Denmark, Norway & Sweden
Cruise: Copenhagen, Trondheim &
Gothenburg

Copenhagen

The coastal city of Copenhagen is packed
with old-world charm alongside avant-garde architecture. It's a
vibrant and modern city, with a long and fascinating history. It
has been the capital of Denmark for nearly 600 years and is home to
the oldest resident monarchy in the world.

Copenhagen is the biggest city in
Scandinavia, occupying a pleasant and strategic spot on the Baltic
east coast of Denmark's largest island, Zealand. Its harbour is
overlooked by the world-famous statue of the Little Mermaid.

Visitors are often first struck by the
cleanliness and orderliness of this busy and dynamic capital. This
is epitomised in the suburb of Christianshavn, with its picturesque
canals and old cobbled streets all in pristine condition.

Most of the attractions in Copenhagen are
situated within one square mile (3 square km) of flat terrain in
the centre, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, the
vehicle of choice for locals.

Five streets in the heart of the city have
been merged to provide the world's longest pedestrian mall of
Strøget, running between Rådhuspladsen and Kongens Nytorv. It's
packed with historic gabled buildings, dynamic department stores,
numerous interesting little shops, restaurants, pavement cafes,
theatres and world-class museums and galleries.

Copenhagen is not short on green lungs
either. Parks such as the ever popular Tivoli Gardens abound in
this city, which prides itself on its strict anti-pollution laws
and lack of glass and chrome skyscrapers.

Skagen

Skagen is a town in Denmark that is known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery. Many tourists come to Skagen to enjoy the sun and the sand, but there is much more to this town than meets the eye.

Skagen is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. The town has a long history dating back to the Viking era, and there are many interesting museums and monuments to explore.

The beaches in Skagen are some of the best in Denmark, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. If you’re looking for a relaxed vacation, Skagen is the perfect place to visit.

Skjolden

Skjolden is a picturesque village nestled amongst the majestic mountains and vast fjords of southern Norway. Located in the Sogn og Fjordane county, Skjolden is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience of Norway's natural beauty.

One of the main highlights of Skjolden is its proximity to the stunning Sognefjord, the longest fjord in Norway and the second largest in the world. The fjord stretches over 200 kilometers and is surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages. Visitors can take a boat tour along the fjord, marveling at its deep blue waters and breathtaking scenery.

For those seeking adventure, Skjolden is an ideal starting point for exploring Jotunheimen National Park, which boasts some of the highest peaks in Northern Europe. Hiking enthusiasts will find a network of trails that lead to impressive summits, such as Galdhøpiggen, the highest mountain in Norway. The park is also home to numerous glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and wildlife, offering plenty of opportunities for nature lovers to immerse themselves in the wilderness.

Skjolden is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The village is home to Høllesli Church, an idyllic white wooden church dating back to the 17th century. The church is famous for its stunning location along the fjord and its well-preserved interior, featuring intricate wood carvings and beautiful stained glass windows.

To delve deeper into the local history, visitors can explore the Norwegian Glacier Museum located nearby. This interactive museum offers a fascinating insight into the formation and evolution of glaciers, making it a perfect educational experience for both adults and children. The museum also provides information about the impact of climate change on glaciers and the surrounding environment.

Skjolden offers a range of outdoor activities to suit all interests and abilities. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in the fjords and rivers, with the possibility of catching salmon, trout, and char. Kayaking along the calm waters of the fjord is another popular option, providing a different perspective of the surrounding landscape.

During the winter months, Skjolden transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting avid skiers and snowboarders. The nearby Jotunheimen and Hurrungane mountain ranges offer a variety of ski resorts and cross-country skiing trails to suit all levels. The pristine snow-covered terrain, accompanied by stunning views, makes it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.

Skjolden provides a range of accommodation options, ranging from cozy cabins and guesthouses to hotels with magnificent fjord views. The local cuisine is a reflection of the surrounding natural resources, with an abundance of fresh seafood, including salmon, cod, and shellfish. Visitors can also sample traditional Norwegian dishes, such as fårikål (lamb stew) and rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge), in the village's quaint restaurants and cafes.

Skjolden's serene and untouched beauty, combined with its wealth of outdoor activities and cultural attractions, make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful retreat. Whether you choose to explore the fjords, conquer the mountains, or simply relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings, Skjolden is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Norway's natural wonders.

Ålesund

If you’re looking for a breathtaking cityscape, you’ll find it in Ålesund. This Norwegian city is located on the country’s west coast, and it is known for its Art Nouveau architecture. That’s right – the buildings in Ålesund were designed in the early 1900s in the Art Nouveau style, and they are truly a sight to behold.

In addition to its interesting architecture, Ålesund is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The city is located right on the water, so there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and sailing. And, if you’re looking for a challenge, you can hike up one of the nearby mountains – Sukkertoppen, for example, offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding fjords.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, outdoor activities, or simply want to enjoy the beauty of Norway, you’ll find it in Ålesund.

Trondheim

The oldest of Norway's major cities, Trondheim has a youthful
feel thanks to the student population from the Norwegian University
of Science and Technology. Traditionally a religious centre and
trading hub for northern Europe, the city of Trondheim is now well
over a thousand years old.

Trondheim is home to some important historic landmarks,
including the Nidaros Cathedral, one of the biggest churches in
northern Europe and the only Gothic cathedral in Norway. There are
many traditional wooden houses in pretty areas including Bakklandet
and Ilsvikora, and other wooden buildings can be viewed from the
Old Town Bridge.

There are historical military sites at the fortress island of
Munkholmen and the former German submarine base of DORA 1.
Trondheim also has several good-quality museums dedicated to local
culture and history. Trondheim is a picturesque city, and though
there are active pursuits like skiing, swimming, and hiking
available, it is also pleasant to simply stroll along the Nidelva
River.

There are a number of shopping centres and restaurants spread
across town and the student population ensures an energetic
nightlife, though venues tend to close earlier than in other major
cities. The city is especially lively in July and August during the
St Olav Festival.

Stavanger

Situated on the southwest coast, Stavanger is Norway's fourth
largest city and its petroleum capital. A modern metropolis with
excellent public transport, it also boasts Gamle Stavanger, a
cobble-stoned old suburb full of 18th-century wooden houses, where
many local artists have taken up residence.

The old quarter spreads out from the harbour and the waterfront
is also a hub of activity for travellers, bustling at night with
crowds of locals and visitors, particularly during summer.
Stavanger is a fun mix of old and new, a cosmopolitan port city
with a charming historic atmosphere.

Sightseeing attractions in Stavanger include the Oil Museum, the
Canning Museum, and the Stavanger Art Museum, among many others.
The city is also known for its rich and varied nightlife, which is
considered some of the best that Norway has to offer.

In the summer, visitors can take advantage of Stavanger's many
climbing and hiking opportunities, or hang out on Solastranden, a
long, sandy beach close to the airport. In winter, they can ice
skate on the city's largest lake, Stokkavatnet.

Several low-cost airlines regularly serve Stavanger Airport,
making it a popular entry point for travellers to Norway. Situated
on the west coast of Norway, Stavanger is within easy reach of
Bergen and the famous fjordlands.

Arendal

You’ll weave between glowing lighthouses and picturesque islands, as you approach the quaint Norwegian town of Arendal. Set on the southern coast, and spanning seven islands, Arendal is a place to slow the pace, and unwind surrounded by Norway’s easy-going beauty. Ferries – and boat hiring opportunities - make exploring easy, or you can get out on foot or two wheels to throw yourself into the thick of the area’s outstanding natural beauty. Arendal's twin lighthouses are the first thing you'll see, as your ship leaves the open ocean, and heads to Arendal itself. The perfect focal point for any photo, Store Torungen is still in working order - witness it flashing its warnings to passing ships, as they navigate the tricky islands and skerries that are scattered across the waters. Cafes and shell-fish sellers welcome you to the city centre as you step off the ship, and you’re immediately well placed to slow the pace, and wander beside glistening water. Or, why not stretch your legs by escaping to the countryside and cycling along wooden pathways that skirt glistening lakes?

Gothenburg

The second-largest city in Sweden and Scandinavia's
most important port, Gothenburg (or
) is situated on the west coast of the country.
Situated at the outlet of the Gota Canal that links Gothenburg to
the Baltic Sea and Stockholm, Gothenburg was founded in 1621 by
King Gustav II Adolf to secure access to the Atlantic, but the city
was mainly settled and planned by Dutch merchants who used it as
their base for trade. The numerous canals and gabled houses are
evidence of this early influence. Shipping and commerce have always
been important industries in Gothenburg and the port is a popular
arrival point for visitors.

Today, Gothenburg is a beautiful city, with its
waterside location, green open spaces, and fine architecture, as
well as the wide selection of cultural establishments. The main
street, Kungsportavenyn, known simply as Avenyn, is alive with edgy
bars, cafes, and trendy shops. Far more down-to-earth and
youth-driven than Stockholm, Gothenburg's buzz is augmented by the
large student population from the University of Gothenburg. While
certainly not as magnificent as Stockholm, Gothenburg is often
regarded as friendlier and cheaper, and certainly has enough going
on to keep even the most energetic travellers occupied.

Copenhagen

The coastal city of Copenhagen is packed
with old-world charm alongside avant-garde architecture. It's a
vibrant and modern city, with a long and fascinating history. It
has been the capital of Denmark for nearly 600 years and is home to
the oldest resident monarchy in the world.

Copenhagen is the biggest city in
Scandinavia, occupying a pleasant and strategic spot on the Baltic
east coast of Denmark's largest island, Zealand. Its harbour is
overlooked by the world-famous statue of the Little Mermaid.

Visitors are often first struck by the
cleanliness and orderliness of this busy and dynamic capital. This
is epitomised in the suburb of Christianshavn, with its picturesque
canals and old cobbled streets all in pristine condition.

Most of the attractions in Copenhagen are
situated within one square mile (3 square km) of flat terrain in
the centre, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, the
vehicle of choice for locals.

Five streets in the heart of the city have
been merged to provide the world's longest pedestrian mall of
Strøget, running between Rådhuspladsen and Kongens Nytorv. It's
packed with historic gabled buildings, dynamic department stores,
numerous interesting little shops, restaurants, pavement cafes,
theatres and world-class museums and galleries.

Copenhagen is not short on green lungs
either. Parks such as the ever popular Tivoli Gardens abound in
this city, which prides itself on its strict anti-pollution laws
and lack of glass and chrome skyscrapers.