As one of Europe’s most vibrant cruise ports, Barcelona offers a perfect mix of history, art, and seaside charm. Wander the Gothic Quarter’s narrow alleys, marvel at Gaudí’s breathtaking architecture like the Sagrada Família, or relax at Barceloneta Beach. Don't miss sampling authentic tapas or sipping sangria while enjoying views of this colorful, lively city.
Gateway to the Eternal City, Civitavecchia brings you within reach of Rome’s timeless wonders. Explore ancient sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and stroll through Vatican City. With its rich history, world-renowned art, and irresistible Italian cuisine, Rome is a true highlight of any European cruise.
Venice is a one-of-a-kind city built on canals, rich in romance, art, and history. From the port at Marghera or Fusina, explore St. Mark’s Basilica, take a gondola ride, or stroll cobbled alleys lined with cafes and artisan shops. Venice’s timeless charm and Venetian cuisine make it an unforgettable stop.
Santorini’s whitewashed homes and blue-domed churches overlook dramatic volcanic cliffs. From the port at Fira, take a cable car up to the main town, relax on black sand beaches, or sip local wines with sunset views. It’s one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic and scenic destinations.
Step back in time with a visit to Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. From the awe-inspiring Acropolis to bustling Plaka’s shops and cafes, history and modern life blend seamlessly here. After exploring the ruins, relax with some traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki or fresh seafood by the harbor.
Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is famous for its medieval walls and historic Old Town. From the Port of Gruž, walk along the ancient ramparts, explore marble streets, or visit Game of Thrones filming spots. This coastal gem offers stunning views and rich cultural history.
Amsterdam offers a mix of canals, culture, and Dutch charm. Cruise ships dock near the center, making it easy to explore the Anne Frank House, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods. Enjoy a canal cruise or bike ride through this effortlessly cool and historic city.
Copenhagen blends royal history with modern style. From the port, visit the colorful Nyhavn harbor, the Little Mermaid statue, or Amalienborg Palace. Sample Danish treats, stroll waterfront streets, or explore one of Europe’s most bike-friendly capitals.
Reykjavik is your gateway to Iceland’s wild beauty. From the cruise port, visit geysers, waterfalls, and lava fields, or relax in geothermal pools. In town, explore Nordic art and cuisine or visit the striking Hallgrímskirkja Church for panoramic views.
If you're cruising to Europe, you'll need a U.S. passport with at least six months' validity beyond your travel dates. Some cruise lines may accept an original birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID for U.S. citizens on closed-loop sailings. However, certain destinations may have additional entry requirements or require a visa depending on your cruise itinerary. Having a passport provides added peace of mind and flexibility in case your travel plans change. Cruise experts can help you confirm what’s required for your specific itinerary.
The UK and EU are introducing new electronic travel authorization systems for visitors, including U.S. citizens. These are not visas, but pre-travel screening requirements designed to enhance border security.
Both systems require travelers to apply online before departure, submit personal and passport details, and pay a small fee. Be sure to check requirements and complete your authorization ahead of your cruise or flight, especially if you're booking a JetBlue Vacations package that includes Europe or the UK.
A Transatlantic cruise is a voyage that crosses the Atlantic Ocean, typically sailing between North America and Europe. These cruises often depart from ports like New York, Miami, or Fort Lauderdale and arrive in European cities such as Lisbon, Barcelona, or Southampton (London). Transatlantic cruises usually range from 7 to 16 nights, with several relaxing days at sea and select port stops along the way—often in the Canary Islands, the Azores, or Madeira.
Transatlantic cruises are popular for travelers looking for a leisurely pace, lower fares, and the experience of a true ocean crossing. JetBlue Vacations offers Transatlantic cruises as standalone bookings only, they cannot be bundled with JetBlue flights.
Several major cruise lines offer unforgettable cruises to Europe, with a wide range of itineraries across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the British Isles. Popular options include:
When you book your Europe cruise through JetBlue Vacations, you can bundle JetBlue flights with a partner cruise lines for the best value and flexibility.
The best months to take a European cruise are typically May, June, September, and October. These months offer the perfect balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and better pricing; especially compared to the peak summer season. May and June are ideal for Mediterranean cruises, with warm temperatures and blooming landscapes, while September and October offer comfortable sailing conditions and harvest-season charm in destinations like Italy, France, and Greece.
Best Time to Cruise: Late April through early October is the main cruise season, with the warmest weather and longest daylight hours from June to August. May and September offer cooler temps, fewer crowds, and better chances of seeing the northern lights.
Popular Ports of Call: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, & more
Top Experiences: Take a helicopter tour over glaciers, go whale watching, ride a dog sled across icy trails, hike in multiple national parks, witness the midnight sun, or spot the northern lights dancing across the sky.
Best Time to Cruise: Cruising is great year-round, but December through April offers the sunniest, driest weather.
Popular Ports of Call: Nassau, Freeport, cruise line private islands like Perfect Day at CocoCay and Great Stirrup Cay, & more
Top Experiences: Snorkel colorful reefs, swim with dolphins, unwind at Blue Lagoon Island, explore Atlantis Resort, or relax on pristine beaches with a tropical drink in hand.
Best Time to Cruise: April through October is the prime sailing season, when the weather is warm and perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures.
Popular Ports of Call: Royal Naval Dockyard (King's Wharf), Hamilton
Top Experiences: Explore sparkling crystal caves, snorkel colorful coral reefs, ride horses along the beach, tee off on world-class golf courses, or stroll through charming historic towns with British flair.
Best Time to Cruise: Cruises sail year-round, with peak season from December to April offering ideal weather, and a value season from May to November for fewer crowds and bigger savings (June–November is hurricane season).
Popular Ports: San Juan, St. Thomas, Aruba, Curaçao, Nassau, Barbados, Bermuda, Jamaica, Antigua, & more
Top Experience: Snorkel coral reefs, kayak through mangroves, explore colorful colonial towns, ride horses on the beach, or simply unwind on a sun-soaked stretch of sand.
Best Time to Cruise: The main cruise season runs from April through October, with peak months from June to August. For fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, consider sailing in spring or fall.
Popular Ports of Call: Barcelona, Rome (Civitavecchia), Athens (Piraeus), Dubrovnik, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Santorini, Marseille, & more
Top Experiences: Tour ancient ruins in Rome and Athens, sail Norway’s breathtaking fjords, explore the architecture in Barcelona, sip wine in the French countryside, or relax on a Greek island beach under the sun.
Best Time to Cruise: Hawaii cruises sail year-round. Peak season runs from December to April with sunny skies and ideal beach weather. Shoulder months like May and September offer great weather and fewer crowds.
Popular Ports of Call: Honolulu (Oahu), Kahului (Maui), Hilo & Kona (Big Island), Nawiliwili (Kauai)
Top Experiences: Snorkel with sea turtles, hike volcanoes, attend a traditional luau, surf legendary waves, or watch the sunrise from Haleakalā.
Best Time to Cruise: November through May is the best season for Mexico cruises, offering sunny skies and warm temperatures. Summer months bring hotter weather and occasional rain, but often better deals.
Popular Ports of Call: Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Ensenada, Mazatlán, & more
Top Experiences: Go off-roading through desert trails, snorkel hidden coves, zipline through lush canopies, spot whales during migration season, horseback ride along the beach, or sail at sunset along the rugged Pacific coast.