Travel Tips

Looking for a quick escape with breathtaking views? These 6 short European cruises offer stunning scenery, historic cities, and just the right dose of culture. The perfect cruise ship experience for your next getaway in 2025.

A cruise trip is one of the most unique ways to travel, where you can travel to multiple destinations and how you live in huge floating resorts. There are a variety of cruise lengths, from overnight to 100+ nights. Europe has some incredible cruises that are perfect short getaway. These cruises provide great panoramic views and destinations in a short duration, whether you're looking for fjords, island hopping, or historic coasts. These are 6 best short cruises that for your next European adventure.

Norwegian Fjords Mini Cruise – Bergen to Alesund

Norwegian Fjords Mini Cruise duration between 2 - 4 days. This cruise will take you to a wonderful scenic view through the Norwegian Coastline. Operated by Hurtigruten or Havila Voyages, this cruise will sail through Geirangerfjord, which is famous with precipitous cliffs and its majestic waterfalls and lush greenery. Then it will sail to Sognefjord (Nærøyfjord), or “The King of Fjords” as its the longest and deepest fjords in Norway. Both areas have stunning rocky cliffs and exceptional natural beauty that is a UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well. 

The best month to take this cruise is in late May, June and early September. During this time, you will have perfect weather and you get to see the beauty of the natural views with fewer tourists. While in winter seasons, fjords might be covered with fog or snow. 

Baltic Queen Cruise – Stockholm to Tallinn

Baltic Cruise sails overnight (16 hours), from Tallinn to Stockholm with round trip possible. Operated by Tallink Silja Line, this cruise offers a short trip with stunning views, especially in the evening. You will get to see two iconic European countries, Sweden and Estonia. Where you can explore cobbled streets, royal palaces, museums like the Vasa and ABBA Museum in Stockholm or discover Tallinn’s Old City and its history or for a food journey on Estonian traditional food. 

The best time to cruise on the Baltic Sea is in May to September, this time has perfect weather and views with a long daylight. On December can be a good choice, if you are looking for Christmas vibes on a cruise. While January to February is typically deep snowy and windy. 

Greek Island Mini Cruise – Athens to Mykonos & Santorini

The Greek island mini cruise took 3 to 4 nights sails. The sails start in Athens and destinations to Mykonos and  Santorini. You will get to see the famous windmills, Psarou Beach and Little Venice in Mykonos. Explore volcanic beaches and ancient ruins in Akrotiri in Santorini. Then discover Acropolis, Plaka neighborhood and world class museum. The best time to go on Greek Island Mini Cruise is in May to October where the weather is perfect for sailing and beach explorations. 

Seine River Mini Cruise – Paris to Normandy

France has several iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre Museum, Notre Dame, the Conciergerie, the Musée d’Orsay. These are beautiful places that you can see on a cruise ship. Beyond Paris, this cruise offers another beauty that combines French culture, historical, but also romantic. Discover Paris and Beyond by sailing on a Seine River Mini Cruise with duration 3 to 6 nights. Sail through Paris to Normandy (Rouen, Honfleur, and sometimes Caudebec-en-Caux). The best time to go on this cruise is during Spring through Fall, April to October. In April to May typically has fewer crowds. But if you are interested in exploring during the Wine harvest season, the perfect time will be in September to October. Seine River Mini Cruise will allow you to enjoy slow travel.

Douro River Valley Short Cruise – Porto Round Trip

Experience a scenic journey through Douro River on a short cruise for 3 to 5 nights. It is a round trip journey, where the departure and return is in Porto, Portugal. During the cruise, you will get to see panoramic views and explore Portugal’s oldest wine region in Douro Valley. This cruise will take you to a journey of sip, sail and soak. The best time to take this cruise is in September, during the harvest season so you will experience grape stomping. 

Adriatic Island-Hopping – Split to Dubrovnik

Get on an Island hopping cruise from Split to Dubrovnik. It is a popular Croatian cruise that offers a mix of historical sites, beaches, and vibrant nightlife. This cruise will get you to visit some islands,including Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and Mljet, with ferries and private boats as the transportation between them. Spend 8 days of exploration  through the beautiful nature of Croatia's island. The best time to get in this Island Hopping tour is June to September where the sun and weather is perfect for swimming on the islands, while July to August is the peak season with festivals. 

These are the best 6 European cruise ship with shorts durations, makes it perfect for your next escape. Find your type of cruise style, and Arooha Leisure will manage all the essentials for you. Contact us today, and experience a perfect European cruise getaway!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a short European cruise?
A short European cruise usually lasts 3 to 5 days. It’s a quick way to explore scenic destinations without a long commitment.

2. When is the best time to take a short cruise in Europe?
The best time is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the views are at their best.

3. Are short cruises in Europe expensive?
Not always. Short cruises are often more affordable than longer ones, especially if you book early or during off-peak months.

4. What are some popular short cruise routes in Europe?
Popular routes include the Greek Islands, Baltic Sea, Norwegian Fjords, and river cruises like the Seine and Douro.

5. Is a short cruise good for first-time travelers?
Yes, short cruises are ideal for beginners. They’re easy to plan, less costly, and give you a taste of cruising.

6. Do I need a visa for a European cruise?
It depends on your nationality and cruise itinerary. Always check visa requirements for each country the cruise visits.

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