Cruise ships frequently depart during the enchanting “magic hour”, one of the most picturesque times to be on land as the sun sets. An increasing number of cruise lines are incorporating late departures or, even better, overnight stays into their routes. This development allows for a seamless multi-destination vacation with ample opportunities to experience local nightlife. Here are seven ports that enhance your cruise experience with the addition of an overnight stay.

Livorno, situated on the stunning Tuscan coast, serves as a gateway to iconic cities like Florence, Pisa, and Lucca. With so many cultural highlights nearby, you won’t need to limit yourself to just one. Fortunately, many cruises include overnight stays here, giving you the chance to visit the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, see the famous Leaning Tower in Pisa, and enjoy a cycling tour around Lucca’s historic walls. Some savvy travelers even choose to disembark to spend a night in a Florentine hotel, just over an hour away by train. For example, a cruise aboard the 702-passenger Azamara Journey from Rome to Lisbon offers two full days in Livorno, plus an overnight stop in Barcelona.

2. Ibiza, Spain

For night owls, experiencing the legendary nightlife is a must when visiting Ibiza. Consider a seven-night cruise itinerary from Barcelona to Rome on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, which docks in Ibiza Town at 7 PM and remains until 5 PM the next day. There’s ample time to dance at renowned clubs like Amnesia or Pacha, or simply explore the historic Dalt Vila while enjoying cocktails and dinner near the 16th-century fortifications.

3. Sydney, Australia

When traveling to Australia, it’s essential to extend your stay in Sydney beyond just a single day. An engaging itinerary aboard the modern, 930-passenger Viking Venus includes an overnight stay here, allowing you to fit in a dinner cruise on the harbour, a pub crawl in The Rocks, a climb of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and a tour of the Opera House. The cruise then continues to Melbourne and Hobart before heading to New Zealand where you’ll enjoy a second overnight stop in Auckland.

4. Athens, Greece

No visit to the Greek capital is complete without sitting on a lovely rooftop terrace and taking in the stunning view of the illuminated Parthenon. Alternatively, you could watch the sunset from the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, followed by a moonlit dinner by the waterfront in Vougliameni. This luxurious cruise on Regent’s Seven Seas Splendour affords an overnight stay in Athens, in addition to overnights in Monaco and two nights at Salerno on the Amalfi coast. You’ll have the chance to explore Pompeii or Naples at night and participate in a daytime cooking class.

5. Alta, Norway

For those venturing to snowy northern Norway in winter to witness the northern lights, it’s essential to maximize your chances of experiencing this breathtaking phenomenon. The scenic backcountry often provides clear skies, so opt for a cruise that includes overnight stays. Fred Olsen’s Bolette overnight in Alta is an excellent choice for aurora seekers, offering activities like husky sledding and snowmobiling, accompanied by two astronomers and a professional photographer to enhance your viewing experience.

6. Dubai, UAE

Given the short distances between ports in the Gulf region, many cruises include overnight stays in vibrant cities like Dubai, where the nightlife is lively and exciting. Cruises also offer a budget-friendly alternative to the often expensive hotels in the UAE. A seven-night journey from Doha on Norwegian Sky includes an overnight in Dubai, allowing you to visit the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck around sunset and enjoy the spectacular fountain shows at Burj Lake. Additionally, there’s an overnight in Abu Dhabi, great for planning an early morning desert safari.

7. Mumbai, India

Don’t miss out on Mumbai’s dynamic street food scene, trendy clubs, and bustling bars — it’s one of India’s most vibrant cities. Celebrity Cruises’ Millennium offers an overnight stay in Mumbai with a night tour that includes drinks and snacks, ideal for those who prefer a guided experience. This 12-night itinerary also features a stop in Kochi (Cochin), perfect for capturing stunning photos of the traditional Chinese fishing nets against a breathtaking sunset before exploring the historic Fort Kochi area.