If 2025 has flown by in a blur and you weren’t able to solidify your travel plans in time, don’t despair, plan for 2026. While planning for and booking your 2026 holiday a year in advance might feel like you’re getting ahead of yourself, we can assure you that it’s the best approach.
Booking in now can save you not only the fear of missing out on a European holiday but also, potentially, save you valuable spending money. Especially when you’re looking to book an in-demand cruise. Prepare yourself with all the cruising essentials and keep reading to find out how to secure the best deals.
Cruising through Europe
Booking a cruising holiday allows you to see all the sights without having to constantly unpack your suitcase. Given that many Mediterranean cities lie on the coastline, there’s never been a better way to experience the sights than on a Celebrity cruise.
Celebrity Xcel is the cruise line’s latest elevated holiday experience. Designed to be your happy place, the ship has everything you would want on offer, taking romantic getaways to the next level. With world-class restaurants, — such as the al fresco offering Bora — multiple pools and a relaxing spa, the expansive offerings make it a destination in and of itself.
Add in the incredible European city stops along the way, from Rome to Athens, Barcelona and beyond and you’ve found yourself the perfect holiday abroad (or should we say, ‘aboard’).
Sounds amazing? The best is yet to come – book now and save up to 75 per cent off your second guest plus, bonus savings on select dates.
Need a little more convincing? Here are some of the unmissable stops to make along the way.
Must-see European itineraries
Discover ancient wonders with Spain, Portugal and Morocco
While technically not entirely European this 11-night cruise aboard the brand-new Celebrity Xcel ship takes you through the vibrant, hub of cultural activity that is Barcelona, Seville, Lisbon, Funchal, Tangier and Palma De Mallorca. Stepping off the ship you’ll be wowed by Antoni Gaudí’s architectural wonders, while Museu Picasso, Fundació Joan Miró, and Casa Padellàs are a must. Steeped in rich history, as you wind through the narrow streets reminiscent of a different time be sure to pick up a delicious pastel de nata to sweeten the journey. Sailing through the Strait of Gibraltar, you’ll get to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline Tangier has to offer. Be sure to disembark to catch sight of the stunning arched spectacle that is the Grand Mosque of Tangier and experience the ceremony of pouring Moroccan mint tea. While back onboard your tea might be poured from a regular height, but you’ll still be able to continue the Mediterranean-esque way of dining, al fresco at the stunning Bora restaurant. You’ll finish off your journey by passing through Palma De Mallorca on your way to dock back in Barcelona.
Explore Italy, Spain and the French Riviera
Cruising through the undeniably beautiful coastlines, this seven-day Celebrity Xcel voyage departs from Barcelona taking you to Nice, Florence, Santa Margherita, Rome and Naples. The breathtaking cruise will allow you to enjoy life at a slower, food-centric pace. The unique outward facing design of the Celebrity Xcel will allow you to get the best views as you sail past Portofino’s dramatic coastal landscape, dotted with colourful buildings. With carefully curated shore excursions, you’ll be able to disembark to see the incredible ancient Roman ruins and gorge yourself on all the unbelievable food. And continue the feast aboard with the multiple fine dining options available, such as the Fine Cut Steakhouse and Le Petit Chef.
Uncover the Mediterranean with Greece, Malta and Türkiye
Aboard the eight-night Celebrity Xcel journey, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking sunsets, sparkling blue oceans and incredible history. Starting in Athens, the ancient city has so much history and architecture to offer. And because going to Greece and not visiting any of the islands is simply not an option, this cruise takes you to the vibrant shores of Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes. Here you’ll experience the welcoming culture, stunning natural beauty and unmissable food. To continue with the cruise, you’ll alight in the European-adjacent Türkiye. Where the ancient ruins and Ottoman heritage tell an incredible story of what once was. And to finish the tour of hidden gems, the cruise will dock in Malta. A unique city that is entirely UNESCO Heritage listed, you’ll be back onboard, enjoying seeing the sun fade as you relax on the retreat sundeck reminiscing of the Baroque masterpiece that is St. John’s Co-Cathedral.
Nothing Comes Close to Celebrity Cruises. Sail to more than 300 destinations aboard Celebrity’s award-winning fleet where you’ll enjoy the intimate feel and thoughtful service of a smaller ship, the variety and excitement of a bigger one, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Visit celebrity.com/au.Â
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