Northern Europe And Scandinavia

Welcome to Stavanger – known for its many nearby natural attractions, including famous Pulpit Rock and long sandy beaches along the North Sea. The Stavanger region is on the radar of nearly every visitor to Norway. Many different nationalities are drawn to the area, making it a highly international destination. Its cosmopolitan nature is reflected in the city’s lively, urban ambience, with creative food menus, fun pubs and bars, and a booming cultural scene. While it’s less likely to spot the Northern Lights this far south, it does happen. Keep your eyes on the northern edge of the horizon.

When you leave this peaceful village on the picturesque Nordfjord, you'll do so with any number of breathtaking visions etched into your memory. The tranquil emerald waters and beautiful quiet valley plays host to giant waterfalls, the milky turquoise sheen of the mineral-rich Lake Lovatn and the green-tinged glow of the Kjenndalen Glacier.

A sense of wonderment awaits as you sail Innvikfjorden, just one highlight of Norway’s beautiful network of fjords. The villages and farmsteads along its coastline really put things into perspective. Enjoy the placid waters, the sheer scale of the stunning scenery and features created by nature’s power over the millennia, and appreciate humans’ wish to live among its beauty and resources.

Experience the grandeur of this memorable Norwegian highlight when sailing the world-renowned network of spectacular fjords, which have been created slowly but surely by nature over millions of years. As well as witnessing the striking and varied scenery as you approach port, there are many more ways to enjoy Nordfjord. Perhaps by biking, hiking or skiing, or even by cable car at over 1,000 metres.

Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful art nouveau architecture. This owes to a devastating fire that burned a large part of the city to the ground in 1904. The entire town was subsequently rebuilt in the fashionable art nouveau style of the time. Take the opportunity to wander Ålesund’s charming cobblestone streets and admire the numerous spires, towers and highly-ornate buildings. Norway is a seafood nation and Ålesund is its fisheries capital. Take the opportunity to visit the Norwegian Aquarium - built directly into the rocky coastline, the aquarium is also an architectural marvel. Due to excellent oceanic conditions along the Norwegian coast, the aquarium features a colourful and exciting range of fish and fauna, including octopus, seals and penguins.

Oslo is the oldest and least populous capital in Scandinavia. The city offers superb theatres, great cafés, and excellent shopping as well as churches, palaces, parks and museums befitting of a capital. The warm, welcoming atmosphere of a small village. A spectacular setting of fjord and forested hill. Oslo really is a wonderful place to explore.

Copenhagen was founded during the 12th century. So much is new and striking, so much richly traditional - from the ramparts of Hamlet's Elsinore to the very latest examples of Scandinavian design. Copenhagen literally takes your breath away. Be wowed by the Amalienborg Palace, Christiana's hippy commune and the delightfully relaxing Tivoli Gardens.

Copenhagen was founded during the 12th century. So much is new and striking, so much richly traditional - from the ramparts of Hamlet's Elsinore to the very latest examples of Scandinavian design. Copenhagen literally takes your breath away. Be wowed by the Amalienborg Palace, Christiana's hippy commune and the delightfully relaxing Tivoli Gardens.

Filled with red and yellow clapboard houses, Skagen occupies a large spit of sand at the most northerly reaches of Denmark. Many flock to Grenen, the scenic end point of the dunes where two beaches meet. The light in the area has long attracted artists, and the results of the area's inspiration can be seen in the Skagen Museum, and in local shops filled with pottery and glassware.

Established by Charlemagne, Hamburg owes much of its architecture to the rebuilding done in the late 19th and early 20th centuries after a massive fire. World War II also inflicted severe damage, but the city's medieval character is still evident thanks to post-war restorations. Water is a wonderful feature here - as you'll notice when you arrive along the River Elbe, investigate quirky historic districts by canal and glide past highly desirable addresses lining the Alster lakes.

Southampton, the UK’s top cruise port, is a vibrant waterfront city blending rich maritime heritage with modern charm. Discover the Titanic legacy at the Sea City Museum, explore the Cultural Quarter, or stroll through the medieval Old Town. Beyond the city, explore the beauty of The New Forest, Stonehenge, and the Isle of Wight. With a thriving craft beer and food scene, Southampton offers endless delights to explore!