through these streets for hours taking pictures. The local cafés are inviting and have perfect views of the harbor. It’s a great way to spend a day.
5. Liverpool, England – Calling all Beatles fans! Liverpool is the birthplace of the Beatles, and there are several options for Beatle-centric tours. The Hop on Hop Off bus is also a great way to spend a day and see the city if you don’t book an excursion!
6. Naples, Italy – Pizza, anyone? Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and it feels wrong not to sample some while you’re there. If you leave the city, you can visit the Amalfi Coast, take the train or an excursion to the fascinating ruins of Pompeii, or climb Mt. Vesuvius itself! You have options!
7. Reykjavik, Iceland – There are more than 44 excursion options in Reykjavik because there are so many diverse things to do and see there. You can tour the town, shop, eat, soak in the hot springs, go see the black beaches, and more. The nature and sightseeing are top-notch!
8. Alesund, Norway – The ship docks right downtown in Alesund, and there is often time for an excursion plus exploring. We were able to kayak in the morning, then climb to the top of the mountain in town (via a walkway with stairs) in the afternoon to take in the scenic views. It’s a fun port!
9. Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Several sailings depart from this small port town located about an hour from Rome. The Colosseum is a must-do, the art of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel can’t be missed, the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain are popular tourist spots, and on and on.
Rome is so jam-packed with things to do and see, you’ll likely find you need to visit again. And again! No wonder they call it the Eternal City.
10 – Barcelona, Spain – Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in Europe. I am thrilled every time I sail out of Barcelona, and I try to add on a day or two whenever possible. I love shopping, eating, and strolling on Las Ramblas. La Sagrada Familia is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, despite over 140 years of ongoing construction. As soccer fans, we have had an amazing tour of Camp Nou (home to Barcelona’s famed soccer/football club). If you have time, I also recommend visiting Park Guell for the city views and colorful mosaics. There are also some great hotels in Barcelona, so I don’t ever mind spending the night!
About the author of the blog: Tammy Whiting is the coauthor of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. Blogger, Space Force wife, and mother of two, Tammy has been involved in the travel industry for more than 15 years. Though she certainly enjoys vacations of all kinds, her favorite adventures around the globe have been on cruise ships. Tammy spent five years of her childhood in Europe as a military brat and has been a military spouse for over 30 years, living in almost every corner of the US. When she isn’t traveling, you can find her enjoying her family, buying camera equipment, and planning her next trip!
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