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From the charm of the Mediterranean to the enigma of the Northern Lights, a cruise in Europe reveals history, sun and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Sunrise Over Nyhavn in Copenhagen, Denmark: A Serene Morning with Vibrant Historic Buildings Mirrored in the Still Canal Waters

The official total, according to the UN, is 44 countries. However this figure is debated. Some count up to 51 countries within Europe, adding the likes of Turkey, Cyprus, Georgia and Armenia to the list.

How many countries are there in Europe?

Most European countries, particularly those in the Mediterranean, accept the Euro as currency. You’ll need Euro for France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Germany, Greece, The Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Slovakia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Estonia, Montenegro, Ireland and Latvia.
In Denmark you’ll need Danish Krone, in Sweden it’s Swedish Krona, in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland it’s British Pounds Sterling, in Iceland it’s Icelandic Krone, in Norway it’s Norwegian Krone and in Russia it’s Russian Rouble.

What are the currencies in Europe?

Europe enjoys over 400 World Heritage Sites, ranging from entire cities like Venice, to the historic centres of Tallinn, Bruges and Riga, and Norway’s spectacular Geirangerford. Other must-see sights include Gaudi’s famous Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Colosseum in Rome, Sintra (on a tour from Lisbon) and the Hermitage in St Petersburg.

What are the top sights to see in Europe?

This all depends on where in Europe you’re going and what you hope to see. If you’re visiting the Mediterranean, you can enjoy warm and pleasant days as early as April and well into October, while July and August generally herald the highest temperatures. Northern Europe is also best explored April-October before temperatures fall below freezing, while if you’re hoping to glimpse the Northern lights September to April offers the optimum window.&nbsp;

What is the best time of year to cruise Europe?

Summers tend to be hot and dry in central Europe, Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean, with temps in parts of Spain, Portugal and Italy climbing above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters tend to be cold, often frosty and sometimes snowy in central and Eastern Europe, while Mediterranean winters are cool with rain. Summers are coolest in Northern Europe and winters tend to be harshest here too.&nbsp;

What is the weather like in Europe?

Europe mainly operates around three time zones: Western European or WET (+0 UTC/GMT), Central European or CET (+1 UTC/GMT) and Eastern European or EET (+2 UTC/GMT).

What time zones are there in Europe?

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Frequently asked questions: European cruises

Picturesque sea view of Boka Kotor bay, Montenegro, Kotor old town

The Mediterranean is a jewel in Europe. Be captivated by crumbling coastal towns and charming fishing ports, savour exquisite sandy beaches and hidden bays, and indulge to your heart’s content.

These volcanic isles sit clustered in the east Atlantic and delight with their varied landscapes, enticing beaches, and year-round sunshine.

Panoramic view of unique Roque Cinchado unique rock formation with famous Pico del Teide mountain volcano summit in the background on a sunny day, Teide National Park, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Staying within Europe’s western reaches can be truly illuminating. You can experience Spain, France, or Portugal on an Atlantic coast adventure.

Lisbon, Portugal cityscape at Rossio Square.

Luftaufnahme der Alexander-Newski-Kathedrale und der Marienkathedrale bei Sonnenuntergang in Tallinn, Estland

Aerial view of Alexander Nevsky cathedral and St Mary's Cathedral at sunset in Tallinn, Estonia

Immerse in the wonder of icy peaks and piercing blue fjords. Fall for the charm of canal-linked streets and marvel at imperial and Gothic architecture as you venture through Northern Europe.

This UNESCO-listed land, where the midnight sun never sets, is an awe-inducing blend of glacial granite cliffs, jewel-coloured pine forests and lakes in every shade that nature can conjure.

Innvikfjorden from Skredfjellet mountain top in Norway

Grüne Lichter der Aurora Borealis über schneebedeckten Bergen und Hütten am Meer, Sommaroy, Troms og Finnmark, Norwegen

Green lights of Aurora Borealis over snowcapped mountains and cabins by the sea, Sommaroy, Troms og Finnmark, Norway

A Northern Lights cruise propels you to the heart of Norway’s atmospheric fjords, where the prospect of glimpsing nature’s famous light show only adds to the sense of wonderment.

Two women laugh over coffee and pastries in Queen Anne's Carinthia Lounge

An oven-warm scone served to you by a white-gloved waiter, a chocolate left on your pillow each night and complimentary breakfast in bed. These are the everyday experiences that await you on a cruise with Cunard. Savour the standard of our White Star Service, relax in the serenity of your ship’s spa, and enjoy evenings illuminated by theatre, music, and fine dining.

A woman stands on deck looking to camera, with New York city in the background

185 years spent refining the art of ocean travel are embodied in our uniquely famous fleet of four iconic Queens. We’ve never compromised on creating glamorous, comfortable, cultured journeys. After all, the world is too good to just cruise through.

Witness history being made as all four Queens meet in Liverpool, a landmark first. Sail on iconic Transatlantic Crossings, sun-soaked Mediterranean voyages, and an array of different itineraries from Southampton. Book your escape before 30 June 2026 to save 10%* when you book the Cunard Fare or Early Saver.

Reserve your next escape from just £50 per person with our new low deposits on selected 2026 and 2027 voyages. Book by 23 June 2026 to enjoy this exclusive offer.

We're delighted to introduce our new Cunard Signature Packages. Save up to 30% and enjoy drinks, Wi-Fi, and dining credit to use in our alternative restaurants.

Guests relax beside Queen Anne's Pavilion Pool

By booking within 90 days of sailing, you’ll unlock savings on select Late Saver Fare voyages.

Discover a world of inimitable luxury, inspired entertainment, and flavoursome world cuisine on board a Cunard Queen, all with the added advantage of a special offer.

The first places most people think of are Rome and Athens, due to their unique historical and cultural sights. Cunard also visits Spain - Barcelona features amazing Gaudi architecture that's well worth a look - Southern France - famous for its vineyards - and Croatia, where lesser-known but just as impressive historic sites await.

What are the best places to visit in the Mediterranean?

The best weather in this region is from April until November, and Cunard visits the Mediterranean within this window. If you're looking for a tan and don't mind the heat, travel in June or July, but if you prefer milder temperatures book your cruise in the autumn months.

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

Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Malta, Croatia, and Greece all use the Euro. Gibraltar uses the Gibraltar Pound, (although Pound Sterling and Euros are unofficially accepted in parts).

What is the currency in the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean has a changeable climate, depending on the season, but dry, hot and sunny days are to be expected in the peak summer months and often during spring and into autumn. It's not out of the question for temperatures to exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in July or August while even September and October can herald warm and pleasant weather. If you're hoping to spend time relaxing on some of the Mediterranean's sandy beaches, it's best to avoid travel during November to March when temperatures are cooler and days can be fresh and rainy.

What is the weather like in the Mediterranean?

A variety of languages are spoken in the Mediterranean. In Spain, where Spanish is the official language, you'll also find regional languages including Catalan, Galician, Basque and Occitan. Spanish is also spoken in Gibraltar, even though the official language of Gibraltar is English. Similarly, in Malta both Maltese and English are spoken.
In France the native language is French, in Italy it's Italian, in Greece it's Greek and in Croatia it's Croatian. French is also the official language of Monaco but you'll encounter Italian spoken by much of the population here too.

What languages are spoken in the Mediterranean?

Depending on the time of year, you'll need cool clothes and comfortable shoes for exploring the exciting ports along your journey. A sunhat and sunscreen are a must in the summer months, and would be wise in the autumn too, as the sun can still be strong in September and October. For evenings on deck bring light jackets for when the temperatures cool.
For more details and suggested packing lists, see our special guide on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cunard.com/en-gb/cruise-destinations/mediterranean/mediterranean-cruise-packing-guide">what to pack for Mediterranean cruises</a>.

What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise?

There are twenty sovereign countries that surround the Mediterranean Sea: Spain, Gibraltar, France, Monaco, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia &amp; Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Turkey, Syria, Cyprus, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco.
Cunard typically sails to countries on the Southern European Coast; Spain, Gibraltar, France, Monaco, Italy, Malta, Croatia and Greece. Be sure to check our exciting itineraries for more details.

Which countries are in the Mediterranean?

UK and EU citizens, residents of Schengen countries, plus residents of the US, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan and New Zealand don't currently require a visa to travel to the Mediterranean, provided the duration of stay is less than 90 days.
Some countries within the Mediterranean require a minimum 6-month validity on your passport, so it's advisable to check the local requirements of the countries included in your Mediterranean cruise itinerary.

Will I need a visa for a Mediterranean cruise?

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