A Journey Of Charming Villages & Glorious Waterside Scenery

Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it's well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.

A historic Nordic hub that lives like a quaint neighbourhood, Aarhus is Denmark's second-largest city where old-world charms mingle with vibrant modern marvels. See where art and engineering intersect at ARoS Art Museum, a free space for unequalled creativity that goes beyond traditional thinking.

Travel into the past in Den Gamle By (The Old Town) which recreates Denmark's long history or head to the architecturally dramatic Moesgaard Museum with a mummified bog body man and Iron Age artifacts. Hop a bike and pedal to picture-perfect places including cobbled Møllestien Street, The Dome Skyspace, or cosy Latin Quarter for cool Scan designs. Cap off the day with a stroll up high-street Strøget for rooftop cocktails at fashionable Salling.

Contemporary art, Viking heritage and natural beauty form a captivating trinity in Aalborg, a cultural haven folded into the majestic scenery of Limfjord. Wander among wooden merchant's houses in Old Town, visit ancient burial sites in Lindholm Høje and pause to reflect on modern Danish design at the Utzon Center. Harbourside baths invite easy access to the crisp waters of the fjord, or you can paddle quiet waterways, cycle forest trails and look out for eagles on the remote beaches of North Jutland.

Not many cities are greener – in habitat or sustainability - than Oslo. With over half Norway's capital city being covered by forests and parks, it's only natural that the fjord creeps into the city centre. Nature aside, there's so much more to explore; music, museums, opera, the Vigeland Sculpture Park and one of the world's most beautiful libraries. Learn about the works of Edvard Munch and the importance of climate change or attend a private aquavit tasting and the Royal Palace. Embark on an aquatic safari, boat jaunt or bike tour. Then consider concluding your day with a classic finish – plunge fjord deep in for some stimulating cold-water therapy. They say these organic city waters are as clean as they are unique.

The ‘summer city' of Mandal welcomes us to its sunny beachfront and lovely harbour for an afternoon of history, architecture, and fresh fare from the ocean. Stroll along an 800km stretch of golden Sjøsanden Beach, explore the city's pier, venture into the archipelago, visit museums, or find peace in Norway's largest wooden church. Established by King Eric of Pomerania as a major salmon trading station, Mandal has morphed into one of the prettiest harbours lined by whitewashed houses. Descend to the Lindesnes lighthouse to find small lakes and coves dotted with isolated islands. Tour the birthplace of Gustav Vigeland, one of Norway's greatest artists, where his quest for spirituality began.

Dive into the UNESCO heart of Amsterdam, where water is the essence of life. Cruise, bike and walk amongst its series of concentric, semi-circular canals, the Grachtengordel, that are crisscrossed by hundreds of bridges connecting about 90 islands. Walk the 9 Staatjes neighbourhood, where young Anne Franke penned her poignant diary. Seek the cities favourite sons, Rembrandt and Vermeer, in the royal Rijksmuseum Museum, which ranks amongst the best bucket-list experiences. Binge on luxury at Bijenkorf in darling Dam Square or delve into its modern moments in the creative food scene, open-minded attitude, and novel designs.

With more time to reflect, rejuvenate, and embrace the Ocean State of Mind, days at sea with Explora Journeys invite moments of unhurried exploration. Against a backdrop of endless blue, indulge in a varied programme of wellness, dining and entertainment, enriching the mind and indulging the senses, designed to satisfy even the most curious of minds. These moments at sea offer a rare chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. With so many onboard experiences, each day at sea is unique and memorable.

Sail into this vibrant quay with enough shops and entertainment to form its own village. Modern and lively, this coastal town bustles with waterfront restaurants, heritage charm, bars, cinemas and offers great access to other spots in the South of England. Sit back and drift through heavenly countryside to ancient Stonehenge, see if the King is at home in Windsor, learn secrets from the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery or slip up to London for some rich British culture. Then enjoy a cup of tea as you reflect on formal traditions, perfect your cockney accent and recall England's green and pleasant lands.