14-Day Gems Of Northern Europe
Starting from
$6,999*
Copenhagen, Denmark to Dover (London), England, UK
Ship: Seabourn Ovation
Departure Date :
Itinerary
Day Copenhagen, DenmarkDeparts 05:00 PM
"Copenhagen is one of the easiest European capitals to fall in love with. The sights of old buildings, cobbled streets and the tower- and turret-dotted skyline lend fairy-tale charmthis was, after all, the home of author Hans Christian Andersen. But make no mistake: This is a thoroughly modern city with international clout. Restaurants around the world draw inspiration from the New Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma and other Copenhagen restaurants, while Danish design from this century and the last is universally admired and coveted. Urban planners flock here to try to work out just how the city remains so livable and yet so functional, and despite its wealth of old buildings, Copenhagens not locked in the past; there are also thrilling examples of modern architecture. Copenhagen is a city thats easy to find things to do and explore on foot or by excellent public transport, where everyone speaks perfect English, the food is fresh and innovative, and theres plenty of locally brewed beerwhich, of course, is best enjoyed sitting by the water on a sunny day. "
"Copenhagen is one of the easiest European capitals to fall in love with. The sights of old buildings, cobbled streets and the tower- and turret-dotted skyline lend fairy-tale charmthis was, after all, the home of author Hans Christian Andersen. But make no mistake: This is a thoroughly modern city with international clout. Restaurants around the world draw inspiration from the New Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma and other Copenhagen restaurants, while Danish design from this century and the last is universally admired and coveted. Urban planners flock here to try to work out just how the city remains so livable and yet so functional, and despite its wealth of old buildings, Copenhagens not locked in the past; there are also thrilling examples of modern architecture. Copenhagen is a city thats easy to find things to do and explore on foot or by excellent public transport, where everyone speaks perfect English, the food is fresh and innovative, and theres plenty of locally brewed beerwhich, of course, is best enjoyed sitting by the water on a sunny day. "
Day Wismar, GermanyArrives 06:00 AM Departs 08:00 PM
Wismar, on the Baltic just east of Lubeck, is one of the most important cities of the Hanseatic League. Shortly after its founding, it banded together with Lübeck and Rostock in a defensive alliance, which led to the formation of the League. Today it has one of the finest preserved and restored treasuries of German Brick Gothic architecture existing, and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. It has the largest Market Square in Germany, anchored by the wrought-iron Waterworks from 1602, and surrounded by stellar buildings. The city was ruled by Sweden from 1648 until 1903. It was heavily damaged during World War II, and was a part of the GDR after the war until 1990. There are many fine examples of Hanseatic era patrician gable houses in Wismar, most notably the Alter Schwede (Old Swede) from 1380. The architectural heritage in the city spans eras from Gothic through Art Nouveau styles.
Wismar, on the Baltic just east of Lubeck, is one of the most important cities of the Hanseatic League. Shortly after its founding, it banded together with Lübeck and Rostock in a defensive alliance, which led to the formation of the League. Today it has one of the finest preserved and restored treasuries of German Brick Gothic architecture existing, and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. It has the largest Market Square in Germany, anchored by the wrought-iron Waterworks from 1602, and surrounded by stellar buildings. The city was ruled by Sweden from 1648 until 1903. It was heavily damaged during World War II, and was a part of the GDR after the war until 1990. There are many fine examples of Hanseatic era patrician gable houses in Wismar, most notably the Alter Schwede (Old Swede) from 1380. The architectural heritage in the city spans eras from Gothic through Art Nouveau styles.
Day Trelleborg, SwedenArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
Trelleborg is Swedenâs southernmost city and second-busiest port after Gothenburg. Near the Smygehuk, the southern cape of the Swedish Peninsula, it is a major ferry terminal for service to Denmark, Germany and the rest of Europe. The townâs Maritime Museum recounts the history and importance of the port since the medieval era. One of the local landmarks is Trelleborgen, the partially restored 9th century Viking ring fortress which gave the town its name. A museum reveals artifacts from the site and a restored Viking farmstead. The Axel Ebbe Konsthall is a gallery dedicated to the works of a local sculptor, artist and poet. The town also boasts a Hat Museum, located in the headquarters of the former Borquistska millinery factory. Other landmarks include the tall, copper-roofed brick water tower and the beautiful brick St. Nicolai church. Further afield are the HÃ¥slövs stubbamollen, a working, 18th century windmill, and a number of castles scattered across the SkÃ¥ne county countryside.
Trelleborg is Swedenâs southernmost city and second-busiest port after Gothenburg. Near the Smygehuk, the southern cape of the Swedish Peninsula, it is a major ferry terminal for service to Denmark, Germany and the rest of Europe. The townâs Maritime Museum recounts the history and importance of the port since the medieval era. One of the local landmarks is Trelleborgen, the partially restored 9th century Viking ring fortress which gave the town its name. A museum reveals artifacts from the site and a restored Viking farmstead. The Axel Ebbe Konsthall is a gallery dedicated to the works of a local sculptor, artist and poet. The town also boasts a Hat Museum, located in the headquarters of the former Borquistska millinery factory. Other landmarks include the tall, copper-roofed brick water tower and the beautiful brick St. Nicolai church. Further afield are the HÃ¥slövs stubbamollen, a working, 18th century windmill, and a number of castles scattered across the SkÃ¥ne county countryside.
Day Fredericia, DenmarkArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
The small town of Fredericia was purpose-built as a fortress community on the eastern shore of Jutland in 1650. Today its friendly townspeople are more dedicated to hospitality. The towns purpose is clearly evident on first sight, as the original ramparts, moats and earthworks remain as an integral, albeit peaceful part of the town, and make a popular place to stroll or run beside the sea. The White Water Tower, constructed in 1908, makes a good place from which to get an overview. On the nearby island of Funen, medieval Egeskov Castle is a perfectly preserved example of defensive homebuilding. Its many rooms are fully furnished with every detail, including a remarkable dollhouse called Titanias Palace containing no fewer than 3,000 miniature components. The castles formal gardens are one of Europes finest. The 10th Century Viking Rune-Stones at the town of Jelling are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, commemorating the conversion of Denmark to Christianity by King Harald Bluetooth in 965. For a more modern, although equally impressive experience, travel west to Billund, where the fanciful, sprawling mini-world of the original Legoland delights young and old with extensive displays constructed entirely from the ubiquitous interlocking toy bricks invented there.
The small town of Fredericia was purpose-built as a fortress community on the eastern shore of Jutland in 1650. Today its friendly townspeople are more dedicated to hospitality. The towns purpose is clearly evident on first sight, as the original ramparts, moats and earthworks remain as an integral, albeit peaceful part of the town, and make a popular place to stroll or run beside the sea. The White Water Tower, constructed in 1908, makes a good place from which to get an overview. On the nearby island of Funen, medieval Egeskov Castle is a perfectly preserved example of defensive homebuilding. Its many rooms are fully furnished with every detail, including a remarkable dollhouse called Titanias Palace containing no fewer than 3,000 miniature components. The castles formal gardens are one of Europes finest. The 10th Century Viking Rune-Stones at the town of Jelling are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, commemorating the conversion of Denmark to Christianity by King Harald Bluetooth in 965. For a more modern, although equally impressive experience, travel west to Billund, where the fanciful, sprawling mini-world of the original Legoland delights young and old with extensive displays constructed entirely from the ubiquitous interlocking toy bricks invented there.
Day Scenic cruising Oslo Fjord / Oslo, NorwayCruising / Arrives 02:00 PM
"Not a fjord in the geological sense, the Oslo Fjord is actually a vast expanse of water stretching south from the Norwegian capital for nearly 100 kilometers (62 miles). Almost half of Norway's population lives within an hours drive of the fjord, so theres plenty to see along the shoreline, from islands and skerries to major towns and cities.
Oslo, Norway
"Oslo, Norways charming capital city, is a vibrant mixmodern architecture and world-class museums dwell alongside 10th-century Viking history, with indigenous Sami culture woven throughout. This cosmopolitan center, with its coveted quality of life, caters to every interest from history buffs and literary types to students of modern Nordic design and aspiring arctic adventurers. Choose the Oslo you want to visit. Take in the much-talked-about Opera House, with its otherworldly angles, or trace the steps of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and literary masters like Henrik Ibsen. Journey to the Bygdøy peninsula to absorb Nordic culture at the Viking Ship Museum, the Fram Museum and the Folk Museum. Savor fine restaurants and luxury boutiques along the Aker Brygge waterfront, or dive into the eclectic neighborhood of Grünerløkka for vintage shops, microbreweries and corner cafés."
"Not a fjord in the geological sense, the Oslo Fjord is actually a vast expanse of water stretching south from the Norwegian capital for nearly 100 kilometers (62 miles). Almost half of Norway's population lives within an hours drive of the fjord, so theres plenty to see along the shoreline, from islands and skerries to major towns and cities.
Oslo, Norway
"Oslo, Norways charming capital city, is a vibrant mixmodern architecture and world-class museums dwell alongside 10th-century Viking history, with indigenous Sami culture woven throughout. This cosmopolitan center, with its coveted quality of life, caters to every interest from history buffs and literary types to students of modern Nordic design and aspiring arctic adventurers. Choose the Oslo you want to visit. Take in the much-talked-about Opera House, with its otherworldly angles, or trace the steps of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and literary masters like Henrik Ibsen. Journey to the Bygdøy peninsula to absorb Nordic culture at the Viking Ship Museum, the Fram Museum and the Folk Museum. Savor fine restaurants and luxury boutiques along the Aker Brygge waterfront, or dive into the eclectic neighborhood of Grünerløkka for vintage shops, microbreweries and corner cafés."
Day Oslo, NorwayDeparts 11:00 PM
"Oslo, Norways charming capital city, is a vibrant mixmodern architecture and world-class museums dwell alongside 10th-century Viking history, with indigenous Sami culture woven throughout. This cosmopolitan center, with its coveted quality of life, caters to every interest from history buffs and literary types to students of modern Nordic design and aspiring arctic adventurers. Choose the Oslo you want to visit. Take in the much-talked-about Opera House, with its otherworldly angles, or trace the steps of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and literary masters like Henrik Ibsen. Journey to the Bygdøy peninsula to absorb Nordic culture at the Viking Ship Museum, the Fram Museum and the Folk Museum. Savor fine restaurants and luxury boutiques along the Aker Brygge waterfront, or dive into the eclectic neighborhood of Grünerløkka for vintage shops, microbreweries and corner cafés."
"Oslo, Norways charming capital city, is a vibrant mixmodern architecture and world-class museums dwell alongside 10th-century Viking history, with indigenous Sami culture woven throughout. This cosmopolitan center, with its coveted quality of life, caters to every interest from history buffs and literary types to students of modern Nordic design and aspiring arctic adventurers. Choose the Oslo you want to visit. Take in the much-talked-about Opera House, with its otherworldly angles, or trace the steps of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and literary masters like Henrik Ibsen. Journey to the Bygdøy peninsula to absorb Nordic culture at the Viking Ship Museum, the Fram Museum and the Folk Museum. Savor fine restaurants and luxury boutiques along the Aker Brygge waterfront, or dive into the eclectic neighborhood of Grünerløkka for vintage shops, microbreweries and corner cafés."
Day Fredrikstad, NorwayArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Fredrikstad straddles the Giomma River where it enters the Skagerrak near the mouth of the Oslofjord in Eastern Norway, not far from the Swedish border. The town was founded in 1567 by the Danish King Frederik II. The Old Town section, located on the eastern bank of the river, is one of Northern Europes best-preserved fortified towns, surrounded by a star-shaped earthworks and moat. The town was long an important timber port and shipbuilding center. Its cobbled streets and well-kept old buildings lend it a charm that attracts visitors, especially in the summer season. The towns brick Gothic Revival cathedral, crowned by a copper spire, boasts stained glass windows designed by Emanuel Vigeland, the brother of the sculptor Gustav whose monumental works grace the famous island park in Oslo. The Frederikstad Museum offers insights into the town and surrounding Østfold region. A Model Railway Museum also attract aficionados with a huge 1:87 scale landscape operating 30 trains. Further afield, the childhood home of the polar explorer Roald Amundsen now hosts a museum with the nostalgic appeal of a bygone era of Norwegian suburban life.
Fredrikstad straddles the Giomma River where it enters the Skagerrak near the mouth of the Oslofjord in Eastern Norway, not far from the Swedish border. The town was founded in 1567 by the Danish King Frederik II. The Old Town section, located on the eastern bank of the river, is one of Northern Europes best-preserved fortified towns, surrounded by a star-shaped earthworks and moat. The town was long an important timber port and shipbuilding center. Its cobbled streets and well-kept old buildings lend it a charm that attracts visitors, especially in the summer season. The towns brick Gothic Revival cathedral, crowned by a copper spire, boasts stained glass windows designed by Emanuel Vigeland, the brother of the sculptor Gustav whose monumental works grace the famous island park in Oslo. The Frederikstad Museum offers insights into the town and surrounding Østfold region. A Model Railway Museum also attract aficionados with a huge 1:87 scale landscape operating 30 trains. Further afield, the childhood home of the polar explorer Roald Amundsen now hosts a museum with the nostalgic appeal of a bygone era of Norwegian suburban life.
Day At Sea
Day Scrabster, Scotland, United KingdomArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Scrabster is the most northerly large port in mainland Britain and can be found a mile and a half north west of the centre of Thurso at the east end of Thurso Bay. It nestles in the shelter of the low grass covered cliffs of Holborn Head which sweeps round to the north and as a result actually looks east across Thurso Bay towards Dunnet Head rather than, as you might expect, north towards Orkney, for which it serves as the main ferry terminus
Scrabster is the most northerly large port in mainland Britain and can be found a mile and a half north west of the centre of Thurso at the east end of Thurso Bay. It nestles in the shelter of the low grass covered cliffs of Holborn Head which sweeps round to the north and as a result actually looks east across Thurso Bay towards Dunnet Head rather than, as you might expect, north towards Orkney, for which it serves as the main ferry terminus
Day Invergordon (Inverness), Scotland, United KingdomArrives 07:00 AM Departs 04:00 PM
"Welcome to the Highlands, the wildest and least trammeled region in the entire United Kingdom. Inverness is considered the Highland capital and, while a very small city by international comparisons, it does offer more than a few hours of enjoyment and entertainment with first-class restaurants among its attractions. Just outside Inverness is a trove of Scottish and Celtic history, myth and natural beauty amid unspoiled glens, mountains, lochs, rivers and more. Most famous among the attractions is no doubt the legendary (and likely imaginary) Loch Ness Monster, though for the less frivolous traveler, the sites associated with Scottish history will hold more appeal. For example, the Culloden Battlefield, where the 1746 stand-off between Bonnie Prince Charlie and the army of the Hanoverian King in London put the nail in the coffin of any Jacobite rebellionand led to years of Highland repression to ensure no further uprising ensued."
"Welcome to the Highlands, the wildest and least trammeled region in the entire United Kingdom. Inverness is considered the Highland capital and, while a very small city by international comparisons, it does offer more than a few hours of enjoyment and entertainment with first-class restaurants among its attractions. Just outside Inverness is a trove of Scottish and Celtic history, myth and natural beauty amid unspoiled glens, mountains, lochs, rivers and more. Most famous among the attractions is no doubt the legendary (and likely imaginary) Loch Ness Monster, though for the less frivolous traveler, the sites associated with Scottish history will hold more appeal. For example, the Culloden Battlefield, where the 1746 stand-off between Bonnie Prince Charlie and the army of the Hanoverian King in London put the nail in the coffin of any Jacobite rebellionand led to years of Highland repression to ensure no further uprising ensued."
Day Newhaven (Edinburgh), United KingdomArrives 08:00 AM Departs 09:00 PM
Newhaven, about two miles north of the Edinburgh city center on the Firth of Forth, is an historic harbor from which to visit Scotlands stately capital. Once an important fishing and shipbuilding community, Newhaven is a conservation area with unique vernacular architecture using a forestair to access a houses first floor living area, above a ground floor traditionally used for storing nets. The towns Victoria Primary School is the oldest operating primary school in the United Kingdom. Edinburgh is perennially listed among the most attractive and interesting cities in Europe. Its patrician skyline bristles with steeples and spires between the Castle Rock and Carlton Hill. Both the Old Town and New Town are inscribed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
Newhaven, about two miles north of the Edinburgh city center on the Firth of Forth, is an historic harbor from which to visit Scotlands stately capital. Once an important fishing and shipbuilding community, Newhaven is a conservation area with unique vernacular architecture using a forestair to access a houses first floor living area, above a ground floor traditionally used for storing nets. The towns Victoria Primary School is the oldest operating primary school in the United Kingdom. Edinburgh is perennially listed among the most attractive and interesting cities in Europe. Its patrician skyline bristles with steeples and spires between the Castle Rock and Carlton Hill. Both the Old Town and New Town are inscribed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
Day Newcastle upon Tyne, England, United KingdomArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
"Newcastle upon Tyne is a classic city of Englands north country, where you can visit reminders of some 2,000 years of British history. The citys crucial location along the River Tyne has meant that it has been the site of Roman forts under Emperor Hadrian and Norman castles under William the Conqueror and the kings that succeeded him. A short drive outside of town offers the chance to stroll along sections of Hadrians Wall, built by Romans as a defense against Scottish invaders. And a walk through the city finds a mix of modern and old, with new structures like the Gateshead Millennium Bridge alongside Victorian storefronts, Edwardian marketplaces and remnants of the Industrial Revolution. Perhaps Newcastles most recognizable claim to fame is its renowned beer, Newcastle Brown Ale, which you can sample, along with other local craft ales, at historic pubs. Newcastle also makes a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby historic towns like Durham and Alnwick, with their impeccably maintained gardens, historic castles and soaring cathedrals. "
"Newcastle upon Tyne is a classic city of Englands north country, where you can visit reminders of some 2,000 years of British history. The citys crucial location along the River Tyne has meant that it has been the site of Roman forts under Emperor Hadrian and Norman castles under William the Conqueror and the kings that succeeded him. A short drive outside of town offers the chance to stroll along sections of Hadrians Wall, built by Romans as a defense against Scottish invaders. And a walk through the city finds a mix of modern and old, with new structures like the Gateshead Millennium Bridge alongside Victorian storefronts, Edwardian marketplaces and remnants of the Industrial Revolution. Perhaps Newcastles most recognizable claim to fame is its renowned beer, Newcastle Brown Ale, which you can sample, along with other local craft ales, at historic pubs. Newcastle also makes a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby historic towns like Durham and Alnwick, with their impeccably maintained gardens, historic castles and soaring cathedrals. "
Day Great Yarmouth, England, United KingdomArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
The seaside resort town of Great Yarmouth, situated in the Norfolk region of England, was originally the site of the Roman fort of Gariannonum. Located at the mouth of the River Yare, it became a wealthy trading center of considerable importance. It rose to prominence as a major center for tourism when the railway reached it in 1844. Big skies, sweeping beaches, windswept marshes, meandering inland waterways and quaint flint houses combine to great effect in the Great Yarmouth area.
The market place, operating since the 13th century, is one of the largest in England. Museums, theaters, the Sea Life Centre, and the Norman-era Minster Church of St Nicholas, built in 1101, are amongst the many attractions. An historical highlight is the Lord Nelson monument, commemorating the achievements of Admiral Horatio Nelson. High atop the 144 ft (44 m) column stands the statue of Britannia, proudly standing on a globe inscribed with the motto from Nelsonâs coat of arms and holding a trident and olive branch.
The seaside resort town of Great Yarmouth, situated in the Norfolk region of England, was originally the site of the Roman fort of Gariannonum. Located at the mouth of the River Yare, it became a wealthy trading center of considerable importance. It rose to prominence as a major center for tourism when the railway reached it in 1844. Big skies, sweeping beaches, windswept marshes, meandering inland waterways and quaint flint houses combine to great effect in the Great Yarmouth area.
The market place, operating since the 13th century, is one of the largest in England. Museums, theaters, the Sea Life Centre, and the Norman-era Minster Church of St Nicholas, built in 1101, are amongst the many attractions. An historical highlight is the Lord Nelson monument, commemorating the achievements of Admiral Horatio Nelson. High atop the 144 ft (44 m) column stands the statue of Britannia, proudly standing on a globe inscribed with the motto from Nelsonâs coat of arms and holding a trident and olive branch.
Day Amsterdam, The NetherlandsArrives 07:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
A stop in Amsterdam offers the chance to explore the sights of one of Europeâs most colorful, dynamic and historic citiesâone with a well-earned reputation as a laid-back and inviting place for people of all stripes. Visitors are naturally drawn to the historic city center where youâll find some of the worldâs top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. And at Dam Square, the Amsterdamâs largest public square, you can tour the Royal Palace before continuing to the tourist attractions on the Canal Belt. The iconic network of waterways that surrounds the downtown area offers a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing by bike or canal boat. Be sure to visit the floating Bloemenmarkt to peruse famed Dutch tulips, and take time to wander and window-shop among the narrow lanes of de Jordaan. And you wonât have to look far in Amsterdam to find delicious Dutch treats along the way. Just duck into a cozy brown café to sample a plate of bitterballen with mustard and a beer, and grab a gooey sweet stroopwafel from a street vendor as you stroll.
A stop in Amsterdam offers the chance to explore the sights of one of Europeâs most colorful, dynamic and historic citiesâone with a well-earned reputation as a laid-back and inviting place for people of all stripes. Visitors are naturally drawn to the historic city center where youâll find some of the worldâs top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. And at Dam Square, the Amsterdamâs largest public square, you can tour the Royal Palace before continuing to the tourist attractions on the Canal Belt. The iconic network of waterways that surrounds the downtown area offers a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing by bike or canal boat. Be sure to visit the floating Bloemenmarkt to peruse famed Dutch tulips, and take time to wander and window-shop among the narrow lanes of de Jordaan. And you wonât have to look far in Amsterdam to find delicious Dutch treats along the way. Just duck into a cozy brown café to sample a plate of bitterballen with mustard and a beer, and grab a gooey sweet stroopwafel from a street vendor as you stroll.
Day Dover (London), England, UKArrives 07:00 AM
As Britain's historic gateway to Europe, Dover and its famous white chalk cliffs have been the last glimpse of England seen by many a sea traveler over the centuries. When the Romans arrived, they erected a lighthouse to mark the coastline. One of the mightiest medieval castles built in Europe still stands atop those cliffs. Utilized by the British High Command to direct the evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940, the tunnels remained a military secret until recently. Dover is a convenient starting point for touring England's scenic southeastern region.
As Britain's historic gateway to Europe, Dover and its famous white chalk cliffs have been the last glimpse of England seen by many a sea traveler over the centuries. When the Romans arrived, they erected a lighthouse to mark the coastline. One of the mightiest medieval castles built in Europe still stands atop those cliffs. Utilized by the British High Command to direct the evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940, the tunnels remained a military secret until recently. Dover is a convenient starting point for touring England's scenic southeastern region.