First-Timer's Review: My Unforgettable Norwegian Cruise Line® European Adventure

The dream of Europe. It’s a melody of ancient cobblestones underfoot, the scent of fresh espresso from a Roman café, the sight of an impossibly blue Mediterranean shimmering under a golden sun. For years, I’d held this collage of images in my mind, a trip I promised myself I’d one day take. But the logistics—the train schedules, hotel bookings, and the sheer exhaustion of packing and unpacking in city after city—always felt daunting. Then, I discovered a different way to waltz through the continent, a way that combines unparalleled discovery with the ease of a floating luxury resort: a European cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line.

As a travel journalist, I’ve been fortunate to see much of the world. But this was my first time experiencing Europe with NCL, and I boarded with a healthy dose of professional curiosity and a first-timer's wide-eyed excitement. I wanted to know if their famed "Freestyle Cruising" concept truly lived up to the hype. Could it really offer the freedom to explore Europe on my own terms, without sacrificing comfort and convenience? The answer, I discovered over seven unforgettable days, was a resounding yes. This isn't just a travel review; it's a story of how to unlock the heart of Europe, one breathtaking port at a time.

Why I Chose Norwegian Cruise Line for My European Debut

The decision to sail with Norwegian was anchored in one powerful concept: freedom. NCL pioneered "Freestyle Cruising," and it’s more than just a marketing slogan; it’s a philosophy that permeates every aspect of life onboard. For a destination as rich and varied as Europe, this approach is not just a benefit—it's a game-changer.

So, what does "Freestyle" actually mean for you, the traveler?

• No Fixed Dining Times: Forget rushing back from a captivating tour of Florence to make a strict 6:00 PM dinner seating. With NCL, you eat when you want, where you want. Feeling a casual bite after a long day exploring? Head to the buffet. In the mood for an elegant, multi-course French dinner? Book a table at Le Bistro. This flexibility is liberating.
• Casual Attire: While you can certainly dress up for a special night out, there are no mandatory formal nights. NCL’s "resort casual" dress code means you can be comfortable. It aligns perfectly with the spirit of a European adventure—focus on the experience, not a rigid set of rules.
• A World of Choice: From a dizzying array of restaurants and bars to Broadway-caliber entertainment and serene spa sanctuaries, the ship itself is a destination. This variety ensures that every moment at sea is as engaging as your time on shore.

Choosing NCL meant I could have long, immersive days in port, knowing a world of comfort, cuisine, and entertainment awaited my return, all on my own schedule. It’s the perfect marriage of adventure and relaxation. If this sounds like your style of travel, you can explore specific itineraries right now using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page.

The Heart of the Journey: A Mediterranean Tapestry

My adventure was a classic Western Mediterranean itinerary, a perfect highlights reel for a first-time visitor. The ship, a stunning vessel from NCL’s modern fleet, was our chariot through history, culture, and spectacular coastal scenery.

Embarkation Day: A Symphony of Excitement in Rome

The journey began in Civitavecchia, the port for Rome. The embarkation process was a masterclass in efficiency. Within an hour of arriving at the terminal, I was walking across the gangway, a glass of champagne in hand, gazing up at the magnificent ship. The energy was electric. I found my balcony stateroom—my home for the week—and stepped outside. The sea breeze, the panoramic view of the Italian coast… the adventure had truly begun. That first evening, we sailed away under a sky painted in shades of orange and purple, the promise of discovery hanging in the salty air.

A Tapestry of Ports: My Highlights

Each day brought a new city, a new culture, a new memory. The beauty of a cruise is waking up to a brand-new vista from your balcony, ready for exploration without ever having to repack your suitcase.

• Florence & Pisa (from Livorno): The cradle of the Renaissance did not disappoint. We opted for an NCL shore excursion that seamlessly transported us first to Pisa for the obligatory, fun-filled photo holding up the Leaning Tower, and then to Florence. Standing in the presence of Michelangelo's David was a moment of profound awe. We wandered across the Ponte Vecchio, gelato in hand, the Arno River flowing below, and felt completely immersed in a living work of art.
• Cannes, France: The glamour of the French Riviera is intoxicating. We strolled along the Boulevard de la Croisette, imagining the movie stars who walk its red carpet. The azure water, the superyachts in the harbor, and the chic boutiques create an atmosphere of effortless luxury. We found a small café, ordered glasses of crisp rosé, and simply watched the world go by.
• Palma de Mallorca, Spain: This Balearic island was a stunning surprise. The massive, Gothic La Seu Cathedral stands sentinel over the bay, a breathtaking sight from the ship. We spent the day exploring the labyrinthine old town, with its charming courtyards and hidden tapas bars, before finding a spot on a beautiful sandy beach to soak in the Spanish sun.
• Barcelona, Spain: Our final port was the vibrant, whimsical city of Barcelona. The fantastical architecture of Antoni Gaudí is everywhere, from the still-unfinished Sagrada Família to the playful Park Güell. We lost ourselves in the energy of Las Ramblas, sampled incredible food at the Boqueria Market, and left feeling utterly captivated by the city’s unique spirit.

Navigating the best shore excursions can be tricky. Do you book with the cruise line for peace of mind or venture out on your own? Our specialists have done it all and can offer personalized advice. If you're unsure, just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right to ask a quick question.

Life Onboard: My Floating Resort at Sea

As incredible as the ports were, the ship itself was an integral part of the experience. The days we spent at sea were not just transit days; they were opportunities to indulge, relax, and play.

My Stateroom: A Private Sanctuary

I cannot recommend a balcony stateroom enough. It became my private sanctuary. Waking up each morning, opening the curtains to a new European coastline, and enjoying a cup of coffee on my private balcony was a ritual I cherished. It’s a small luxury that makes a world of difference, providing a quiet space to reflect on the day's adventures as you watch the sunset over the waves.

A Culinary Odyssey: The Freedom to Feast

The dining on Norwegian is, in a word, spectacular. The sheer variety is astounding. I could start my day with a custom omelet at the Garden Café buffet, enjoy a casual lunch at O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar & Grill, and then choose from a world of options for dinner.

• Complimentary Dining: The main dining rooms are elegant and offer a new menu each night, with service that is both professional and warm. You're never limited.
• Specialty Dining: This is where NCL truly shines. The sizzle of the hibachi grill at Teppanyaki is pure dinner theater. The perfectly cooked filet mignon at Cagney's Steakhouse, paired with a bold red wine, was a meal to remember. And the delicate, authentic flavors at La Cucina felt like being transported to a trattoria in Tuscany.

Many sailings include NCL's "Free at Sea" promotion, which can include specialty dining packages, an unlimited open bar, and more. Understanding how to maximize this value is key to planning the perfect trip. This is where our expertise becomes your advantage. Inquire About This Sailing, and one of our cruise experts will craft a personalized quote that explains all the inclusions and finds the best possible value for you.

Dazzling Nights & Playful Days

There was never a dull moment. The ship buzzed with energy. By day, I could be found relaxing in a lounger by the pool, indulging in a hot stone massage at the serene Mandara Spa®, or, for a thrill, plunging down one of the exhilarating waterslides in the Aqua Park. By night, the ship transformed. We saw a full-scale Broadway production that had us dancing in our seats, laughed until we cried at the comedy club, and enjoyed live music in several lounges before trying our luck in the casino. It’s a city that never sleeps, and you are free to partake in as much or as little as you wish.

Insider Tips for Your First NCL European Cruise

Having lived it, I want to share a few pieces of advice to make your first experience even more seamless and spectacular.

• Pace Yourself: European port days can be long and involve a lot of walking. Don't try to do everything. Pick one or two highlights for each city and allow yourself time to simply soak in the atmosphere.
• Pack Smart: Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. Also, pack layers. The weather in the Mediterranean can change, and it’s always cooler on the water in the evenings. Include one or two "smart casual" outfits for the specialty restaurants.
• Embrace Sea Days: Don't view sea days as wasted time. Use them to recharge. Sleep in, book a spa treatment, explore the ship, and get ready for your next port adventure.
• Talk to an Expert: The options can be overwhelming—which ship? Which itinerary? Which stateroom? Which "Free at Sea" perks are best for you? A seasoned travel advisor can cut through the noise and tailor the perfect vacation. If you prefer to talk through the options, our dedicated cruise line is open at 1 (888) 883‑0460. Call us for a no-pressure conversation.

Planning Your Own Adventure: Let Us Handle the Details

My Norwegian Cruise Line European adventure was more than a vacation; it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, made effortless and exceptional. It erased all my anxieties about the complexities of European travel and replaced them with pure joy and discovery.

You can have this experience, too. The first step to turning your European dream into a reality is right here. While you can explore sailings on the Cruise Booking Toolbar above, the true magic happens when you let our team of experts craft a journey just for you. We have access to exclusive offers, deep knowledge of every ship and itinerary, and a passion for creating unforgettable memories.

Don't spend hours searching online, feeling overwhelmed by choice. Let us do the heavy lifting. We’ll listen to your wishes, respect your budget, and build a proposal that’s perfect for you, complete with flights, pre-cruise hotels, and hand-picked excursions. Your only job is to pack your bags and get excited.

Ready to begin? The path to your unforgettable European adventure starts here. Get a Custom Quote and let us show you how seamless and spectacular your dream vacation can be.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "Freestyle Cruising" on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Freestyle Cruising is NCL's signature concept that emphasizes freedom and flexibility. It means there are no fixed dining times or pre-assigned seating, a casual "resort-style" dress code, and a vast array of dining and entertainment options for you to choose from, allowing you to customize your vacation to your personal tastes.

What is included in an NCL cruise fare?

Your cruise fare typically includes your stateroom accommodation, meals in the complimentary dining venues (main dining rooms, buffets, and other select eateries), select beverages like non-bottled water, coffee, and tea, and most of the onboard entertainment, such as production shows and live music. Specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, spa services, shore excursions, and gratuities are generally extra, though many of these can be included with NCL's "Free at Sea" promotional offers.

Is a European cruise a good way to see multiple countries?

Absolutely. A cruise is one of the most efficient and relaxing ways to experience multiple European countries on a single trip. You unpack only once and wake up in a new, exciting destination each morning without the stress of coordinating trains, flights, or hotels. It provides a fantastic sampler of the region's highlights.

What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise?

Pack lightweight clothing that can be layered, as temperatures can vary from morning to evening. Essential items include very comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a light jacket or sweater. Also, bring a smart casual outfit or two if you plan on dining at the specialty restaurants. Remember a portable power bank for your phone on long port days.

Why should I book my cruise with a travel agent?

Booking with an experienced travel agent provides immense value. We act as your personal advocate, saving you time and money. We have expert knowledge of the ships, staterooms, and itineraries, and can offer personalized recommendations you won't find online. We often have access to exclusive deals, onboard credits, or other perks. Most importantly, we handle all the details and are there to assist you before, during, and after your trip, ensuring a completely stress-free experience. Plan Your Europe Adventure with us to experience the difference firsthand.