The oldest cities you can cruise to

Around the world, there are ancient cities waiting to share their timeless stories. From the temples of Luxor to the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, these 18 destinations are steeped in history. As you sail into these historic ports, you’ll step back in time to explore civilisations that have shaped the world as we know it.

Ready to uncover the past? Let’s explore the oldest cities you can cruise to!

1788 AD 

Sydney is a vibrant, modern metropolis. With its history dating back over 30,000 years, the area was originally inhabited by the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, making it a site rich in Indigenous heritage. Established as a British colony in 1788, Sydney became the birthplace of modern Australia and boasts a fascinating blend of ancient culture and colonial history. Cruise visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, stroll through the historic Rocks district with its cobblestone streets and preserved colonial architecture, or learn about the city’s deep-rooted Indigenous history at local museums and cultural sites. 

801 AD

Known as the gateway to the world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire, which flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries. Cruisers arriving in this vibrant city can explore the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, and other remarkable temples like Ta Prohm, where giant trees intertwine with centuries-old ruins. Beyond its ancient wonders, Siem Reap boasts a rich blend of traditional Cambodian culture and modern hospitality, with bustling night markets, cultural performances and local cuisine waiting to be discovered. 

1843 AD

Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia, Canada, blends rich history with stunning natural beauty. Established in 1843 as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post, the city has grown into a vibrant destination while retaining its old-world charm. Visitors arriving by cruise can explore the historic Inner Harbour, home to iconic landmarks like the elegant Fairmont Empress Hotel and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. For a deeper dive into the city’s past, the Royal BC Museum offers fascinating insights into Indigenous cultures and early settler history. 

2150 BC

Known as the ancient city of Thebes, Luxor was a thriving capital at the height of the Egyptian Empire over 4,000 years ago. Today, it is often called the “world’s greatest open-air museum” because of its breathtaking historical treasures. Cruise visitors can marvel at the monumental Karnak Temple complex, stroll through the grand Luxor Temple or cross the Nile to explore the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of legendary pharaohs like Tutankhamun lie hidden in the cliffs. 

12 BC

With its origins dating back to Roman times, Strasbourg has grown into a fascinating blend of French and German influences, owing to its unique position near the border. Its historic centre, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to architectural treasures like the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. Visitors can wander cobblestone streets lined with medieval half-timbered houses, explore the charming La Petite France district, or enjoy a leisurely boat tour through the city’s canals. 

3000 BC

With a legacy spanning over 3,400 years, Athens is a city that breathes history. Known as the cradle of Western civilisation and the birthplace of democracy, Athens offers an extraordinary journey into the past. Cruise visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon, which stands as a symbol of ancient Greek culture. The city’s rich history is woven into every corner, from the ancient Agora, where philosophers like Socrates once debated, to the National Archaeological Museum, which houses some of the world’s most significant artefacts. 

753 BC

Rome, Italy, is a timeless destination with a history spanning nearly 3,000 years. Known as the Eternal City, Rome was the heart of the mighty Roman Empire and remains a living museum of ancient wonders. Cruise visitors can explore legendary landmarks like the Colosseum, where gladiators once battled, and the Roman Forum, the political and social hub of ancient Rome. Stroll through cobblestone streets to discover Renaissance masterpieces, such as the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, or toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain to ensure your return. 

390 AD

With roots tracing back to the 5th century, Osaka has long been a vital cultural and economic hub in Japan. Cruise visitors can explore its historical treasures, such as the iconic Osaka Castle, which played a pivotal role in Japan’s unification during the 16th century. Nearby, the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, offers a glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Beyond its historical sites, Osaka is renowned for its thriving food scene, earning it the nickname “Japan’s Kitchen.” 

1840 AD 

Long before European settlers arrived in the 19th century, Auckland was home to Mãori communities who established it as an important hub due to its strategic harbours and fertile land. Today, it is a vibrant city where its Mãori heritage blends seamlessly with modern urban life. Cruise visitors can explore landmarks like Maungawhau (Mount Eden) or the Auckland Museum, which offers fascinating insights into New Zealand’s history and culture. 

1200 BC 

A city steeped in history, Lisbon’s origins date back over 3,000 years. Known as the City of Seven Hills, Lisbon has been shaped by various civilisations, including the Phoenicians, Romans and Moors, each leaving their mark on its rich cultural tapestry. Cruise visitors can explore its historic Alfama district, a maze of narrow streets that echo the city’s medieval past, or marvel at iconic landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

1521 AD

Founded by Spanish colonists in 1521, San Juan is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and cultural heritage. Cruise visitors can explore Old San Juan, a beautifully preserved historic district filled with cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and landmarks like the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, two centuries-old forts that once guarded the city. 

279 BC

Belgrade, Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities and an intriguing destination for cruisers exploring the Danube River. With a history spanning over 7,000 years, Belgrade has been a crossroads of civilisations, from ancient Celts to the Roman Empire and Ottoman rule. Cruise visitors can explore the historic Belgrade Fortress, perched at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city’s layered past. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the bohemian Skadarlija district or discover centuries-old artefacts at the National Museum.  

1652 AD

Cape Town boasts a history that spans centuries and a landscape that’s nothing short of breathtaking. Established by the Dutch in 1652 as a supply station for ships travelling to the East, Cape Town quickly became a vibrant hub of culture and trade. Cruise visitors can explore its rich past at landmarks like the Castle of Good Hope, South Africa’s oldest colonial building, or Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. The city’s history is beautifully complemented by its stunning natural surroundings, including the iconic Table Mountain and the picturesque Cape Winelands. 

770 BC

Founded by the Phoenicians nearly 3,000 years ago, Málaga boasts a rich history shaped by Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences. Cruise visitors can explore its ancient roots by visiting the well-preserved Roman Theatre and the stunning Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress offering panoramic views of the city. Strolling through Málaga’s historic centre reveals cobblestone streets, charming plazas, and the impressive Málaga Cathedral. As the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, the city also has a vibrant arts scene, with the Picasso Museum celebrating its famous son. 

1782 AD

Bangkok may be a bustling modern metropolis today, but its roots as one of the region's oldest cities make it a fascinating cruise destination. While officially established as the capital in 1782, the city’s history stretches back even further as a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Cruise visitors can explore Bangkok’s historical treasures, including the stunning Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, and Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, which has stood for centuries along the Chao Phraya River. Wander through the vibrant markets and ancient canals that reflect the city’s nickname, the "Venice of the East." 

660 BC

With a history spanning over 2,500 years, Istanbul has served as the capital of three great empires—the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman—and its cultural and historical layers are awe-inspiring. Cruise visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architecture that has stood as a church, mosque, and now a museum, or the Blue Mosque with its stunning domes and intricate tilework. The city’s bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world, offers a sensory journey through centuries of trade. 

1624 AD

New York City, one of the most iconic cities in the world, also boasts a deep historical legacy. Founded in 1624 as New Amsterdam by Dutch settlers, the city has grown from a small trading post into a global metropolis. Cruise visitors can explore its rich history through landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom, and Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants began their American journey. Stroll through the historic streets of Lower Manhattan, home to Wall Street and the 18th-century Fraunces Tavern, which played a key role in the American Revolution.  

257 BC

With a history spanning over 1,000 years, Hanoi served as the political and cultural heart of Vietnam during the imperial era. Cruise visitors can explore its rich heritage at landmarks like the Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the serene Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. The city’s Old Quarter offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, with its bustling streets, historic architecture, and traditional markets.