Northern Europe And Scandinavia Cruise Itinerary
Day 1 – Southampton, UK
The Southampton cruise port offers a city centre full of charm and a mix of old city walls plus a large modern shopping centre. With multiple restaurants, museums, cinemas and theatres there is plenty to be explored when in a cruise from Southampton. Time spent at embarkation and disembarkation ports may be limited which may restrict availability of shore excursions.
Day 2 – At Sea
Day 3-4 – Hamburg, Germany
On the banks of the Elbe River, 70 miles inland from Travemunde, lies the city of Hamburg. Germany’s second-largest city is bursting with centuries of maritime heritage: a key Hanseatic port in the Middle Ages, today it’s an irresistibly cool blend of old and new, with a buzzing nightlife of brewhouses, cocktail bars and clubs. With more than 2,300 bridges (more than Venice, London and Amsterdam combined) and many parks (it’s one of Germany’s greenest cities), Hamburg is a delight to explore.
Day 5 – At Sea
Day 6-7 – Copenhagen, Denmark
Despite being home to around 1.3 million people, Copenhagen goes by the nickname byen – meaning ‘the village’. Part of the magic of Denmark and its capital are the contradictions. Copenhagen is where classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tales and the famous Little Mermaid statue meet a vibrant art scene and trendsetting fashion. You’ll find tiny, traditional bodegas (pubs where smoking is still allowed), next to new, polished juice bars selling matcha lattes. And for all their sleek and minimalist Nordic design, Danes certainly know how to get cosy – or ‘hygge’ themselves, as they say.
Day 8 – At Sea
Day 9-10 – Oslo, Norway
Oslo, founded in 1050 and Norway’s capital since the end of the 11th century, now a modern city with an eclectic mix of ancient castles, frescoed 18th century houses, vast parks and glittering lakes, is a delight. Nestled between rolling green hills and tranquil fjords, the Norwegian capital is a compact city that’s perfect for exploring on foot or on two wheels. Named European Green Capital for 2019, it’s renowned for its green spaces, including Frogner Park, which contains the world’s largest sculpture park by a single artist, with more than 200 works by Gustav Vigeland. Marvel at the city’s modern architecture in the shape of the sculptural glass Opera House and the striking Barcode, 12 individually designed buildings of different heights and widths. For the best views in the city, climb to the roof of the Opera House, or the observation deck at the top of Holmenkollen ski jump.
Day 11 – At Sea
Day 12-13 – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a uniquely beautiful city with its picturesque canal network, rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Amsterdam’s neighbourhoods offer distinctive atmospheres. The city’s famous red light district in De Wallen has a unique charm and history of its own – and standing proud in its midst is Oude Kerk (the Old Church), the city’s oldest building dating back to the 1200s. Capture its true spirit by exploring the narrow winding streets, bustling bars and eclectic shops of Joordan, its fascinating old district. Visit Leidseplein Square with its street performers and ice skating rink surrounded by lovely food stalls. Amsterdam Noord, meanwhile, has blossomed into a cultural hipster hub. The charming ‘village in the city’ is a green and family-friendly place for pottering with fun activities, street markets and fresh foodie venues.
Day 14 – At Sea
Day 15 – Southampton, UK
Disembark your cruise and travel home.
