Norwegian Fjords

Unlock this fascinating "Gateway to the Fjords", Norway's second-largest city, Bergen is home to over 200,000 people. Maritime trade and oil industry are still vital to the city's economy. Visit medieval wooden houses on the waterfront and peek inside the workshops of local painters, weavers and craftsmen where works of art - some better than others - await discovery.

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.

Near this idyllic town, gaze up at the "Troll Wall", whose immense grassy cliffs form the highest vertical mountain face in Europe. Or make an ascent of the "Troll Ladder", a road whose hairpin bends zig-zag up a steep mountainside and reveal spectacular valley views close to the thundering Stigfossen Waterfall.

In Romsdalsfjord, explore a region of deep blue fjords, rolling emerald hills, crashing waterfalls and jagged, snow-capped mountains, which are interspersed with charming villages Vikings once ruled. Sailing the fjords is a memorable maritime experience. Formed during the Ice Age when the glaciers retreated, deep valleys and narrow inlets were flooded with seawater to create these natural wonders.

Understand that Zeebrugge literally means Bruges-on-Sea and you immediately appreciate why this ferry port is also Belgium's major cruise port. A medieval jewel on the North Sea, the charming city of Bruges is just 10 miles away.

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!