Europe’s best cruise destination for Brits has been revealed with its incredible landmarks, sunny beach and brilliant food – and it’s the best value too
Brits looking to book cruises this summer may want to consider a trip to Spain, where they’ll find Europe’s best value cruise destination according to experts.
Interest in cruise holidays has been rising in the last year, with insiders noting that searches for sailings have increased by 700% year on year. According to a study from Avanti Travel Insurance, Barcelona has been crowned Europe’s best cruise holiday, beating out a number of sun-soaked destinations in the likes of Mexico and the Caribbean.
The gorgeous city, which enjoys balmy temperatures of 23C in May, was named the overall best cruise hotspot for food and wine, romantic landmarks for couples, and the best value for holidaymakers on a budget.
It’s not surprising that Barcelona is such a hit; there’s heaps to see and do in the city. La Sagrada Familia is a must-visit with its incredible architecture, while the eye-catching mosaics in Park Guell are the stuff of Instagram dreams. Oh, and don’t miss out on the impressive buildings created by Gaudi – the Gaudà House Museum is one you’ll want to make time for on the itinerary.
Of course Spain is famed for its incredible tapas and wine scene, and Barcelona won’t leave foodies disappointed thanks to countless tapas bars that can be found hidden around every corner. The Gothic Quarter is particular popular with visitors too thanks to the pretty buildings, quirky boutiques and amazing eateries, not to mention it’s not too far from the cruise ports if you’re only in town for a day or two as part of a wider itinerary.
Then of course for sun-seekers, Barcelona has a long stretch of golden sandy beach where you can relax with a cocktail or two and take in the ocean views. (Although if you are going to hit the beach make sure you adhere to new dress code rules when you head back into the city or you could face a £500 fine!).
There’s more good news for intrepid explorers too, as Barcelona is home to some cruise ports meaning that there are plenty of cruise lines offering sailings to and from the sun-soaked city. P&O Cruises, Royal Caribbean, TUI and MSC Cruises are just some of the big brands with Barcelona regularly featuring on the itinerary, while Disney Cruise Line often runs seasons where it operates one of its ships from Barcelona.
The Spanish city wasn’t the only European destination to make the cut in the top 10 global best destinations according to Avanti Travel Insurance, with Portugal’s Lisbon taking the fifth place. Meanwhile it was Tampa in Florida which was crowned the overall winner in global rankings – you can check out the full list below.
- Tampa, USA
- Cozumel, Mexico
- Barcelona, Spain
- Grand Turk Island, Turks & Caicos
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Costa Maya, Mexico
- Barbados
- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
- St Lucia
- Dominica
You can find out more on avantitravelinsurance.co.uk.
Want more cruise tips, deals and news straight to your inbox each week? Sign up to our Anchors Away newsletter.
