Medieval architecture, modern sensibilities and icy beauty await in Scandinavia and the Baltics.
In the countries around the Baltic Sea, you can expect vast forests, turquoise lakes, breathtaking fjords and fascinating cities. Explore Stockholm, the stylish and green Swedish capital, with its acres of parks and its medieval center, Gamla Stan. Bike through the streets of Copenhagen, Denmark, and hop on an urban roller coaster in Tivoli Gardens. Stroll around Helsinki's bustling market square, surrounded by graceful 19th-century buildings. Head to Tallinn, Estonia, to enjoy its lively cafes, galleries and medieval heritage.
Medieval architecture, modern sensibilities and icy beauty awaits
The Baltic Sea and Scandinavia are alive with vibrant landscapes to explore. Sail past Norway's majestic fjords, witness the Midnight Sun for yourself, or seek out hidden waterfalls in Estonia.
Put on your walking shoes and go hiking around one of the port cities and admire the wild landscape of the North. Trek through part of Norway's Discovery Route, which runs from Stavanger to Bergen, and see snow-capped mountains towering over pristine fjords and thunderous waterfalls.
The cities and towns of Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea are full of modern sensibility and medieval heritage. Explore Gothic town squares in Tallinn and Stockholm, journey down quiet canals and cafe-lined lanes in Amsterdam, or hang out with the locals in a Helsinki hot spot.
Stroll along the cobblestone streets in old Baltic Sea towns with their charming medieval architecture. Check out the Old Aker Church, the oldest still-standing building in Oslo, dating back to 1150. Head to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town in Tallinn, Estonia, and see Gothic buildings like the Town Hall and the Dome Church.
Get to know Amsterdam with a cruise on its UNESCO-listed canal belt, dating back to the 17th century. Once you're back on land, do some shopping along the city's De Negen Straatjes ("The Nine Streets"): These quaint, cobblestoned lanes are lined with independent and vintage shops selling everything from fashion to home goods.
Immerse yourself in good times in Helsinki, Finland's fun-loving and historic urban center. Hike up the steps to the Helsinki Cathedral with its distinctive green dome, or get your thrills at Linnanmaki, the city's urban amusement park with the country's highest and fastest roller coasters.
Admire Norway's impressive fjords surrounded by mountains, explore Scandinavia's medieval past, treat yourself to New Nordic cuisine, or go shopping for Swedish design.
Take a Scandinavian cruise for an immersive experience in the region's culture and landscape. Learn about the Vikings in the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, meander down canals of colorful houses in Copenhagen, and relish in impressionist art at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.
Sail to Northern Europe and for a broader range of adventures in the Baltic. From the awe inspiring Fjords of Geiranger, to the modernist cityscape of Hamburg, Germany, you'll get a chance to dig into the region's natural and urban excitement.
There are adventures to be had every time of year in Northern Europe and Scandinavia. The high season lasts from June to August; all attractions are open during this time, and cities host many festivals. This is the time of year to go to experience the midnight sun in cities like Helsinki and Stockholm.
The shoulder season is in March, April, September and October. You can expect chilly nights and snow in the northern parts of the region. From January to April, when the days are shorter, some attractions close for the season, but this is the best time of year to see the epic, icy landscapes of the region.
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Know your currencies in Northern Europe: Finland, Latvia and Estonia use the Euro, Denmark the Danish krone, Norway the Norwegian krone and Sweden the Swedish krona.
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Bring a good insect repellent in summer and sunglasses for the never-setting summer sun.
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Saunas are a favorite winter-time activity. Keep an eye out for one to enjoy on your next cruise.
The high-end gourmet New Nordic cuisine has become a hit in recent years, starting with a culinary revolution in Copenhagen with young, forward-thinking chefs serving deconstructed takes on traditional tastes and indigenous ingredients. Whether you go high-brow or traditional, Northern European food is sure to comfort and delight.
High-quality fish from the cold waters of the Arctic and Baltic Seas are integral to the region's cuisine. The most popular type of fish is herring, which is served in soups and fillets. Don't miss the chance to try a delicious haddock soup, with a creamy broth and plenty of hearty leeks and potatoes.