Why You Should Always Add Pre- and Post-Cruise Extensions on a European Cruise

Make the Most of Your Travel Time

You've already crossed the ocean — why rush back home?
Traveling to Europe is a significant investment of time, energy, and money. In the 19th century, crossing the Atlantic took six days by ship. Today, we’re fortunate to make the journey in just 6–7 hours from the East Coast. But the principle remains the same: if you're going that far, make it count. Adding a few days before and after your cruise allows you to soak up more of Europe — without feeling rushed.

Avoid Jet Lag Stress

Arriving early helps your body adjust, so you board the ship refreshed, not groggy.
Jet lag is no joke, especially when flying east. Even if you manage to sleep on the flight or take medication to ease the transition, your body still needs time to adjust. Why not ease into your European journey with a relaxed hotel stay, a leisurely breakfast, and maybe even a stroll through a beautiful old town before embarking. Starting your cruise well-rested sets the tone for the whole trip.

Access Exclusive Local Experiences

Private wine tastings in Tuscany. After-hours museum visits in Vienna. Yes, we can make it happen at DeSalvio Travel.
These are the kinds of moments you’ll remember long after your trip ends. A pre- or post-cruise extension offers the perfect window for immersive, local experiences that aren’t possible on standard itineraries. We use our local and vetted partners to make your time on land unforgettable.

Deepen Your Cultural Connection

Extra days = richer memories.
A cruise is a wonderful way to explore multiple destinations. And the extensions allow you to slow down and go deeper. Think: pasta-making with a nonna in Tuscany, a truffle hunt in Piedmont, or visiting a violin maker’s atelier in Cremona. These personalized touches give you a more intimate understanding of European life, history and culture.

At DeSalvio Travel, we work with handpicked local partners to create truly bespoke experiences — always tailored to your interests, language needs, and style of travel.

Smoother Travel Transitions

No stress, no rushing — just seamless travel from start to finish.
Tight connections and early arrivals can create unnecessary tension. By adding extra days before or after your cruise, you avoid logistical stress and reduce the risk of missed connections. From private airport transfers and boutique hotel stays to guided city tours, we coordinate every detail so your journey flows naturally — from airport to ship to cobblestone streets in downtown Lisbon.

Add a Touch of Luxury

This is your vacation, it should feel effortless.
Whether you prefer a quiet countryside villa, a design-forward city hotel, or a five-star palace with spa and fine dining, your pre- and post-cruise stays can reflect your personal travel style. We tailor everything to your comfort level and ensure you're being treated perfectly every step of the way.

Perfect Endings (and Beginnings)

The last moments of a trip matter and we can make them unforgettable.
There’s something special about ending your cruise with a final glass of wine in Paris, or beginning it with a sunset walk along the canals of Amsterdam. These moments are what tie a journey together. They provide space to reflect, reconnect, and fully savor the experience you’ve just had — or are about to begin.

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Your Cruise Deserves a Grand Entrance — and a Proper Farewell

Let us craft your perfect pre- and post-cruise extensions. Get in touch for a personalized itinerary that goes beyond the cruise brochure.

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Robert Poortinga  
Travel Booking Assistant  
River cruise & Europe destination expert  
Culinary and art travel specialist