Baltic & Scandinavia


Baltic & Scandinavia
There are few places on earth where you can surround yourself so completely in history and mythical folklore. In Northern Europe you'll follow the wake of the Vikings through deep glistening waters framed by dramatic cliffs and rolling green hills.

Travel back 10,000 years to Norwegian lands first settled at the end of the Ice Age. Home to some of Europe's most intense scenery, Bergen boasts steep, snow-capped mountains, deep fjords, roaring waterfalls and soothing rivers sure to amaze any visitor. The fjords formed a million years ago during the ice age.

Settlers to the region, Vikings and whalers among them, valued Bergen for its accessible ports and central location for trading. Today, much of the history of this city still stands to beckon visitors. Geirgangerfjord, said to be Norway's most beautiful fjord, Geiranger highlights views not to be missed. This quaint village, nestled among stunning mountains, brings visitors back to a time of relaxed community living. Located at the crossroads of the great fjords and the magnificent valley, Olden offers multiple views. A brilliant juxtaposition of crisp, white snow and rolling green meadows, this city invites visitors to relax and enjoy the diversity of nature. The oldest of the Scandinavian capitals and Norway's largest city, Oslo is bordered by forests and water. Winter sports are quite popular here, as is lounging in the city's many statue-studded gardens. Oslo is also home to the first ski jump, built in 1892, and the Viking Ship Museum.

Look into the past in Sweden's prehistoric fortresses and Iron Age graveyards. Walk winding medieval streets in Stockholm and see the statue of St. George and the Dragon come to firebreathing life in stone at the Royal Cathedral.

Stockholm, Sweden is surely one of Europe's most attractive and civilized capitals. Fifty bridges connect this city situated on fourteen islands. A mixture of medieval, renaissance and modern architecture, Stockholm casts a stately skyline. Much of the city has a pastoral, wide-open feel. That is not surprising, considering urban parks comprise one third of Stockholm. The home of the Nobel Prize is a city with an enormous royal palace, fashionable neighborhoods and more than 80 museums and galleries.

Gaze upon Kronberg castle, the formidable Danish castle immortalized in Shakespeare's Hamlet. Experience the overwhelming beauty of the Baltic landscape.

The Baltic is the gateway to Scandinavia, Land of the Midnight Sun, and the spectacular fjords of Nordic legends. Take a side trip to Sweden, Norway, Finland or just enjoy the sights from your ship and hope for the natural light show known as the Northern Lights.

This unique Scandinavian country offers a wonderful blend of Alaskan-style scenery and Old World grace. You'll discover charming ports that fierce Vikings once called home. You'll come face-to-face with timeless glaciers, sheer cliffs and delicate silver waterfalls. And you'll experience the midnight sun as you sail north of the Arctic Circle.

Denmark -Port City - Copenhagen

Copenhagen is built on two islands connected by bridges. Take a walk along Strøget, one of Europe's longest walking streets, lined with cafés and stores with an unending show of street entertainers.

Denmark -Port City - Torshavn, Faroe Island

These isolated islands are between Scotland and Iceland and the first settlers were the ancient Norsemen. In many ways, life has not changed here, for the land is still as beautiful and natural as it was many years ago.

Finland -Port City - Helsinki

Much of Helsinki burned in a huge fire in the last century, and has been magnificently rebuilt. Much of the city is curved streets, bridges and ferries because it was built on many little peninsulas in the Baltic Sea. You can explore much of this fascinating city on foot.

Be sure to visit the Temppeliaukio Kirkko, an impressive church carved into the rock cliffs and topped by a copper dome. Stroll along tree-lined boulevards while taking in Helsinki's innovative architecture, with a blend of Byzantine and Slavic influences.

Iceland -Port City - Reykjavik

This is truly the Land of the Midnight Sun, for in June and July, the land is bathed in near constant sunlight. The sun only goes down for about 3 hours! None the less, this port city is busy and has become somewhat of a hub for travelers to Europe who stop off here before completing the rest of their journey.

Norway -Port City - Alesand

These coastal islands with abundant wildlife were once the starting off place for the many voyages of the Vikings as they set off to discover the world and to conquer their enemies.

Norway -Port City - Bergen

This "town between seven mountains" looks like an amphitheater nestled on the mountainside as you arrive. At the colorful and lively fish market, fish are kept in large tanks to ensure their freshness, and fishermen and farmers alike gather here to sell their wares. Wander at your own pace through the old wooden warehouses of Bryggen, which were built after the great fire of 1702 and overlook the harbor.

Norway -Port City - Flam

This city is famous for its railway which climbs 2838 feet through dramatic scenery to Myrdal. Stops along the way will allow for some breathtaking views.

Norway -Port City - Geiranger

One of Norway's most beautiful fjords, Geirangerfjord is enclosed by walls of rock. Ascend Mt. Dalsnibba and take in the breathtaking view of mountains, lakes and waterfalls. Visit the small octagonal church and on your stroll through the village watch for the farms perched high on the hills above.

Norway -Port City - Hellesylt

The magnificent Hellesylt waterfall rushes and rages down the mountain and the fjord's cliff walls fall sheer to Europe's deepest lake. The deceptively clear waters reflect the mountains like a mirror.

Norway -Port City - Honningsvag

The Nordkapp (North Cape), Europe's northernmost point, is a sheer cliff that plunges 1,007 feet into the Arctic Ocean; it served as a landmark for sailors in ancient times. A cave in the mountain, with a panorama window facing the ocean, offers incredible views. Immerse yourself in the Norwegian culture by visiting the various museums and exhibits depicting life in Norway.

Norway -Port City - Kristiansand

Just outside this coastal city is one of Norway's most popular amusement and zoological parks —the Dyrepark. A recreation of a Bronze Age village and a mineral park can also be found nearby. The view towards the archipelago and seashores from the popular Fantholmen and Bertesbukta beach and recreation area is beautiful.

Norway -Port City - Lofoten

In the magnificent and scenic environment of Lofoten, you'll find the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum. Part of a complete village including the harbor and surrounding waters, it illustrates life in a North Norwegian fishing village over the past 200 years.

Norway -Port City - Narvik

Narvik, a small town in the heart of the mountains and fjords that make up most of Scandinavia. Discover the majesty of the natural beauty of Norway while at port here.

Norway -Port City - North Cape

This port city is Europe's most northern point. It is known as the gateway to the Arctic Zone. For a fascinating view of the tundra, there is a tunnel in the visitor's center leads to a cave from which you can see the Arctic Ocean.

Norway -Port City - Stavanger

This city conserves its small-town charm with narrow cobblestone streets and alleys lined by wooden houses, a flower and vegetable market, and a fishing pier and harbor where small boats offer their daily catch.

Norway -Port City - Svartisen Glacier

One of Norway's largest glaciers, the enormity and strength of this glacial formation will awe you.

Norway -Port City - Trondheim

On the banks of the North Sea lies the historic city of Trondheim. The Nidaros Cathedral, whose oldest remains date back to the 12th century, was built on St. Olaf's burial ground. At Veitene, you can stroll the narrow streets and alleys that were typical of the old Trondheim.

Poland -Port City - Gdynia

Located close Gdansk, Gdynia is also near the resort town of Sopot and is the busiest port city in Poland. Ships come in frequently during the high season bound for Sopot as many weary Poles come here to rest and recuperate.

Sweden -Port City - Helsinborg

This city has retained its small town charm with flowers, bushes and trees in every corner. Be sure to visit the Old City quarters with its cobblestone streets and the 600-year old fortress tower, Kärnan. Take a stroll down pedestrian streets, alleys and squares or linger at one of the quaint cafés.

Sweden -Port City - Kalmar

Just beside Kalmar Castle, which dates back 800 years, discover the medieval Old Town untouched by time, with its winding alleys and little old houses. Make sure to visit the Nordstjernan Brewery and the old houses on Kvarnholmen, which won the Europa Nostra award.

Sweden -Port City - Stockholm

Famous for shopping, museums and great food, this is the place to spend a lot of time. Always wanted a beautiful fur? Check out the shops in Stockholm to pick out that coat you always wanted. There are also many Swedish souvenirs that can make your trip, such as a pair of wooden clogs. Take a day to explore some of the museums in the city as well, and then visit the Royal Palace and see the royal jewels, some of which were used for coronations dating back to 1561.


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