Spring’s Sweet Spot: Culture, Coasts & River Charm

May is one of the best months to cruise in Europe. The weather is warm but not too hot and ports are vibrant and lively but not crowded. Whether you’re island-hopping through the Aegean or gliding past vineyard-clad riverbanks, the experience is as vibrant as it is relaxed. These standout destinations capture the very best of springtime cruising.

Greece

The Greek islands are basking in early summer warmth, yet still feel quiet and uncrowded. Crystal-clear waters, whitewashed villages, and lively tavernas set the stage for a quintessential Mediterranean escape. With perfect weather for swimming, sightseeing, and sunset strolls, May is one of the most idyllic times to explore the Aegean.

Danube and Rhine Rivers

The river cruise season is in full swing, with vineyards in bloom, charming medieval towns alive with spring festivals, and warm, breezy days perfect for scenic sailing. The Danube offers a rich cultural thread through cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, while the Rhine dazzles with castles, flower-filled villages, and fairytale riverbanks. It’s an enchanting way to explore the heart of Europe at a gentle pace.

France

From the sunlit Riviera to the peaceful Seine, France is radiant in May. Lavender fields begin to stir, markets overflow with fresh produce, and cities like Paris, Nice, and Bordeaux glow with seasonal charm. It’s a perfect time for culinary adventures, coastal strolls, and unhurried river journeys through wine country.

Spain & Portugal

Western Europe’s coastlines come alive in May with warm days, sea breezes and festivals that hint at the summer energy without the chaos. Explore Gaudí’s Barcelona, sip port in Porto, or wander through Lisbon’s winding lanes under brilliant blue skies. Whether coastal or inland, the region feels fresh, festive, and full of flavor.

Our Top Picks For May 2026!

Greek Islands
Greek Islands

28 May 2026, 7 nights

from £906 per person

Ports: Malta, Mykonos, Athens, Chania ...

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Vistas of France, Spain & Portugal
Vistas of France, Spain & Portugal

4 May 2026, 15 nights

from £1,453 per person

Ports: London (Tilbury), St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, Brest, Le Verdon - for Bordeaux, France ...

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Jewels Of The Rhine – Basel to Amsterdam
Jewels Of The Rhine – Basel to Amsterdam

3 May 2026, 7 nights

from £3,082 per person

Ports: Basel, Breisach, Kehl, Strasbourg ...

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Danube Delights Munich to Budapest
Danube Delights Munich to Budapest

23 May 2026, 7 nights

from £2,866 per person

Ports: Munich, Regensburg, Passau, Engelhartszell ...

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Norwegian Fjords
Norwegian Fjords

8 May 2026, 8 nights

from £2,114 per person

Ports: Southampton, Bergen, Geiranger, Olden, Norway ...

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Greece
Greece

11 May 2026, 18 nights

from £1,939 per person

Ports: Southampton, Cartagena,Spain, Messina, Sicily, Italy, Corfu, Greece ...

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