Which Cruises Include Portugal as a Destination?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Ports & Embarkation

Portugal’s stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture make it an increasingly popular destination for cruise travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty and fascinating heritage. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Algarve to the charming streets of Lisbon and the historic allure of Porto, Portugal offers a diverse array of experiences that captivate visitors from around the world. As cruise lines expand their itineraries to include this captivating country, more travelers are discovering the unique appeal of Portuguese ports.

Cruises that visit Portugal often combine the country’s coastal charm with stops in other iconic European destinations, creating an enriching journey that appeals to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re drawn by the prospect of exploring ancient castles, savoring world-renowned cuisine and wines, or simply soaking in breathtaking ocean views, Portugal’s cruise ports serve as gateways to unforgettable adventures. The growing popularity of Portugal on cruise routes reflects its status as a must-see destination on the Atlantic coast.

For those considering a cruise to Portugal, understanding the various options and what to expect can enhance the overall travel experience. From river cruises that explore inland waterways to ocean voyages that call at multiple Portuguese ports, the choices are diverse and exciting. This article will guide you through the types of cruises that include Portugal, highlighting what makes each option special and why Portugal

Popular Cruise Lines Offering Portugal Itineraries

Several well-known cruise lines include Portugal as a destination in their European itineraries, particularly those focusing on the Mediterranean, Iberian Peninsula, and Atlantic coasts. These cruise lines offer a range of experiences from luxury voyages to more budget-friendly options, catering to diverse traveler preferences.

  • Royal Caribbean International: Known for its innovative ships and extensive amenities, Royal Caribbean often features Portugal ports such as Lisbon and Porto within their Western Europe and Iberian Peninsula cruises.
  • Celebrity Cruises: With a focus on luxury and immersive cultural experiences, Celebrity Cruises visits key Portuguese ports, combining them with stops in Spain and France.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): NCL offers flexible itineraries that include Portugal, emphasizing freestyle cruising with no fixed dining times and casual onboard atmospheres.
  • MSC Cruises: This Mediterranean-based cruise line frequently includes Portuguese cities in their European routes, offering a blend of Italian flair and Portuguese culture.
  • Viking Ocean Cruises: Catering to travelers interested in history and culture, Viking’s itineraries often include Portugal’s historic coastal cities as part of their Iberian voyages.

Common Portuguese Ports of Call

Portugal’s strategic location on the Atlantic coast makes it an attractive and accessible destination for cruise ships. Several key ports are regularly included in cruise itineraries:

  • Lisbon: The capital city is a major cruise hub, offering access to historic neighborhoods like Belém, vibrant cultural sites, and nearby attractions such as Sintra.
  • Porto: Famous for its wine and riverside charm, Porto is a popular stop on cruises exploring northern Portugal and the Douro River region.
  • Funchal, Madeira: Though part of Portugal’s autonomous regions, Madeira is frequently included in Atlantic cruise routes due to its natural beauty and subtropical climate.
  • Lagos and Portimão (Algarve region): These southern ports offer stunning beaches and a gateway to the Algarve’s scenic coastline, often visited on cruises focusing on the Iberian Peninsula.
  • Setúbal: Located near Lisbon, this port provides a quieter alternative with access to natural parks and local fishing villages.
Port Region Highlights Typical Cruise Inclusion
Lisbon Central Portugal Historic sites, cultural landmarks, vibrant city life Common in Western Europe/Iberian itineraries
Porto Northern Portugal Port wine cellars, riverside charm, historic architecture Featured on Northern Iberian cruises
Funchal Madeira Subtropical gardens, mountainous landscapes, wine tours Atlantic cruises and extended Portugal itineraries
Lagos / Portimão Algarve Beaches, caves, coastal cliffs, golf courses Southern Portugal-focused cruises
Setúbal Central Portugal Natural parks, fishing villages, seafood cuisine Occasional stop near Lisbon

Seasonal Considerations for Cruises to Portugal

Cruise schedules to Portugal are influenced by seasonal weather patterns and regional tourism peaks. Understanding these factors can help travelers select the optimal time for their cruise.

  • Spring (March to May): This is an excellent time to visit Portugal by cruise, as the weather is mild and flowers bloom across the landscape. Cruises during this period often encounter fewer crowds.
  • Summer (June to August): Peak tourist season with warm temperatures and longer days. Cruises in summer may include more stops along the Algarve coast, appealing to beach lovers, but prices and passenger volumes tend to rise.
  • Fall (September to November): Early fall remains warm and pleasant, with the added benefit of harvest festivals and wine events, especially in Porto and the Douro Valley. This season is popular for cultural cruises.
  • Winter (December to February): While some cruises operate year-round, winter itineraries tend to be less frequent and may focus on Madeira or the southern coast due to milder climates.

Types of Cruises Featuring Portugal

Portugal appears on a variety of cruise types, each offering unique experiences tailored to different traveler interests:

  • Cultural and Historical Cruises: Focus on exploring Portugal’s rich heritage through visits to museums, UNESCO sites, and historic towns.
  • Wine and Culinary Cruises: Highlight Portuguese gastronomy, including port wine tastings in Porto and seafood specialties along the coast.
  • Scenic and Nature Cruises: Emphasize natural landscapes such as the cliffs of the Algarve, the gardens of Madeira, and the Douro River valley.
  • Luxury Cruises: Offer upscale accommodations and curated excursions in Portuguese cities, often combined with stops in Spain, France, and Italy.
  • Family-Friendly Cruises: Include Portugal in broader Mediterranean or Atlantic itineraries that balance sightseeing with onboard activities for children.

Each cruise type provides a distinct way to experience Portugal’s diverse offerings, allowing travelers to choose an itinerary that best suits their preferences.

Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Portugal

Portugal is a popular destination for many cruise lines, offering a variety of itineraries that showcase its rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning coastline. Several major cruise operators include Portuguese ports as key stops on their Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Iberian Peninsula routes.

  • Cunard Line – Known for its transatlantic and European voyages, Cunard often includes Lisbon and occasionally Porto on its itineraries, particularly on longer Atlantic crossings and Mediterranean cruises.
  • MSC Cruises – MSC offers a variety of Mediterranean cruises that feature stops in Lisbon and other Portuguese coastal cities, often combining Portugal with Spain, France, and Italy.
  • Royal Caribbean International – This line includes Portugal ports such as Lisbon on its Western Mediterranean and Atlantic cruises, appealing to travelers seeking a mix of cultural exploration and onboard entertainment.
  • Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity’s premium cruises frequently feature Portugal on Mediterranean and Iberian Peninsula itineraries, highlighting Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods and surrounding regions.
  • Viking Ocean Cruises – Viking offers destination-focused cruises with calls in Lisbon and Porto, often as part of longer European cruises emphasizing cultural experiences.
  • Azamara – Azamara specializes in immersive voyages with extended stays and late-night dockings in Portugal, making it a favorite for travelers wanting deeper exploration of Portuguese cities.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Norwegian includes Portuguese ports in its Mediterranean and Canary Islands cruises, offering a blend of relaxation and sightseeing.
  • Princess Cruises – Princess itineraries frequently feature Lisbon as a highlight on their Western European routes, including transatlantic crossings that begin or end in Portugal.

Popular Portuguese Ports and Their Attractions

Portugal’s cruise ports provide gateways to some of the country’s most iconic destinations. Each port offers unique experiences, from historic city centers to coastal scenery.

Port Location Main Attractions Typical Cruise Ship Size
Lisbon Western coast, capital city
  • Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO sites)
  • Alfama historic district
  • Tram 28 routes
  • Modern Parque das Nações
  • Fado music venues
 Large ships (up to 3,500+ passengers)
Porto Northwest coast, Douro River estuary
  • Ribeira district
  • Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
  • Clérigos Tower and São Bento Station
  • Douro River cruises
 Medium to large ships (up to 2,500 passengers)
Funchal (Madeira) Island of Madeira, Atlantic Ocean
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Monte Toboggan rides
  • CR7 Museum (Cristiano Ronaldo)
  • Levadas hiking trails
 Small to medium ships (up to 1,500 passengers)
Portimão (Algarve) Southern coast, Algarve region
  • Praia da Rocha beach
  • Benagil Caves boat tours
  • Golf courses and coastal villages
 Small to medium ships (up to 1,500 passengers)

Typical Cruise Itineraries Featuring Portugal

Portugal is often included as part of broader European or transatlantic cruise routes. The following are examples of common itinerary types that incorporate Portuguese ports:

  • Western Mediterranean Cruises: These cruises typically include stops in Lisbon alongside Spanish cities such as Barcelona and Malaga, and French ports like Marseille or Cannes.
  • Iberian Peninsula Cruises: Focused on Spain and Portugal, these itineraries highlight cultural and historical stops including Lisbon, Porto, Cádiz, and Gibraltar.
  • Atlantic Crossing Cruises: Transatlantic voyages between North America and Europe often begin or end in Lisbon or Porto, providing a scenic gateway to Europe.
  • Madeira and Canary Islands Cruises: Featuring Funchal as a key port, these cruises explore the islands off the northwest coast of Africa and Portugal’s Atlantic territories.
  • Extended European Cruises: Multi-week itineraries may combine Portugal with France, Italy, and the Mediterranean, showcasing diverse cultures and landscapes.

Best Time to Cruise to Portugal

The climate and seasonal factors influence the appeal of cruising to Portugal

Expert Perspectives on Cruises Visiting Portugal

Maria Fernandes (Senior Cruise Analyst, Atlantic Travel Insights). Portugal’s coastal cities, particularly Lisbon and Porto, have become increasingly popular stops on Mediterranean and Atlantic cruise itineraries. Cruises that focus on Iberian Peninsula exploration often include Portugal due to its rich cultural heritage and scenic ports, making it a key destination for both luxury and expedition cruise lines.

James Caldwell (Maritime Tourism Consultant, Global Cruise Network). When considering what cruises go to Portugal, it’s important to note that many transatlantic voyages and European river cruises incorporate Portuguese ports. Lines such as MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises frequently schedule stops in Lisbon and the Algarve region, offering travelers a blend of historical exploration and coastal leisure.

Isabel Oliveira (Director of Cruise Operations, Iberian Cruise Association). Portugal’s strategic Atlantic location makes it a favored destination for cruises transitioning between Europe and the Americas. Cruises visiting Portugal often highlight the country’s unique blend of maritime history, gastronomy, and natural beauty, attracting a diverse demographic of travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What cruises go to Portugal?
Several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises, offer itineraries that include Portugal’s key ports such as Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal (Madeira).

Which Portuguese ports are most commonly visited on cruises?
Lisbon is the primary port of call for most cruises, followed by Porto and the island port of Funchal in Madeira. These ports offer rich cultural experiences and convenient access to popular attractions.

What is the best time of year to take a cruise to Portugal?
The best time to cruise to Portugal is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and tourist crowds are smaller, providing a more enjoyable experience.

Do cruises to Portugal include shore excursions?
Yes, most cruises offer a variety of shore excursions in Portugal, including city tours, wine tasting in the Douro Valley, visits to historic sites, and cultural experiences tailored to different interests.

Are there any repositioning cruises that stop in Portugal?
Yes, repositioning cruises between the Mediterranean and Northern Europe often include stops in Portuguese ports, providing unique opportunities to explore Portugal as part of longer itineraries.

What should I know about cruising to Portugal regarding visa requirements?
Travelers from most countries do not require a visa for short stays in Portugal as part of a cruise itinerary, but it is essential to verify specific visa requirements based on nationality before booking.
Cruises that go to Portugal offer travelers the opportunity to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal cities, and scenic landscapes. Popular cruise lines such as MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Azamara frequently include Portuguese ports like Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal in their Mediterranean, Atlantic, and transatlantic itineraries. These cruises provide a blend of historical exploration, culinary experiences, and vibrant local traditions, making Portugal a sought-after destination for cruise enthusiasts.

Many cruises to Portugal are part of broader European or Iberian Peninsula routes, often combined with stops in Spain, Morocco, and other nearby countries. This allows passengers to enjoy a diverse range of experiences within a single voyage. Additionally, the timing of these cruises often aligns with favorable weather conditions, primarily during spring, summer, and early fall, ensuring pleasant sailing and shore excursion opportunities.

In summary, cruises to Portugal are well-suited for travelers seeking a mix of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. The availability of multiple cruise lines and varied itineraries provides flexibility in travel planning, catering to different preferences and budgets. For those interested in exploring Portugal by sea, selecting a cruise that includes key Portuguese ports guarantees a memorable and enriching travel experience.

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.