Europe's Best Kept Secret? A Princess Cruises® Voyage You Won't Forget

There is a version of Europe you’ve dreamed of, a Europe that exists beyond the throng of tourists and the well-trodden paths of its grand capitals. It’s a Europe whispered on the sea breeze, found in the quiet cobblestone alleys of a medieval port, and tasted in a glass of wine at a family-run taverna overlooking a turquoise bay. For years, I’ve chased this feeling, this authentic connection to the Old World. And I’ve found that the most elegant way to unlock it isn’t by rail or by road, but by sea.

Specifically, aboard a Princess Cruises ship. Forget the notion of simply checking off a list of cities. A Princess voyage is about immersion, about letting the rhythm of the waves set the pace for discovery. It’s about waking up to a new, breathtaking coastline, your elegant floating resort having done all the work while you dreamed. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s the key to Europe’s most enchanting, and often overlooked, treasures.

Why Princess Cruises is the Perfect Key to Europe's Hidden Doors

In a world of endless travel options, choosing the right vessel for your journey is paramount. Princess Cruises has cultivated a reputation not for flashy gimmicks, but for a refined, deeply satisfying travel experience. Their guiding philosophy, "Come Back New®," isn't just a marketing slogan; it’s a promise woven into every detail of your voyage. It’s the promise of returning home not just rested, but enriched, with a new perspective and a collection of memories that shimmer with authenticity.

This is achieved through a masterful blend of service, comfort, and technology. The revolutionary MedallionClass® experience transforms your cruise into a seamless affair. Imagine your stateroom door unlocking as you approach, a perfectly crafted cocktail finding you by the pool without you ever having to flag down a server, and navigating the ship with effortless grace. This isn't the future of cruising; it's the present with Princess, and it frees you to focus on what truly matters: the destination.

This unique approach makes Princess the ideal partner for exploring Europe. They understand the balance a discerning traveler seeks: the thrill of exploring an ancient city by day, and the bliss of returning to five-star dining, world-class entertainment, and the unparalleled comfort of your private balcony stateroom by night.

The Voyage: Unveiling the Adriatic & Greek Isles

While many itineraries focus on the blockbuster ports, the true secret lies in the journeys that weave together the iconic with the intimate. Let me paint a picture of a 10-day voyage, one that I consider a masterpiece of European cruising, aboard a ship like the magnificent Enchanted Princess. This isn't just a route; it's a narrative of history, beauty, and culinary delight.

You can explore this and similar sailings right now. Take a moment to use the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to see live pricing and availability for European itineraries.

Day 1-2: Embarkation in Rome (Civitavecchia) & A Day at Sea

The journey begins in the shadow of the Eternal City. As you step aboard, the soaring, Italian-style Piazza welcomes you with the buzz of excitement. The clinking of glasses, the warm smiles of the crew—this is the moment your vacation truly begins. Find your stateroom, unpack just once, and step out onto your balcony to watch the Italian coastline recede into a golden haze.

Your first full day is a gift: a day at sea. This is your chance to decompress and truly connect with the ship. Perhaps you’ll indulge in a deep-tissue massage at the Lotus Spa, find your bliss in the adults-only Sanctuary, or simply lounge by the pool, lulled by the gentle motion of the ship. As evening falls, you’ll experience your first of many exquisite meals, followed by a dazzling Broadway-style show in the Princess Theater. This is the art of the journey.

Day 3: Kotor, Montenegro - A Fjord in the Mediterranean

Waking up to the Bay of Kotor is an experience that will stay with you forever. This is Europe's southernmost fjord, a dramatic, submerged river canyon of staggering beauty. The ship glides through the narrow channel, flanked by towering black mountains and dotted with ancient stone villages. The town of Kotor itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a labyrinth of medieval streets, sun-drenched squares, and fortified walls that snake up the mountainside. The ambitious can climb the 1,355 steps to the Fortress of San Giovanni for a view that is, without exaggeration, life-altering.

Day 4: Corfu, Greece - Emerald Isle of Legends

From the rugged drama of Montenegro, you arrive at the lush, emerald isle of Corfu. Steeped in mythology and shaped by centuries of Venetian, French, and British rule, Corfu feels different from other Greek islands. Its Old Town, another UNESCO gem, is a romantic maze of pastel-hued buildings with wrought-iron balconies. Spend the day exploring the grand Spianada square, wandering through the Liston arcade, or venturing out to the stunning Paleokastritsa Bay, where Odysseus is said to have washed ashore.

Day 5: Katakolon (for Olympia), Greece - Where History Was Born

Today, you walk in the footsteps of legends. The small port of Katakolon is your gateway to Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. To stand in the original stadium, to see the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, and to imagine the athletic glory that unfolded here over 2,700 years ago is a profoundly moving experience. Princess offers exceptional guided shore excursions that bring this history to life, connecting you to the very roots of Western civilization.

Day 6: Mykonos, Greece - The Iconic Windmills & Whitewash

A complete change of pace awaits in Mykonos. This is the Greece of postcards: a dazzling spectacle of whitewashed cubic houses, blue-domed churches, and the iconic 16th-century windmills standing sentinel over the sea. Get lost in the enchanting warren of streets in Mykonos Town, discover the charming seaside neighborhood of Little Venice, and find a perfect spot for a seaside lunch. The energy here is vibrant, chic, and utterly captivating. Have a quick question about the best stateroom for viewing these iconic ports? Click the "Chat with us" button in the lower-right corner and connect with one of our cruise experts instantly.

Day 7: Santorini, Greece - A Sunset That Stays With You Forever

Prepare for your breath to be taken away. Sailing into the caldera of Santorini, a giant sea-filled volcanic crater, is one of the world’s great travel moments. The sheer cliffs, streaked with red and black lava, rise hundreds of feet, crowned by the impossible cliff-top villages of Fira and Oia. The day is yours to explore these iconic towns, sample the unique volcanic wines, and find your vantage point for the main event: the legendary Santorini sunset, which paints the sky and sea in fiery hues of orange, pink, and purple.

Day 8: A Blissful Day at Sea

After a whirlwind of discovery, another day at sea provides the perfect interlude. It’s a chance to savor the ship’s amenities. Perhaps you’ll book a table at a specialty restaurant. Will it be the perfectly aged steaks at the Crown Grill, or the handmade pasta at Sabatini's Italian Trattoria? Later, you might curl up on a lounge chair for Movies Under the Stars®, watching a blockbuster film on a giant poolside screen with complimentary popcorn and a cozy blanket. This is luxury, redefined.

Day 9: Naples, Italy - Gateway to Pompeii & Capri

Your final port offers a classic Italian dilemma. Do you journey back in time to the astonishingly preserved ruins of Pompeii, buried by Vesuvius in 79 A.D.? Or do you take a hydrofoil to the glamorous island of Capri, a playground for emperors and celebrities, with its Blue Grotto and stunning vistas? Whichever you choose, be sure to savor the region’s most famous invention: an authentic Neapolitan pizza. Our travel experts can help you choose the perfect shore excursions to match your interests. For personalized advice, give our dedicated Princess line a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a no-obligation chat.

Day 10: Disembarkation in Rome (Civitavecchia)

You’ll disembark where you began, but you will not be the same person. You’ll be carrying the scent of the sea, the taste of Greek olives, the feel of ancient stone under your fingertips, and a gallery of unforgettable moments. This is the power of a perfectly crafted voyage.

Life Aboard Your Floating Resort: The Princess Experience

The destinations are the stars, but your life aboard the ship is the exquisite setting that makes it all possible. Princess has perfected the art of creating an environment that is both elegant and welcoming, sophisticated and relaxed.

Effortless Travel with MedallionClass®

It’s difficult to overstate how much the tiny, wearable Medallion device enhances your vacation. It’s your key, your credit card, and your concierge all in one. It allows for truly touch-free boarding, keyless stateroom entry, and the ability to order food, drinks, or retail items to be delivered wherever you are on the ship. It simplifies everything, leaving you more time for enjoyment.

A Culinary Journey at Sea

Dining with Princess is an event. Beyond the exceptional main dining rooms and specialty restaurants, you’ll find a world of flavors.

• World Fresh Marketplace: A casual buffet that defies expectations with its incredible variety and quality, from fresh-baked bread to regional specialties inspired by your itinerary.
• International Café: Open 24/7 in the Piazza, this is your go-to for gourmet coffees, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
• The Salty Dog Gastropub: For a gourmet twist on pub classics, this venue offers favorites like the "Ernesto" burger, crafted by a Michelin-star chef.

Sanctuaries of Relaxation and Entertainment

Whether your goal is to unwind completely or be entertained from dawn till dusk, Princess delivers. The Sanctuary provides a serene, adults-only oasis with plush lounge chairs and dedicated service. The Lotus Spa offers a vast menu of treatments inspired by cultures around the world. And each evening, the ship comes alive with West End-caliber musical productions, live musicians in the various lounges, and the magic of Movies Under the Stars®.

Making This Dream Your Reality

Reading about a journey like this is one thing; experiencing it is another. We understand that planning a European vacation can feel complex, with countless options for itineraries, staterooms, and shore excursions. That is where our expertise becomes your greatest asset.

Instead of spending hours searching online, let our seasoned travel advisors do the work for you. We have deep, firsthand knowledge of Princess Cruises and these incredible European ports. We listen to your desires—your travel style, your budget, your must-see sights—and craft a personalized proposal that transforms this dream itinerary into a seamless reality. We handle the details so you can focus on the anticipation.

Your unforgettable European adventure is just a conversation away. Let us provide you with a no-obligation, personalized sailing proposal, complete with pricing and exclusive amenities you won't find anywhere else. Click here to Get a Custom Quote and begin your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Princess Cruise in Europe

What is included in a Princess Cruises fare?

Your cruise fare typically includes your stateroom accommodation, all meals in the main dining rooms and buffet, many snack and beverage options (like coffee, tea, and iced tea), onboard entertainment such as theater shows and live music, and access to pools, hot tubs, and the fitness center. Specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and shore excursions are generally extra, though packages are often available.

What is Princess MedallionClass, and how does it work?

MedallionClass is a complimentary service that revolves around a wearable device called the OceanMedallion. It replaces your old cruise card and provides a host of services, including faster boarding, keyless stateroom entry, on-demand service (you can order drinks or food to your location), and easy navigation around the ship via digital portals and your smartphone.

Is a balcony stateroom worth the extra cost in Europe?

In our expert opinion, absolutely. A European cruise is incredibly scenic. A balcony provides a private space to enjoy a morning coffee while sailing into a new port like Kotor or to watch the sunset over the Greek Isles with a glass of wine. It transforms your stateroom from just a place to sleep into your own private viewing platform for the wonders of Europe.

What is the best time of year to cruise the Mediterranean?

The peak season is June through August, offering the warmest weather and longest days. However, for fewer crowds and more pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, we highly recommend the "shoulder seasons" of May, September, and early October. The weather is still beautiful, the sea is warm, and the experience in port can be more relaxed.

Do I need a travel agent to book a cruise?

While you can book directly, a knowledgeable travel agent provides immense value. We act as your advocate, offering expert advice to match you with the right ship and itinerary. We often have access to special promotions or group pricing, and we manage all the details of your booking, from payments to pre-cruise preparations, saving you time and potential headaches. If you have any questions, our team is ready to help. Call us at 1 (888) 883‑0460 to speak with an expert.

Europe is full of secrets, and the most beautiful ones are waiting for you just over the horizon. A Princess cruise is more than a vacation; it's an elegantly curated discovery of the culture, history, and beauty that make this continent so endlessly fascinating. Don't let another year pass dreaming about it. Let's Plan Your Europe Adventure together.