Day 1: Bergen, Norway
Board your ship and settle into your stateroom. Bergen, with its historic Hanseatic kontor, is home to Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a charming row of timbered warehouses. Explore the narrow wooden walkways and vibrant buildings overlooking Vågen Harbor. This picturesque district is perfect for wandering, with its local artisans, cafés serving fresh smørbrød (open-faced sandwiches), and a welcoming atmosphere.
Day 2: Bergen, Norway
Bergen, an ancient city with Viking roots, is surrounded by seven majestic mountain peaks and serves as the gateway to Norway’s stunning fjords, including Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord. Founded in 1070, Bergen was Norway’s capital in the 13th century and is now the country's second-largest city. Visit Fisketorget, the lively outdoor fish market, to sample fresh seafood such as cod, prawns, local caviar, and oysters.
Day 3: Eidfjord, Norway
The quaint village of Eidfjord lies at the heart of one of Norway’s most scenic regions. The expansive Hardangerfjord leads to the smaller Eidfjorden and this charming mountain hamlet. Eidfjord is the gateway to Hardangervidda, Europe’s largest mountain plateau, known for its stunning beauty and wild reindeer. Explore the treeless moorlands, serene pools, and the Vøringfossen Waterfall, which plunges 550 feet into Måbødalen Canyon.
Day 4: Stavanger, Norway
Stavanger, on Norway’s southwest coast, boasts a rich history dating back to the end of the last ice age. Known for its well-preserved old town, Gamle Stavanger, the cobblestone streets are lined with 17th and 18th-century wooden buildings. Norway’s fourth-largest city has evolved from a tranquil town to a vibrant hub, thanks to its strategic location and offshore drilling boom, earning it the title of European Capital of Culture in 2008.
Day 5: Oslo, Norway
As you sail toward Oslo, enjoy scenic views of the fjords and hills surrounding this vibrant Scandinavian city. Founded by King Harald III, Oslo has grown around the historic Akershus Fortress and is renowned for its rich Viking heritage and artistic contributions, including Edvard Munch’s iconic "The Scream" and Gustav Vigeland’s extensive sculpture collection in Vigeland Park.
Day 6: Oslo, Norway
Oslo, Norway’s largest city, is nestled between the waters of Oslofjord and surrounding forests. Explore the city’s expansive green spaces, such as Frogner Park, and take a short ferry ride to Bygdøy, the “Museum Peninsula.” Enjoy the Botanical Garden in Tøyen Park or take in sweeping city views from St. Hanshaugen Park.
Day 7: Ålborg, Denmark
Ålborg, known for its picturesque setting and well-preserved Renaissance architecture, is Denmark’s fourth-largest city. The Jens Bang’s House, built in 1624, showcases the clean symmetry that laid the foundation for modern Scandinavian design. Founded by the Vikings in the late 900s, Ålborg’s historical wealth is reflected in its half-timbered mansions, including Ålborghus Castle.
Day 8: Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, with its fairy-tale charm, began as a fishing village and has evolved into one of the Baltic’s most beautiful cities. With over 850 years of history, it remains a vital Scandinavian port. Highlights include Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest amusement park in the world, The Little Mermaid statue, and grand palaces like Amalienborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle, home to the Danish Crown Jewels.
Day 9: Berlin (Warnemünde), Germany
Berlin, Germany’s capital, has undergone a remarkable transformation since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Now a vibrant center of art, culture, and architecture, the city’s rebirth is evident in landmarks like the Reichstag parliament building with its glass dome and Museum Island, which celebrates artistic expression and creativity.
Day 10: Bornholm (Rønne), Denmark
Rønne, founded around the year 1000, is a picturesque village on the Danish island of Bornholm. With a history marked by various rulers, including Germans, Swedes, and Soviets, Rønne is known for its half-timbered houses and thriving glassblowing artisans. Explore historic cobblestone lanes and enjoy the charm of low-timbered, red-roofed merchants' homes.
Day 11: Gdańsk, Poland
Gdańsk, the city of amber and Gothic cathedrals, was a major Hanseatic League port. Its rich medieval history is showcased in the beautifully restored old town, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Visit the Green Gate, Artus Court, and savour traditional Polish pierogies or Goldwasser liqueur, a local specialty.
Day 12: Sail the Baltic Sea
Sail through one of the world’s most historic waterways, rich with maritime battles for Northern European control. Onboard, enjoy a variety of international cuisines at the World Café, dine al fresco on the Aquavit Terrace, or sample regional specialties in The Restaurant.
Day 13: Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, is located on the Baltic Sea and features a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. Surrounded by 17th-century fortifications, the city’s upper town boasts the regal castle and cathedral, while the lower town is a maze of historic merchants’ houses, guilds, and churches. Key landmarks include Town Hall Square, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and Kumu Art Museum.
Day 14: Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm, spread across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, is a cultural capital where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The city is known for its cleanliness and green spaces. Explore the well-preserved 13th-century Gamla Stan, featuring architectural gems like Stockholm Palace and the Royal Dramatic Theater. Enjoy the picturesque Strandvägen waterfront and taste traditional smoked salmon.
Day 15: Stockholm, Sweden
After breakfast, disembark your ship and journey home.
