Ferries may not come to mind when planning your holiday, but in many cases, they can be the most economical and fastest way to get around. While some ferries are means for simply getting you from A to B, there are some great ferry routes in Europe that offer the added incentive of being a scenic journey too.
As a bonus, many include onboard amenities like free Wi-Fi, restaurants, lounges, and even playgrounds for children. Many travellers consider the thrill of being on the open water, with the wind in your hair, and approaching your destination by boat a much more thrilling way to travel than landing at an airport.
Ferry routes in Europe
Simply drive aboard and savour the unobstructed views, whether you choose an epic island hopping trip through Greece or cruise your way between two countries.
Ancona, Italy to Split, Croatia
You’re just a hop, skip, and jump away from Croatia when exploring Italy’s eastern coast. Turn your holiday into an adventure by continuing your European travels by crossing the Adriatic Sea. Board the Jadrolinija ferry, a year-round route that departs from Ancona, Italy, and travels to Split, Croatia’s second-largest city.
You’ll be whisked along the picture-perfect Croatian coastline, past secluded beaches and small island villages on the 10-hour journey. From Split, you can take smaller ferries to Dubrovnik or fast, passenger-only catamarans to the paradise island of Hvar.
Island-hopping in Greece
A bucket list journey for many, island-hopping through Greece gives you a chance to admire some of the world’s most beautiful sun-drenched islands. If you can take a month or six weeks out to explore many islands in succession.
Departing from Piraeus on the mainland you have the option to travel to more than a dozen Greek islands. Stand on the deck and take in the azure blue sea as you make your way to Santorini, Mykonos, Syros, Ios, Rhodes, Mytilene, Karpathos, Leros, and more. They are all so beautiful, but each with its own identity.
After sailing the deep blue Mediterranean Sea, you’ll be immersed in Greece’s beautiful landscapes that include pebbly beaches, vineyards, olive groves, and traditional stone houses. Oh, and of course the iconic blue-roofed buildings. Gorgeous.
Find accommodation in Santorini
Ferry routes in Europe: Stockholm, Sweden to Helsinki, Finland
If you’re looking for luxury amenities, the ferry route between the Swedish capital of Stockholm and the Finnish capital of Helsinki is a popular option.
On competing ferry lines Viking Line and Tallink Silja Line, you’ll be treated to on-site perks like gourmet restaurants, saunas, shopping, live entertainment, and private cabins – offering some of the most lavish ferry experiences in Europe.
With most ferries leaving in the afternoon and arriving the next morning, you’ll have plenty of time to take advantage of the amenities while taking in dazzling views of the Swedish archipelago.
Find accommodation in Helsinki
Spain & Morocco – Southern Europe and Northern Africa
Separated by the Strait of Gibraltar where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea, the journey between Spain and Morocco is considered one of Europe’s best ferry routes. Cross the Strait of Gibraltar stress-free on a short-yet-epic ride from e.g. Algeciras in southern Spain to the northern tip of Morocco.
With ferries boasting on-site amenities like restaurants, duty-free shopping, and playgrounds for kids, it’s easy to take advantage of the quick connection. Sit back and enjoy stunning views of Gibraltar, then disembark in Tangier or Ceuta and start your exploration of Morocco.
Copenhagen, Denmark to Oslo, Norway
The ferry ride between Copenhagen and Oslo may last about 17 hours, but it’s a pleasure believe us! Departing from the capital of Denmark, you’ll have plenty of time to find your way to your private cabin (make sure you book one with a sea view!) and settle in before exploring the ship. On these DFDS ships, you’ll find more than enough to entertain you: restaurants, bars and clubs, tax-free shopping, play areas, special activities for kids during school holidays, and even a swimming pool. Fall asleep after an evening that’s as wild or relaxed as you like and wake up to gorgeous views of the Oslo fjord as you enjoy breakfast. Sublime!
Turkey: Istanbul – Uskudar
To be honest, any ferry from Istanbul is going to be amazing due to its position on the Golden Horn waterway, the Bosphorus strait, and the Sea of Marmara. Plus all the iconic city sights there are dotted around the city. The capital city’s harbour offers many routes in all directions but we’ve chosen the Uskudar route because you travel to the Asian side of the city.
Short but very sweet, you’ll leave from Eminonu by the Galata Bridge for a 30-minute ferry ride. Look back for views of the iconic blue mosque as you leave and as you glide along you’ll see Maiden’s Tower lighthouse 200m from the Asian side and also waterfront attractions like the splendid Beylerbeyi Palace and the 1500s Şemsi Paşa mosque.
Saint-Malo, France – Jersey, The Channel Islands
Often overlooked, Jersey is a stunning island to approach by water if the weather is fine. Set off from Saint-Malo in France for a 90-minute journey to the Bailiwick of Jersey. Travelling by Condor ferries (foot or car), you’ll find shopping and restaurants onboard. Or simply breathe in the sea air and admire the dramatic cliffs and gorgeous beaches as you make your approach. This journey operates twice daily.
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