Explore and book Oceania Cruises 12 Night Europe - Northern Cruise on the Oceania Sirena departing from Stockholm, Sweden on Jun 26, 2025 and ending in Gudhjem (Bornholm), Denmark on Jul 8, 2025 Sail to Stockholm, Sweden, Tallinn, Estonia, Szczecin, Poland, Saaremaa, Estonia, Helsinki, Finland, Ko Kood, Thailand, Kiel, Germany, Gdansk, Poland, Riga, Latvia, Gudhjem (Bornholm), Denmark

Stockholm, Sweden

Early Booking Sale

Spread across 14 islands and connected by over 50 bridges, Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a picturesque city blending historic charm with modern flair. With its royal palaces, meandering waterways, and bustling old town, Stockholm offers cruisers a unique Nordic experience.

Helsinki, Finland

The Finnish capital, Helsinki, is a harmonious blend of neoclassical architecture, modern design, and natural beauty. As you cruise to Helsinki, explore its sea fortress, vibrant markets, and design districts, all while soaking in the Nordic culture and charm.

Ko Kood, Thailand

Snorkel trip at Koh Kood incl. visit waterfall (Start at Koh Mak)

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia offers medieval charm with its cobblestoned streets and historic architecture. The Old Town, a UNESCO site, is a journey through time, with modern amenities close at hand.

Saaremaa, Estonia

K-Pargi Kuressaare Adventure Park
Hoppet Schooner
Roomassaare Port
Hallikivi Adventure Park
Lohe Surf
Active Life

Riga, Latvia

Latvia's capital shines with its art nouveau architecture, historic old town, and lively culture. From its wooden buildings to the Doma Cathedral, Riga offers a Baltic charm like no other.

Gdansk, Poland

Gdansk Shore Excursion Private Sightseeing Tour
Walking Tour to Gdansk Old Town with Entry to Amber Altar
EVERYDAY Beer Tasting Tour in Gdansk
Gdansk Pub Crawl with Free Drinks

Gudhjem (Bornholm), Denmark

Szczecin, Poland

Kiel, Germany

Located on the Baltic Sea, Kiel is renowned for its sailing events and maritime landmarks. The Kiel Canal, one of the world's busiest artificial waterways, offers cruisers a unique passage experience.

12 Night Europe - Northern Cruise

Baltic

Australasia

Scandinavia

Asia & Indian Ocean

Europe

Escape into a world of imagination in our exquisite English-style library, boasting over 2,000 books and periodicals. It's the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and a touch of nostalgia amidst the elegance reminiscent of the Golden Age of Travel. Immerse yourself in the comfort of plush chairs and the quiet ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reading at sea.

Library

Remain connected with loved ones and up-to-date with world events at our 24-hour Oceania@Sea Internet Center. Offering both wireless and in-suite iPad® access for suite guests, plus convenient mailing and phone services, staying in touch is effortless and seamless throughout your voyage.


Oceania@Sea Internet Center

Experience ancient wellness traditions from around the world with Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar. Explore exotic destinations and discover time-honored health practices, all while enjoying unique, rejuvenating excursions designed to enhance your well-being.

Wellness Discovery Tours

Dive into relaxation on the pool deck with a large saltwater pool and two whirlpool spas. Unwind on luxurious day beds or chaise lounge chairs with a cocktail in hand, all while soaking in the panoramic sea views. It's the perfect serene escape to rejuvenate between port explorations.

Pool Deck

Perfect your putt and enjoy the timeless game of golf on our onboard putting greens. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking for some leisurely fun, our 9-hole course offers a unique opportunity to hone your skills against the backdrop of the open sea.

Golf Putting Green

Dive into the spirit of friendly competition with a game of shuffleboard on deck. This classic game provides a perfect blend of skill and fun, inviting guests to enjoy leisurely play or engage in more spirited contests.

Shuffleboard

Experience the thrill of Monte Carlo-style gaming on the high seas. Our casino offers a variety of games, from blackjack and roulette to a wide selection of slots and video poker. With free lessons, a loyalty points system, and options for cashless wagering, it's an exciting way to spend your evening aboard.

Casinos at Sea

Immerse yourself in classic card games or lively board game sessions at our Card Room, creating the perfect ambiance for friendly rounds of bridge, poker, or canasta. With a variety of board games on offer, it's the ideal space for relaxed social gatherings and cherished memories.

Card Room

Explore our chic boutiques for an exclusive shopping experience, offering a refined selection of sundries, resort wear, and fine jewelry. Perfect for finding that special gift or cruise memento, our boutiques cater to discerning tastes and provide a stylish reminder of your journey at sea.


Boutiques

Join the fun and friendly competition with our onboard trivia and quizzes, including Team Trivia and MENSA challenges. These popular activities are a fantastic way to bond with fellow travelers, stimulate your mind, and share in the laughter and camaraderie of our vibrant community.

Brain Games

Experience the sophisticated charm of Martinis, where the art of the cocktail is celebrated with a wide array of martinis in an elegant setting. Inspired by the serene beauty of the Greek Isles, the ambiance invites you to unwind and enjoy the finer things in life.

Martinis

Begin your evening in the sophisticated ambiance of The Grand Bar, where fine vintages and classic apéritifs spark engaging conversation and new friendships. This elegant pre-dinner destination sets the stage for a night of gourmet dining and lively exchange.


The Grand Bar

For the pinnacle of nightly entertainment aboard Oceania Cruises, the Lounge is your destination. Offering everything from headline acts and comedians to magicians and jazz ensembles, it’s the heart of entertainment at sea.


Lounge

Horizons serves as an observation lounge by day and a vibrant evening venue by night, where dancing and cocktails under the glow of floor-to-ceiling windows create unforgettable moments. Its elegant, country club ambiance invites relaxation and enjoyment.


Horizons

Just a step away from the pool, Waves Bar is your oasis for refreshment in the midst of sun-soaked leisure. Offering a wide selection of drinks, it’s the perfect spot for a daytime cocktail or a sunset segue into the evening’s festivities.

Waves Bar

Experience the grandeur of The Grand Dining Room, a culinary homage to Europe's finest five-star restaurants. With its splendid decor and expansive menu of Continental dishes and global flavors, it offers a dining experience that combines elegance with an incredible variety of choices.

The Grand Dining Room

Tuscan Steak on board Sirena blends Italian warmth with the classic steakhouse experience, offering a menu that marries perfectly cooked steaks and rustic Italian dishes in an elegantly designed setting.







Tuscan Steak

Experience the vibrant flavors and serene ambiance of Red Ginger, where modern Asian cuisine meets contemporary elegance. From spicy duck salads to rich Malaysian beef, each dish is a masterpiece of taste and harmony, designed to delight the senses.

Red Ginger

Terrace Café offers a relaxed retreat for informal dining, whether it's a sunlit breakfast, flavorful lunch, or sophisticated evening meal. With international-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and a diverse selection of plant-based options, every moment at the Terrace Café is a culinary delight.

Terrace Café

Indulge in casual luxury with Waves Grill's alfresco dining experience, offering a tempting menu of all-American favorites steps from the poolside. Treat yourself to decadent desserts like homemade passion fruit sorbet and hand-dipped milkshakes, making every bite a delightful escape.

Waves Grill

Treat your taste buds to specialty coffee perfection at Baristas, where expertly crafted illy® espressos and lattes await. Pair your beverage with delectable pastries and homemade biscotti, creating the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.

Baristas

Indulge in the timeless elegance of Afternoon Tea, a daily celebration featuring a classical string quartet, a splendid array of pastries, finger sandwiches, and a diverse selection of traditional and artisanal teas. This cherished pastime offers a moment of luxury and relaxation amidst the day's adventures.

Afternoon Tea

Elevate your cruise experience with our in-room dining options, offering a diverse menu available 24/7, including complimentary full hot breakfasts and expanded lunch/dinner choices for Concierge Level guests. Indulge in course-by-course meals in the comfort of your suite, or savor a tranquil meal on your private veranda, all while taking in breathtaking seascapes.

In-Room Dining Experiences

Experience vitality cuisine at AQUAMAR, inspired by the renowned Mediterranean diet, offering the freshest, highest-quality ingredients and gourmet plant-based dishes. With extensive menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including energizing options at the Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar, delight your palate while nourishing your body on our ships.

Aquamar Vitality Cuisine

Enrich your cruise experience with fascinating insights from our Guest Speakers, delving into the cultures, stories, and themes of the regions visited. With additional enrichment programs on select sailings and complimentary health and wellness seminars, our talks offer meaningful engagement and the chance to reinvigorate your lifestyle.


Guest Speakers

Immerse yourself in the world of dazzling performances onboard, where each night offers a new spectacle of world-class musical talents, including pianists, classical string quartets, and dynamic vocalists. With an ever-changing lineup, the entertainment is as diverse as it is captivating, promising a perfect night of enjoyment for every taste.


Onboard Shows

Step into the spotlight with Broadway in Concert, a dazzling tribute to the iconic musicals that have shaped the world of theater. Our talented vocalists bring to life beloved songs and hidden gems in this elegant concert-style review. It's a celebration of show business that's bound to captivate theater lovers of all ages.

Broadway in Concert

Get ready for Showdown, a lively mock singing competition where your vote determines the winner. Cheer on your favorite performers as they take the stage with popular hits, making for a fun and interactive entertainment experience. Join us and see who takes home the crown in this thrilling musical contest.

Showdown

Immerse yourself in the acoustic renditions of pop music's greatest hits with Acoustic Sessions, where a live band brings your favorite tunes to life in an intimate, 360-degree setting, ensuring a unique and memorable musical experience.

Acoustic Sessions

Experience the timeless charm of the Rat Pack and the Great American Songbook at Debonaire, where classic hits meet modern sophistication through dynamic performances by artists inspired by legends like Frank Sinatra and contemporary stars like Michael Bublé.

Debonaire

Embark on a wellness journey at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, where restorative therapies, healthy cuisine, and enriching wellness experiences await. From rejuvenating treatments to immersive wellness excursions, every aspect is designed to enhance your health and vitality onboard.


Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center

Experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation at the Aquamar Spa Terrace, where the therapeutic benefits of a thalassotherapy pool or whirlpools await. This serene sanctuary is designed to soothe the mind and body, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views and tranquil waters.

Aquamar Spa Terrace

Revitalize your body in the therapeutic embrace of our Thalassotherapy Pool. This saltwater sanctuary is perfect for soothing sore muscles, improving circulation, and easing joint pain, making it an ideal wellness complement to any cruise experience.

Thalassotherapy Pool

Enhance your wellness journey in our aromatic steam room, where temperature-regulated steam infused with herbal essences improves your skin and mood. This multisensory experience offers a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Aromatic Steam Room

Immerse yourself in the healing properties of the ocean with our selection of body therapies. From Musclease Ocean Wraps to Intensely Cleansing Salt Scrubs, our treatments are designed to detoxify and nourish, leaving your skin purified and refreshed.

Body Therapies

Discover the art of relaxation and rejuvenation with our signature massage therapies at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Each therapy, from Aroma Stone to Thai Herbal Poultice massages, is crafted to restore harmony and balance to body and spirit, using natural ingredients and a blend of ancient and modern techniques.

Massage Therapies

Experience the transformative power of our facial therapies, where ancient massage techniques meet modern skin care to deliver essential vitamins and nutrients. Our Pro-Collagen Age Defy and Caviar Firm And Lift facials are signature services designed to rejuvenate and revitalize.

Facial Therapies

Elevate your look with our luxury salon and barber shop services, offering everything from personalized hair treatments to deluxe manicures and pedicures. Our experienced stylists and barbers use premium products to ensure you look and feel your best.

Salon & Barber Shop Services

Start your day with serenity by joining our complimentary yoga classes, designed to enhance your inner peace, flexibility, and strength. From sunrise sessions to introductory classes, there's a perfect match for every skill level, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery.

Yoga

Strengthen your core and improve your posture with our Pilates classes, a low-impact exercise regimen focusing on flexibility, endurance, and muscle control. Our expert instructors ensure a welcoming environment for developing core stability and enhancing overall body health.

Pilates

Energize your body with a workout in our state-of-the-art fitness center, featuring the latest in cardio and strength-training equipment. Join our complimentary classes for an extra boost of motivation, from bootcamps to indoor cycling, tailored to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Cardio & Strength Training

Embrace a healthier you with our complimentary fitness classes, catering to all levels of experience. From strength training to stretching and foot fitness, our professional instructors are dedicated to guiding you through each session, ensuring a fulfilling and beneficial workout.


Free Fitness Classes

Embrace the beauty of the sea and sky while keeping active on our running track. Whether you're starting your day with an energizing jog or enjoying a leisurely walk, the stunning views and fresh sea air offer a perfect backdrop for exercise and reflection.


Running Track

Elevate your wellness journey with our comprehensive range of complimentary fitness classes, from Pilates and yoga to strength training. Our state-of-the-art fitness center also offers the latest exercise equipment and personal training sessions, catering to all your fitness needs.


Fitness Center

Find your peaceful haven on our private sundeck, the ultimate spot for solitude and relaxation. Whether seeking a meditative moment or simply a break from the buzz, the sundeck offers a tranquil retreat to recharge.


Sundeck

Oceania's Sirena, after extensive refurbishments, emerges with a blend of elegance and modern comfort, offering a unique experience with its ability to access both well-known and remote ports. The ship boasts upgraded cabins, a refreshed pool deck, and the introduction of the acclaimed Red Ginger Asian-fusion restaurant alongside the innovative French fare of Jacques Bistro. These enhancements, combined with its small size, create a cozy yet upscale atmosphere, perfect for those looking to explore in style.

Experience the world's ancient wellness traditions with our Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar. Explore exotic locales and learn about timeless health practices, all while enjoying unique, rejuvenating excursions designed to enhance your well-being.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Sirena

Explore the highlights of Helsinki on this panoramic coach tour, offering a comfortable and insightful introduction to the Finnish capital. The route takes you past the stately buildings of Embassy Park, through the lively Esplanadi park district, and along Mannerheim Street, lined with key landmarks. You’ll have the chance to step out and explore famous sites such as Senate Square with its striking Lutheran Cathedral, the historic 1952 Olympic Stadium, and the unique Rock Church, carved from bedrock and capped with a futuristic copper dome. At Sibelius Park, contemplate the bold stainless-steel monument to composer Jean Sibelius, which produces melodic tones as the wind flows through its pipes. Following your guided tour, you can choose to head back to the ship or continue your Helsinki adventure independently.

Explore Helsinki’s picturesque archipelago with a guided cruise through its bustling harbor, offering stunning views of the city's many islands and maritime landmarks. Glide past waterfront saunas, historic villas, and the city zoo, as your guide shares stories about Helsinki’s deep-rooted connection to the sea. The highlight of your tour is a view of Suomenlinna, an impressive 18th-century sea fortress spread across several islands and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Conclude your waterborne adventure at an open-air market, where you can sample fresh local produce and artisanal treats before rejoining your coach for the return to the pier.

Discover the contrasting charms of Finland’s capital and its second-oldest town on this scenic tour of Helsinki and Porvoo. Begin with a panoramic drive through central Helsinki, taking in key sights like the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and Senate Square, where you’ll pause to admire the impressive green-domed Lutheran Cathedral. Continue to Porvoo, a town that has preserved its medieval character since receiving its charter in 1346. Enjoy a guided walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Town, with its colorful wooden houses and picturesque river views from the Old Bridge, then spend time exploring the charming shops and cafes at your own pace.

Explore Helsinki’s stunning maritime landscape on a guided cruise through its sprawling archipelago, followed by a visit to the historic Suomenlinna fortress. Begin your journey at the harborside Market Square and sail past charming waterfront neighborhoods, old villas, and icebreakers, as well as Helsinki Zoo, which sits on its own island. Disembark at Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site that spans several islands and dates back to Finland’s era under Swedish rule. Discover its impressive fortifications, learn about its strategic importance, and enjoy free time to explore before returning to the open-air market, where you can browse local produce and artisanal delights or take the coach back to the pier.

Experience Finland’s quintessential pastimes on a visit to Haikko Manor, followed by a tour of Helsinki’s highlights. Begin with a drive to the scenic Haikko Manor, a historic seaside estate with roots dating back to the 1300s. Equipped with ski poles, set out on a Nordic walk led by an instructor, choosing between a gentle route or a more challenging hill climb through the manor’s park-like grounds. Afterward, unwind in a traditional sauna by the sea. Back in Helsinki, visit the unique Rock Church, carved into solid granite and topped with a striking copper dome, before stopping for photos at Senate Square. If you wish, extend your exploration of Helsinki's downtown area before returning to the ship.

Explore Helsinki’s vibrant city center on foot, gaining an up-close perspective on its most iconic landmarks. Start at Senate Square, where the impressive white Lutheran Cathedral overlooks the city, then continue to the Railway Station, a stunning example of Finnish National Romantic architecture. As you stroll along Mannerheim Street, you’ll pass notable buildings like the National Museum, Music Hall, and the Parliament. Take a break for coffee and a pastry at a downtown café before visiting the unique Rock Church, a subterranean marvel carved from solid granite and crowned with a copper dome. Conclude your tour at Sibelius Park, where you can ponder the striking steel-pipe monument dedicated to composer Jean Sibelius, designed to produce musical tones as the wind flows through it.

Embark on a scenic adventure combining a panoramic tour of Helsinki’s key landmarks with a guided kayaking trip through the city’s picturesque archipelago. After a coach ride showcasing sights like Market Square, Uspenski Cathedral, and the Presidential Palace, arrive at the kayaking center for basic instruction and gear. Set out on a stable kayak, paddling through the serene waters around Helsinki, where over 300 islands create a natural haven for birds and diverse flora. Midway through your excursion, take a break on a scenic islet to stretch, enjoy a snack, and soak in the tranquil surroundings before continuing your exploration of this urban yet unspoiled seascape.

Enjoy an enlightening drive through Hamburg and, as a contrast, a sobering visit to the notorious Neuengamme Concentration Camp. During World War II, more than 100,000 people endured horrific conditions at the camp while being forced to work in its brickworks. You will view the factory, the deplorable prison housing, buildings that the SS used and the House of Remembrance, where the names of the prisoners that died are written on white fabric banners. It will be a moving experience and a revealing look into the Nazi mindset. Although much of Hamburg was destroyed in the war, it was beautifully rebuilt, as you will discover by passing landmarks such as Germany’s oldest stock exchange, the opulent 647-room town hall and the Gothic-style warehouse district Speicherstadt. You will also see the exquisite Jungfernstieg shopping promenade, the enormous Baroque church St. Michaelis and the Reeperbahn entertainment district, where the Beatles played long before they became famous.

Delve into the extraordinary maritime history of Kiel by visiting its namesake canal and a memorial dedicated to those who died in the World Wars. The canal opened in 1895 and is now the world’s busiest artificial waterway. It connects the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, where you will pause for photos of the Holtenau Locks at the northeastern terminus. It will be fascinating to see how the locks operate and how the canal has been altered over the past century to accommodate more ships. At the Laboe Naval Memorial, you will learn about Germany’s maritime involvement in both World Wars. The shape of the curved brick-clad structure is meant to be inspirational while the naval museum next to it is informational. The museum is housed in a U-boat submarine that Germany surrendered to the Allied troops. Don’t miss the plaque that memorializes the U.S. sailors that served in submarines.

Walk through Kiel’s historical city center, admiring the must-see attractions before settling in for a tasting at a downtown brewery. St. Nicolas Church will surely be among the highlights as it is filled with historically significant features such as the ornately carved wooden pulpit. The original 13th-century church that stood on the site was heavily damaged in World War II and was razed to make way for the present building. Kiel is also known for its beer, which has been brewed there for more 750 years. After following a master brewer through one of the most characteristic breweries, you will taste several distinctive beers. The exact ones will be chosen upon your arrival, but they may include a popular light pilsner, a refreshing pale ale and a dark malty bock. Fresh-baked salted pretzels will be served as an accompaniment.

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.

Explore the landmarks of Lubeck independently and discover the attributes that earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage site designation. Despite damage from World War II, the basic structure of the oldest districts remains unaltered, including areas that flourished centuries ago when Lubeck was a major trading center of the Hanseatic League. To enter the city’s most historical part, you will pass through the medieval Holstentor gate, which leads to the Rathaus, one of the oldest town halls in Germany. Nearby, you will find St. Mary’s Church, a brick basilica so distinctive that it served as the model for other Gothic-style churches throughout the Baltic. The patrician houses and salt storehouses on the Trave River are also well worth visiting. For a sweet that has been associated with Lubeck for more than 200 years, try the marzipan at the Niederegger Cafe. The confectioners heat the almond mixture over an open fire, a method that releases its wonderfully unique aroma.

Mingle with the locals while sampling traditional German specialties at a family farm and while enjoying more treats at a bakery in the city. The Quast family has owned the farm since 1720, and they continue to grow fruits such as apples, plums and pears. You will gain an understanding of how the fruit is harvested and the challenges of running a small private farm in modern times. Feel free to ask questions while enjoying homemade fruit schnapps and cake in the farm’s café. On the return to Hamburg, you will walk among the locals in the pedestrian tunnel that was built under the Elbe River in 1911. Be sure to notice the decorative tiles depicting sea life. You will also mingle with the residents and get an authentic look at daily life in Hamburg by riding public transportation to the Effenberger Bakery. The owner will then regale you with stories of running the bakery and offer fresh-baked goods.

Leave cosmopolitan Riga behind as you travel through lush Latvian forest to explore a picturesque river town known for its castles, caves and romantic legends. Every bustling capital city needs a leafy, rural getaway within reach, a place where locals and visitors can relax in primal nature, preferably with hills involved. The hilly setting in Sigulda, some 30 miles outside Riga city limits, is scenic enough to earn this region the nickname of “Latvia’s Switzerland.” You’ll soon see how well the name fits – especially from the high tower of partially-restored Turaida Castle, a cylindrical brick stunner built in 1214 by the crusading Livonian Brothers of the Sword. You’ll also see Sigulda Castle, slightly older and more ruined by time – yet eternally atmospheric. Under an ancient linden tree in Turaida’s churchyard, you’ll encounter the grave of the Rose of Turaida, young heroine of a 17th-century tale of passion so potent, newlyweds still place flowers here in tribute to enduring love. The waters that flow from natural springs within another riverside landmark you’ll visit, vast Gutman’s Cave, have endurance properties of their own – drinking them is said to be life-prolonging. And a sculpture park nearby keeps Latvian folklore alive and well.

Be immersed in the profound and moving Jewish history that has been lived in Riga, long a multicultural melting pot. This tour visits numerous important sites and memorial places, including the site of the former Great Synagogue built in 1868, once the city’s largest and most beautiful synagogue. On July 4, 1941 it was deliberately torched with hundreds of Jewish worshipers inside. Today, a solemn gray stone marker with the inscription “Magen David” stands where the tragic event took place. The Old Jewish Cemetery was where Riga’s Jews were buried from 1725 until 1941, when it was incorporated into the ghetto – and became a communal grave for large numbers of those killed in 1941. You’ll stop to visit where the cemetery stood; the site was destroyed after the war and is now a memorial park. In the outskirts of Riga, you’ll stand before a tombstone memorial where the Rumbula massacre took the lives of some 25,000 Jewish victims from all over Europe in just a few days during the reign of Nazi terror. Visits to the New Ghetto Museum and Old Town’s magnificent Art Nouveau synagogue, a rare war survivor, end the tour on a more uplifting note.

Settle back in your comfortable panoramic coach seat for a comprehensive introductory tour of the Latvian capital’s top sights. The photo opportunities will be plentiful in this scenic and cosmopolitan city filled with impressive architectural gifts left behind by Germans, Swedes, Soviets and others over the centuries. Modern architecture, too, finds a welcome home among the cobblestones in this timelessly cool cultural center. Waves of prosperity have always been a thing here, with building booms dating back to medieval times – and leading to Riga’s well-deserved designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be on the lookout for ornate 19th- and early 20th-century “Jugendstil” buildings sporting Art Nouveau styling and enough gargoyles to give anyone nightmares for a month. Cobbled Old Town’s skyline is a sea of church spires when viewed in panorama from the opposite bank of the River Daugava. The 14th-century Powder Tower stands as last vestige of the ancient defensive walls, City Hall Square is all classic formality, and a stop at the Freedom Monument provides a vivid sense of Latvia’s pride in its hard-won independence. Since 1935, statuesque “Milda” has held aloft her three golden stars for all the world to see.

Feed your passion for fine art and architecture on a tour that showcases Riga’s immense diversity of landmarks and styles. This sheltered trade port has been a success story for centuries, but nearly always ruled by one of its more powerful neighbors. Germans, Swedes, Russians – each has left their mark and monuments behind, and this tour calls on many of them by coach and on foot. In the narrow, cobbled streets of Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site – you’ll be enveloped by medieval and 17th-19th-century architecture. Driving along the broad boulevards beyond Old Town, Riga becomes a veritable metropolis of vintage German Art Nouveau with some 800 intricately-designed buildings from this period, sporting enough gargoyles to induce both delight and nightmares. Touring the collection at Riga Bourse Museum, you’ll see exquisite fine art spanning from the mid-18th century through 1945. Admire masterpieces from famous Latvian painters Rozentals, Purvitis, Padegs and others, along with an exhibition of works by the noted Russian painter/philosopher, Nicholas Roerich. Encounters with other Riga highlights like the grand neo-classical Latvian National Opera, the white-domed Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the iconic Freedom Monument add depth and drama to your city survey.

By coach and on foot, get to know Latvia’s fast-evolving capital, over 800 years old and new all over again since independence. Today it’s the Baltic States’ largest city – a cultural center of world rank, member of the EU and home to a UNESCO-listed trove of architectural treasures left behind by the Germans, Swedes and Russians who ruled Latvia for centuries. A drive along the boulevards of Riga’s town center will envelop you in “Jugendstil” – a romantic and intricate German Art Nouveau building style that predominated here into the early 20th century. You’ll also see Riga’s more contemporary side and have an encounter with statuesque “Milda,” holding aloft her three golden stars for all the world to see atop the city’s iconic Freedom Monument. A venture on foot into the cobbled, narrow lanes of Old Town brings you face to face with a trio of landmark medieval churches, a pair of handsome Guild Houses, and the city’s oldest surviving dwellings, the so-called “Three Brothers.” On a square in the epicenter of it all, massive Dome Cathedral stands guard over all who pass. Its mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles, accumulated over eight centuries, is quintessential Riga.

Mingle with local Latvians by traveling on the train and public buses to several waterfront districts, where you will meander about the attractions. The train will bring you to Vecaki, a district on the Gulf of Riga known for its beaches. While there, the guide will enhance your understanding of the capital’s turbulent history by elaborating on the nearby fortifications that date to the Napoleonic Wars. You will then board a public bus and enjoy a genuine slice of daily Latvian life on the way to the Vecmilgravis district. The guide will point out buildings constructed during the time that the Soviets occupied Latvia. Like several neighboring Baltic countries, Latvia gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The most historical building is the White Church. Built near the water during the late 18th century, the wooden Lutheran church features a tower that local fishermen have long used as a lighthouse of sorts to help them navigate.

Get enchanted by one of the world’s most easy-to-love cities on a panoramic coach tour that lets you view its top landmarks in relaxed comfort. While many cities with waterways and bridges are likened to Venice in their Chamber of Commerce slogans, this romantic 800-year old capital spread over 14 islands truly warrants the comparison. Once little more than a feudal stronghold, today’s Stockholm is a watery blend of magnificently old and boldly new architecture – and you’ll be introduced to a great deal of it on this excursion. Foremost among the high points will be your drive around Gamla Stan, the city’s cobbled and brilliantly hued Old Town. Perched on its own mid-river island, this captivating medieval time capsule brims with must-sees like the waterside, 608-room Royal Palace where the King of Sweden could probably run mile-long laps without leaving his hallways. Another top sight is the ornate Royal Dramatic Theater, a striking architectural confection along Strandvägen, renowned for its 19th-century palatial skyline. Huge city parks with open public access are also a big thing in Stockholm, as you’ll see during your spin through another island, verdant Djurgården, once the exclusive hunting grounds of Swedish sovereigns.

Experience the narrow, ancient streets of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan quarter, then tour inside the lavish and very large Royal Palace. Concentrated on one of the 14 islands that make up the Swedish capital’s urban archipelago, Old Town was the whole town here for hundreds of years – and its medieval atmosphere is unmistakable. Many of the buildings date from the 16th and 17th centuries, complete with baroque doorways and corroded coats of arms. You’ll be immersed in color and character as you tour the district, passing landmarks like Coronation Church, admired for its Brick Gothic architecture, convivial Stortorget square, and the old Stock Exchange – now home to the Swedish Academy and Nobel Museum. But none of that grandeur holds a candle to what you’ll encounter on your inside tour of the Royal Palace, where Sweden’s king and queen manage to somehow make do with just 608 rooms. This sprawling 18th-century showplace took over 60 years to build, with much of that seemingly spent just on moldings that adorn the baroque and rococo interior. Be on the lookout for prodigious tapestries, a mirrored hall inspired by Versailles, and a Silver Throne from 1650 – clearly built for ceremony, not comfort.

Take a guided stroll through the cobbled streets of Stockholm’s oldest and coziest quarter – then enjoy a visit to the coolest bar in town. Clustered on one of the Swedish capital’s 14 islands, Old Town was the whole town here for centuries. Many of the buildings date from the 1500s and 1600s, and have the baroque doorways and corroded coats of arms to prove it. Be immersed in color and character as you walk along narrow, winding alleys and encounter landmarks like the immense Royal Palace, convivial Stortorget square and the old Stock Exchange – now home to the illustrious Swedish Academy and Nobel Museum. Once your thirst for culture has been sated, you’ll hop back aboard your tour coach and head for a spot that specializes in quenching another kind of thirst. The Nordic Hotel is home to the world’s first permanent ice bar, where the interior is kept below zero no matter what the season outside – and everything inside, even the glasses, is made of pure, clear ice from the Torne River in Northern Sweden. You’ll be outfitted with a warm fur poncho and mittens before entering to enjoy your complimentary vodka-or-other drink, served well chilled. Skål!

Cruise along glistening waterways that make up a third of Stockholm’s surface area and see its parks and signature landmarks glide by. This romantic 800-year old city is unique among the world’s capitals in its environment, arrayed across 14 islands connected by 50 bridges. Its park-rich urban design strikes a balance between urban functionality and healthy nature that can only be fully appreciated from the water. And for that, this evening jaunt is ideal. You’ll motor gently along an interconnected network of canals clean enough to swim or fish in, with ample time to savor the serene beauty of Stockholm’s tree-lined squares, wide boulevards and impressive architecture – from very streamlined and modern to wonderfully ornate and aged. At times, things get so tranquil it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of a bustling cosmopolitan city. Some key must-sees you’ll pass along the route include colorful, medieval Old Town, the Royal Dramatic Theater and ornate embassies along Strandvägen, the 608-room Royal Palace and verdant Djurgården Island. But basically, everywhere you look on this tour, you’re bound to conclude that Stockholm deserves its self-proclaimed nickname of “beauty on water.”

Visit stately Drottningholm Palace, first of the Swedish attractions to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace was singled out for this recognition in 1991 for good reason: it’s considered the best-preserved example of an 18th-century palace in all of Sweden. Built in the ornate architectural style typified by France’s Versailles, Drottningholm has been the official home of Sweden’s royal family since 1981 and sits in regal splendor on a pastoral lakeside island west of Stockholm. Your coach ride here will offer superb views of the Stockholm skyline as you cross the Western Bridge, but this day’s undisputed showstopper visual is Drottningholm Palace, and that’s before you even get inside. Begun in 1662, the palace’s construction outlasted its designer and was completed by his son. You’ll go inside to tour the magnificently decorated State Apartments, as well as enjoying a free-range stroll through the estate grounds, which include elaborate French- and English-style landscaped gardens. Your return to the city includes a memorable photo stop at Fjällgatan viewpoint, where Stockholm arrays itself before you in its own regal style.

Seeking refreshment? Venture out on this pleasant walking excursion through one of the world’s most beautiful English-style parks. You’ll travel from the pier by coach to northern Stockholm and Haga Park, a vast lakeside greenspace established in the 18th century by King Gustav III. His idea was to bring country life directly into the city, and he clearly succeeded. Today, Haga is as green and thriving as ever, a vital part of Stockholm’s Royal National City Park, a groundbreaking urban eco-environment that winds through the heart of the city. Setting out on foot here, you’ll find the meandering is fine as you traverse gentle green hills and landscaped meadows, passing classic buildings like the stately Gustav III Pavilion and Echo Temple, built as Gustav’s personal summer dining room. The park is also home to Haga Palace, a handsome 1802 villa where Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria and her family now reside. After ambling the park with your guide, you’ll make your way towards the photogenic Copper Tent Inn – its triple-curtain entrance is a stunner – for some free time to experience Haga’s beauty at your leisure before returning to the ship.

Board an expertly piloted Rigid Inflatable Boat for an exhilarating excursion through Stockholm’s waterways, with a stop on charming Grinda island for refreshments. As stable in the water as are nimble, RIBs may be the ideal way to cover enough ground – well, water – to really get a sense of Stockholm’s magnificent, sprawling archipelago. This substantial cosmopolitan capital is one third water by surface area, with another third committed to green space and woodlands. And the last third, exceptional medieval and modern architecture, palatial waterfront boulevards, and many other sights worth seeing. That all makes for some excellent waterborne touring – especially when your tour vessel can make 50 knots as it zips from here to there, turning on a dime. Your adventure will slow down temporarily when you disembark on the picturesque island of Grinda to enjoy a light Swedish snack and a stroll or just sit back and take in the island’s fresh air and natural beauty for a while. The scenic and speedy return to Stockholm and your ship is coming. Zoooom.

Walk along the cobblestone streets of Tallinn’s wonderfully atmospheric Old Town and admire the abundant Gothic architecture. This style of architecture was prevalent in the 12th through 16th centuries and featured elements such as flying buttresses, cavernous interiors, pointed arches, ribbed vaults and large stained-glass windows. As you stroll along the UNESCO World Heritage site Old Town, the guide will point out Gothic gems such as the radiant white Church of the Holy Spirit and the only preserved Gothic town hall in Northern Europe. You will also pass a medieval well with a nickname that alludes to the sacrifices once held there and an apothecary considered to be Europe’s oldest. During the Middle Ages, its list of “medicines” included mummy juice and snakeskin potion. Afterwards, you will enjoy some free time in the Medieval Master’s Courtyard, where you may browse the shops for original arts, crafts and handmade chocolates.

Explore the capital city’s UNESCO World Heritage site Old Town and come away with a greater understanding of how Tallinn developed through the centuries. You will see the Upper Town where the nobles mostly lived, as well as the Lower Town, which the medieval merchants, craftsmen and general populace predominately inhabited. A defensive wall once separated the two districts, further ensuring those distinctions. Highlights in Upper Town include the 13th-century Dome Church of the Virgin Mary and the Toompea Castle, a historical stronghold where the Estonian parliament now meets. After descending into Lower Town, you will view the well-preserved Gothic town hall, the Great Guild Hall that now houses the Estonian History Museum and an apothecary that has operated in the same location since the early 1400s. Afterwards, you can explore further on your own in Catherine’s Passage, where you can expect to see glass-blowers, potters and weavers plying their trades.

Enjoy an enlightening walk through the historical Upper Town of Tallinn and visit the magnificent palace that Peter the Great built for his wife on the outskirts of the capital city. You will begin your exploration at the Tall Hermann Tower that soars above Toompea Castle and meander along the medieval cobblestone streets at a comfortable pace that allows you to really focus on the attractions. The highlight will likely be the onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which was constructed when Estonia was part of the Russian empire. It is extraordinarily opulent inside and out. Similarly, the Baroque-style Kadriorg Palace is an architectural gem and especially lavish considering that it was only a summer residence for Catherine I. Besides touring its public rooms, you will browse the esteemed Kadriorg Art Museum within the palace. You will also have the opportunity to stroll along the canals that crisscross the palace’s lovely Lower Garden, which dates to 1718.

Discover why UNESCO deemed the Old Town worthy of a World Heritage site designation on an enlightening walk to the most high-profile attractions and to one lesser-known, but no less intriguing attraction. Despite devastating fires and wars over the centuries, the Old Town remains remarkably intact, especially its multi-towered defensive walls and churches such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. But not every attraction is at ground level. In the 1600s, a series of tunnels were dug for military purposes beneath the bastions of Toompea Castle, but they were long forgotten. Now excavated, they will present you with a rare glimpse into what lies beneath Tallinn and how the tunnels were used. Estonia finally regained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, and elsewhere in Old Town you will see the Monument to the War of Independence that honors those freedom fighters. Afterwards, you might browse the shops around the Gothic town hall.

Hike through a pristine nature reserve with a guide that will point out and describe the flora and fauna unique to the various ecosystems. While traveling to the Pohja-Korvemas Nature Reserve, you will get an inkling of the terrain that lies ahead as you will pass through lake-dotted forests and marshland. Retreating glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age created this wonderfully unique landscape and it remains unspoiled today. You will wind your way through the protected reserve on a wooden walkway raised slightly above the boggy ground. During the hike of about 3.5 miles, you will walk through riparian pine forests and marshes that support an abundance of wildlife, especially birds. You might spot golden eagles, black storks and wood larks. Larger animals such as elk and European roe deer may be seen, as well. The hike will take about three hours, after which you will enjoy a picnic lunch.

Walk throughout the upper and lower sections of Old Town before relaxing at a traditional restaurant over lunch and a sampling of local beers. As you ascend into Upper Town, hilltop Toompea Castle will look even more foreboding and impenetrable. Other highlights include the onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Dome Church of the Virgin Mary and the incredible views of the Lower Town and beyond from this elevated perch. You will descend via Short Leg Street, a narrow alleyway that passes a supposedly haunted tower. In time, you will arrive at a restaurant to dine and learn about craft-beer brewing. Although two breweries dominate the Estonian market, Tallinn is full of microbreweries that offer more unusual choices. You will be served three of the most distinctive local beers with your lunch. Afterwards, you will pause for photos at the Lower Town’s extraordinary Gothic-style town hall, the most well-preserved such building in Northern Europe.

View architectural treasures that reflect several contrasting ways of life and come away with a deeper understanding of Estonian culture. While browsing the Anija manor house, you will discover how the stately residence has been renovated over the centuries as its primary use changed. Anija has been a family home for the nobility, a school, a library and even a collective farm. For a more representative look at Estonian rural life, you will visit Liimock, a stone farmhouse where you will enjoy a tasting of products that are characteristic of the region. Tallinn’s spectacular Old Town, which UNESCO deemed worthy of a World Heritage site designation, will add a deeper historical slant as much of it dates to medieval times. From there, you will walk up Toompea Hill, a historical stronghold for the nobility. Its highlight may well be the onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a grand orthodox church built when Estonia was part of tsarist Russia.

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12 Night Europe - Northern Cruise