An Extended Journey Through Baltic Legends And Norway’s Fjordland

Spanning 14 islands linked by more than 50 bridges, Sweden's capital is often called the Venice of the North. A city where waterways and heritage blend effortlessly, Stockholm invites exploration on foot or by bicycle. Discover the cobbled charm of Gamla Stan, home to the narrow Mårten Trotzigs Gränd and the stately City Hall.

Step inside the remarkable Vasa Museum to see the 17th-century warship that lay beneath the sea for over 300 years, or visit Skansen — the world's first open-air museum — for a glimpse into Swedish traditions. Across the water at Drottningholm Palace, the royal residence, the 18th-century Court Theatre still preserves its original stage machinery. Finally, stroll along the elegant Strandvägen waterfront, lined with grand townhouses and yachts gently swaying in the harbour.

Visit Visby on the island of Gotland for authentic Swedish riches. Well-preserved walls protect the city and set the scene for what lies within. You'll be warmly welcomed with cuisine, culture, nature and Viking archaeology. With a long history and UNESCO World Heritage ruins dating back to the 12th century, this orderly medieval town rejoices in being one of Scandinavia's best-preserved towns. Roam peaceful streets on foot or by bike to boutiques selling warm woollens for winter and shelves laden with local crafts.

Visit the lengthy Lummelunda Cave in a nature reserve, experience the traditional Swedish coffee ritual and taste beer at the local brewery. Soak up the history and atmosphere in well-groomed Visby for a slice of time gone by.

Compact yet richly packed with Soviet history and architectural charms, there's plenty to explore in Riga with its UNESCO-acclaimed medieval old town, where cobbled streets wind up at colourful squares. Gaze at the wonderful eclectic buildings, from gothic and baroque, to innovative art nouveau.

Listen to the Latvian National Opera, drink age old liqueur seasoned with 24 herbs, or find plenty of personal space on the 20-mile stretch of fine, sandy beaches. Build up an appetite whilst bartering at Riga's flavourful Central Market. Then step down into cosy restaurants that serve up hearty Latvian truffle and seafood dishes. Known as the Pearl of Latvia, it's easy to understand why.

A lesser-travelled gem on the Baltic, little Klaipėda draws you along its charming cobbled streets and wide riverside promenades, past the timber-framed houses of yesteryear. Lose yourself among the pristine pine forests and windswept dunes of the Curonian Spit, a sweeping arc of UNESCO-protected land separating the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. Delve into the world of Lithuanian folklore on the Hill of Witches near Juodkrantė and wander among colourful fishermen's homes in little Nida, summer retreat of writers and artists.

At the crossroads of empires, Gdańsk has witnessed history unfold. Delve into the firsts days of WWII in Westerplatte and stroll the fairytale streets of the historic centre, meticulously rebuilt after the ravages of battle. Pause for pierogi among the multicoloured merchant houses of Long Market or allow yourself to be carried away by the stories and legends of the Teutonic Knights at Malbork Castle, a mighty UNESCO-listed stronghold on the banks of the River Nogat and the largest brick fortress in the world.

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.

Salt air drifts through the cobbled lanes of this Baltic beauty. Warnemünde is where Germany slows down – a seaside town of sailboats, sandy shores, and quiet charm. Wander the historic promenade along the Alter Strom, past timber-framed houses, fishing boats, and stalls brimming with smoked fish and local fare.

Gaze up at the iconic lighthouse, or simply let your thoughts drift with the rhythm of the sea. For those drawn to grandeur, Berlin lies within reach – a bold contrast of culture, history, and cutting-edge design. But here in Warnemünde, life is softer, simpler – a pause wrapped in coastal light and maritime calm.

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.

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.

Nestled at the end of a fantasy fjord (one of two in Norway singled out for UNESCO status), Geiranger is a flawless illustration of a small coastal Nordic village. Soak it all in as you stand in the rainbow-mist of the Seven Sisters waterfalls then catch your breath as you walk on air at Geiranger Skywalk for the best views of Geirangerfjord.

Hike stone steps to find yourself standing behind a stunning plummet of melted snow; e-bike up mountain ridges and into lush farms; delve into vivid blue waters by fast boat or slow kayak; wherever you weave, you will find inner peace and preservation in this deeply sacred site of Mother Nature's fertile grounds and snow-capped mountains.

An aromatic scent will capture your senses in this city of roses. Perched on the edge of a fjord, extensive views of a stunning 222 snow-clad mountains further heightens Molde's appeal. Absorb the sounds of jazz as you ramble amongst rose gardens discovering art, folk museums, nature paths and cycle trails. Take the high ‘Atlantic' Road or drop deep underground into caves to reach the marble clad Troll Church. And as you enjoy freshly caught seafood in the crisp coastal air, you'll understand the influence of Molde's heady scent.

Nested deep between towering mountains are narrow valleys, a mile-deep fjord and a little village called Flåm. Surrounded by breathtaking beauty, visit the Borgund Stave Church museum or board the astonishing Flåmsbana train, often titled the world's most beautiful rail journey.

Climb aboard and witness waterfalls, fjords and farms so remote you wonder how they got there. Fish, cycle or experience a RIB safari through the slender Nærøyfjord - part of the UNESCO world heritage - as you appreciate the surreal landscape. Head into the abyss on the dramatic Stegastein, or - for the less adventurous but no less curious - sip homemade specialties at the local brewery.

Stories of the sagas carry on the wind in Haugesund, home of Viking chiefs and a gateway to Norway's southwestern fjords. The horizon narrows in Åkrafjord, a cinematic landscape of heather covered hillsides and dark granite cliffs, crowned by the epic torrent of Langfoss waterfall. Delve into the Viking heritage in Avaldsnes and pay respects at the monolithic Haraldshaugen, monument to King Harald Fairhair, who united the Viking clans 1,000 years ago to form the Kingdom of Norway.

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.

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.