From Castles to Cuisine: My Unforgettable Princess Cruises® Europe Review

There’s a moment on every truly great journey that crystallizes its essence. For me, it arrived with the morning sun, standing on the private balcony of my stateroom. Below, the ancient port of Civitavecchia was stirring to life, a gateway to the eternal promise of Rome. In my hand, a perfectly brewed cappuccino; on the horizon, a day of history and discovery. This wasn't just a vacation; it was an immersion. This was the magic of exploring Europe with Princess Cruises.

For over two decades, I’ve had the privilege of chronicling the world’s most luxurious travel experiences. I’ve sailed on every kind of vessel to nearly every continent. Yet, there's a unique blend of refined comfort, cultural depth, and effortless exploration that keeps me coming back to Princess, especially for a destination as rich and complex as Europe. It’s a journey that connects you not just to places, but to the very soul of a continent, all while you’re cocooned in a world of understated elegance.

If you’ve ever dreamt of waking up to a new European country outside your window, of trading the hassle of train schedules and hotel check-ins for the seamless grace of a floating luxury resort, then this review is for you. Come sail with me as I recount my voyage through the heart of the Mediterranean, a journey from ancient castles to unforgettable cuisine.

The Princess Experience: First Impressions Aboard the Enchanted Princess

Embarkation can often be a frantic, stressful affair. Not so with Princess. Thanks to their innovative MedallionClass technology, the process was astonishingly smooth. My OceanMedallion—a small, wearable disc—was sent to me before the cruise. It unlocked my stateroom door as I approached, allowed for touch-free payment, and even let me order a cocktail from a lounge chair, which was then delivered directly to my location. This isn't a gimmick; it's a fundamental enhancement of the cruise experience, removing friction and maximizing relaxation from the very first moment.

Stepping aboard the Enchanted Princess, the first thing that strikes you is the Piazza. This three-story atrium, inspired by the bustling public squares of Italy, is the vibrant heart of the ship. Bathed in natural light, with the gentle sounds of a string quartet or a Spanish guitar echoing through the air, it’s a place of constant, gentle energy. Here, you can grab a gelato, sip a glass of Barolo at Bellini’s, or simply watch the world go by. It immediately sets a tone of sophisticated leisure that permeates the entire vessel.

You can explore itineraries on magnificent ships like this one right now. Take a moment to look at the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to see the incredible European sailings available.

Life at Sea: The Ship as a Destination

While the ports of call are the stars of any European cruise, the days at sea with Princess are a cherished part of the experience. The ship isn’t just your transport; it’s a destination in its own right, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and engagement.

Your Private Sanctuary: The Stateroom

I opted for a balcony stateroom, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. It became my private portal to the Mediterranean. Waking up, sliding open the glass door, and stepping out into the fresh sea air to greet a new coastline is a ritual I’ll never forget. The room itself was impeccably designed—spacious, with a supremely comfortable Princess Luxury Bed, ample storage, and a well-appointed bathroom. It was a tranquil haven to return to after a long day of exploring ancient ruins or bustling markets.

A Culinary Voyage

Princess Cruises takes its cuisine seriously, and it shows. The dining options are vast and consistently excellent, catering to every palate. It’s a journey for your taste buds that mirrors the physical journey through Europe.

• Main Dining Rooms: The traditional dining experience is elevated here, with multi-course menus that change daily, featuring international flavors and classic cruise favorites, all served by an attentive and personable staff.
• World Fresh Marketplace: Forget any preconceived notions of a cruise buffet. This is a bright, modern space with an incredible variety of high-quality options, from hand-carved meats and fresh salads to regional specialties inspired by the ports we were visiting.
• Specialty Dining: For a truly memorable evening, the specialty restaurants are worth every penny. The Crown Grill delivered one of the best steaks I’ve had at sea, with a classic steakhouse vibe. At Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, the handmade pasta and authentic sauces transported me straight to a Roman side street.
• Casual Bites: Whether it was a fresh slice from Gigi's Pizzeria (voted "Best Pizza at Sea") or a gourmet hot dog at Salty Dog Grill, delicious, easy options were always within reach.

Relaxation and Enrichment

Sea days were a blissful canvas of choice. My favorite escape was The Sanctuary, an adults-only retreat with plush loungers, attentive service, and an atmosphere of pure serenity. For a more social vibe, the freshwater pools and hot tubs were always inviting. Evenings were often spent at the spectacular theater for a Broadway-caliber production or, my personal favorite, curled up on a lounger for Movies Under the Stars, watching a blockbuster film on a massive poolside screen with complimentary popcorn. It’s a simple pleasure, but utterly magical.

A Tapestry of Ports: The Mediterranean Unveiled

This is where a Princess cruise to Europe truly shines. Each day brings a new adventure, a new culture, a new history to uncover. The ship docks, and a continent of wonders is at your feet. Here are the highlights from my itinerary.

Barcelona, Spain: The Soul of Catalonia

Our journey began in the vibrant, art-drenched streets of Barcelona. Rather than a generic bus tour, I chose a Princess shore excursion focused on Antoni Gaudí. To stand before the surreal, soaring spires of La Sagrada Família is a humbling experience. We wandered through the whimsical Park Güell, its mosaic-covered benches offering panoramic views of the city. The day ended with a stroll down the bustling Las Ramblas, a sensory overload of flower stalls, street performers, and the tantalizing aroma of tapas.

Marseille, France: Provençal Charm

From the cosmopolitan energy of Barcelona, we sailed to the rustic charm of France’s oldest city. The Vieux Port (Old Port) is the heart of Marseille, where fishing boats bob in the harbor and the scent of bouillabaisse wafts from waterfront cafes. I took an excursion to the nearby Calanques, stunning fjord-like inlets with turquoise water cutting into white limestone cliffs—a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry.

Florence & Pisa (from Livorno), Italy: The Renaissance Reborn

This was the day I had been dreaming of. From the port of Livorno, a comfortable coach ride took us into the heart of Tuscany. In Pisa, we marveled at the impossible lean of the famous tower. But Florence… Florence is another world. Standing in the presence of Michelangelo’s David, seeing Botticelli’s "The Birth of Venus" at the Uffizi Gallery, and gazing up at Brunelleschi's magnificent Duomo—it’s like walking through the pages of an art history book. It’s a day of profound beauty that stays with you forever. If you’re trying to decide on excursions, our experts can help. If you have a quick question, the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right connects you instantly to a travel advisor.

Rome (from Civitavecchia), Italy: The Eternal City

The sheer scale of history in Rome is staggering. A Princess tour made navigating this sprawling city effortless. We walked in the footsteps of gladiators at the Colosseum, tossed a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure our return, and stood in awe in the center of St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. Every corner reveals another ancient wonder, another story etched in stone. It’s a powerful, unforgettable experience.

Feeling inspired to walk these ancient streets yourself? Plan Your Europe Adventure with a no-obligation quote from our cruise specialists.

The Princess Vibe: Who is This Cruise For?

A Princess cruise in Europe strikes a perfect chord. It’s not a raucous party ship, nor is it stuffy or formal. The atmosphere is one of relaxed elegance. It’s for the discerning traveler who appreciates excellent service, fine dining, and comfortable surroundings but whose primary focus is the destination. It’s for couples seeking a romantic and enriching getaway, for families with older children eager to learn about history, and for solo travelers who want a safe and seamless way to explore the world.

It’s for those who understand that the journey—the moments of quiet reflection on your balcony, the engaging conversations with fellow travelers over dinner, the ease of returning to a familiar, welcoming space after a day of discovery—is just as important as the destination itself.

Why a Travel Advisor is Your Best Asset for Europe

You can certainly book a cruise online, but a destination as multifaceted as Europe deserves expert guidance. Navigating the myriad of stateroom categories, dining packages (like Princess Plus and Princess Premier, which bundle drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities), and the sheer volume of shore excursions can be overwhelming. This is where we come in.

Our expertise transforms a good trip into an extraordinary one. We can offer insights you won’t find in a brochure, secure amenities you can’t get on your own, and tailor every detail to your personal travel style. We handle the logistics so you can focus on the magic. For a detailed conversation about crafting your perfect European journey, a simple call to our dedicated line at 1 (888) 883‑0460 can make all the difference. Our specialists can answer complex questions and ensure your investment is a wise one.

Let us build a personalized itinerary that matches your dreams. Get a Custom Quote and see the incredible value and peace of mind we provide.

An Unforgettable Journey Awaits

My European cruise with Princess was more than a collection of beautiful photographs and souvenirs. It was a seamless tapestry of culture, history, and cuisine, woven together with threads of comfort and impeccable service. It was the joy of unpacking just once while exploring five legendary destinations. It was the taste of authentic gelato in Florence, the sound of history echoing in the Roman Forum, and the sight of a Mediterranean sunset from the top deck of a magnificent ship.

Europe is a storybook, and a Princess Cruise is the most wonderful way to turn its pages. Your story is waiting to be written. Inquire About This Sailing today and let us handle the details of your next unforgettable chapter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year for a European cruise?

The most popular time for a Mediterranean cruise is during the late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). During these "shoulder seasons," you'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds than the peak summer months of July and August, and competitive pricing.

What is included in a Princess Cruise fare?

Your standard Princess cruise fare includes your stateroom accommodation, all meals in the main dining rooms and the World Fresh Marketplace buffet, many snack and beverage options (water, tea, coffee, juice), and access to most onboard entertainment and amenities like the pools, fitness center, and theater shows. Specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, and gratuities are typically extra, but can often be bundled for great value with packages like Princess Plus or Princess Premier.

Is Princess Cruises good for couples?

Absolutely. Princess Cruises is consistently rated as one of the best cruise lines for couples. The "relaxed elegance" vibe, romantic specialty dining options, adults-only Sanctuary, and destination-focused itineraries create the perfect environment for a romantic and enriching getaway.

What is Princess MedallionClass?

MedallionClass is a complimentary technology that enhances your cruise experience. It revolves around the OceanMedallion, a wearable device that enables features like touchless stateroom entry, simplified embarkation, on-demand service (ordering food and drinks to your location), and easy navigation around the ship via digital portals and your smartphone.

Do I need a visa for a European cruise?

For most North American and UK citizens, a visa is not required for a typical Mediterranean cruise visiting countries within the Schengen Area (like Spain, France, and Italy) for stays under 90 days. However, visa requirements can change and depend on your nationality. It is always critical to check the specific entry requirements for every country on your itinerary well in advance of your sailing date.