Northern Europe’s historic ports and verdant wilderness expanses enrich all of your senses during this voyage from the United Kingdom to Eastern Europe’s northernmost coastlines. Glide past wispy waterfalls and sleepy, moss-covered fjord farms during a full day cruise through Norway’s picturesque Geirangerfjord. Pedal by former Industrial Age distilleries and a restored tobacco facility as you follow your Aalborg cycling group toward a modern Danish outdoor sculpture exhibit and refreshments. Journey inland to Berlin to explore infamous Cold War icons like Checkpoint Charlie, Stasi Headquarters, and the crumbling Berlin Wall—or take in the sights on an Elbe riverboat float before a 3-course lunch at the German Reichstag. Drift past Medieval houses and Polish coastal fortifications during a kayak tour of Gdansk’s Old Town. Sip local ales and sample juicy berries on your way through Riga’s Central Market with a Latvian chef. Decorate decadent Estonian chocolate confections in Tallin’s Rottermann Quarter.

From the Firth of Forth, a UNESCO site, to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is steeped in history. Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Botanic Gardens. The UNESCO site of Old Town. The wonders of Edinburgh are never ending. From one of Europe’s best-preserved castles to the world’s longest herbaceous border, a riot of color and culture pervades. In this city as old as Scotland itself, you’ll find the perfect blend of historic tradition and natural beauty.

The Shetland Islands may only have one town, and it’s small, but as you already know, good things come in small packages. There are seabird colonies and sea mammals galore, along with a windswept beauty that’s refreshing in its simplicity. History buffs can investigate 400-year-old castles or Iron Age ruins. Or meet the tiny ponies that share the islands’ name.

Colorful Bryggen, Bergen’s Hanseatic quay and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is so delightful you may find it difficult to explore further. But do. Watch the Huldras (forest nymphs) dance at Kjosfossen Waterfall, wander the narrow smau between the old buildings climbing the hillside.

Colorful Bryggen, Bergen’s Hanseatic quay and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is so delightful you may find it difficult to explore further. But do. Watch the Huldras (forest nymphs) dance at Kjosfossen Waterfall, wander the narrow smau between the old buildings climbing the hillside.

Visit tiny goat villages to sample homemade cheese. Take a RIB boat out on the spectacular Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buy yourself a mango ice cream cone and absorb all the beauty around you.

Cruise up 9-mile-long Geirangerfjord, one of the most famous fjords of Norway.  This UNESCO site has several impressive waterfalls and your ship will cruise by the most famous waterfall of the fjord – the characteristic Seven Sisters Waterfall.

The pleasant small village of Olden is located at the inner end of the 66-mile long Nordfjord, the sixth longest fjord in Norway.   Long known for tourism and industry, it is now also famous for contemporary design.  With fewer than 500 inhabitants Olden is an ideal destination for people who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, and is the gateway to Jostedal, the largest glacier on the European mainland. If you can, find a bottle of Olden Mineral Water, as close as you will get to a glacier on tap.

A tiny town of only 500 residents, yet people have been traveling here from all over since the end of the 19th century. You’ll understand why when you arrive. Take one of the world’s most breathtaking railroad journeys up the mountain to gasp at the fjord below.

A tiny town of only 500 residents, yet people have been traveling here from all over since the end of the 19th century. You’ll understand why when you arrive. Take one of the world’s most breathtaking railroad journeys up the mountain to gasp at the fjord below.

Here’s a day for exploration. Your ship will dock in the very city center near the oldest part of town. A short stroll will take you to Stavanger Cathedral, the best preserved medieval cathedral in Norway, the city center and cobblestone pedestrian streets. Just an hour’s boat trip away is the 2,000-foot-high Pulpit Rock with its magnificent views of the lovely Lysefjord.

Aalborg is found in the Jutland region of Denmark on the shores of Limfjord. This university city is full of Viking history, 21st century architecture and a quaint medieval center. This is a small port that only allows one cruise ship at a time. Visit Skanse Park with its stunning view of the city and the fjord. Grab a drink at Jomfru Ane Gade, a charming street packed with locals frequenting the bars and restaurants there.

This historic city of palaces, canals, and copper spires casts a sense of enchantment upon all who walk its cobbled streets. Little wonder that Copenhagen’s favorite son, Hans Christian Andersen, was inspired to write some of the world’s most beloved fairy tales here. Stroll the 17^th century Nyhavn waterfront where Andersen once lived, complete with colorful row houses and historic tall ships. Enjoy world-class shopping on Strøget, the world's longest pedestrian street. Or find your amusement at world-famous Tivoli Gardens where tree-lined pathways lead to theaters, open air stages, restaurants, cafes, and over 80 attractions.

This beautiful Baltic resort is known for its long, wide expanse of startlingly white beach. Explore the unique mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture, and stroll the beach promenade. Or delve into World War II history with an optional tour in Berlin with famous landmarks like Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall and a UNESCO site like Museumsinsel.

This beautiful Baltic resort is known for its long, wide expanse of startlingly white beach. Explore the unique mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture, and stroll the beach promenade. Or delve into World War II history with an optional tour in Berlin with famous landmarks like Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall and a UNESCO site like Museumsinsel.

Well-known as a seaside resort, Sassnitz is also the gateway to Jasmund National Park with its unique chalk cliffs. Also found in Sassnitz is the decommissioned HMS Otus, a British submarine, now a floating museum. Here you will find many cafes and boutiques in this charming old town that invites relaxation.

Gdansk’s Old Town was lovingly reconstructed after World War II. Take your time admiring massive red-brick churches and searching for the perfect memento in amber shops. This is also the home of the Solidarity movement, the beautiful Lake District, and Malbork Castle, Europe’s largest gothic fortress.

Klaipeda is the only port in Lithuania, and they take great pride in its maritime history with tall ship regattas and a Sea Museum. You’ll notice that local legends and folklore play a big role here, from the playful statues scattered about Old Town to Witches' Hill with its wooden sculptures depicting Lithuanian fairy tales.  Nearby Curonian Spit National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for possessing Europe’s highest sand dunes.

In this “Pearl of the Baltic Sea,” discover what life may have been like in 13th century Europe, stepping into your own time machine as you explore the ruins and ancient buildings. The 500-year-old cathedral alone seems to make time stand still. The town’s architectural integrity earned its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A major port at the mouth of the River Daugava, Riga has a UNESCO-listed pedestrian-only Old Town and a famous Central Market. It is also known for its art nouveau architecture, wooden buildings and delightful shops and restaurants at busy Livu Square.

The spires of 14th century churches soar above fashion-forward cafés, restaurants, and shops within the stone walls of Tallinn. Medieval Old Town is the well-preserved – and thriving – center of town, where you’ll find impressive guild houses, St. Olav’s Church, and other architectural treasures. Beyond Old Town lies Peter the Great’s Baroque masterpiece, Kadriorg Palace – and sunny Pirita beach.

Art Nouveau buildings, museums, timeless restaurants, and charming cafés are sprinkled throughout the harbor dominating this maritime city. Discover reminders of the early czars’ influence at the Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the fortress on Suomenlinna Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shop along Market Square and in Aleksanterinkatu. And don’t miss a chance to enjoy a cocktail at the breathtaking Hotel Kämp.

Experience your own private Stockholm as you explore the interlacing canals and 14 tiny islands that surround this magical city. Renowned for its progressive nature, Stockholm offers avant-garde design, and trendy fashions. Visit the UNESCO sites of Frottningholm and Skogskykogarden, and the Södermalm neighborhood to discover charming old homes and picturesque main streets lined with unique shops, art galleries, and entertaining nightclubs.