Summer is in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to cruise to Europe. Whether you’re wandering through Rome’s 2000-year-old streets or watching the sunset from Santorini, there’s a lot to see, do, and experience when cruising the continent.

Although you’ll find cruises all over Europe, two itineraries are more popular than the rest. First are Western Mediterranean cruises, which visit ports like Barcelona and Naples, and second are those to the Greek Isles, which call upon destinations like Mykonos and Athens.

Of the six Royal Caribbean ships sailing to Europe this summer, five are based in one of these two regions.

I cruise to Europe every year, and I’ve been lucky enough to try both itineraries several times. This year alone I cruised to the Western Mediterranean on Allure of the Seas and also boarded Explorer of the Seas for a cruise to Greece and Croatia.

Aside from the obvious differences in ships — the newer Allure of the Seas offers more varied amenities — I largely preferred my experience in Greece and the Adriatic.

This sentiment rang true on previous cruises, too. After three sailings to the Western Mediterranean and two to the Greek Isles, I’d pick the latter every time, and here’s why.

There’s just too much to see in one day in the Western Mediterranean

It’s impossible to see a city like Rome in a month — let alone a single day.

Western Mediterranean cruises may visit bucket-list destinations, but you’d be hard-pressed to see even just the highlights on one port visit.

Take Naples, as an example. Aside from being the birthplace of pizza, there’s a lot more to discover in and around the famous Italian city.

You can explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, stroll the cobblestone streets of Sorrento, and marvel at cliffside views from Positano. Those hoping to stay closer to the ship may opt for a street food tour in the city center, or perhaps make a visit to the National Archaeological Museum.

Related: 7 mistakes you'll want to avoid on a European cruise

Even if your ship is docked in the city for twelve hours, there’s no chance you’ll see all of the region’s highlights in that time. I’ve spent several weeks in the Amalfi Coast myself and have barely scratched the surface.

The same could be said about a city like Athens, which is frequently visited on cruises to Greece, but many Greek Isles cruises visit smaller cities and towns, too.

On my recent cruise, the itinerary included a port stop in Split, Croatia. The city, home to just over 160,000 people, is significantly more relaxed than a destination like Rome or Barcelona.

In just eight hours, I felt I saw most of the city’s highlights. I took a walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace, tried pastries at a local bakery, and strolled the waterfront promenade, which was lined with dozens of restaurants and bars.

In Mykonos, a short water taxi brought me right into the island’s traditional village of Chora. I walked around the labyrinthine streets, visited a nearby beach, and spent time in a 600-year-old cafe before returning to the ship.

Related: 11 things Americans should know before they travel to Europe this summer

At the end of most port days in the Greek Isles and Adriatic, I feel ready to get back onboard the ship satisfied with what I saw in the destination.

On Western Mediterranean cruises, though, I often find myself wishing I had more time. If anything, it gives a small taste of a region I can explore on a future land-based trip.

Booking excursions is almost a must in the Western Mediterranean, but I like exploring on my own

Speaking of trying to see a city like Naples or Rome in a single day, you'll find that shore excursions help maximize your time.

If your ship visits Rome, you’ll dock in the city of Civitavecchia, located an hour’s drive from Rome’s city center. For first-time visitors, navigating the metropolis can be confusing, so many passengers opt for shore excursions.

Shore excursions can take you to sights like the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain in a single day without having to worry about how you're going to get there.

Related: 3 times you shouldn't book a shore excursion during your cruise vacation

Many cruise ports in Europe are easy enough to explore without a tour, but even I’d argue the benefits of shore excursions in the biggest Western Mediterranean cities are worth it.

What I enjoyed about my two Greek Isles cruises was that I didn’t feel like I needed to plan excursions in every port.

When docked in Chania, Crete, I took a shuttle bus from the port to the city’s old harbor, which had enough restaurants, bars, and shops to keep me busy on my port day.

Later, when visiting Kotor, Montenegro, I found the town easy enough to explore without a tour. The city’s small size meant there was no need to take trains, buses, subways, or other transit to get around.

Yet on my first visit to Marseille, one of the most popular Western Mediterranean ports, I regretted not booking a tour. I paid $18 for a cruise line bus transfer into the city center, but didn’t find the area particularly interesting.

On my next visit, I splurged on a tour to nearby Aix-en-Provence, which was significantly more charming. I didn’t love feeling like I had to book a tour to make the day more enjoyable, however.

Of course, not all Mediterranean ports require a tour, and, on the contrary, some Greek Isles ports may be better explored with a tour. Some passengers book excursions in Santorini to avoid long waits for tender boats, whereas those visiting Athens may find a tour more convenient to reach the Acropolis.

Nonetheless, I generally find it easier and more interesting to explore Greek Isles and Adriatic ports on my own. Even though I may still book a short walking tour here and there, I enjoy the flexibility to explore without a full-day excursion.

For me, the best of both worlds is to combine a land-based trip with a cruise

Given the option between a Western Mediterranean cruise and a Greek Isles itinerary, I’d choose the cruise to Greece every time. Despite this, I definitely think the most popular Western Mediterranean ports are worth a visit.

Sure, cities like Naples and Palermo can be chaotic, loud, and packed with tourists, but they’re popular for a reason. For first-time visitors to Europe, a Western Mediterranean cruise can be an excellent way to get a taste of the region without worrying about planning transportation logistics from place to place.

Related: 5 things to know before taking a European cruise

Even still, you could regret having such little time in each port. When fellow Royal Caribbean Blog writer Allie cruised to Iceland, for example, she regretted not booking a land-based trip to the country instead. She felt as though four port days were not enough to see all the country had to offer.

When I fly to Europe for a cruise, I want to make the most of the time, money, and effort it takes to get there. Because of this, I always try to add extra days for land-based travel before and/or after my cruise.

When I sailed the Mediterranean on Allure of the Seas in April, I made sure to plan extra time before and after the cruise to explore more of Spain. If I arrived the evening before embarkation day (or worse, the morning of embarkation day!), there would be no time to visit places like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.

So, if you’re cruising from somewhere like Rome, try to plan a few days to see the city before or after your cruise. It’s easy to feel exhausted when exploring these places on port days, so extra days help cut down on feeling rushed.

Ultimately, pick the ports that interest you, but know what to expect

Everyone’s travel style is different, and although I may prefer Greek Isles cruises over the Western Mediterranean, others may think the opposite.

At the end of the day, the most important thing you can do is pick a cruise itinerary with ports you actually want to visit. Ports can be drastically different from one itinerary to another — even within the same region.

While my Greek Isles cruise visited Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Split, others may visit Rhodes, Crete, and Kefalonia. Likewise, a Mediterranean cruise could visit larger cities like Florence and Rome, but others may call upon lesser-visited ports like Ajaccio, Corsica.

Related: 10 reasons people end up disappointed with their cruise vacation

No one wants to be disappointed in their cruise itinerary, so you want to be prepared with the right expectations.

If you’re expecting to see all of Florence in a day, you might regret visiting the city on a cruise. Or, if you’re hoping for a calm, relaxing day in port, the crowds of Santorini could quickly leave you overwhelmed.

Either cruise destination is sure to offer a memorable vacation, but I’ll probably reserve the Western Mediterranean for land-based trips instead.

I cruise to Europe every summer, and there are a few mistakes I never make to ensure my trip goes off without a hitch.

Europe is full of exciting cruise destinations, and I’ve been fortunate enough to sail all around the continent, visiting everywhere from the Mediterranean to the Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Circle.

Throughout my seven cruises in Europe, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes. In between packing the wrong footwear, neglecting to research ports, and spending too much on shore excursions, I’ve certainly learned a few valuable lessons along the way.

These are the seven mistakes I always avoid on a European cruise so that I have the best trip possible.

I avoid picking the first itinerary I see — there are more options than you’d think

Dreaming of a European cruise? You’ll want to make sure you pick the best itinerary for your travel style.

A common mishap when planning any cruise is selecting the wrong itinerary. Every port offers something unique. History-lovers will gravitate toward the ancient ruins of Pompeii, whereas nature-focused cruisers might enjoy destinations like Norway and Iceland.

Instead of booking a European cruise based solely on price, look carefully at all the options. You might be surprised to find itineraries to the Canary Islands, northern Spain and France, and even as far east as Istanbul.

Related: What I wish I knew before taking a Mediterranean cruise

I always research itineraries thoroughly before booking. By doing so, I’ve been able to discover hidden gems around the continent.

My first European cruise, for instance, took me to the small city of La Rochelle, France. This city was nowhere on my radar to visit before coming across the cruise itinerary online, but I was blown away by the city’s quaint harbor and traditional crêperies.

Don’t limit yourself to only the most popular ports. Take a look at every itinerary the cruise line offers to find which one works best for you.

I avoid confusion in port by paying attention to logistics

Most European cruise itineraries include anywhere from three to five ports of call, but they’re not made equally. Some ships dock in the center of town, such as in Split, whereas others require a boat, bus, or train to reach the city center.

On my recent Greek Isles cruise, I paid careful attention to the logistics of each port before disembarking. Fortunately, Royal Caribbean’s app provides detailed information on any necessary tender boats, water taxis, and other local transportation.

Related: What does tender mean on a cruise ship?

By doing so, I was prepared for each port day. I lined up early for a tender ticket in Santorini, had cash ready for a water taxi in Mykonos, and reserved a disembarkation day shuttle bus to our next destination.

Doing just a few minutes of research beforehand helped me avoid unnecessary confusion in each port of call.

I avoid packing a huge suitcase — my carry-ons fit everything I need

A common mistake many travelers make when visiting Europe is overpacking.

If you plan to take any form of public transportation in Europe—whether trains, buses, or subways—you’ll quickly regret packing a large-sized suitcase.

I’ve utilized public transportation all over the continent, and I’d never bring anything larger than a carry-on suitcase. Although it’s possible to navigate transit systems with large luggage, I don’t find it worth the headache.

Related: European cruise outfits and packing guide for women

Many trains have limited luggage storage space, and subway systems can be crowded enough without a giant suitcase.

Instead, I always travel to Europe with my Away carry-on suitcase and spacious personal item-sized backpack from Amazon. The two items provide adequate space for a week’s worth of clothes and are easy enough to navigate through local transport.

I don’t limit myself to cruise line excursions

When planning port days, it’s convenient to stick with tours offered by Royal Caribbean. The tours leave directly from the ship, work with a vetted tour provider, and guarantee your arrival back to port if the tour encounters a delay.

That being said, shore excursions booked directly through the cruise line can be expensive. Royal Caribbean acts as the “middleman” between you and the tour provider, thus raising prices.

Related: 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion

I rarely book shore excursions through Royal Caribbean. Instead, I look at independent tour operators, which may offer more variety and lower prices.

On my most recent cruise to Athens, I booked a guided tour of the Acropolis through GetYourGuide.com. The tour, which included my entrance fee, was $70 per person—less than half the price of tours offered through the cruise line.

When booking on your own, though, you’ll want to account for ground transport. In Athens, I took a local bus and subway to reach the Acropolis.

Some travelers may prefer the convenience of private transport through cruise line excursions instead.

I avoid wearing new shoes, and always ensure my footwear is comfortable

If there’s only one tip you follow from this list, it should be to pack proper footwear for your European cruise.

I frequently log 20,000 steps while exploring ports of call in Europe. Most destinations are best explored on foot, and there’s a lot of ground to cover each day.

On a prior cruise to the Mediterranean, I made the mistake of wearing a brand-new pair of sneakers in port. Soon enough, my ankles were covered in blisters, and I had to live with my mistake for the rest of the trip.

Nowadays, I never pack new shoes when cruising to Europe. I’ll pack a trusty pair of worn-in sneakers instead. I usually pack a pair of sandals with an ankle strap, too, which are nice to wear on warmer port days.

Related: What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise

If your itinerary visits a notoriously wet destination, such as Iceland or Ireland, you’ll want to avoid sneakers with a mesh exterior. A rainy day or accidental step into a puddle will quickly leave your shoes (and socks) soaking wet, which is far from ideal when exploring port.

I love cruising with a pair of white, water-resistant sneakers like these from Adidas. Not only do they match nearly every outfit, but they also keep my feet dry on rainy days.

I avoid cruising to Southern Europe in July and August. Venture north instead!

If you’re set on cruising to Europe in the peak summer months, consider heading north instead.

Destinations like Rome, Santorini, and Lisbon frequently see extreme temperatures during the months of July and August. Sightseeing in 90-degree temperatures can be downright miserable!

Visiting the Norwegian fjords, as an alternative, can be an excellent choice for a summer cruise. Temperatures in the low 70s are perfect for exploring the region. Whether hiking to the spectacular Pulpit Rock or strolling along the charming streets of Stavanger, you’re unlikely to be overwhelmed with the heat.

Related: What I did right and wrong on my Royal Caribbean cruise to Norway

Outside of Norway, you can also find cruises to destinations like Iceland, the British Isles, and Denmark, all of which should offer more pleasant summer temperatures compared to countries like Italy and Spain.

Lastly, I avoid booking my European cruises too late. Itineraries can (and often do) sell out

Despite taking so many cruises to Europe, I’m still learning the ins and outs of cruising around the continent.

One mistake I’ll never make again is waiting too long to book my cruise.

Last fall, I had been eyeing Royal Caribbean’s Greek Isles itineraries, but I was in no real rush to book one. Even though I was hoping to cruise sometime in May, I figured I could bite the bullet on a booking at a later date.

So, when I finally decided to sit down and book the cruise in December, I could no longer find the itinerary on Royal Caribbean’s website. As it turned out, the cruise was fully booked.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

My procrastination had cost me my dream cruise—or so I thought.

Fortunately, a few cabins opened up the next day, perhaps due to a cancellation or expired hold. I immediately emailed my travel agent to book the cruise, and I snagged one of the last staterooms on the ship.

Needless to say, I learned my lesson about booking cruises too late. Royal Caribbean’s European itineraries are in high demand, so if you want to book your dream cruise, it’s best to do it sooner rather than later.

Royal Caribbean offers cruises each summer from Southampton, England, which is a short distance away from London. If you're like me, you'll want to spend a few days there to explore the city.

Before I ever visited London, I started doing research to find out what I should and shouldn't do to maximize my trip.

Jessica Dante is a travel expert specializing in visiting London, and her videos and blogs have the best advice I could find.

She lives in London and regularly shares the sort of information anyone looking to spend a few days in England's capital would want to know as part of a broader European vacation.

She recently shared her for recommendations on how to have the best trip possible and avoid common mistakes while in London.

Stay in Central London

If you're staying less than a week in London, Jessica recommends staying close to the area you're going to be spending the most time in.

She recommends Central London because of how centralized all the major tourist attractions are, "most people who are somewhat familiar with London would be familiar with areas like Covent Garden, Soho; Those are all super central."

Plus, staying in Central London makes it convenient to get to Waterloo Station, which is the train station that gets you to Southampton.

I then asked if there's a place to avoid staying, and she cautioned before booking a hotel on the outskirts of London to save money, to read reviews.

"I would just then look at reviews of a hotel that you're looking at, because reviews will always tell you if people thought the area, if there wasn't much going on, if there wasn't breakfast spots nearby, or if they just found it to be a bit dodgy."

London is bigger than you think

I asked Jessica what's the most common mistake tourists make when visiting, and she said it's underestimating the city's size.

"People really don't they don't understand until they get to London how expansive and wide the city is," she explained. "It is really a city that you do have to do a lot of planning for your days if you're planning to squeeze in a lot of stuff."

The issue is you might start listing places you want to visit without realizing the distances between areas.

For example, Tower of London and Notting Hill are 40 minutes away, and if you start doing more hopping around the city like that, you're going to spend half your day commuting.

"You could end up spending hours on the tube. And the tube is not always comfortable. It's not always running," Jessica said.

Her advice is plan out your day so that you don't have to rely on transport to get from each place. 

Don't buy the Oyster card

A lot of tourists think they need to buy an Oyster card to use the London Underground, but it's not only unnecessary, it's expensive.

The Oyster card is something you can buy to load credits to use the city's mass transportation. It costs around £10, but it takes time to ship and be delivered.

"They're really pointless, to be honest. There's there's just really no need for it," she explained.

Instead, all you need is probably something you already have: tap to pay on your phone or a chip-enabled credit card.

"It is really simple to just use that to pay for the tube and for the bus and whatever else transport you're going to use in London. You can even use it for things like the Uber boat, if that's something that you want to hop on."

She admitted some tourists like to buy the Oyster card as a kind of souvenir, but for visiting London for just a few days it's simply not worth it.

Skip the hop-on hop-off bus

Perhaps Jessica's most controversial recommendation was to skip paying for the hop-on hop-off bus tour.

While she says it's perfectly fine someone with mobility issues, or someone who cannot walk long distances, it's ultimately unnecessary for most people.

Her recommendation is to instead rely on the Tube or the city's double decker buses.

"We do use the double decker buses. I use them almost every day to get around the city. And you can go to the top and sit at the front, and that's a really nice view."

In terms of walking, Central London is very flat, so you won't have any hills to contend with as you get around on foot.

She added there are a lot of great parks in London, so you could take a rest and enjoy them too.

How to get from the airport into London

After flying into Heathrow Airport, how do you get your family and bags to your hotel in London?

Her top recommendation is the Heathrow Express, which is a high speed train that takes 15 minutes to get from Heathrow to Paddington Station.

But if you aren't staying near Paddington, then that might not be the most convenient option.

Another idea is to take the Elizabeth Line train because it goes to Central London stations like Tottenham Court Road and Bond Street. 

It does take longer (about 40 minutes), but is cheaper than the Heathrow Express.

If you have a lot of luggage, Jessica recommends a car service called Welcome Pickups, "they will actually track your flight and they will walk into the terminal and they will find you and then take you to the car."

If you are flying into Gatwick, do not take the Gatwick Express, "I actually think the trains work better for Gatwick. You kind of only have like a couple of options there, but they the trains go into a few different stations and avoid the Gatwick Express because it's a rip off."

Don't count on your hotel offering breakfast

One difference Americans might pick up on quickly is your hotel probably doesn't offer breakfast included in your room rate.

"I think as Americans we're quite used to hotels that have breakfast included in the room rate, and that is almost non-existent here in London," Jessica explained.

As a result, you should plan in your budget to eat breakfast out.

She said a lot of hotels offer breakfast for an additional cost, but it can be pricey.

Her recommendation is to skip the hotel breakfast and take advantage of cafes and places to eat nearby, "The great thing about staying in Central London is that you will have loads of inexpensive breakfast options and cafes."

There's quick options as well as sit down restaurants.

Two local chains she recommends are Grind (coffee shop cafe) and Dishoom (Indian and British breakfast).

You don't need to exchange money

One thing you don't need to bother with is getting cash for your time in London.

"London is mostly a cash free city at this point," Jessica said.

Instead, you can pay for everything with a credit card.  I recommend getting a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, and ensure it's either a Visa or Mastercard.  Discover and American Express are rarely accepted outside the United States.

Cash could be useful in two situations, " The only reason I would say that you would need cash is if people want to tip anybody at their hotel when they first arrive, if they want to tip their taxi driver, or if you want to tip your tour guides. All of which is not fully expected, but always welcome, of course."

Picky eaters can still find food to enjoy

London is known for its variety of international cuisines, but if you have picky eaters in your group, there's always something for them too.

My kids are not very adventurous eaters, so I asked for recommendations on what to eat with them.

Jessica said pizza is never far away, as there are a lot of Italian restaurants in the city.

He recommended Pizza Pilgrims, which started out as a street food van and has since grown into a pizzeria chain. The chain has received recognition, including being named one of the world's best pizzerias by 50 Top Pizza.

If you're looking for a quick bite, she recommended Pret A Manger or Leon, "In central London, you're never very far from one of these places."

I just got back from a trip to Europe, and I packed a few essentials that made a big difference during my flight.

Despite flying dozens of times each year, I absolutely hate being on a plane. The tiny, uncomfortable seats, inedible economy meals, and long layovers make the experience far from relaxing.

So when I flew to Barcelona last month to board a cruise on Allure of the Seas, I knew I wanted to make my flight more enjoyable. I browsed Amazon for useful items that could enhance my flight while still taking up minimal space in my carry-on and personal item.

Although there’s a limit on how enjoyable an economy flight can really be, these 13 travel essentials were a lifesaver on the long-haul journey.

Passport Organizer Case

It’s easy to lose track of your belongings on chaotic travel days, but my passport organizer keeps everything in one place.

While traveling, it’s important to keep your passport protected. Water damage and ripped pages can deem your passport invalid, and you don’t want to risk being denied entry on a flight or cruise.

I love my passport organizer case from Amazon. Aside from fitting up to four passports, it features slots for credit cards, three zipped pockets, a pen holder, detachable keychain, wrist strap, and RFID protection.

The case makes it easy to stay organized on even the longest of travel days, and I never go on a trip without it.

LINK: RFID Family Passport Wallet Holder Waterproof, Travel Document Organizer Credit Card Clutch Bag for Men Women

PRICE: $9.99

Kindle Paperwhite

A good book is one of the easiest ways to stay entertained on a long-haul flight, so I made sure to pack my Kindle Paperwhite on my flight to Barcelona.

The Kindle takes up far less room in my bag compared to a regular book, and it can also hold thousands of books at one time.

Just remember to download books before your flight takes off, as you’ll need a wifi connection to do so.

LINK: All-new Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) – Our fastest Kindle ever, with new 7" glare-free display and weeks of battery life – Black

PRICE: $159.99

Travel Dental Kit

The day before my flight to Europe was hectic, to say the least. In between working, packing, and getting my dog’s belongings ready for his sitter, I had little time to prepare.

Therefore, I was happy I purchased this travel-sized dental kit before my trip. Inside the kit was everything I needed for my 1-week trip, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash.

I always brush my teeth before and after long-haul flights, so I loved having this kit handy. I didn’t need to remember to pack each item individually, either, which was a major plus.

LINK: Practicon Adult Dental Care Kit, Travel Size Bundle w/Toothbrush with Cover, Crest Toothpaste, Floss, Tongue Cleaner and Scope Mouthwash, TSA Compliant Oral Care Kit

PRICE: $8.99

Sleep Aid

I always pack a small bottle of sleep aid for long flights, especially when flying to Europe.

Most flights from North America to Europe depart in the evening and arrive the following morning. My flight to Barcelona, for instance, left Dallas at 6PM and arrived the following day at 10AM.

To avoid feeling miserable on my first day, I took a sleep aid pill shortly after boarding the plane. The softgel pills contain diphenhydramine, which helped me get some rest before landing.

As someone who struggles to sleep on planes, I find sleep aid to be the best solution. They're also helpful when trying to adjust to the local time zone.

LINK: HealthA2Z Sleep Aid, Diphenhydramine Softgels, 50mg, Supports Deeper, Restful Sleeping, Non Habit-Forming (100 Counts)

PRICE: $5.95

Travel Neck Pillow

I’ve always avoided travel neck pillows when flying. Despite their promise of comfort, lugging around a bulky pillow for an entire trip seemed cumbersome.

Yet once I found a compact neck pillow on Amazon, I decided to give it a try. The memory foam pillow packs into a portable travel bag, shrinking the size in half for easy storage.

I was impressed with the pillow’s comfort, and the neck support proved useful when trying to sleep. However, the item still took up considerable space in my luggage. I would love to bring it with me on future trips, but only if I had room to spare.

LINK: napfun Neck Pillow for Traveling, Upgraded Travel Neck Pillow for Airplane 100% Pure Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Flight Headrest Sleep, Portable Plane Accessories, Light Grey

PRICE: $13.86

Portable Charger

Packing a portable charger for long flights is a no-brainer.

Even though most long-haul planes offer charging ports at each seat, there’s no guarantee they’ll work. On more than one occasion I’ve had a defunct USB port at my seat. Without a portable charger, I would have been out of luck.

It’s extremely important to keep your phone charged on long travel days. You’ll use it for nearly everything upon landing, whether ordering an Uber or navigating public transportation.

LINK: INIU Portable Charger, Slimmest 10000mAh 5V/3A Power Bank, USB C in&out High-Speed Charging Battery Pack, External Phone Powerbank Compatible with iPhone 16 15 14 13 12 Samsung S22 S21 Google iPad etc

PRICE: $15.99

Kleenex On-The-Go

When flying to Japan last year, I suddenly got a bloody noise mid-flight. I was stuck in the window seat with no tissues within reach. Needless to say, it was a disaster!

After that experience, I’ll never fly without Kleenex again.

I love these travel-sized packs of Kleenex. Each pack comes with ten tissues, and they fit perfectly into the side pockets of my backpack. You never know when you’ll need an emergency tissue, so it’s a good idea to be prepared.

LINK: Kleenex On-The-Go Facial Tissues, 8 On-The-Go Packs, 10 Tissues per Box, 3-Ply (80 Total Tissues)

PRICE: $2.48

Noise Cancelling Headphones

If there’s just one item you pack for a long-haul flight, it should be a pair of noise cancelling headphones.

Noise levels on airplanes can range from 85 to 105 decibels, which is far from comfortable for most passengers. It’s hard to relax with the constant background noise, but my noise cancelling headphones make it easier.

I wore my headphones for the entire duration of my flight to Barcelona. My $60 pair is an economical option, but I might invest in a higher-end option for my next flight for even better noise-blocking power.

If you’re planning to watch in-flight movies, don’t forget to pack an Aux cable or bluetooth connector, too.

LINK: ZIHNIC Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, 40H Playtime Wireless Bluetooth Headset with Deep Bass Hi-Fi Stereo Sound,Comfortable Earpads for Travel/Home/Office

PRICE: $56.99

Packing Cube With A Change Of Clothes

I always pack an extra pair of clothes for long flights. For my flight to Europe, I kept a spare outfit organized in my Thule packing cube, which I then placed in my personal item.

Having a change of clothes is essential on long-haul journeys; I like the security of an extra outfit. Whether I accidentally spill red wine on my shirt or the plane is warmer than expected, it’s nice having a change of clothes in case I need it.

If you’re traveling with checked luggage, this is even more important. Should your luggage get unexpectedly lost or delayed, it’s crucial to have an extra pair of clothes available in the meantime.

LINK: Thule Compression Packing Cubes

PRICE: $48.49

Collapsible Water Bottle

Reusable water bottles are an eco-friendly item to pack for any vacation, but they take up valuable luggage space.

As an alternative, I tried out this collapsible bottle to save space in my personal item.

I was initially hesitant the bottle would spill, but the leak-proof locking cap worked flawlessly. Once emptied, the bottle rolled up nicely to fit in my backpack.

Sometimes I forgo packing my larger reusable water bottle when luggage space is tight, so this collapsible option is a great alternative.

LINK: Collapsible Water Bottles with Straw 20oz, Leak Proof, BPA-Free, Foldable Silicone Travel Sports Water Bottle for Traveling, Hiking, Outdoors

PRICE: $17.99

Liquid IV

Speaking of my reusable water bottle, I was glad I packed Liquid IV for my flight.

Liquid IV is an electrolyte drink mix that promises enhanced hydration. With electrolytes, vitamins, and nutrients, the drink mix claims to hydrate more efficiently than regular water.

Regardless of the validity of such claims, I found the citrus flavor of Liquid IV refreshing. If anything, I was more likely to drink the flavored beverage as opposed to plain water.

The drink mix kept me hydrated, leaving me more alert and refreshed once I stepped off the plane.

LINK: Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier - Lemon Lime | Electrolyte Powder Drink Mix | 1 Pack (16 Servings)

PRICE: $21.11

Chapstick

One tiny item that makes a huge difference on long-haul flights is a tube of chapstick. The air on a plane can be extremely dry, so it’s important to keep your lips moisturized.

Chapstick not only takes up negligible space in your bag, but most brands are affordable on any budget. I always purchase a pack of three for just $4, which come in fun flavors like cherry, s’mores, and strawberry.

LINK: ChapStick Moisturizer Original Lip Balm Tubes, SPF 15 and Skin Protectant - 0.15 Oz, 3 Count (Pack of 1)

PRICE: $3.88

Compression Socks

The last item I packed for my long-haul flight to Europe was a pair of compression socks.

Compression socks improve circulation when flying, as they keep blood from pooling in your legs, ankles, and feet. This helps reduce swelling and discomfort.

The socks were absolutely hideous—they traveled all the way to my knee. Luckily, they were concealed under my leggings for the flight.

Wearing compression socks was an easy switch from my typical ankle socks, and they didn’t feel uncomfortable at all.

Given the health benefits, I’ll probably wear compression socks on my next long-haul flight, too.

LINK: CHARMKING Compression Socks for Women & Men Circulation (3 Pairs) 15-20 mmHg is Best Support for Athletic Running Cycling

PRICE: $13.99

I knew I wanted to take a cruise to Northern Europe this summer, but I also wanted to avoid the worst months to go there.

Ever since I took my first cruise in Europe a couple of years ago, I've jumped at the chance to try it again.  This year will be my third year in a row heading overseas to go on a cruise.

I'm booked on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas for two cruises in a row, where I'll visit cities in Northern Europe as well as sail the Norwegian fjords.

When I was picking out my cruises, I knew there were better months than others to sail, and I wanted to avoid the hot and crowded times of the year. 

I think I picked the best time to cruise to Northern Europe that balances weather, prices, and crowds.

Worst time to cruise Northern Europe: May, July and August

There are definitely a few months of the summer cruise season that are probably not the ideal time to cruise around Northern Europe.

I live in Florida and don't need to go anywhere that can be just as hot as where I live.  But that doesn't mean I want it frigid either.

Royal Caribbean sails ships between May and September across Europe, but not all months are created equal and I think the weather is a major factor.

While it won't get as hot as the Mediterranean, there can still be plenty warm months.  Considering I want to do a lot of outdoor activities, I'd prefer it to be comfortable.

On the flip side, I didn't want it to be unnecessarily chilly either.  

When I took a Norwegian fjords cruise in May, it was downright chilly most days and you needed a jacket.

I think the sweet spot for a European cruise is right around mid June.  You're out of the danger of a spring chill hitting, but not quite into the depths of summer.

The summer months have the highest pricing

If you want to save money on a Northern European cruise, the best prices tend to be in the shoulder season.

Another reason I was drawn to June was the pricing, as I found much better prices for a June cruise compared to later in July.

This is because of the family cruise component.  Once you're in July, kids are out of school everywhere and that drives up demand considerably.  

High season ends in mid-August, and while going later may see less crowds, it's also the beginning of seasonal closures and the summer tourism industry drawing to a close.

The two cheapest months to cruise in Northern Europe will be May and September. These months are when school is back in session, and it's also at the very start and end of the season.

Both of my cruises take place in June, and I'll wrap up both cruises at the start of July.

June is the best month for a Northern European cruise

Not only is June a great value, it also offers the most sunlight of the year.

The summer solstice takes place during this time, and that provides more sunlight than any other time of the year.  The more sun you have, the more comfortable the outdoor temperatures can be too. That makes for great viewing late at "night" during the longest days of the year.

Unlike the end of the summer cruise season, in June you don't have to worry about seasonal closures, and the possibility of seeing the midnight sun is a unique advantage.

If you have a clear night, it's well worth staying up until midnight to watch the sun dip and start back up without setting.

One more advantage of June is you can still enjoy beautiful waterfalls with a lot of water coming down from the melting snow still occurring.

Flexibility is so important, regardless of the "best" or "worst" month

You can do all the research in the world and speak to a lot of experts, but ultimately weather and crowds are going to be a variable that you can't control.

I always caution anyone that asks for a recommendation of when to cruise anywhere that just because it was the case in the past, doesn't mean it will occur again.  

More importantly, I'm a firm believer in a cruise is what you make of it.  You can choose to have a great cruise anytime of the year, or allow gripes to "ruin" your vacation.

No temperature or crowd can prevent you from enjoying a stunning view, ancient site, or incredible culinary experience if you don't let it.

Ultimately, I'd choose to cruise any month in Northern Europe over not cruising at all.  You just have to come in with a good plan, prepare for certain possibilities, and be flexible with your plans when the rain, temperature, or crowds don't cooperate.

I'm planning my first family cruise to Europe, but I almost made a mistake that happens there a lot.

Royal Caribbean sails to destinations around the world, and summer cruises in Europe are one of the highlights of the year.  Ships visit cities rich in tradition, history, and culture.

While I've been taken two European cruises so far, this year will be the first with my family. As I started to research my trip, I fell into a trap of doing things exactly like I would in the Caribbean.

The more I researched, the more I realized I had to make a change.

Cruise line excursions are convenient

I'm booked on two different European cruises, each sailing from Southampton, UK.

The first is a 8-night Northern European cruise visiting The Netherlands, Germany, and Norway.  The other sailing heads to Norway to explore the fjords.

As we got closer to our sailing, Royal Caribbean begin offering shore excursions to book.

I started looking through the options and quite quickly there was a frenzy of bookings.  Royal Caribbean has become quite adept at marketing its excursions to customers through its app and website.

It's so easy to book a tour through the cruise line, and I booked a few tours.  I booked them because they looked interesting, but also because I was worried it would sell out.

But as I started doing more research, it became clear this wasn't necessary.

It's easier to explore Europe on foot

One major difference between a European cruise compared to a Caribbean one is that your ship brings you to cities.

Across both of my cruises, our ship would be docked either in the city or nearby the city (with a shuttle service available). This makes getting into the city simple.

Another big difference is that mass transportation is far more prevalent in European cities.

Thanks to metro subway systems, trains, and buses, it's super easy to get around. Their modern infrastructure supports moving quickly and cheaply.

In the Caribbean, points of interest and activities require buses or taxis to reach them and often over rural roads.

In each city, my research pointed out lots to see and explore within the city.

Cruise line excursions in Europe bring you to the same places

When you read through the tours offered by Royal Caribbean in Europe, many are simply bus rides to get you around.

I found many "panoramic" tours offered, which is code for riding in a bus. 

And there are a lot of walking tours of cities too.

My issue with cruise line excursions is they tend to involve big groups, moving at a slow place, and spending too much time at places I don't care about and not enough at ones I do.

In an extreme example, my travel agent requested a quote to take a large group of us on a bar crawl in Hamburg, Germany.

The tour included 3 stops with a beer and snacks included at each stop, with an escort to provide general local information but is not an official guide.  The minimum requirement is 75 guests and the rate is $190 per person. 

While these include a guide and offer a narrated option, I think I can do the same thing on my own for far less money.

How I'm planning my time in each city

I realized I didn't need to book a Royal Caribbean excursion taking me to places I could probably explore on my own.

Like a lot of people, I didn't know what to do in any of these ports.  

I started off with a simple Google search of, "best things to do in ____" to figure out the top highlights.

I augmented that with YouTube searches with similar search phrases to get a better idea of what looks fun and interesting.

I jotted down the names of places, restaurants, neighborhoods, and historical sites that stood out.

I then made a spreadsheet and added the list to each day.  

My plan is to use Google Maps on my phone to guide me how to get to each one.  As we get closer to the cruise, I'll determine the best order to see each one.

Because I'm buying an eSim for my trip, it will be easy to get around with my phone in the same way I get directions when I'm within the United States.

Not only will this plan save me money, it allows us to spend more time in places we want and also deviate should we run across something fun.

My methodology is to have 3-4 spots picked out so we have a framework.  But we can easily adjust plans if something jumps out as intriguing.

I'm not totally against group tours, as some of the ports in Norway have more to do outside the city area and require longer transportation time back and forth.

Emma Le Teace is a cruise expert who frequently cruises in Europe and shared her strategy for spending less on these types of activities, "I am a big fan of just getting off and doing my own thing in cruise port."

"You really don’t need to pay for an excursion to see the main sites, a little bit of research can go a long way. Wandering on your own is, in my opinion, often much more fun and if you do dock further away from the sites you’d like to visit public transport is generally easy to use and fast. "

Most European cruise ports are right in the middle of cities or towns. You can usually walk off the ship to find things like history, food and local attractions within walking distance. 

Read more: 30 Best European Cruise Tips

Two cruise excursion websites worth checking out are Shore Excursions Group and Viator. Both of these are affiliate links, which costs you nothing extra but I make a small commission if you book something.

Because these companies sell to cruise ship passengers, they're well versed in the need to get people back in time for their cruise.

Time management is very important

An undeniable benefit of booking a tour with Royal Caribbean is the promise you'll get back to the ship and not be left behind.

Having taken a couple of cruises to Europe already, I believe the key to ensuring you get back to the ship on time is managing your time properly.

I always build in much more time than I need to get back to the ship. I do this by using Google Maps to figure out the time I need to get back, and then doubling it.

That protects me against an unforeseen delay in returning.  Plus, I always try to wrap up my day as close to the ship as I can get.

For example, if I'm going to have dinner in port before returning to the ship, I might pick a restaurant within walking distance of the ship.

I'd also never go on my own if the travel time back to the ship was more than 30-45 minutes. 

When I visited Paris and Bordeaux last summer, I booked through Royal Caribbean because of the long commute times required. It seemed too risky to me to go on my own for such a long distance.

Group excursions are a good idea for some people

There are still good reasons to book a Royal Caribbean shore excursion in Europe, depending on your needs.

Those with mobility issues will want a group that that includes transportation, especially in old cities where accessibility is limited or non-existent.

I admit on my first European cruise there was a certain level of trepidation about going on your own in a country where they speak a different language and have different customs.

Plus, there are some cruise line excursions that take you to special places, include meals, and provide peace of mind.

Ultimately, you have to make choices that you're comfortable with, and group tours might be the right choice for you.

I'd recommend considering all options before choosing any tour.

I'm headed back to Europe this summer for two cruises, and I'll be applying a few lessons learned that I think anyone else trying a European cruise should employ too.

I took my first cruise in Europe in the summer of 2023, and I went back again last year. It's expanded my cruising horizons significantly, and it's probably the highlight of my vacations.  So with a back-to-back cruise planned this summer with friends and family, I want to make sure everyone has a great time.

Prior to ever cruising in Europe, I took a dozens of cruises around North America, but there were some nuances of cruising in Europe that differed greatly from what I was accustomed to.

Royal Caribbean's summer cruise season kicks off in April and May, and it's a busy time when many ships transition from the Caribbean to Mediterranean, North Sea, or English Channel.

Before you head east as well, here are my top pieces of advice for a great time exploring the Old World.

Don't waste time converting currency

One mistake I made even before I left my house for my very first Royal Caribbean cruise in Europe was assuming I needed to get cash.

You really do not need to convert cash to Euros, Pounds, or the local currency of the countries you visit because literally every store, restaurant, and bar you encounter will take a credit card or tap to pay.

What you want to do instead of converting cash is ensure you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees and bring that instead.

It's easier, faster, and you won't waste time going out of your way to get your money converted.  Plus, you won't come home with foreign currency that will sit in your sock drawer for years.

I was skeptical how many places would take credit cards in Europe, especially street food vendors.  But truly, they all did and I was glad blog readers told me about this so I didn't waste my time.

Booking flights with Royal Caribbean can save you money

I was truly surprised how much money you can save booking a flight with Royal Caribbean.

For my cruise this summer, I booked flights directly with the airline because it was simple.  But I later cancelled it when I saw the price Royal Caribbean wanted.

Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea program allows anyone to book a flight with their cruise, but for Alaska and European cruises, there's bonus savings.

Royal Caribbean will discount flights up to $500 off each ticket for air bookings between made through March 31, 2025 on Alaska and European sailings departing between April 11 - October 27, 2025.

It saved me plenty, and I'd recommend anyone booking a flight to Europe first look at what the cruise line is offering before booking a flight directly.

Get an eSim instead of an international package

I don't remember where I read to get an eSim for my phone, but I'm so glad I did.

Instead of getting an international roaming package from your cell phone carrier, an eSim is a much better approach.

An eSim means you essentially "download" a local sim card to use for your phone while in Europe.  These are super cheap, work in many different countries, and you're a primary network subscriber.  That means if the network is busy, your traffic is prioritized compared to people roaming.

My favorite one to use is Orange sim (this is an affiliate link, that costs you nothing extra but I make a small commission). 

Last year I bought the "Holiday Europe 30GB" plan for €39.99 and it more than covered my needs for the almost two weeks I was there.

I'll be buying this again for my family when we travel in June, and it makes staying in contact simple and affordable.

There's an extra step needed to get to the UK this year

Something new if you're going anywhere in the UK this summer is to complete digital paperwork.

Travelers from the US or Canada need to complete the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. If you don't, you could face fines or even be denied to fly.

It will cost you £10 ($13 USD) to apply, and it's all done online.

From what I've heard so far, it's incredibly easy and quick to get approved.

Do anything you can to minimize jetlag

I can't stress enough how important it is to do what you can to avoid getting jetlagged because it will ruin your trip.

Going west to east and skipping ahead 5 or more time zones will wreak havoc with your body's internal sleep clock. If you get jetlagged, you'll be exhausted in the afternoon and wide awake at night.  It could take 3 or 4 days to adjust back, and that's going a good portion of your cruise.

When I went to the UK last year, I committed myself to beating it by not napping on the day I arrived, but it was brutal staying awake because I was unable to sleep on the plane ride over.

Ideally, pick a flight that arrives in the late afternoon or evening local time. That way, you could get to your hotel and go to sleep quickly thereafter.

Moreover, you should give yourself a few days before the cruise begins so if you are jetlagged, you're fighting it off before all your cruise fun begins.  Plus, arriving a few days early means you get extra time to explore the country you're in and guard against a travel delay causing you to miss your cruise.

No matter when you arrive, you really want to acclimate yourself to local time as quickly as you can and unfortunately that means no napping. It's really tempting, but if you can manage to get yourself on local time quickly, you'll enjoy the cruise so much more.

Download a few movies to be able to watch offline

Another hard learned lesson from my past European trips was not having enough things downloaded to watch on my phone.

You never know when the plane's in-flight entertainment might not work, or how boring those long bus rides around Europe can be.

Have a few movies or tv shows downloaded to be able to be watched offline on your phone, just in case.

There's a far greater reliance on public transportation in Europe, and this summer, I've already got a few train and bus rides booked, in addition to my long transatlantic flights.

I regretted not having enough to watch on my first trip over, so I was sure to have a few backup flicks to enjoy.  

My preferred approach is to go through the classic movie section of whichever streaming platform you subscribe to and find Oscar award winning movies you never got a chance to see.  Thanks to boring flights, I've now seen Citizen Kane, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Insterstellar.

I'd have a few movies or shows to watch as a backup, especially if you have kids and find yourself on a long commute.

Download the MBC app

The single best choice I made when I travelled to Europe last summer was downloading the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app.

Everything you've heard about getting through Customs upon return to the United States is true, but this one app made it so much better.

There was a dedicated line for people that pre-file their paperwork with the MPC app, and that line had like 2 people in it when I got there.

It saved me so much time in line compared to everyone else, so I'd recommend everyone use it.

What you want to do is submit your information as soon as you land, while you're waiting to get off the plane because there's a small window of time to get through the line with the app.

You don't need to buy shore excursions in most ports

The reality is a lot of places you visit in Europe don't need a formal shore excursion.

Unlike the Caribbean, many ports have you docking in a sizeable city, where you can easily walk off the ship and start exploring. Even in cities where you dock away from the center, there's almost always a complimentary or extremely inexpensive transportation option to get you there. 

It's so tempting to book a shore excursion to "see the sights", but most are glorified bus tours and they aren't cheap. 

While you might not need a formal tour, you should still do some research to find a handful of places to visit while in port.  Then throw it into Google Maps and figure out the best way to see them all.

I found in most ports it's easy enough to get around on foot, or maybe leveraging the city's public transportation system.  I've even used Uber on a few occasions.

To be clear, there's nothing wrong with booking a shore excursion in Europe, but you shouldn't default to booking one as the primary way to see things there. Rather, don't overlook walking around and exploring on your own as an affordable and smart way to see the best things in each port.

If you find yourself in a port of call that doesn't scream a specific activity or thing to do, don't hesitate to simply walk into town and "go with the flow".

Last year I actually tried a "free" shore excursion in one port where I wasn't sure what to do, and it was way better than I expected because the tour guide was very knowledgeable and our group size was much smaller than cruise line run groups.

Sometimes it's easier to ditch a plan, and see what's around the corner.  You might stumble upon a fun bar, explore various neighborhoods, or enjoy a family-run restaurant.

Shore excursions are going to be very expensive

You might experience sticker shock when you start looking at tours offered to book.

This plays in a bit to the previous tip, but shore excursions simply cost more in Europe than the Caribbean.

Sometimes the cost of the tour simple "is what it is", and if you want to tour the beaches of Normandy or get a ticket to the Vatican, you're going to have to pay it.

In the time leading up to your European cruise, I'd recommend budgeting appropriately to save up for it.  Plus, pre-booking tours to lock in a sale is a good idea.

Another money-saving strategy is to look for similar tours that might be a bit cheaper. I've actually searched Google for the name of the Royal Caribbean tour and found third party tour operators that do the same or similar tour.

Knowing a few words in the local language helps a lot

While you'll likely encounter more people than not that can speak English, you really ought to learn a few basic words in the local language.

Knowing phrases like "Hello, please, thanks, excuse me, sorry," goes a long way when traveling around Europe.

It goes beyond being able to communicate, rather, it's a sign of respect that you're at least trying.  

I can speak French fairly well, but just a smile and a friendly "Salut" makes a difference in the disposition of the person you're speaking with.

Packing for Europe isn't easy

I could spend an entire article talking about packing for Europe, but my credo so far has been pack what I think I need while trying to keep it manageable.

The issue with overpacking in Europe is how to manage luggage costs with the airlines, and then dragging your luggage around once you get there.

My advice is it's better to pay luggage fees than get to Europe and realize you really need something (and need to buy more luggage as a result).

We have a packing guide for a Mediterranean cruise you can use a starting point, but I wanted to highlight a few really important things to bring with you that might be different from a Caribbean cruise:

• Really, really, good walking shoes
• UK/EU power adaptor
• Theft-proof bag
• Apple AirTags

All of these links are affiliate links, which means I get a few bucks if you buy something, but it costs you nothing extra.

There's one extra important step to take before going on a European cruise in 2025 if you're sailing from the United Kingdom.

There's a new requirement for tourists visiting the UK that goes into effect next month and it adds a piece of digital paperwork

As of January 8, 2025, travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia will need to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. European nationals have until April 2, 2025 to start using it.

It applies to tourists, business travelers, and even flight layovers. If you try to go to the UK without a valid ETA, you may face fines or be denied boarding by their airline.

The point of it is to enhance border security through advanced screening.

Essentially, this is a digital travel permission system. Don't confuse it with a visa, as it's meant to streamline border control processes and allows authorities to screen travelers before they arrive.

Do you need to get an ETA?

If you aren't a resident of Ireland or the UK, you're probably going to need to get an ETA.

However, when you need to start getting one depends on where you live.

Residents of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have already been using the system as part of a pilot program.

Citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia: The new requirement begins January 8, 2025.

Citizens of European Union countries, along with other eligible European nations: The requirement doesn't begin until April 2, 2025, but since cruises are in the summer, they'll still need to get one for this season.

The following people are exempt from getting one:

• UK and Irish citizens
• Travelers with valid UK visas

How the ETA works

The application fee is £10 ($13 USD), and it's all done online.

Once you do it, you can use it for for two years or until the your passport expires, whichever comes first. That means you can take multiple trips to the UK without re-applying again.

Here’s what you’ll need to apply:

1. A valid passport: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity for your travel plans.
2. A recent digital photo: The photo must meet UK passport photo requirements.
3. Travel details: Provide the dates and purpose of your trip.
4. A valid debit or credit card: This will be used to pay the £10 application fee.
5. An email address: This is where you’ll receive confirmation of your ETA approval.

The system claims it can take up to 3 days to process, but some people are reporting it taking just a few minutes.

You can apply for an ETA online or through the iPhone or Android apps. 

You just need to have it before you begin your travel to Europe. The airline may ask to see it before you fly.

You need to know some key information before booking your European cruise.

While Caribbean cruises are quite the popular destination, Royal Caribbean cruises also offer great European destinations.

A Royal Caribbean cruise to Europe could include stops at England, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Corsica, Greece, or Croatia.

Whether you're looking forward to tasting French wine, touring classic Italian art museums, or winding down in the Aegean Sea, a European cruise offers unique and exciting sightseeing opportunities. 

But before you book your cruise, you should know some details unique to cruising in Europe.

From learning local phrases to the best time to cruise, we'll go over the most important things to know before taking a European cruise.

1. The best time to cruise is during the shoulder season

The summer season is the peak of cruising Europe. 

You'll find that a cruise to the region between May and September will be packed with fellow tourists.

Not only that, but the summer months can get extremely hot, forcing you to conduct tours and explorations in the scorching sun.

If you'd like to avoid hot weather and crammed crowds, you'll want to sail during the off-season.

The two shoulder seasons fall in the fall and spring: between April and May and between September and October.

Read more: The worst months to cruise to Europe

Booking a cruise during these months gets you a lower price and fewer crowds.

The weather also won't be as hot. 

However, if you're sensitive to the cold, you should know that the nights can get chilly in the fall and winter. Pack lots of layers.

2. Shore excursions will feel long and tiring

An often-shared piece of advice for European cruises is to expect a lot of walking. 

A good pair of walking shoes is essential!

Shore excursions can involve a lot of foot travel, whether you're walking the cobblestone streets of an ancient city, touring a museum, or exploring old architecture.

While on a European cruise, you'll quickly learn that the days feel long and tiring. 

As well as preparing for your health, you'll want to plan by not cramming too many tours into one port day.

Since European cruises often visit one or more vibrant, historical cities on each port day, it's easy to want to try everything: visit this museum, see this landmark, or try this specific restaurant.

Pad your schedule with lots of downtime. Don't force yourself to rush around on a port day.

If possible, I'd even recommend not purchasing shore excursions or tours for every port. 

If you have to, make sure they're not all in the early morning! Your body will need lots of time to rest.

Read more: 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion

3. Fly in to your cruise port at least two days early

Especially if you're flying in from another continent, I recommend arriving at your cruise port as early as possible.

With international flights, extra transit, and the potential for delays along the way, arriving at least a day early will ensure you don't miss your cruise.

Arriving early also gives you more time to recover from intense jetlag.

The jetlag from switching time zones can be one of the most challenging parts of a European cruise: it makes you exhausted all day long, and if you don't recover quickly, it could limit your cruise experience.

Additionally, arriving in your port city early gives you extra time to explore. Whether it's Athens, London, or Barcelona, you'll get some more days on the ground to discover a new, exciting destination.

4. Research your destinations beforehand

Before you set sail on your cruise, it's important to do research beforehand.

Because so many of the countries in Europe are quite old and have so much history, there are so many things to explore.

Don't assume that your tour guides will (or have the time to) tell you everything. 

Before your cruise, research each country you'll be visiting, as well as the specific destinations you're interested in.

For example, when I took a 7-night Mediterranean cruise that stopped at Naples, I checked out a library book about Italy and read up on Pompeii, since I'd be visiting the famous site on a shore excursion.

Investigating before your cruise gives you something to do on the plane, and provides helpful context. 

You'll better understand the sights you visit, as well as local customs and cultures.

Read more: I’ve been on 3 European cruises, and I see people making the same 12 mistakes: here’s how to avoid them

5. Learn the local language

Don't expect everyone in an European country to speak English. 

It's a common language, and of course, the mother tongue in England. However, Europe is a diverse continent, and other countries speak everything from Spanish to Greek and Italian.

I also recommend reading up on a few phrases in the languages local to the countries you'll be visiting.

Even if you're not good at learning new languages, learning just a few words or phrases can go a long way.

Pull up a short YouTube video, and teach yourself "hello" and "thank you."

Also learning to ask if something speaks English is a great way to extend politeness, instead of assuming.

When I was visiting Rome, Italy, I saw a fellow American cruiser walk up to a local bathroom attendant.

Without any greeting, the American jumped into her question in English, leaving the attendant staring at her blankly.

The bathroom attendant refused to respond, and the American had to walk away with her question unanswered.

I find that politely using the local language shows respect for the culture, even if your pronunciation is bad.

Not only will your attempt endear you to shopkeepers and restaurant owners, but you can also take your cruise as an opportunity to learn more.

Who knows, you might leave your European cruise inspired to learn a new language.

Doing research ahead of a cruise vacation is always a good idea, and it paid off for me in a few ways on my recent cruise to Europe.

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas for a 7-night cruise to France and Spain, and I enjoyed the cruise so much more than I anticipated.

The ports my ship visited were far better than I anticipated, especially my stops in Bilbao and La Coruna, Spain.

In looking back at my cruise, I think there are a few "big brain" moves I made that really paid off because it enhanced my trip much more.

If you're thinking about what makes a great vacation, I think it's a cumulative effort of big and small wins that stack up. 

Here are 5 smartest things I did on my European cruise that I will do on every single future cruise I take.

Walked instead of a single tour

While it wasn't my overarching plan to start with, I ended up exploring each port of call I visited on foot rather than take an organized tour or visit a single site and I think that worked out well.

When you're in a port for only a few hours, there's a limited choice of what you can do.  I opted to take in each city by simply walking around and not committing myself to a museum, historical site, or activity.

While I don't think someone who did any of those things made a mistake, I believe taking walking tours of each city gave me a better sense of what each place has to offer, and prepared me to focus on any future visits.

Unlike the Caribbean, European cities have so much to see and do. It can feel overwhelming when you're trying to plot a course, but I'd rather have too many choices than not enough.

I relished the adventure of walking the city streets to see what was around the next corner.  I reveled in stumbling across a Gothic church, incredible food stand, or a scenic vista. 

I think if you're considering what to do in a European city, don't overlook walking around on your own. It's quite manageable, and it adds a sense of adventure to the experience.

Buy eSim card

There's no doubt the best €39.99 I spent on this trip was to get a European eSim card for my phone so I could use my phone like normal.

I purchased the Travel Orange eSim card before my cruise, and then activated as soon as I landed in London. This link contains an affiliate link, which costs you nothing extra to use.

Once activated, I had a second line on my phone that could place calls, use the internet, and text.  Not only could I stay in contact with family at home, but it made exploring Europe so much easier.

I was able to quickly use Google Maps to find the closest boulangerie, metro station, cultural site, and more. 

Earlier I wrote about how much I loved exploring each city on foot, and it was really only possible with the fact I could easily get walking directions.  Moreover, having an internet connection in London made it super simple to know which train to take.

While some American cell phone carriers have international roaming plans, I found the eSim card plan simple since all I had to do was scan a QR code and it just worked in every country I visited.

Use Mobile Passport Control app on my return

I forgot where I learned this trick, but prior to my cruise I installed the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app on my phone and it saved me so much time returning to the United States.

This is an app by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and basically it's a digital version of that blue form you usually fill out by hand.

I filled the app out while on my flight home, and then once we landed, I filed it.  When you do this, you then have 4 hours to go through customs.

I don't have Global Entry or anything like that because I don't travel internationally by air nearly enough to warrant it.  

When I go to the line for customs, I told the agent I had the MPC app and he directed me to a different line that had perhaps 4 people in it ahead of me.  

I was able to breeze through customs in a matter of minutes rather than wait in line with everyone else. 

Wore my new shoes before my trip

I knew I needed to buy new shoes for my European cruise because what I wear everyday doesn't have enough cushion for a lot of walking. However, I learned a valuable lesson about comfort.

I bought the shoes, and then heard from Sheri from Cruise Tips TV that her that she emphasized greatly, "if there is just ONE piece of advice you take away from this Mediterranean Cruise Packing List – it is to pack worn-in shoes ONLY."

I immediately took my new sneakers out of the box, put them on and wore them in the days leading up to the trip to run errands.  I wore them to the airport and on the airplane too.

As a result, my feet never bothered me during my trip and I easily logged 10,000 steps every day while in port.

Tried out a free shore excursion

When a reader suggested I try a free walking tour in La Coruna, I was leery, but it turned out to be a great choice.

GuroWalk offers free tours where there is no cost, but you are expected to tip at the end what you think is appropriate for the quality of the experience.

Our guide met myself and four other people for a great walking tour of the city, where he took us to the major historical spots around the city. We visited all sorts of sites and our guide provided context every step of the way.

Sometimes when planning a cruise, you run across a port where none of the popular activities jump out at you as the obvious choice and you find yourself at a loss of what to do.  A free tour like this ended up being a wonderful choice given the circumstances.