Europe - Northern Cruises 2023/2024

Europe - Northern Travel Guide

Europe - Northern Cruises Things To Do

• 
  Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen

  The Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen are a pleasure garden and amusement park located in Copenhagen, Denmark. If you have a day to visit the city, this can be a very worth stopover because it is one of the most visited theme parks in the world and in Europe with over 4.5 million visitors in 2017. Enjoy attractions such as wooden roller coasters, modern steel roller coasters, bumper cars, spinning rides, and many other options for both kids and adults. There are also performing arts venues and many different events that will occur depending on when you visit. 

  Best Time To Visit

  Check the hours and availability a few weeks before your visit but Tivoli Gardens is typically open throughout the year.

   

  You Should Know

  You can buy day passes or longer passes if you happen to live nearby or visit often. The events change on a seasonal basis and there is a strong performing arts culture there.
• 
  Skiing in Norway

  Skiing in Norway is a must for any true enthusiast and there are plenty of resort options to choose from. If you happen to have a day during your trip to visit Norway, make sure that you get as much skiing in as possible at one of the top resorts in the area that might be within driving distance of the port. Some of the top ski resorts in Norway include Trysil, Hafjell, Rauland, Geilo, and many others. The differences between each one are worthy of an article on its own, but suffice to say, you will have plenty of options to ski when you stopover in Norway. If it's something that interests you, don't miss out as the slopes here are quite scenic and you will have plenty of options for kids and both beginning and experienced adult skiers.

  Best Time To Visit

  Most ski resorts will open after the first snowfall which is typically in November and then the season will run into early May. Anytime during this period can be good for a visit to the ski resorts.

   

  You Should Know

  There is more sunlight toward the ski season of March and April, so longer days and longer skiing times and longer skiing times. Many ski resorts in Norway are child friendly and a good option for families.
• 
  Helsinki

  Helsinki is Finland's capital and it has a long history, first being founded in the 16th century. You may stop here during your cruise and there's plenty to explore including Suomenlinna, a huge maritime fortress that is spread across seven islands, the Helsinki Cathedral, the Esplanadi green space in the middle of the city and so much more. 

  Best Time To Visit

  Most seasons other than winter are a good time to visit Helsinki.

   

  You Should Know

  There are many very uniquely constructed churches and cathedrals here like the Uspenski Cathedral and Temppeliaukio Church which is made from bedrock. The saunas are a popular stop for both locals and visitors.
• 
  Amsterdam

  Amsterdam is unquestionably one of the most interesting cities in the world to visit and a good option a must-visit destination if you are stopping there on your Northern European cruise or might stop there. Enjoy the Van Gogh Museum, guided bike rides, canal cruises, coffee houses, nightclubs, and shopping on Nine Little Streets. There are many attractions that will take you multiple days to fully explore but just one day in this city will leave memories to last a lifetime.

  Best Time To Visit

  Most of the year can be good for visiting Amsterdam but the winters can be cold.

   

  You Should Know

  The Vondelpark is located southwest of the city center and a favorite park to hang out. If you want to explore the local food and history head over to Jordaan.
• 
  Stockholm

  Stockholm may be near one of your ports during your cruise as is an excellent option to visit during most times of the year. You are going to find plenty to do here as well like the other options on this list including the Gamla Stan which hosts all manners of shops and restaurants, Skansen as one of the top museums in the area, the Modern Art Museum and many other museums, art exhibitions and more. 

  Best Time To Visit

  Most times of the year are good for visiting Stockholm.

   

  You Should Know

  There is an ABBA museum in Stockholm for fans of the band. Djurgården is Sweden's oldest theme park and also located here.
• 
  Hamburg

  As one of the major port cities of Germany, Hamburg is potentially an option for you to visit during your Northern European cruise. You'll find plentiful things to do here ranging from the Speicherstadt or City of Warehouses, the Elbphilharmonie which is the tallest inhabited building in the city, and numerous other interesting historic sites and local food.

  Best Time To Visit

  Any season aside from the winter is a good option for visiting Hamburg.

   

  You Should Know

  The Planten un Blomen and other botanical gardens are beautiful in the spring and summer here. The International Maritime Museum is also located in this city.
• 
  Bergen

  Bergen is located on the southwestern coast of Norway and it is surrounded by scenic fjords and mountains. It is the second-largest city in Norway and known as the "Fjord Capital" and it is a truly fascinating and beautiful historic city. Check out Torgalmenningen Square in the city's bustling center, try the local seafood for sure, and explore the traditional shops and other sites. Bergen is a stop for many Northern European cruises so you won't want to miss out on this one. 

  Best Time To Visit

  Most times of the year can be good for visiting Bergen but the summer is undoubtedly the best season followed by the fall and spring.

   

  You Should Know

  Bergen is likely a stop on your cruise, but check to make sure. Bergen is known as the city of the seven mountains. It is one of the rainiest places in Europe and may rain when you arrive so prepare.
• 
  Copenhagen

  Last but certainly not least, a cruise to Northern Europe may likely have a stop in Copenhagen or somewhere nearby. You will love this historic city like so many others have, as it is the most populous city in Denmark and has many interesting things to do including Tivoli Gardens as mentioned, the famous Little Mermaid statue, the famous pedestrian street of Stroget and so much more. Explore the local harbors and seafood and check out some of the many historic sites and museums. Christiansborg Palace has Denmark's Supreme Court and other governmental entities. There is much to do and it's not likely you'll be able to fit it all within one day but make sure to try!

  Best Time To Visit

  The summer months are the best time but there can be nicer temperatures during the spring and fall as well. 

   

  You Should Know

  Copenhagen is very bicycle and walking-friendly but you can rent a bike almost anywhere. Don't miss the huge Botanical Garden which occupies the middle of the city.

Europe - Northern Cruise Packages

• Summer - June to August - High Season

  Unquestionably the summer is the best time to take a Northern European cruise with the pleasant weather; it's also during this time where you will find the most expensive restaurants and hotels because of the seasonal demand increasing.

• Winter - December to February - Low Season

  Note that Northern Europe can be very cold during the winter months. Be sure to pack accordingly if you plan on taking a cruise during these months. Many cruises to Northern Europe will actually avoid these months because of how cold it can be and the lack of ability to do as much once you arrive due to the weather.

Europe - Northern Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Northern European Ocean Cruise?

  A Northern European ocean cruise is a cruise that takes you to various destinations and countries in Northern Europe which may include Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Norway, and more. The cruises will typically stop in multiple coastal city destinations where you can get out and explore for a day or two before it heads off to the next destination. Most options are anywhere from 7 to 14 days or sometimes 21 days or longer.

• What is included on a Northern European Ocean Cruise?

  Typically you will get a basic meal package and basic amenities including a room in the size that you want. You can typically upgrade to a more extensive alcoholic beverage package if you want that option; in some cases, you may also be able to bring your own alcohol. You will have to check with your cruise provider for more information on what is going to be included with your cruise.

• What’s the Best Cruise for a Northern European Ocean Cruise?

  The best cruise simply depends on your goals! If you want a shorter trip and don't have a lot of time to explore each destination, you might opt for something around 3 to 7 days. There are weekend cruises available that will take you to certain parts of Northern Europe. Otherwise, you can also opt for a longer cruise that will allow you to spend some more time exploring the area and checking out options like skiing, shopping, local food, historic sites, and more.

• How Much Does a Northern European Ocean Cruise Cost?

  The cost can range from around $1400 to $5000 or more depending on the length of the trip as the main factor along with the amenities that you seek. Check with your cruise provider regarding the specifics of the cruises that you are interested in.