Author: Maria

July 1, 2023 – July 23, 2023

Oslo – Norway July 1, 2023

If you would like to see what and where we ate while traveling around Oslo to Copenhagen.

Overlooking a gorgeous fjord, Norway’s capital and largest city simply radiates with natural beauty and sophistication. Oslo’s rich seafaring history is on display at the Viking Ships Museum, rivaled only by the Kon-Tiki Museum, which holds the balsawood raft that Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl used to sail from Peru to Polynesia. History aside, Oslo exudes a love of the outdoors in city parks like Vigeland, which is adorned with over 200 life-size sculptures by artist Gustav Vigeland. Much of Oslo is heavily forested with pines, making it one of Europe’s greenest cities.

Kristiansand, Norway July 3, 2023

Founded in 1641 near the southern tip of Norway, Kristiansand once claimed the world’s largest fleet of sailing ships. Today the proud city exudes an energy that peaks in summer, when your ship calls. The Posebyen old quarter boasts a collection of historic wooden houses surrounded by shops and restaurants. Museums abound and include the Agder Museum of Natural History and Botanical Garden, which opened in 1828. Kristiansand Zoo, said to be Norway’s most visited attraction, covers 150 acres of Nordic terrain where animals like red pandas, moose and Bactrian camels roam in wide-open spaces.

Explore colorful Kristiansand, southern Norway’s most cosmopolitan city, on a guided orientation stroll through its Old Town streets. You’ll meet up with your guide at the pier and set off to discover the charms of historic Posebyen, a signature neighborhood of the city. This section of Kristiansand is defined by its grid of streets laid out centuries ago in a strict right-angle arrangement that has earned it the nickname “the quadrature.” Northern Europe’s largest collection of lowrise wooden houses can be found within its boundaries along the River Otra shore. Many are fortunate survivors of a fire that ravaged Kristiansand in the 1890s, and their historical and architectural value has earned the area special heritage status. It’s easy to understand why this has remained such a popular residential area for generations. At the conclusion of this enjoyable amble through some of Kristiansand’s most atmospheric terrain, your guide will escort you back to the pier and your waiting ship.

Haugesund, Norway July 4, 2023

Located in the southwest of Norway where the fjords flow out into the North Sea, Haugesund is surrounded by the blue ice Folgefonna glacier in the north and the impressive mountain formation of Preikestolen in the south. Learn why this charming town is known as the Homeland of the Viking Kings at Avaldsnes’ Viking settlement, where you can see a reconstructed Viking farm and learn how the Vikings lived. Discover majestic fjords, cascading waterfalls, stunning glaciers, imposing mountains, and idyllic islands and lighthouses. The best way to get an insider’s look at Haugesund is to follow the locals and go for an invigorating hike at Preikestolen, also known as the Pulpit Rock or Preacher’s Rock, one of the most popular hiking trips in the region.

Cruise up a gorgeous fjord and see one of Norway’s most photographed waterfalls and visit the rural workshop of a renowned folk artist. To reach Langfoss waterfall, you will cruise Akrafjorden, a spectacular fjord that winds through the countryside. The cascade tumbles down the mountainside, rather than falling straight down into the fjord so it appears even more dramatic. 

Molde, Norway July 5, 2023

Celebrate the wonders of a land steeped in myth and beauty by exploring enchanting Molde or venturing forth to some of Norway’s most iconic landmarks. From the Varna lookout, absorb the awe-inspiring Molde Panorama, a sweeping view of 222 snow-capped peaks, and meander along the pathways of pristine Hjertøya Island, learning about age-old traditions at the compelling Fisheries Museum. Drive to the Norwegian Sea coast to experience the Atlantic Road, an amazing motorway that curves and swoops above a series of tiny islands, or ascend Norway’s chiseled mountains over waterfalls and lush valleys along the glorious Trollstigen Road.

driving onto the Atlantic Ocean Road. This five-mile stretch of highway passes over eight bridges on the ocean’s edge, connecting a series of small islands and islets. Often considered the most beautiful road in Norway, it was so challenging to build that when completed it was voted the country’s Engineering Feat of the Century. It will present the majesty of the ocean in a way that other coastal highways simply can’t match. You will take a different route back to Molde after an enlightening stop at Fort Ergan, which the Germans built as part of their defensive Atlantic Wall during World War II.

Kristiandsund, Norway July 6, 2023

Beautifully situated on four main islands, Kristiansund is an inviting city surrounded by astonishing natural beauty. Its most famous attraction is the Atlantic Road, reputed to offer the world’s best road trip. The route winds its way across islands and over bridges with magnificent views of the ocean and coastline. Kristiansund also houses the oldest opera in Norway, and the city boasts a diverse and colorful array of architectural styles both classic and modern.

Trondheim, Norway July 7, 2023

Over a thousand years old, Trondheim is one of the oldest of Norway’s major cities. Visit the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, the largest medieval building in Scandinavia, and Stiftsgarden Palace, the royal residence and one of the largest wooden buildings in Northern Europe. Enjoy stunning views of Trondheim Fjord from the Ringve Museum, home to a collection of more than 2,000 musical instruments.

Nordfjordeid, Norway – July 8, 2023

Situated between one of the largest glaciers in Europe and the rugged Stad Peninsula, Nordfjordeid is your jumping off point to explore one of the most beautiful places in the world. The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord awaits you to the northeast, while icy glaciers flow into spectacular valleys to the southeast – you won’t have a moment to put down your camera. Something as simple as visiting a deer farm takes on a whole new meaning when you are surrounded by towering mountain ranges, and taking a leisurely hike will be the most memorable experience of your life when you are embraced by sheer rocky cliffs over which roaring waterfalls cascade.

Kirkwall, Scotland – July 9, 2023

This starkly beautiful island holds many ancient treasures like the enigmatic Standing Stones of Stenness and the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, amazingly discovered with furniture and indoor drains preserved. Visit the imposing trio of St. Magnus Cathedral, the nearby ruins of the Earl’s Palace, and the earlier Bishop’s Palace.

Gothenburg, Sweden – July 13, 2023

One look at the abundance of canals and gabled houses in Gothenburg, and it’s clear that the Dutch founded this robust city on the Göta River. That was in 1621, close to the time that mighty Elfsborg Fortress was built at the harbor’s mouth. Touring the citadel is fascinating, as are the 17th century Crown House, Maritiman ship museum, and Gothenburg Art Museum with masterpieces from Edvard Munch to Picasso. Gothenburg is one of Sweden’s greenest cities, compliments of parks such as Slottsskogen. For a vibrant atmosphere, walk along Kungsportavenyn, Gothenburg’s main street, which is a hive of cafés, boutiques and plazas.

Kiel, Germany – July 14, 2023

The grand harbor and seaside promenade take center stage in this historical maritime city that’s the gateway to the famed Kiel Canal. Everywhere you go – the Kiel Fjord, the museums and memorials in the city center, the bustling waterfront known as Kiellinie – you’ll feel the seafaring and naval influences. Top choices include the maritime-focused Schifffahrtsmuseum, Aquarium GEOMAR, Botanical Gardens Kiel and of course, stopping at a café along the promenade to enjoy the ever-changing vista of the harbor. Just outside of Kiel in Laboe, you can explore a restored German submarine U-995 on Ostsee beach, a somber reminder of the city’s role as the main German submarine base during World War II.

Spend hours exploring the attractions in Hamburg that sound most appealing to you with no schedule to follow but your own. With a map in hand and recommendations from the guide, you can make the most of your time in the city that Charlemagne founded on the Elbe River in 810. You might meander through the gothic-style Speicherstadt, a World Heritage site and the world’s largest complex of warehouses. Narrow canals and bridges crisscross the district, making it easy to browse the shops, museums and restaurants. Other options well worth seeing include the exquisite Jungfernstieg shopping street, Germany’s oldest stock exchange, the 647-room town hall and St. Michaelis, an enormous Baroque church with distinctive features such as Germany’s largest clock tower. Because of Hamburg’s many waterways, , the downtown is lush and full of parks and gardens. Any of them is a great choice if you wish to relax in an urban oasis.

Kariskrona, Sweden – July 15, 2023

Day 15: Saturday, July 15, 2023 7 AM 2 PM

Established in 1680 when Sweden was a great military power, Karlskrona was founded as a naval port, and the city’s rich maritime and architectural heritage have earned it the designation of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many Baroque buildings remain intact, such as those on the grand main square, Stortorget. Having protected the harbor for more than three centuries, Kungsholm Fortress and Drottningskär Citadel reveal a remarkable history. In the fascinating Marine Museum, explore a Soviet submarine, inspect a World War II minesweeper, and observe an 18th century shipwreck through an underwater tunnel.

Stockholm, Sweden – July 16, 2023

Spend a marvelous day discovering this lovely city and its beautiful buildings. Visit the charming Old Town, medieval Gamla Stan, the elegant royal palace, the wonderful parks and the impressive Vasa, the magnificently restored 17th century warship that sank in the harbor on her maiden voyage.

Helsinki, Finland – July 17, 2023

Admire the city’s stunning modern architecture, visit its lovely parks and bustling open-air market. Take a harbor cruise past forests, beaches, villas and a ruined Suomenlinna fortress that spans five islands. Or visit historic, colorful Porvoo, Finland’s second oldest town.

Tallinn, Estonia – July 18, 2023

Step back in time as you walk through this beautifully preserved medieval town and discover its upper and lower levels, the guild houses, the churches and squares, the famous apothecary shop and the exquisite town hall. See delightful parks, Baroque palaces and a ruined 15th century convent. Or visit a lovely recreated rural Estonian village by the sea.

Riga, Latvia – July 19, 2023

Once called the “Paris of the Baltics,” Riga has regained its status as a cosmopolitan capital with dozens of museums and arguably Europe’s most exceptional Art Nouveau architecture. Founded in 1201, Riga boasts a magnificent Old Town called “Vecriga.” Riga Castle, the residence of Latvia’s president, was built on the site of the original settlement next to the Daugava River. St. Mary’s Dome Cathedral is renowned for its stained glass windows and massive 19th century organ comprised of more than 6,500 pipes. Outside the city limits, traditional Latvian life is on display in outdoor exhibits at the Open Air Ethnographic Museum.

Visby, Sweden – July 20, 2023

Enjoy the lovely countryside beyond the towered walls and take in the view of this former Hanseatic League town before exploring its narrow, winding lanes, marvelous ruined medieval churches and impressive St. Mary’s Cathedral. Or visit an intriguing Bronze Age burial in the midst of farmland and take in the cliff-top view of the precipitous coastline.

Klaipeda, Lithuania – July 21, 2023

Lithuania’s third largest city, Klaipeda has been in and out of the hands of the Russians, Swedes and Germans. Marvel at the impressive, and verbosely christened, St. Mergeles Marijos Taikos Karalienes Church tower and walk through Anika Square. Head to the pristine Baltic waters lapping at the broad sands of Smiltyne Beach. Or duck into the Clock Museum or Castle Museum

Ronne (Bornholm), Denmark – July 22, 2023

Largely rebuilt after World War II, Rønne still feels historic because even the new buildings reflect the older architecture. As a result, walking from more modern areas into the charming Old Town (Gamle Stan) is less noticeable. Don’t miss the 14th century St. Nicholas Church, one of the more iconic buildings on Bornholm Island, or the massive round-tower castle and its fascinating military museum in the south of Rønne. To better understand the island’s seafaring and natural history, visit Bornholm Museum.

Copenhagen, Denmark – July 23, 2023