Northern Europe & Baltic
Cruise: London, Berlin &
Stockholm

Tilbury

Whether you arrive in London via the underground or inside one
of the city's ubiquitous black taxicabs, you will immediately be
greeted by a deep sense of history and met with the unique vibrancy
of this incredible destination.

In its dark and troubled past, the city of London has survived
Roman occupancy, sackings from the Celts, Romans, Vikings and
Saxons, a Norman invasion, two great fires, the bubonic plague and
Nazi bombings. This resilient and proud city promises something for
everyone and is one of the most iconic tourist destinations.

The London Eye lifts visitors high above the river into
stretching urban vistas. Further down on the South Bank, the Tate
Modern contains one of the world's most incredible collections of
Modern Art, while the city's 30,000 stores and boutiques will
exhaust even the most avid shopper, and its 6,000 restaurants are
only too eager to demonstrate why Britons revere their chefs as
celebrities.

For those interested in exploring the country's heritage, the
Tower of London is an excellent starting-point. First constructed
in the 11th century, the Tower has been rebuilt several times as
later monarchs have left their mark. Still one of London's biggest
attractions, and a great celebration of pomp that is free to all
visitors, is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which
happens daily.

As the great dome of St Paul's reflects the colours of the
setting sun, London comes alive with an unrivalled nightlife. For
those up for something more energetic than dinner and the West End
musicals and theatre, London has a vast number of bars and
nightclubs catering to all tastes.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam wears two faces. On one, it beckons youth with its
notorious Red Light District and liberal views around marijuana
use. On the other, it offers discerning travellers some of Europe's
finest museums and art galleries. Its house boats, bicycles,
cobbled streets, and quaint canals are a visual treat.

For tourists, Amsterdam's compactness is a plus. The old part of
town is a story-book setting of narrow lanes, gabled houses and
ancient bridges, and a pleasure to explore on foot. Visitors can
shop boutiques for souvenirs such as Delft china or wooden clogs,
or relax at cosy bars and pavement cafes.

At night even the most conservative visitors are drawn to the
Red Light District's lively atmosphere, where prostitutes stand in
shop windows and touts encourage passers-by to view raunchy
floorshows. For the most part, travellers will find the best bars
in the bustling Leidesplein and Rembrandtplein.

Kiel

Known for the Kiel Canal and Kiel Week, the city boasts an important maritime history. Kiel is also a great place to sight-see, do some shopping and take part in one of the many festivals taking place there.

Warnemünde

Warnemünde, officially a suburb of Rostock, is a quaint seaside resort town with the best hotels and restaurants in the area, as well as 20 km (12 miles) of beautiful white-sand beach. It's been a popular summer getaway for families in eastern Germany for years.There is little to do in Warnemünde except relax, and the town excels brilliantly at that. However, Warnemünde is a major cruise-ship terminal. Whenever there is more than one ship at dock, the town explodes with a county fair–like atmosphere, and shops and restaurants stay open until the ships leave at midnight. The city celebrates the dreifache Anlauf, when three ships dock simultaneously, with fireworks.

Rønne

Ronne is a picturesque town located on the island of Bornholm in Denmark. It is the largest town on the island and serves as its main coastal port. Known for its charming cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and stunning coastal landscapes, Ronne is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

One of the main attractions of Ronne is its rich history, which is evident in its well-preserved architecture. Walking through the town, visitors can admire the beautiful old buildings, including the medieval St. Nicholas Church and the 17th-century Ronne Theater. The town also boasts several museums, such as the Bornholm Museum, where visitors can learn about the island's past, and the Ceramic Museum, which showcases the region's famous pottery tradition.

Ronne offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature lovers. The surrounding coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, where visitors can relax, sunbathe, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the Baltic Sea. The Hammershus fortress, located a short distance from Ronne, is a must-visit attraction. This medieval castle ruins offer panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding countryside, making it a favorite spot for hikers and photographers.

Food enthusiasts will find a variety of options in Ronne. The town is known for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of charming restaurants and cafes where visitors can sample local dishes. Smoked herring and pickled herring are popular specialties in the area. And no visit to Ronne would be complete without trying the island's famous smoked fish.

Ronne hosts several annual events and festivals that attract visitors from all over. One of the most popular events is the Ronne Harbor Festival, where you can experience live music, food stalls, and various water activities. The Medieval Market is another highlight, offering a trip back in time with reenactments, knights, and traditional crafts.

Getting around Ronne is easy due to its compact size. Most of the town can be explored on foot, and there is also a well-connected bus network that can take you to other parts of the island. If you're feeling adventurous, renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the charming countryside and coastal areas around Ronne.

Accommodation options in Ronne are varied, ranging from hotels to guesthouses and self-catering apartments. There are options to suit every budget and preference. The town also offers a range of shops, where you can find local crafts, ceramics, and souvenirs to take back home.

In conclusion, Ronne is a delightful town on the island of Bornholm, Denmark, with a rich history, natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're interested in exploring the town's architecture, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in local cuisine, Ronne has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready for a wonderful adventure in this charming Danish town.

Gdansk

Gdansk is an import port situated at the mouth of the Vistula
River on the Baltic Sea, existing throughout history as a major
trading centre. It's the best known of the Tri-City complex that it
forms with the modern seaport of Gdynia and the fashionable beach
resort town of Sopot.

Its turbulent history includes the rule of the Teutonic Knights
in the 14th century, who then lost it to Prussia, and after the
first shots of World War II were fired on the nearby peninsula of
Westerplatte, it was occupied by Nazi Germany in 1939.

Like many Polish towns, Gdansk lay in ruins after the war, but
it was meticulously rebuilt over a 20-year period, returning it to
its former glory. The interesting architecture and beautiful
painted buildings are part of the town's historic charm, and for
those interested in World War II it is a fascinating
destination.

The richest architecture is visible in the historic quarter of
the Main Town. Its primary thoroughfare, known as the Royal Way, is
spectacular. Lined with magnificent buildings featuring beautifully
painted facades and entered through grand stone gateways at either
end, this was the route along which the Polish Kings paraded during
their visits.

The most splendid façade in town belongs to the Golden House,
one of Gdansk's most impressive buildings, along with the Town Hall
and Artus Court. In front of the Court, the gathering place of the
old merchants, stands the Renaissance-style Neptune's Fountain.

Along the waterfront, with its fashionable restaurants and
cafes, the huge Gdansk Crane dominates the promenade, the largest
crane in medieval Europe which today houses the Maritime
Museum.

Parallel to the Royal Way is Gdansk's most picturesque street,
Mariacka Lane, lined with quaint 17th-century
houses with decorative steps and iron railings. The
gigantic St Mary's Church towers over the city and offers splendid
panoramic views.

Klaipeda

Located on the Baltic Sea coast in Lithuania, Klaipeda is a charming and vibrant city that offers a unique blend of historical charm, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving cultural scene. With its rich history, picturesque architecture, and proximity to beautiful beaches, Klaipeda is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Klaipeda's history dates back to the 13th century when it was founded by Teutonic Knights. As Lithuania's only port city, Klaipeda has played an important role in trade and commerce throughout the centuries. The city has been under the rule of various powers, including the Teutonic Knights, Poland, Sweden, Germany, and the Soviet Union, resulting in a mix of architectural styles that can be seen throughout the city.

One of the main attractions in Klaipeda is the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and cozy cafes. The Theatre Square is a focal point of the Old Town, surrounded by some of the city's most important landmarks such as the Clock and Art Museums. The Drama Theater, housed in a beautiful neo-gothic building, is another cultural highlight in the Old Town.

Just a short distance from Klaipeda, you can find some of Lithuania's most beautiful sandy beaches. The Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a narrow strip of land that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. The Spit is famous for its unique sand dunes, pine forests, and picturesque seaside resorts. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports activities along the coastline. The Curonian Lagoon is also a popular spot for sailing, fishing, and birdwatching.

For history enthusiasts, the Maritime Museum and Aquarium is a must-visit attraction in Klaipeda. Housed in a former fortress, the museum showcases the city's maritime heritage through interactive exhibits, models of historical ships, and a fascinating collection of marine life. The Blacksmith's Museum is another interesting museum that offers insight into traditional blacksmithing techniques and showcases a variety of metalwork.

Klaipeda is well-known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions taking place throughout the year. The Jazz Festival, held in July, attracts renowned jazz musicians from around the world and is a highlight for music lovers. The Sea Festival, held in late July, celebrates the city's maritime heritage with a variety of activities, including boat races, concerts, and fireworks displays.

When it comes to dining, Klaipeda offers a wide range of culinary delights. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants specializing in delicious fish dishes. Visitors can also indulge in traditional Lithuanian cuisine, including hearty soups, potato dishes, and a variety of meat-based dishes. The local beer scene is also worth exploring, with several breweries offering a taste of the city's craft beer culture.

In terms of accommodation, Klaipeda caters to a range of budgets and preferences. The city offers a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments, with options available in both the city center and near the beach.

Whether you're interested in history, nature, or cultural experiences, Klaipeda has something to offer every traveler. With its charming Old Town, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, Klaipeda is a destination that should not be missed when visiting Lithuania.

Riga

Situated at the mouth of the Daugava, the city of
Riga is the capital of Latvia and the biggest city in the Baltic
States. It has emerged from behind the Iron Curtain and is slowly
coming into its own as a major European tourist destination.

Situated on the south-western coast of the country,
Riga is split in two by the River Daugava, and served as a major
trading port and a crossroads between western Europe and the East.
The modern founding of the city dates back to the 12th century with
the arrival of German traders, mercenaries, and missionaries, while
its older roots date back to a settlement of the ancient Finnic
tribe, the Livs.

Riga boasts a collection of exquisite Art Nouveau
buildings that rival those in Vienna, Barcelona, and St Petersburg,
and the fairytale historic city centre is a delight to explore. As
the cultural and economic centre of the country, Riga is home to
plenty of top-class museums, galleries, and performing arts
centres. It also has a wide range of sophisticated bars, clubs, and
restaurants. The city is fast gaining a reputation as a party
capital, and its vibrant nightlife draws hundreds of weekenders
from all over Europe.

For a more traditional Latvian experience, it is well
worth braving the winter cold to enjoy a spot of ice fishing,
ice-skating on the frozen Daugava River, or a
a rigorous sauna involving being beaten with dried
birch branches. With over 800 years of history, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site-listed historic city centre, and a modern buzz, Riga
remains a largely undiscovered gem with plenty to delight and
enchant the visitor.

Tallinn

The ancient coastal capital of Tallinn exudes a sense of
romantic history. Recognised as one of the most completely
preserved medieval cities in Europe, it is a gem on the UNESCO
World Heritage List that is slowly being discovered by delighted
visitors of all ages. A spirit of mystery still pervades the
cobbled courtyards of the picturesque Old Town, where visitors can
wander along winding alleys overhung with original 12th- and
13th-century merchant's houses, and view a perfectly preserved
medieval church.

While preserving its past, Tallinn is as progressive as any
other modern European capital. This is probably best reflected in
the interactive exhibits at the AHHAA Science Centre, the city's
showcase for the arts and sciences. Public transport is modern and
efficient; the nightlife is pumping with cigar bars, pool halls and
nightclubs. Dining out promises tasty choices ranging from
take-away pizza and Chinese to formal French and traditional
Estonian cuisine.

Helsinki

The average temperature in efficient, elegant Helsinki hovers
around 43°F (6°C), but this does not mean visitors need expect a
chilly welcome. The funky Finns, known for their hip and happening
sense of style, design and association with high technology, know
how to warm hearts and minds in their modern, cosmopolitan
capital.

The city, spread across a cluster of promontories and
peninsulas, is almost 500 years old. Its clean, wide avenues are
lined with buildings echoing centuries of architectural excellence
from Gothic through Art Deco to cutting-edge contemporary. It all
fits together in total harmony with nature, which invades the urban
environment with green spaces when it is not blanketed in snow.
Trees, flowers, hares, squirrels, pheasants and even the odd elk
are often spied in the myriad parks in the centre of the city. On
the whole, the city is surrounded with crisp, unpolluted air and
the bright blue waters of the Baltic Sea.

Despite the cold climate, the invigorating outdoors beckons in
Helsinki even in the middle of winter. Recreation takes the form of
ice skating, skiing, ice-fishing, sailing, cycling, soaking in
saunas, or during the short-lived summer, sunbathing. After the
action, sit tucked in a rug outside one of the many street-side
bars sipping hot
(spiced wine) and watch the wintry world go by. The
city is also ideal for walking, with the sights all concentrated in
the central area beneath the towering cathedrals.

The great outdoors is also the setting for Helsinki's numerous
festivals and fairs, like the May Day Carnival, the Baltic Herring
Festival, the Helsinki City Marathon, the annual Samba carnival and
the midsummer festival, to name but a few. Events do move indoors
when it comes to the city's rich cultural life, featuring some of
the world's finest orchestras and choirs, rock concerts, film
festivals, the Finnish National Opera and Ballet performances, and
the output of countless theatre and dance troupes.

Whether visited as a snowy winter wonderland or scenic
sun-splashed cityscape with almost permanent daylight, Helsinki is
a unique destination that will delight the heart of any
traveller.

Stockholm

The Swedish capital of Stockholm is not only
Scandinavia's largest city but also one of its most enchanting,
with its centuries-old alleyways and squares spread across an
archipelago of 14 islands. Locals are extremely proud of the fact
that in Stockholm one can go ocean-fishing in the heart of the
city.

This historic metropolis with a small town heart
boasts a multitude of museums, restaurants, parks, fun fairs, a
never-ending nightlife (licensing hours extend into the early
hours), and a rich cultural tradition. There's never a dull moment,
particularly in the summer when the sun virtually never sets
because of the city's position in the far northern latitudes.

Most tourists are initially drawn to the quaint Gamla
Stan (Old Town), a warren of narrow cobblestone streets
overshadowed by historic houses. It radiates out from the sumptuous
Royal Castle, where Swedish monarchs have resided since the 13th
century.

However, despite the rich medieval heritage,
Stockholm is not an old-fashioned enclave. Citizens have developed
a reputation for being trendy, daring and innovative, especially in
the global realms of IT and fashion, often setting the pace in the
technology and design fields.

Stockholmers are also immensely concerned with the
environment, and the cityscape is made up of one-third water,
one-third green space, one-third buildings, and some of the
cleanest air of any city in the world. Pack a picnic, hop aboard a
ferry, and make for one of the parks where you will undoubtedly be
treated to a free concert; or head for the legendary shopping
districts of Biblioteksgatan (exclusive European boutiques),
Odengatan (antique treasures), and others.

There is culture to be soaked up too, with more than
150 museums to visit, art festivals galore, opera and jazz
concerts, and architecture to be admired, including the beautiful
City Hall where the Nobel Prize banquet takes place. It may be old
but Stockholm is a destination for the young and energetic, and not
overrun with tourists like many other European capitals.

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.