Medieval Streets to Modern Wonders: Explore Northern Europe

I’ll be arriving in Hamburg two days earlier than planned and staying an extra day in Kiel. If anyone’s interested, feel free to join me in extending our adventure in Germany!

Looking forward to exploring more together!

Inside Cabins category ID $1769.00 per person based on double occupancy. 

Single occupancy $3308.00 total for one person.

Outside Cabins category EC $2329.00 per person based on double occupancy. Single occupancy $4416.00 total per person.

Balcony Cabin Category BF $2689.00 per person based on double occupancy. Single occupancy $5123.00 total per person.

To confirm your reservation call Libby at 678 325 8351.

Discover Hamburg: A European GemLocated 70 miles from the sea along the Elbe River in northern Germany, Hamburg is Europe’s second-largest port city and one of the most cosmopolitan, dynamic destinations in Germany. With over 2,000 bridges, more than Venice and Amsterdam combined, the city has earned the nickname "Venice of the North." Along with exploring Hamburg’s iconic landmarks like its neo-Renaissance and Baroque architecture, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the historic red-brick warehouse district, a short trip to Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is a must. Lübeck’s Old Town, with its gabled houses and ancient churches, stretches across 100 hectares, and don't forget to sample its famous Niederegger marzipan.

Exploring Hamburg
Hamburg is vast, and the subway is the fastest way to navigate. Key landmarks include St. Michael’s Church, Northern Germany’s largest Baroque church and the city’s most famous landmark. Nearby, you’ll find a charming street lined with 17th-century brick and timber houses. Hamburg's neo-Renaissance Town Hall is a stunning sight, and the Museum of Fine Arts houses masterpieces by Rembrandt and Munch. The city’s history museum offers fascinating exhibits dating back to the 9th century. For railway enthusiasts, Miniatur Wunderland features one of the world’s largest model train displays. Don’t miss the iconic red-brick Speicherstadt Warehouses, the oldest of their kind in the world.

Beyond Hamburg Hamburg is surrounded by great day-trip destinations. Lübeck is a historic city worth visiting, with its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, while Lüneburg, a picturesque Hanseatic city, offers stunning medieval architecture and a charming harbor. For a seaside escape, head to Travemünde, where you'll find a beautiful sandy beach, a 100-year-old promenade, and scenic gardens overlooking the sea.

Experience Copenhagen: Where Tradition Meets ModernityFounded in the 12th century, Copenhagen is a city that beautifully blends modernity with tradition. Known for its Viking roots and exceptional Scandinavian design, Copenhagen is home to famous landmarks like the ramparts of Hamlet’s Elsinore, the Little Mermaid statue, Tivoli Gardens, and magnificent Royal Palaces. The city’s charm is evident not only in its history but also in the stylish, bicycle-riding locals who epitomize Danish cool. Don't miss day trips to the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, Fredensborg Castle, or the town of Hillerød with its superb historical museum.

Exploring Copenhagen
Many of Copenhagen's top attractions are within walking distance from Rådhuspladsen (Town Hall Square). Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, stretches across 22 blocks toward the Central Station. The famous Little Mermaid statue, created by Edvard Eriksen, gazes out to sea from Langelinie Promenade. The Vor Frue Kirke (Church of Our Lady) is home to Thorvaldsen's statues of Christ and the Twelve Apostles. The National Museum offers a fascinating look at Danish history and antiquities from Greece, Egypt, and Rome, while the Illuminations theatre presents exciting astronomical exhibits.

Beyond CopenhagenOutside of the city, explore Denmark’s historic castles and Viking heritage. Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød is a 17th-century gem that was rebuilt after a fire in 1859. Fredensborg Palace, a royal residence, is open to the public during the summer, offering tours of the castle and private gardens. Kronborg Castle, famously known as Hamlet’s home, is located about 45 kilometers from Copenhagen. Additionally, Roskilde is home to the Viking Ship Museum, featuring five ancient vessels from the Viking era.  

Discover Visby: A Medieval Gem in Gotland, Sweden Visby, often described as a fairytale town on the island of Gotland, Sweden, is a treasure trove of history and beauty. With its medieval architecture, ancient church ruins, and bustling port, it's one of Northern Europe's best-preserved medieval cities.

Visby Today Once a Viking hub, Visby has evolved into a charming town with cobblestone streets, pastel-colored cottages, and a well-preserved historical townscape. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city boasts Viking-era relics and centuries-old buildings that attract visitors from around the world.

Visby Port Guide Situated strategically in the Baltic Sea, Visby is home to a natural harbor, sheltered by rugged cliffs, making it a vital port throughout history. The moment you arrive, the towering cathedral, stone buildings, and medieval city walls will captivate your attention.Things to See and Do

• Sancta Maria Cathedral: A must-see landmark since 1225, this cathedral is at the heart of the city and one of Visby’s oldest places of worship.
• Faro’s Lighthouse: Located on Faro Island, this 30-meter-high lighthouse is famous for appearing in Ingmar Bergman’s films Through a Glass Darkly and Persona.
• Visby City Wall: The best-preserved medieval city wall in Europe, stretching 3.5 km, provides a scenic walking route around the town.
• S:t Per Ruin: A remarkable historical ruin near the port, marking the site where two churches once stood.

Activities in Visby

• Viking Artifacts: Discover Viking treasures at Gotland Museum, home to Europe’s largest collection of silver treasure.
• Lummelunda Cave: Explore the breathtaking 2.5-mile-long cave with ancient limestone formations.
• DBW Botanical Gardens: Open year-round, these beautiful gardens offer a peaceful escape with a variety of plants from around the world.
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 Helsinki: Finland’s Seaside CapitalHelsinki, Finland’s southern capital, is home to 12% of the country’s population. It beautifully blends urban culture with seaside charm, offering a unique combination of green spaces, bustling city life, and industrial heritage. As one of Europe’s busiest passenger ports, Helsinki welcomes over half a million visitors each year, inviting you to explore its innovative art scene, Nordic cuisine, and stunning natural beauty.Top Landmarks and Sights in Helsinki:

• Helsinki Cathedral: A symbol of the city, this iconic cathedral, built from 1830 to 1852, stands proudly in Senate Square.
• Market Square: A vibrant hub offering food stalls, local handicrafts, and year-round themed events.
• Suomenlinna: A UNESCO World Heritage sea fortress spanning eight islands, accessible by ferry.
• Kamppi Chapel: A peaceful, architectural masterpiece offering a space of reflection for all.

Things to Do in Helsinki:

• Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma: A showcase of Finnish and international contemporary art from the 1970s onward.
• The National Museum of Finland: A fascinating museum exploring Finnish history from the Stone Age to the present.
• Esplanadi: The green heart of Helsinki, perfect for a relaxing stroll surrounded by shops and cafes.
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 Tallinn: Estonia’s Historic Capital Tallinn, Estonia’s capital and cultural hub, is renowned for its medieval charm, UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, and vibrant atmosphere. With over 800 years of history, Tallinn blends gothic architecture with modern conveniences, offering a glimpse into both its past and present.Top Landmarks and Sights in Tallinn:

• Tallinn Town Hall: The oldest surviving town hall in Northern Europe, hosting festivals and concerts.
• St. Nicholas Church: A 13th-century church dedicated to sailors and fishermen.
• Viru Gate: Iconic watchtowers marking the entrance to Tallinn’s Old Town.
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A grand Orthodox cathedral with Russian Revival architecture.

Things to Do in Tallinn:

• Kadriorg Park: A beautiful park featuring museums, gardens, and monuments.
• Toompea Castle: Home to the Estonian Parliament, offering guided tours.
• Tallinn TV Tower: The tallest structure in the city, offering stunning panoramic views.
• Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform: A perfect spot for breathtaking views of the Old Town.
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Stockholm
Stockholm, with its captivating Scandinavian charm, feels like a postcard come to life. The Old Town, with its cobbled streets, fashionable shops, and the Royal Palace, buzzes with the energy of the city. Spread across 14 islands connected by bridges, Sweden’s capital offers both vibrant city life and serene escapes. Wander the dreamy alleys of the Old Town, perched on a small shard of land, to experience Stockholm's timeless allure.Kiel
Kiel is a captivating cruise port, offering a delightful mix of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re exploring its maritime heritage, enjoying local cuisine, or discovering the lively events and festivals, Kiel promises a memorable stop on your cruise to Germany.

Kiel Located at the end of the Kieler Förde in northern Germany, Kiel is a bustling port city steeped in maritime history. Just 6 miles north of Hamburg and close to the Danish border, Kiel was founded in 1233 and has long been home to major naval bases. Today, it boasts the busiest artificial waterway in the world. Popular with sailing enthusiasts, Kiel has hosted two Olympic sailing competitions and the world’s largest sailing event—Kiel Week. With its rich history, scenic waterfront, and delicious cuisine, Kiel is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.

Top Landmarks and Sights in Kiel

• Kiel Canal: Experience the marvel of the Kiel Canal, one of the busiest artificial waterways in the world. Watch massive ships, cruise liners, and sailboats navigate through its locks and bridges.
• Kiellinie: Take a leisurely stroll along this picturesque waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the Kiel Fjord, with sailing clubs, cafes, restaurants, and an aquarium along the way.
• Submarine U-995: Step aboard this World War II submarine, commissioned in 1943, to explore its history and experience life aboard a wartime vessel.
• St. Nikolai Church: Visit the oldest building in Kiel, dating back to 1242. Although damaged during WWII, the church has been beautifully restored and is known for its striking green spire.

Things to Do in Kiel

• Kiel Maritime Museum: Dive into Kiel’s maritime history at this museum, housed in the historic Kiel Castle. Discover fascinating exhibits, including ship models, artifacts, and naval weapons.
• Schilksee Beach: Unwind at Schilksee Beach, where you can enjoy the refreshing Baltic Sea waters or relax on soft sands.
• Botanical Garden Kiel: Nature lovers will enjoy the Botanical Garden, featuring a wide range of global plant species, including a Japanese garden and Mediterranean greenhouse.
• The City Museum: Housed in the oldest residential house in Kiel, the City Museum offers a glimpse into the city's rich past through its preserved 17th-century rooms and art exhibitions.
   

Date......Port.....................................Arrive.....Depart

July 14...Hamburg, Germany.........................7:00pm

July 15...At Sea

July 16...Copenhagen, Denmark..7:00am...6:00pm

July 17...At Sea

July 18...Visby, Sweden..................8:00am...4:00pm

July 19...Helsinki, Finland...........10:00am...9:00pm

July 20...Tallinn, Estonia...............7:00am...5:00pm

July 21...Stockholm, Sweden.......9:00am...6:00pm

July 22...At Sea

July 23...Kiel, Germany.................7:00am