Baltic Sea & Beyond

Southampton

Southampton is a port city in the county of Hampshire, located on the south coast of England. Its historical and modern day importance is celebrated around the city through its museums, buildings, galleries, and other attractions and places of interest. This lively, multicultural city is home to a Premier League football club, two universities, and a wealth of places to eat, shop and entertain.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fredrikstad

Fredrikstad, located in the southeastern part of Norway, is a charming and historic city with a rich cultural heritage. Known as the "Fortress Town," Fredrikstad offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. With its picturesque setting, well-preserved fortress, and numerous cultural attractions, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the main highlights of Fredrikstad is its historic Old Town, Gamlebyen. Founded in 1567, Gamlebyen is considered one of the best-preserved fortress towns in Northern Europe. Its cobbled streets, old wooden houses, and charming boutiques give visitors a glimpse into the city's past. The iconic Fredrikstad Fortress is also located in Gamlebyen and is a must-visit for history buffs. The fortress offers guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.

Fredrikstad is situated on the banks of the Glomma River, which adds to its natural beauty. The river provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking. Renting a boat and exploring the archipelago is a popular activity in the summer months. The surrounding areas also offer beautiful hiking trails, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning Norwegian scenery.

For those interested in art and culture, Fredrikstad has a vibrant and diverse arts scene. The city is home to numerous galleries and artist studios, showcasing the work of both local and international artists. The Frederik II's Gallery and the Galleri Henrik Gerner are well-known art galleries worth visiting. Additionally, the Fredrikstad Museum showcases the city's history and cultural heritage through exhibitions and interactive displays.

Food lovers will be delighted by the culinary offerings in Fredrikstad. The city boasts a wide array of restaurants and cafes, serving both traditional Norwegian cuisine and international dishes. Local seafood, such as fresh salmon and cod, is a must-try delicacy. Visitors can enjoy a meal by the waterfront, taking in the beautiful views while indulging in delicious food.

Fredrikstad is also known for its vibrant events and festivals throughout the year. The largest and most popular event is the "Glomma Festival," which takes place in July. This week-long festival features concerts, parades, fireworks, and various cultural events. The Christmas Market in Gamlebyen is also a beloved tradition, attracting visitors from near and far with its festive atmosphere and charming stalls.

With its convenient location, Fredrikstad serves as a gateway to the rest of the Oslofjord region. From here, visitors can easily explore nearby attractions such as Hvaler Archipelago, Norway's first marine national park, and the charming coastal towns of Moss and Halden.

In terms of accommodation, Fredrikstad offers a wide range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from boutique hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, or self-catering apartments. The city's central location and excellent transportation links make it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding areas.

Overall, Fredrikstad is a hidden gem in Norway, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in exploring the city's well-preserved fortress, enjoying outdoor activities along the Glomma River, or immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene, Fredrikstad has something to offer for every traveler.

Zeebrugge

There’s something special about Zeebrugge. Perhaps it’s the centuries of history that can be seen in its architecture and felt in its atmosphere. Maybe it’s the beautiful beach and harbor that make it a perfect spot for a summer vacation. Whatever the reason, Zeebrugge is definitely worth a visit.

This historic city is located in northwest Belgium, about an hour’s drive from Brussels. It’s best known for its port, which has been an important hub for trade and travel for centuries. These days, the port is also a popular spot for cruise ships.

But Zeebrugge is more than just a port city. Its charming pedestrian-only old town is full of cute shops, cafes, and restaurants. There’s also a lively market square, where you can find fresh produce and local specialties.

And of course, no visit to Zeebrugge would be complete without spending some time on the beach. The wide, sandy beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, and sunbathing. And if you’re looking for a little more excitement, there are plenty of water sports to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just spending some time in a beautiful setting, Zeebrugge is definitely worth a visit.

Southampton

Southampton is a port city in the county of Hampshire, located on the south coast of England. Its historical and modern day importance is celebrated around the city through its museums, buildings, galleries, and other attractions and places of interest. This lively, multicultural city is home to a Premier League football club, two universities, and a wealth of places to eat, shop and entertain.