When it comes to choosing a cruise itinerary, many travellers immediately picture bustling ports such as Barcelona, Rome or Athens. While these destinations are undoubtedly spectacular, cruising also opens up the chance to visit lesser-known gems that can be harder to reach by land or air. For those who enjoy immersive travel and cultural discovery, these hidden treasures can transform an already memorable holiday into something extraordinary.
Below are some of the most captivating under-the-radar cruise destinations in Europe and beyond – and why 2026 is shaping up to be the perfect year to set sail.
Kotor, Montenegro
Tucked away in a fjord-like bay on the Adriatic coast, Kotor is a medieval town filled with cobbled streets, Venetian architecture and breathtaking mountain backdrops. Arriving by sea is part of the magic – the narrow passage into the Bay of Kotor is one of the most dramatic approaches in Europe.
Spend the day exploring its UNESCO-listed old town, hike up to the fortress walls for panoramic views, or relax in a café and watch the world go by. Kotor’s manageable size makes it ideal for a one-day cruise stop, but its charm and beauty will leave you wishing for more.
Madeira, Portugal
Known as the “island of eternal spring,” Madeira is a lush paradise for nature lovers. Cruises here allow you to enjoy botanical gardens, dramatic cliffs and charming fishing villages, all without lengthy travel connections.
Wine enthusiasts can sample the island’s famous fortified wines, while adventurers might choose to hike the levadas – historic irrigation channels that cut through the mountainous landscape. In spring, Madeira bursts with colour thanks to its world-famous Flower Festival, and arriving by cruise ship gives you front-row access to the celebrations.
The Azores, Portugal
This stunning Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean feels a world away from mainland Europe. Each island has its own personality, from São Miguel’s volcanic craters and geothermal springs to Pico’s towering mountain and vineyards.
Cruises to the Azores often include whale-watching excursions, giving you the chance to spot some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With fewer crowds than many Mediterranean destinations, the Azores is ideal for travellers seeking tranquillity and unspoilt landscapes.
Visby, Sweden
For something a little different, consider a cruise that calls at Visby, a medieval town on Sweden’s Gotland island. Famous for its well-preserved city walls and rose-lined streets, Visby feels like stepping back in time. During the summer months, the town hosts a popular Medieval Week festival, with costumed parades and traditional markets – an experience few travellers forget.
La Palma, Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are often associated with the busy resorts of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, but La Palma offers a quieter, more natural side to the archipelago. Known as “La Isla Bonita” (The Beautiful Island), La Palma is home to dramatic volcanic landscapes, star-filled skies and charming colonial towns. Hike through lush laurel forests, explore the volcanic Caldera de Taburiente National Park or simply relax on a black-sand beach.
Tip: These destinations aren’t always available year-round, so it’s worth checking itineraries early. Browse the latest cruise deals to find the routes that include these unique ports of call.
Why 2026 is the year to set sail
If you’re planning ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in cruising. Several new ships are set to launch across major lines, bringing cutting-edge technology, eco-friendly design and innovative onboard experiences. These next-generation vessels will offer more sustainable fuel options, increased shore time in destinations and more varied itineraries that include off-the-beaten-track ports like Kotor, Madeira and the Azores.
Booking early for 2026 cruise deals comes with additional perks. Not only can you secure the best cabins and sailing dates, but many cruise lines are currently offering low deposits and flexible booking policies, giving you peace of mind while you plan. With demand for unique destinations increasing, getting ahead of the crowd now means you won’t miss out on those dream itineraries.
Making the most of a hidden-gem itinerary
One of the joys of cruising to lesser-known destinations is the balance of exploration and convenience. Smaller ports often have fewer crowds, making it easier to experience local culture, sample authentic cuisine and connect with the people who live there.
To truly make the most of your trip:
- Research shore excursions in advance so you can prioritise activities unique to each destination.
- Pack for variety, as some of these ports may include rugged hiking trails or outdoor adventures.
- Consider shoulder-season sailings when the weather is pleasant but the tourist numbers are lower.
Discover more hidden treasures
Cruising makes it possible to explore some of the world’s most enchanting and lesser-known destinations in one seamless journey. Whether you’re dreaming of medieval coastal towns, volcanic islands or pristine botanical havens, there’s an itinerary waiting for you.
Ready to start planning? Take a look at the latest cruise deals and secure your spot on an unforgettable voyage. With so many exciting new ships and destinations emerging, 2026 could be the perfect year to set sail and experience the world in a whole new way.
