As travellers look to discover ‘detour destinations’ and explore somewhere new in 2025 and beyond, Ben Angell, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) VP and MD, APAC, has handpicked sailings to three of this year’s trending European destinations for Australian travellers who love to explore more onshore. With select sailings in key destinations still available for 2025 in addition to 2026 – it’s not too late for guests to visit Europe and tick these places off their bucket lists.
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Trieste, Italy
Often seen as a launch port for travellers keen to explore nearby Venice, Trieste is a hidden gem. A historic port tucked away between Slovenia and the Adriatic Sea, Trieste is a cultural melting pot influenced by Italian, Slovenian and Austrian heritage. Its famous attractions include the fairytale Miramare Castle and the lively sea-facing Piazza Unita d’Italia, a favourite spot for a romantic stroll after dark. Foodies will find plenty of treats to tuck into in Trieste, with local delicacies ranging from freshly caught seafood to Austrian-influenced strudel and gelato – Gelateria Zampolli is a favourite.
NCL’s European sailings departing from or finishing in Trieste offer travellers an ideal opportunity to spend a few days soaking up the town’s waterfront scenery, magnificent architecture and culture.
Departing Trieste on 03 and 24 September 2025 on board Norwegian Pearl, the 10-day Greek Isles: Greece, Turkey & Croatia itinerary incorporates a mix of some of Europe’s most beloved and emerging destinations, including Venice (Trieste) in Italy; Koper in Slovenia; Zadar and Dubrovnik in Croatia; Kotor in Montenegro; Corfu, Olympia (Katakolon), Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens (Piraeus) in Greece.
Alternatively, this 11-day Greek Isles: Santorini, Mykonos & Croatia sailing on Norwegian Pearl visits a new port each day, finishing in Trieste and is available on five departures from May to October 2025.
For those who can’t resist the pull of the magical floating city of Venice, NCL offers a three-night pre-cruise tour for guests sailing on Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Pearl, and Norwegian Getaway in 2025.
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Norway
In line with sought-after ‘coolcations’ and ‘ico-lated escapes’, Norway is having a moment in the (midnight) sun, with many of NCL’s northern European voyages calling at ports including the cosmopolitan capital, Oslo, as well as less-discovered destinations such as Maloy, Alesund, Bergen, Kristiansand and Stavanger.
Famed for its rugged natural beauty, serene waterways, and quaint traditional timber houses, Norway is ideally suited for exploring by sea. Shore excursions include hiking, kayaking, and discovering the country’s unique culture and vibrant arts scene.
A new addition to NCL’s cruise port collection for 2025, Tromsø is northern Norway’s largest city, sitting above the Arctic Circle. It is surrounded by craggy peaks and icy fjords virtually all year round. Shore excursions abound in Tromsø, allowing guests to experience its contemporary culture and natural surroundings, from walking tours to ocean kayaking.
The 15-day cruise to Europe: Norway, Scotland & Iceland on Norwegian Star departs from Oslo, Norway on 14 September 2025 and takes guests on an iconic cool-cation, visiting a new port nearly every day including Kristiansand, Stavanger, Bergen, Kristiansund, and Alesund, Norway; Reykjavik, Isafjordur, Akureyri, and Djupivogur, Iceland; Torshavn, Faroe Islands; Lerwick, Shetland Islands; Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland; London (Southampton), United Kingdom.
Also on Norwegian Star, the 12-day Northern Europe: Tromso, Alesund & Bergen round-trip voyage from Southampton on 10 October 2025 is an immersive exploration of Norway with seven ports of call – Stavanger, Alesund, Tromso, Alta, Kristiansund, Bergen and Haugesund.
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Alicante, Spain
Often overshadowed by nearby Valencia, Alicante is a coastal jewel that deserves its own moment in the sun. This Costa Blanca gem lies between mountains and sea, with miles of golden beaches and a vibrant maritime atmosphere. While many travellers rush to explore Spain’s bigger cities, Alicante offers a laid-back yet culturally rich escape, seamlessly blending Mediterranean charm with history, architecture, and beachside relaxation.
Guests can wander through the charming old town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz, where flower-draped streets lead to striking landmarks like the Cathedral de San Nicolas, a stunning example of Spanish Baroque architecture. History buffs will love exploring the La Alcudia Archaeological Sites, a working dig occupied since the Stone Age that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in, from traditional paella – Alicante’s version is packed with seafood and saffron-infused rice – to crisp churros dipped in rich chocolate.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s 9-day Mediterranean: Italy, France, & Spain cruise on Norwegian Sky, departing on 14 October 2025, offers guests the chance to immerse themselves in the diverse charms of Alicante. Departing from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, this itinerary includes stops in Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Cannes, France; Barcelona, Palma (Majorca), Alicante, Motril, and Seville (Cadiz), Spain, before concluding in Lisbon, Portugal.
Enjoy MORE value on board.
If guests want to explore these incredible cities with tremendous value, now is the time!
Still thinking Europe 2025? It’s not too late! NCL offers up to 50% off all cruises and over $3,250 in added value with NCL’s More At Sea™ included on sailings. With late stays and overnights in port**, plus world-class dining, award-winning entertainment, and premium relaxation on board, there’s no better way to experience Europe whether you sail this year, in 2026 or beyond.
Book now and don’t miss out.
For more information or to book a cruise with NCL, please get in touch with a travel professional.
*More At Sea™*—Over $3,250 in value: Value is per balcony stateroom based on a 7-day Cruise assuming 3 sea days. Applicable to first and second guests. Exclusions apply for Unlimited Premium Beverages, the Specialty Dining Package, and more. Other restrictions may apply.
