Lisbon named Europe's best cruise destination - a budget-friendly city break with historic streets and year-round sunshine

Published: 10:03 EDT, 19 October 2026 | Updated: 10:05 EDT, 19 October 2026 Famous for its iconic yellow trams, delicious pastel de nata custard tarts and sweeping views across the River Tagus, Lisbon has long been a favourite for a sun-soaked city break.Now, the Portuguese capital has another accolade to add to its name after being crowned Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination 2026 at the World Travel Awards.Its state-of-the-art cruise port, designed by acclaimed Portuguese architect João Luís Carrilho da Graça, welcomes thousands of passengers each year – and the numbers show just how popular the city has become.In August, Lisbon recorded a staggering 86,322 cruise passengers and 33 port calls, according to Cruise Europe, underlining its growing appeal as a gateway to one of Europe’s most captivating capitals.And unlike ports that leave visitors with a lengthy journey into the city, Lisbon’s main cruise terminal sits right on the waterfront, putting many of its best-known sights within easy walking distance.A short stroll brings visitors to the historic Alfama district, a maze of narrow cobbled streets, traditional eateries and centuries-old landmarks, including Lisbon Cathedral and the 16th-century Monastery of São Vicente de Fora. Lisbon has been named Europe's Leading Cruise Destination 2026 by the World Travel Awards A record-breaking 86,322 cruise passengers disembarked at the city in August this year Hordes head to the destination to explore its cobbled streets and sights like Lisbon CathedralIt is the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon, riddled with cobbled lanes and inclines with plenty of independent restaurants and cafes to try along the way.In August, it reaches highs of around 28C (82F) and just last month, the city was hit with highs of 36C (97F) as another heatwave swept the country – so visitors seeking a balmy trip won't be disappointed.Lisbon doesn't slow down in the winter either. The streets come alive with light displays and Christmas markets that are reasonably priced and just as impressive as others across Europe. This year marks the first time the Portuguese capital has been named Europe's Leading Cruise Destination since 2022, as Dubrovnik held onto the title for three years from 2023 to 2025. Lisbon has collected several other awards over the years, including being named Europe's Leading Cruise Port in 2023, 2022 and 2021 – bagging a total of 15 accolades from World Travel Awards since 2009.Croatia's Dubrovnik has been recognised multiple times in the awards, and this year took home Europe's Leading Seaside Metropolitan Destination.The popular spot welcomed 423 cruise ships and 571,134 passengers in the first nine months of 2026, with many stopping by to admire its medieval streets and coastal views. Lisbon has taken the crown from Dubrovnik, which held onto the title for three years from 2023 to 2025Dubrovnik's UNESCO-listed Old Town is encircled by walls that date back centuries and visitors can walk along them and enjoy views of red-tiled rooftops.Venice secured the title of Europe's Leading Cruise Destination in 2019.Before Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Saint Petersburg was recognised as Europe's Leading Cruise Destination in 2018.These days, however, the UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to Russia. On Turkey's Aegean coast, Izmir was named Europe's Leading Cruise Destination in 2011, 2012 and 2013.Copenhagen picked up the title in the earlier years, and held it from 2004 to 2007, earning it again for the final time in 2010.