Dream routes on the sea and rivers: from the Mediterranean to the Norwegian fjords and the Danube. The complete guide for your first (or next) cruise.
Mediterranean cruises are ideal for first-timers: short journey to the port, many stops and a wide choice of ships. Nature lovers choose the Norwegian fjords, sun-seekers the Caribbean in winter, explorers Southeast Asia, and those who prefer a calmer trip a river cruise on the Danube. Cabin type, season and drinks packages have the biggest effect on the price.
A cruise is the only travel format where you wake up in a different city every morning without repacking once. Your hotel travels with you – complete with restaurants, pools, shows and spa.
Cruises offer a unique mix of relaxation and discovery. On sea days you enjoy pools, spa and entertainment; on port days you explore cities and cultures. And the best part: you don't have to worry about a thing.
This guide shows you the best cruise routes, offers tips on cabin choice and life on board, and helps you plan the perfect trip on the water.
From sun-drenched coasts to majestic fjords – these routes are unforgettable.
The classic and perfect for beginners. In one week you visit Barcelona, Rome, Marseille, Dubrovnik and the Greek islands – without repacking.
Steep rock faces, waterfalls right beside the ship and Scandinavian cosiness. In summer you sail in the midnight sun.
Postcard beaches, turquoise water and reggae beats in an all-inclusive package. Snorkelling, rum tastings and beach barbecues.
Exotic cultures and beach paradises. From Singapore you reach Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Penang and Phuket.
The elegant alternative to ocean cruises. From Passau to Budapest, gliding through Vienna, Bratislava and the Wachau wine region.
From cabin choice to seasickness – everything you need to know.
The 5 destinations differ mainly in budget, travel time and best season, for example Mediterranean (Apr–Oct), Norwegian Fjords (May–Sep) and Caribbean (Nov–Apr). The table compares all values side by side.
| Route | Budget | Duration | Season | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean | €€ | 7–14 days | Apr–Oct | Cities & Culture |
| Norwegian Fjords | €€€ | 7–12 days | May–Sep | Nature & Panorama |
| Caribbean | €€ | 7–14 days | Nov–Apr | Beach & Party |
| Southeast Asia | €€ | 10–14 days | Nov–Mar | Exotic & Culture |
| Danube | €€€ | 7–10 days | Apr–Oct | River & Culture |
3 free HolidayGenie tools help you plan: Budget Calculator, Packing List and Holiday Finder. They run directly in your browser and complement the destination tips on this page.
Frequently asked questions
The Mediterranean is ideal for a first cruise: the season runs from April to October, the journey to the port is short and the routes combine cities, culture and beach stops in 7 to 14 days. If you prefer a calmer trip, start with a river cruise on the Danube.
Mediterranean and Danube: April to October. Norwegian fjords: May to September. Caribbean: November to April. Southeast Asia: November to March. Outside school holidays, cabins are usually cheaper and ships less crowded.
An inside cabin is the cheapest and is enough if you only use it to sleep. A balcony cabin is especially worthwhile on fjord and river cruises. If you are prone to seasickness, book midship on a lower deck, where the motion of the waves is felt least.
Über 20.000 Kreuzfahrten von 30+ Reedereien vergleichen – Mittelmeer, Karibik, Nordeuropa, Flusskreuzfahrten und mehr.
* Weiterleitung zu e-hoi.de. Es gelten die dortigen Nutzungsbedingungen.
Reiseversicherung abschließen
Rundum-Schutz ab 9,90 € auf TravelSecure.de
If you like Cruises, you may also enjoy Luxury Holiday, Couples Holiday and Family Holiday. For every holiday type we show the best destinations with travel season, budget and insider tips.
Discover the world from the water – whether Mediterranean, fjords or Caribbean.
