Europe’s coastlines and rivers take you through thousands of years of history and culture and an exhilarating array of languages, cuisines and lifestyles. Landscapes range from glaciated fjords to sun-sparkling Mediterranean islands, and you’ll find an array of wonderful experiences in every port.

CUNARD’S “SPAIN AND PORTUGAL” CRUISE

The cruise This 12-night round-trip from Southampton adroitly combines bucket-list sights with lesser-known but rewarding small ports, while days at sea encourage relaxation.

Highlights The sail into Lisbon, draped over hills and fronting the Tagus River, will have you pacing the deck, while the Portuguese capital’s tangle
of time-worn streets makes for great idle wandering. Pilgrim destination Santiago de Compostela, reached on an excursion from La Coruña, is a must.
Ashore Seville and Granada are superb, but if you’ve been there before the ports of Cadiz and Malaga are both charming cities with histories enhanced by vibrant local life. Cartagena is a hit, thanks to its magnificent Roman amphitheatre. On board The 2061-passenger Queen Victoria has old-fashioned style and sophistication that recalls the heyday of transatlantic liners: think afternoon teas, ballroom dancing and dressing for dinner. Pools, a spa, shops, daytime education programs and evening entertainment keep you amused.

Sail away From $1949pp, departing September 19, 2023; cunard.com.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE’S “ITALY,…