The romance of Europe from the Mediterranean and Greek Isles to the Baltic region is truly special, if not magical. It's an area of the world where history is around every corner and life moves at a slower pace. And there's no better way to experience this than on a European cruise vacation.

Mediterranean and Greek Isles

On a Mediterranean cruise itinerary passengers can expect to visit an impressive number of destinations during a one or two week itinerary. A cruise vacation can be taken year round in the Mediterranean but the best weather is from May through September.

Given the size of the Mediterranean, cruises within the western half feature more ports than many other cruises, typically calling in at Spain, France, Italy, Monaco, Malta and Croatia. This region offers a kaleidoscopic array of interests from art and museums to cuisine that is varied from enticingly rustic to contemporary and sophisticated. Scenic country escapes are often just steps away and shopping opportunities range from chic boutiques to colorful local markets laden with fresh produce.

The cultural diversity of the countries within the western Mediterranean makes it an intriguing and enlightening region to experience. The cosmopolitan city of Barcelona is the most common stop in Spain, with tours taking in the Gothic Quarter, Gaudi's Sagrada Familia Church and several other urban vistas. Monte Carlo is another popular stop on a cruise of the western Mediterranean, where passengers can enjoy the casinos, gambling and glitz or simply soak in the extravagant displays of wealth.

Several Italian cities are usually included on cruises of the Mediterranean, including Venice, Naples, Florence and 'The Eternal City', Rome. Filled with history, art, culture and fantastic evening entertainments, the cities of Italy are often considered the highlight of the cruise.

Malta and Croatia are also popular with passengers; both offer a sunny and welcoming ambience along with ancient architecture, virtually unchanged since the 13th century.

Cruising the eastern Mediterranean calls for stops in Greece and Turkey. In Greece passengers can see the birthplace of the Olympics at Olympia, stroll around the inspiring Acropolis museum of Piraeus, or experience the bustling metropolis of modern day Athens. The Greek Isles of Mykonos, Corfu, Rhodes, Santorini, Patmos, Samos and uninhabited Delos, are also frequently visited by cruise ships.

Turkey also features heavily on a cruise of the eastern Mediterranean, with Istanbul, Bodrom and Kusadasi among the ports of call. The Islamic culture of Istanbul offers a dramatically different sightseeing experience from the rest of the Mediterranean. Take a stroll through the Grand Bazaar markets, or see the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque, towering above the labyrinthine city streets.

The Baltics

The Baltic is truly one of the most fascinating regions in the world, representing captivating imperial treasures and spectacular scenery. From the earliest Viking invaders setting out from its frigid waters, the Baltic has been at the heart of some of the most significant developments in history. On top of that is some of the most cultured and refined cities in Europe.

The first stop on most cruises of the Baltic is the charming Danish city of Copenhagen. The city is famous for its fairytale charm, typified by grand castles and statues of the Little Mermaid and Hans Christian Andersen. A walk in Tivoli Gardens is a must. Stockholm is another of the first stops and is one of the most attractive cities in the region, with a mix of ancient and ultramodern architecture. The Old City is adjacent to the inner harbor and feels very medieval. Narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets brimming with shops and cafes add to the charm. At noon each day, visitors can watch the pomp and circumstance of the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace.

Further on from Stockholm is Helsinki, offering cruise passengers an immense array of cultural diversity, including architectural gems and eclectic shopping opportunities. Estonia, whose Tallinn is so charmingly restored it's easy to feel like you're on a movie set, has already become a Baltic itinerary staple.

The grandeur of St. Petersburg is for many the highlight of a Baltic cruise. Delve deep into the city's bloody 300-year history, admire the beautiful architecture of the Winter Palace and Church of the Spilt Blood, gawk at the amazing art collection in the Hermitage Museum (one of the best in the world), stroll along the rivers and canals, or simply explore this most fascinating city.

The Baltic region's cruising season is quite similar to Alaska where you'll find the greatest choice of itineraries occurring during the prime months of July and August. But intrepid travelers can take advantage of early cruise vacations during May and June and end of season voyages in September.

From verdant hills to sweeping promenades, lovely beaches, intimate cafes and sophisticated culture, Europe is a treasure trove of delights that will make for the cruise vacation of a lifetime.

- Anita Dunham-Potter
Anita Dunham-Potter is a Pittsburgh-based travel journalist specializing in cruise travel and cruise vacations. In addition to writing pieces for Princess Cruises, Anita is a weekly travel columnist for MSNBC.com and Tripso, and she is a contributor to Fodor's "Complete Guide to Caribbean Cruises 2007