Cruise shore excursions are expensive, so cruise travelers often face the dilemma of whether to book them or explore ports independently. The truth is that many cruise ports can be explored independently without needing expensive shore excursions- you just need to know which cruise ports.
Visby, Gotland, Sweden
Visby is a well-preserved medieval town located on the island of Gotland in Sweden. You don’t need to book a cruise shore excursion to explore Visby. In fact, it’s better to do it on foot because the tour buses are not allowed inside the medieval walled town. Inside the walled town, you’ll see well-preserved historical structures. You can wander through cobblestone streets and explore local shops and cafes.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is another cruise port that you can explore on your own. Most cruise ships will have shuttles taking you to the city center, and these shuttles are often cheaper than booking a cruise shore excursion. You can explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Go to the Royal Mile, a historic street filled with shops and cafes. Harry Potter fans will enjoy visiting all the sights that inspired J.K. Rowling.
Guernsey, Channel Islands
Guernsey is a British Isles cruise port. You don’t need to book a cruise shore excursion in Guernsey. You can easily walk to the shops and cafes on the harbor. You can also walk to Castle Cornet, located at St. Peter Port harbor, within walking distance from the shops.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is a Baltic cruise port that you can explore on your own. Depending on where your cruise ship docks, you can either walk to the city center on your own or take a shuttle. The good news is Uber is prevalent in Stockholm, so you can easily get one to take you to visit Gamla Stan, the charming old town filled with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. The Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, and ABBA Museums are a cab ride away.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a cruise port where you can explore on your own. Many attractions are within walking distance from the cruise port. The Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen, is a popular photo opp. It can be walked from the Langelinie Pier and Nordre Toldbod ports. You can also venture into the city center within walking distance from the ports.
Bermuda
Bermuda is safe and easy to explore on your own. You can go to St. George’s and Hamilton and explore the charming streets lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Or spend the day at one of the beautiful pink sand beaches. Public transportation, including buses and ferries, makes it easy to explore the island. Check out our free Bermuda Cruise Packing List
San Juan, Puerto Rico
San Juan is an easy cruise port to explore on your own. Old San Juan is easily walkable from the cruise terminal. History enthusiasts can admire the well-preserved colonial architecture and visit landmarks like El Morro and San Cristóbal fortresses. The local shops and cafes are also within walking distance from the ship. You don’t need to book a shore excursion to enjoy San Juan. Check out What to Pack: Caribbean cruise (free packing list)
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a stunning Greek island you can easily enjoy without a tour. You can explore the charming streets of Santorini with its iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed buildings. Go souvenir shopping at the local shops and take a break at the cafes. You can leisurely walk around Santorini without needing to book a shore excursion. Check out 7 Cruise Mistakes That Will Leave You Stranded at the Cruise Port
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is a charming city within walking distance of the cruise port. Its well-preserved medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site rich with history and culture. You can explore cobblestone streets, admire medieval architecture, and visit landmarks without booking a cruise shore excursion. Check out 13 Important Things to do ASAP on the First Day of Your Cruise
Victoria, Canada
Victoria Inner Harbour is easily accessible from the cruise terminal. You can eat amazing fish and chips on the water. Visit Butchart Gardens, explore the Royal BC Museum, or take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront. Check out Most Dangerous Cruise Ports in the World
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona Cruise Port is located close to the heart of the city, making it easy to walk or take public transportation to attractions. Stroll down Las Ramblas and enjoy street performers and local vendors. Take in the architecture of the famous Sagrada Familia. Explore the shops and cafes in the Gothic Quarters. Do be careful of pickpockets in Barcelona! Check out 11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips that Every Cruiser Needs to Know
Nassau, Bahamas
You don’t need to join a cruise shore excursion in Nassau. You can easily walk from the port to the Bay Street shops, which are a block away. The famous Straw Market is nearby; it is a perfect spot for souvenirs. Local beaches are also within walking distance from the cruise port, and you can easily take a taxi to a beach. Do know that there is a travel advisory in the Bahamas, so be careful. Check out Beware Bahamas Travel Advisory Increases
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Rotterdam’s cruise port is right in the heart of the city. There is no need to join an organized shore excursion because you can wander around town on your own. The waterfront area is perfect for a stroll. It’s lined with restaurants and cafes. The city’s layout makes navigating on foot or by bike easy. Check out our free Baltic Cruise Packing List
St. Martin (Sint Maarten)
St. Martin is another easy cruise port from which to get around on your own. The beach is within walking distance of the cruise ship. You can easily walk around Philipsburg to go duty-free shopping or enjoy the cafés and restaurants. Check out 12 Important Things to Know Before Booking a Caribbean Cruise
Martinique
Martinique is an easy cruise port to explore on your own. You can easily walk to the shops and restaurants at Fort-de-France. Check out Caribbean Cruise versus Alaska Cruise: Pros and Cons
Dominica
Dominica is another Caribbean cruise port that is easy to explore independently. You can easily walk to the shops and restaurants of Roseau or take a cab to a beach. Check out 15 Caribbean Cruise Mistakes to Avoid