Lisbon to Reykjavík

From Moorish walls and Manueline carvings to elaborate azulejo tiles and Gothic arches – the traces of Lisbon’s rich history can be seen and felt simply by wandering its storied (and rather hilly) streets. But Europe’s second-oldest city is also one of its most cosmopolitan, and amid historic landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery and São Jorge Castle, you’ll find chic rooftop bars with views across red terracotta rooftops and the sparkling Tagus river, design-led concept stores selling artisanal souvenirs, and stylish restaurants serving up inventive takes on local ingredients.

This picturesque city is popular for its colorful tile-decorated buildings, its many hills and the iconic bridges by the Douro River. For an authentic Portuguese experience, go to the Ribeira neighborhood and cross the Dom Luis I bridge to watch the magical sunset among the locals.

Perched on a rocky peninsula in Spain's northwest, A Coruna is brimming with ancient Roman heritage and maritime history. This historic town is nicknamed the 'Crystal City' due to the 19th-century enclosed glass balconies that reflect the glittering waters of the Atlantic. Ships will dock at the Port of A Coruna.

Top Things to Do in A Coruna:

• visit the Tower of Hercules
• stroll the streets of La Coruña’s Old Town
• cycle along the Paseo Marítimo
• visit the Santiago de Compostela
• sample some of the areas delicious seafood

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Known as the Port of the Moon for the graceful curve of its harbor, the UNESCO-listed city of Bordeaux showcases some of the finest culture, cuisine, and architecture of southwest France. Surrounded by prestigious vineyards – including Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Sauternes – the city is a paradise for oenophiles. Learn about the history of wine at La Cité du Vin, a state-of-the-art museum that’s appropriately shaped like a wine decanter, before setting off to the vineyards for an afternoon of wine tasting. Or, simply amble around the city, strolling along the River Garonne, admiring the gothic spires of Cathédrale St-André, and stopping for oysters and a glass of wine at the Marché des Capucins.

Old meets new in this quintessential Atlantic seaport, where half-timbered medieval houses and hidden Renaissance passageways co-exist with a modern marina of sleek 21st-century yachts and even an electro-solar sea bus. Dip into daily life here under the 19th-century wrought-iron roof of Les Halles market, where there’s a hum of haggling shoppers and traders shouting about the freshness of their produce amid stalls selling briny oysters and a rainbow of local fruit (look out for juicy Charentais melons in summer). Stop for a petit café on the terrace outside before exploring the old town, with its clock tower, stone gargoyles and shipowners’ mansions.

The sea has always defined Brest, in a sheltered bay on the westernmost finger of Brittany. A harbour for ships since Roman times, its strategic importance in World War II was the reason 90 per cent of it was bombed by the Allies. Remarkably, the castle overlooking the harbour survived (today it houses a marine museum), while the rest of the city was rebuilt on a modern chequerboard pattern. But it’s the sea that draws the eye, from the jumble of ports and quays to the futuristic Oceanopolis, which plunges you into the wonders of marine life, with penguins, tropical lagoons, and shark tanks to see.

If you are looking for a unique blend of British and French charm in an idyllic setting, then look no further than St. Peter Port. The Channel Islands' blend of cultural diversity, historical significance, natural beauty, and autonomy make them one of the most coveted archipelagos on travelers’ wish lists. The 19 islands (seven of which are inhabited) possess a distinct identity, they have their own governments, legal systems, and even currency and are known for their olde world charm, stunning landscapes with beautiful beaches, lush countryside, and historical sites. St Peter Port, the largest town on the second largest islands Guernsey, sits around 40 miles off the French coast of Normandy – in the Gulf of St Malo – and the influence of past French culture can still be felt on the island. It’s like stepping back in time: St. Peter Port's heart lies in its picturesque harbor, where colorful houses cascade down the hillside, creating a postcard-worthy scene and the bustling harbor is dotted with sailboats and fishing vessels, giving it an authentic maritime ambiance. The town boasts a rich history evident in its architecture. St. Peter Port Castle, dating back to the 13th century, and Castle Cornet, a historic fortress, stand as reminders of the island's past. Georgian and Regency buildings lend an air of timeless elegance to the streets. Naturally, there are plenty of pubs serving pints and fish and chips and tea shops serving cream teas – this is still Britan after all! Be sure to enjoy some authentic Channel Islands fare before you leave.

With a name that literally means, "the Harbor," Le Havre is indeed a city that grew out of a need for a working port. In the early 16th century, the harbor at Honfleur was silting up, rendering the port less and less usable. King Francois I had a solution: establish another harbor on the right bank of the Seine estuary, just 15 miles from Honfleur. So it came to pass that in 1517, Le Havre was built. Though it always had a military function, Le Havre flourished essentially as a commercial port, receiving cotton, tobacco and sugar from America and distributing the goods throughout France. But its military role was expanded in the 17th century when the harbor was converted to a naval base. In WWII, Le Havre was pressed into even greater military service as it became a stronghold on the continent. The city you see today is mostly post-war construction-much of Le Havre was destroyed during the war. Its reconstruction was overseen by architect Auguste Perret. Its commercial rebirth was spurred by the bustling port activity that began in the 1960s, and continues today.

The oldest sailing regatta in the world breezes into the harbor of this salty-aired town on England’s biggest island every summer. But the buzz it creates is felt year-round. Amble along the esplanade for cloud-scudding views across the Solent to the mainland or browse the charming independent stores on the high street. This nautical powerhouse has a long history of shipbuilding, which can be discovered at the maritime museum and the quirky Sir Max Aitken Museum, set in a loft where sails for the royal racing yacht Britannia were made. Across the river in East Cowes, lemon-yellow Osborne House is where Queen Victoria retreated to after the death of her beloved Prince Albert.

You would be hard pressed to find a city with a more significant naval heritage than Portsmouth. The world's oldest dry dock, it is home to some of history's most storied ships, including Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, HMS Victory; Henry VII's Tudor warship, Mary Rose; and the world's first iron hulled armored ship, HMS Warrior. The city also has impressive cultural and entertainment credentials. It is the birthplace of author Charles Dickens and comedian Peter Sellers and has served as a shooting location for a variety of films, including the James Bond installment, Tomorrow Never Dies. For all its high-level associations, Portsmouth remains a wonderfully low-key destination. Enjoy a pass along the cobbled streets of the shopping district or step aboard a high-speed elevator of the Spinnaker Tower, the sail-inspired observation tower that rises 560 feet above the port to showcase magnificent views.

A crossroad in the English Channel for centuries, Zeebrugge is the gateway to Flanders, whose Golden Age heritage resides in three historic cities: Ghent, Antwerp and Bruges. Here, museums display the glories of the old Flemish masters, from Van Dyck to Rubens. Summertime is a delight, showcasing colorful flower-filled window boxes, the graceful arcs of windmills, a patchwork of farms and picturesque rivers.

Everyone has an image of Amsterdam, for some, it’s small boats gliding on the canals and locals two-wheeling on bikes to work and, as frequently, to meet friends for drinks. For others, it’s gabled buildings leaning, seemingly precariously, over cobbled streets and cozy taverns illuminated by candles. Still others imagine tulips in bloom and the paintings Vermeer, Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Each vision is even more beguiling when experienced in person. 

At just 17 miles from Amsterdam, many visitors to Ijmuiden opt to go straight to the capital. But, while the bright lights of the big city might be the biggest attraction, Ijmuiden provides easy access to many of the country’s highlights. The vast beaches of Ijmuiden Strand are just 2 miles away and easily reachable by foot, while Haarlem, the Netherlands’ finest example of cafés, canals, cobbled streets and cosy bars is only 30-minutes by train.

From its comedy clubs and craft breweries to indie shops and nightclubs, this riverside city on England’s northeast coast is a lively port of call. Newcastle and adjoining Gateshead, across the River Tyne, is a place where Victorian factories have been repurposed into art galleries and renowned live music venues, and handsome Grainger Town is home to some of Britain’s best-preserved examples of Georgian architecture. Surrounded by sandy beaches and backed by steep, wooded valleys, the “Toon” is a great place for hiking and biking, as well as being gateway to Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman fortifications running across the country just to the west.

Gateway to Edinburgh, this deepwater anchorage has a tender dock flanked by quayside shops and cafes. A former fishing community, Newhaven harbour dates to the 1480s; today the town has merged with cosmopolitan Leith where you’ll find sourdough bakeries, art studios, chic bars, and some of Scotland’s best chefs at work. It’s also home to Britannia, the former Royal Yacht, now museum, that hosted the British royal family on foreign travels for almost 50 years before being decommissioned in 1997. A modern tram service connects Newhaven, Leith, and the historic sights of Edinburgh in 20 minutes.

A place of contrasts and balance, Kirkwall offers the high points of a large Scottish city – stellar local shopping and impressive historical sites like the St. Magnus Cathedral and ruins of the Bishop’s Palace and Earl’s Palace – as well as the charms of a small village. It is a relatively quiet ferry landing town that is also an excellent example of an ancient Norse settlement, making Kirkwall itself a living museum.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

At the head of the Oslofjord, which boasts many densely wooded islands, lies the impressive Norwegian capital of Oslo. This inspiring city is the site of many of Norway's finest historic and cultural achievements. Towering above our dock near the city center is the imposing Akershus Fortress and Castle. Graceful Viking ships, the Munch Art Museum and Gustav Vigeland's awesome sculpture collection are among the rich treasury of attractions this city has to offer.

This west coast harbor, where the Gullmarsfjorden meets the sea, is a favorite haunt of Swedes, who come here to reconnect with the great outdoors and feast on oysters, mussels and other shellfish plucked from the bountiful local waters. While Lysekil built its fortunes on fishing, especially the herring shoals that patrol the Bohuslän coast, someone had the bright idea of promoting the virtues of the salty air and sea in the mid-19th century and turned this place into a fashionable health resort. You can still take a restorative dip in one of the baths, a later edition of the original Kallbadhuset. Overlooking it all is the neo-Gothic church cut from this coast’s distinct pink granite.

Originally established as a Viking village in the 10th century, Copenhagen comes with a colorful past, traces of which are still visible today – from centuries-old cobblestoned streets to resplendent royal palaces. But this storied Scandinavian city also sits firmly at the forefront of contemporary culture and design, with its world-class architecture, cutting-edge art galleries, and eco-friendly approach to urban living. Do as the locals do and explore the city on two wheels, pausing along the way at notable sites like the Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle and Gardens, the 19th-century amusement park Tivoli Gardens, and the waterfront hub of Nyhavn, lined with candy-colored townhouses.

Intriguing, immersive, and inspirational, Aarhus invites travelers to explore a place where history, culture, and progress converge. Known for its unique blend of historical charm and modern innovation, Aarhus resonates with creativity, notably in the lovely rainbow-hued art gallery that takes pride of place in the center of the town. Cafes line the central canal, making it a very pleasant place to while away a few hours watching the locals come and go. But it is not all modern art and coffee shops; Aarhus is rooted in Viking history, seamlessly blending the old with the new. The Old Town dates to the late 8th century and transports visitors to another era with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. The towns immersive living history museum, Den Gamle By is a journey through the ages, from 1864 to today, encompassing how Denmark has evolved in the past 150 years. Additionally, Aarhus' natural surroundings, including forests and beaches, offer stunning respite from urban exploration.

Sweden's second-largest city seamlessly blends cutting-edge design with its historic, maritime roots. Once characterized by industrial grit, Gothenburg’s formerly run-down neighborhoods today boast avant-garde architecture, while the repurposed warehouses that once held goods associated with the city’s industrial past, today house a thriving creative scene. Michelin-starred restaurants have taken center stage, while independent coffee shops sprinkle the cityscape. Beyond the urban buzz, the city is graced by a string of peaceful islands, adding a serene escape just beyond its doorstep. With a commitment to sustainability, innovative gastronomy, and a welcoming atmosphere, Gothenburg invites visitors to experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it a standout destination in the Scandinavian landscape.

Arendal is renowned for its vibrant city center and picturesque archipelago. Unsurprisingly, water sports enthusiasts find a haven here, as the town is adjacent to Raet, a maritime national park known for its stunning natural beauty. The city includes the picturesque shores of Hisøy, Tromøy, or Merdø, which are easily explored via ferry, and well worth a visit if you have time. While Arendal’s allure might hold particular appeal for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for activities like sailing and kayaking amid its scenic waters, guests who prefer their activities on dry land will not be bored. Take a stroll through picturesque streets, immersing yourself in the pretty town’s mix of traditional and modern architecture. Foodies won’t go hungry either: try a Kanelboller, orcinnamon bun, in one of the numerous cozy cafes for a true taste of Norway.

Steeped in Viking history and surrounded by shimmering lakes and jade-green forests, Haugesund is a young, vibrant city easily explored on foot. The region’s tempestuous past can be discovered at the state-of-the-art Viking Planet Digital Museum, while the city’s clutch of world-class art galleries offers a glimpse of contemporary Norwegian life. Haraldsgata – a long, pedestrianized street lined with traditional Norwegian clapboard houses converted into cafés, boutiques and bars – is the place to pick up classic Scandi knitwear and gifts before a seafood lunch on the quayside, overlooking the tranquil Smedasundet Sound.

Norway’s raw coastal beauty is showcased by this port on Vagsoy island, overlooked by Kannestenen rock, which has been moulded by the sea over millions of year into a vast mushroom-like cliff. The gateway to mighty Nordfjord, where rugged peaks rise from ice-blue water, Maloy is a buzzing hub for Norway's prized seafood exports. Inland, along the fjord at Sagastad Viking Center, see Myklebust, one of the world’s largest Viking ships, backed by the glacier-topped peaks of Jostedalsbreen national park, where the summit of Mount Hoven can be conquered by all aboard the Loen Skylift cable car.

Situated on the southern tip of Norway about four hours from Oslo, Kristiansand is the country's fifth-largest city and a top vacationer's destination. No wonder: Kristiansand's water-surrounded setting, many parks and museums, family-friendly zoo and vibrant shopping scene bring culture-minded visitors and outdoors enthusiasts together in happy coexistence. A walk in Posebyen, Kristiansand's old town, offers a look at one of Northern Europe's largest collections of characteristic wooden buildings, while the fish quay presents one of Norway's best fish markets and great dining options. If you can bear to pull yourself away from Kristiansand's narrow streets and wide appeal, a boat trip across the waterway brings you to Lillesand, an immaculate town with charming alleyways and a pretty waterfront.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Set more than 200 miles above the Arctic Circle, this year-round destination welcomes midnight sun-seekers in warmer months while winter’s aurora-lit skies unfold over a snowy landscape where dogsleds teams explore boreal backcountry. Norway’s Arctic capital is a boon for active travellers who explore glacial waters by kayak and trek through wildflower meadows into still-snowcapped peaks. But there’s much to keep you in town. Don’t miss the striking Arctic Cathedral and the Polar Museum’s thrilling exhibits uncovering tales of Arctic exploration. Save a little time to linger in lively bars and restaurants specialising in on-trend Arctic cuisine featuring wild game and the freshest seafood.

This vibrant Arctic metropolis is said to be the northernmost city in the world and its attractions come in all shapes and sizes. There’s a zigzag path to the top of Salen Hill for views of the surrounding Finnmark plateau. The globe-shaped UNESCO-listed Struve Geodetic Arc was once used to work out the size of the earth. And the triangular contemporary church, consecrated in the early 1960s, was inspired by the racks used to dry fish across the region (marvel at how sunlight illuminates the stained-glass window behind the altar). But for a real curveball, you can join a camel safari across white-sand beaches – no, this is not a mirage.

Called the northernmost point of Europe, the North Cape (or Nordkapp) is situated at the very north tip of Norway and inside the Arctic Circle. Home to where the Atlantic and Arctic oceans meet and with only the Svalbald archipelago standing between it and the North Pole, this is the true land of the midnight sun.

Lookout for hundreds of thousands of puffins, gannets, cormorants, seals, dolphins and whales that make this stretch of chilly water and the tall cliffs their home. Not forgetting the colourful, compact fishing villages, so at odds with the otherwise stark and barren landscape.

Nordkapp, also known as the North Cape is recognized as the northernmost point of mainland Europe and is renowned for its stunning landscapes. It enjoys a very happy placement in the world; at “just” 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) south of the North Pole, Nordkapp is still considered one of the northernmost accessible points in mainland Europe and offers breathtaking views of the Arctic Ocean and surrounding landscapes. The Midnight Sun casts its ethereal glow, illuminating the landscape during the surreal Arctic summer nights. Here, the remoteness is as profound as the beauty. Gaze upon dramatic cliffs that plunge into the frigid waters of the Barents Sea and stand in awe of nature's grandeur. Wildlife flourishes, from reindeer grazing against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks to flocks and flocks of seabirds soaring through the pristine skies. Embrace the Arctic's tranquility and the raw majesty of a place where the world seems to touch the heavens.

Many places claim to offer views of the Northern Lights, but few of them have built a cathedral named after the colorful sky-dancing phenomenon or are the site of the world’s first observatory to study them. This red-clapboard town in Norway’s Arctic region also has northern Europe’s largest collection of rock art, etched by ancient hunter-gatherers 7,000 years ago and displayed at its museum, with widescreen views of the fjord as a backdrop. The views of open tundra and rushing river become even more breathtaking on hikes around Alta canyon, or mush along on a dog sled for a taste of the local way of life.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Humpback and Minke whales play and feed in the waters around the impressive island of Jan Mayen with its towering ebony peaks and broad black lava beaches. The landscape is dominated to the north by Mt. Beerenberg, an active volcano covered in glacial ice that last erupted in 1985.

With permission from the Norwegian authorities, a landing is possible at this rarely visited outpost. Visitors may walk to the research and weather station, or beyond, for birds-eye views of the meteorological station and the long black sandy eastern shore of the island.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Situated on one of the most magnificent fjords in Iceland, bounded by snow-capped mountains and gently sloping pastures, the weather here is surprisingly moderate despite being just 60 miles from the Arctic Circle. Charming and historical, here you’ll find over 2,000 species of plants in the Botanical Gardens, which thrive without the benefit of a greenhouse.

Ringed by dramatic mountains and perched on a narrow fjord-side spit of land, this old trading post’s as remote as they come – yet boasts a trending arts scene. Walk among tin-roofed homes built by salt fish merchants, admire seagoing artifacts and – for some reason – a world-class accordion collection at the Maritime Museum. Discoveries further afield might include splendid Icelandic waterfalls, a pint-sized botanic garden in the tundra, and tiny villages dwarfed by their surrounding peaks.

Formed by volcanic eruptions and settled by Norse Vikings, Iceland is an unforested land of volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, glaciers and northern lights. While its preserved language remains, this is a forward-thinking, eco-friendly country and Reykjavik is its capital where 60% of the population lives. Europe’s second largest island is known for whale watching and its ancient maritime history.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Gateway to the “natural skyscraper” Tasermiut Fjord, this southern Greenland port is a jumping-off point for wild adventure. The sheer granite walls that shape the glacier-capped 43-mile-long fjord make it an Arctic wonder. Set on a small homonymous island near Tasermiut’s mouth, Nanortalik is backed by pristine boreal beaches rising to unnamed peaks towering above intricate fjord systems. Sikorsuit, or sea ice, greets ships in the harbour in spring. The town’s half-timbered, museum-piece hamlet showcases life under 19th-century Danish colonists, and the ingenuity of the native Inuit who have made their home here for centuries. Don’t miss the 500-year-old umiak, the world’s oldest open sealskin boat, at the museum.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

This fast-growing city is second-only in size to the capital, Nuuk, 199 miles to the south. Set just above the Arctic Circle on the world’s largest island, Sisimiut is a year-round adventure travel destination. Winter (January to April) is prime time for dog-sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, and spotting the Northern Lights. Summer (June to October) is great for hiking glacial valleys and exploring the iceblue waters by kayak. On the hill above the port, overlooked by Greenland’s oldest church, Bethelkirken, Sisimiut Museum comprises several colonial clapboard buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, with displays delving into the region’s trade and shipping history.

The outlet for enormous Nuup Kangerlua, the world’s second-largest fjord system, gives Greenland’s capital its name – meaning “cape” in Greenlandic. Nuuk’s natural drama is matched by showstopping cultural attractions, including the Greenland National Museum and Archives, which offer a comprehensive overview of local life from prehistoric times to the modern day. You'll find the museum on the Colonial Harbour, which was founded by Dano-Norwegian missionary, Hans Egede, in 1728, and is home to the nation’s oldest buildings. Also visit Katuaq Cultural Centre, which has a striking design that echoes a rippling Northern Lights display, a natural phenomenon that paints the skies here in winter. It hosts rotating art exhibitions, a cool café and a performance space that taps into the region’s lively local music scene.

Raise your eyes to the skies as you approach Paamiut harbour, because this southern settlement is the home of Greenland’s largest population of white-tailed eagles. The Capital Region port is graced by brightly colored historic houses, and a museum that tells tales of the whaling and fur trading, which formed Paamiut’s nascent economy. Explore a backcountry crisscrossed with ancient hunting trails now welcoming adventurous hikers and cross-country skiers in winter, leading along fjords where glaciers spill down from the Greenland Ice Cap. In warmer months, this is a prime place for whale watching, with minke, fin, orcas and humpback species often seen from shore.

Traversing this waterway at the southern tip of Greenland packs in all the big-hitters of an Arctic voyage: electric-blue glaciers creeping into the calm waters of the fjord, icebergs bobbing like dazzling white deserted islands, tiny clusters of paintbox-bright wooden huts. In places, this 60-mile fjord system narrows to about 1,500ft, so to cruise through it is to slow right down and gaze in awe-struck silence at the towering granite cliffs all around – and perhaps even spot the spouts and flukes of whales in the icy sea.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

The largest town on Greenland’s wild east coast, Tasiilaq is set on mountainous Ammassalik island, a remote place largely frequented by locals and supply ships. This part-uncharted landscape is steeped in Inuit tradition; hunting and dog sledding remain a way of life, and this is one of the few places in Greenland where you can still see Inuit drum dances performed. Visit Stunk artisan’s workshop to watch some of the country’s best carvers in action, and Tasiilaq Museum, set in a church constructed from a Danish sailing ship that grounded here in 1908, complete with traditional peat house annex.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

We enter Siglufjordur in northern Iceland, a mere 25 miles from the Arctic Circle, along a remote, narrow fjord, an unusual approach that enhances the sense of isolation. There’s a mystical atmosphere to this destination, too – according to local legend, the surrounding mountains are, in fact, frozen trolls caught in sunlight and turned to stone. Yet, Siglufjordur’s history is a little more earthly; this was once the herring capital of the world, which you can explore in the Herring Era Museum. You can also watch the busy modern-day fishermen and women hauling in their day’s catches in the harbor, then enjoy a hot chocolate in one of the cafes at the nearby marina. Mother Nature rules here on the Trollskagi peninsula, a prime place to watch the Northern Lights, often visible in winter, when a glittering blanket of sparkling snow and ice covers the town. In summer, in the magic of the midnight sun, wildflowers bloom bright and bold for as far as the eye can see. Don’tmiss: Hearing traditional Icelandic music and poetry at The Folk Music Center, cycling through the dramatic landscape on Siglufjordur’s flat forested trails, taking a scenic drive along Road 76 and calling by the oldest turf church in Iceland.

Although remotely located in northwest Iceland and surrounded by ruggedly beautiful fjords, Isafjordur is surprisingly cosmopolitan. Surrounded on three sides by remarkable mountains jutting upwards around a gorgeous bay, this is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. Smaller ships will dock at this port, while larger ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Isafjordur:

• visit the Osvor and Maritime Museums
• look for Puffins on Vigur Island
• journey to the Dynjandi waterfall
• cruise through the Glacier Fjords
  

Majestic landscapes and captivating local history are what define the small and colorful town of Grundarfjörður. Mount Kirkjufell and the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall are the town’s biggest attractions, but. the gentle weather means you can also take part in diverse outdoor activities such as hiking, horse riding or whale watching.

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Begin your day exploring the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, with its panoramic city views from the tower. Wander through the colorful streets of the Old Harbor, where you can find quirky shops, cozy cafes, and stunning views of Mount Esja.

Don't miss the Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural marvel on the waterfront, or a visit to the National Museum for a deep dive into Icelandic history. Recharge at one of Reykjavik's many geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon, just a short drive from the city. Wrap up your visit with a stroll along the scenic Sun Voyager sculpture, capturing the spirit of adventure and discovery.