British Isles From London To London

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

Your cruise is about to begin! It's time to make your way to Southampton, if you haven't already. To reach Southampton from London, you can take a train from London Waterloo to Southampton Central, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours - that's approximately 128 km's (80 miles). Alternatively if you're travelling by coach or have arranged a private transfer, please allow around 2 hours for the journey. Once in Southampton, the cruise terminals are within a short taxi ride from the station.

Joined to the mainland of Dorset by a spindly strip of beach, the Isle of Portland is ruggedly beautiful, with endless vistas and wild landscapes. Just four miles long, its coastal cliffs and area's unique flora and fauna are awe-inspiring, the perfect complement to the islands rich history. Ships will dock in Portland Harbour.

Top Things to Do on the Isle of Portland:

• explore Portland Castle
• visit the Abbotsbury Swannery
  
• view the Jurassic coast from atop the Portland Bill Lighthouse
• visit the Castletown D-Day Centre

Cheerful Cork is set in one of Ireland's most stunning settings, the city sprawls about the River Lee with bridges crisscrossing the city and leading to landmarks like St. Anne's Church and the Old City Gaol. Large ships will dock in nearby Cobh, (pronounced Cove), while smaller ships may dock in the heart of Cork city.

Stroll along the scenic River Lee to reach St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, an impressive Gothic Revival masterpiece with stunning stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. For a unique experience, visit the Cork City Gaol, a former prison turned museum, offering fascinating insights into 19th-century prison life.

Cruise ships dock at Cobh Cruise Terminal, located about 22 km (14 miles) from Cork city center. The journey takes around 30 minutes by train or taxi. The terminal is well-connected with frequent trains running directly to Cork.

Cobh itself is a charming town with attractions like the Cobh Heritage Centre and the Titanic Experience, both offering insights into the town's maritime history. In Cork, visitors can explore the English Market, St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, and the lively streets filled with shops and cafes.

Northern Ireland's capital, Belfast, enjoys a wonderful setting of high hills, sea lough and river valley. Reborn as a cool, modern city, it has successfully left its troubles behind, emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture, where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. Ships will dock in Belfast Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Belfast:

• visit the Titanic Belfast Museum
• see the basalt columns of Giant's Causeway
• explore the Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
• take a famous Black Taxi Tour
• travel along Ards Peninsula to Grey Abbey

Your exploration of the Isle of Skye should start off with a visit to the Old Man of Storr, an iconic rock formation offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear blue and green pools and waterfalls, the perfect location  for a leisurely hike. For a taste of local culture, visit the Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, where you can learn about the Clan MacLeod.

Portree, the picturesque capital of the Isle of Skye, enchants visitors with its colorful harbour and stunning natural beauty. The town's name is derived from the Gaelic "Port Righ" (King's Harbour), and hints at its royal connections, including a visit by King James V in 1540. Lined with brightly painted buildings the quaint harbour provides a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Portree offers several notable attractions including the Aros Centre which  showcases the island's culture and history through exhibitions and performances. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Old Man of Storr offers breathtaking views and a rewarding hike. Don't miss a visit to the local shops and eateries, where you can sample traditional Scottish fare and purchase unique island crafts.

Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, offers visitors a charming blend of history and natural beauty. Overlooking the River Ness, Inverness Castle provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. The city's historic center features attractions like the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases Highland heritage and art.

A short drive from Inverness, you can explore the legendary Loch Ness and its famous monster lore. Visit the impressive Urquhart Castle on the loch’s shores, and enjoy scenic boat tours. The city is also a gateway to the stunning Highlands, offering numerous hiking and outdoor opportunities. Inverness’s warm hospitality and unique cultural experiences make it a must-visit destination.

Invergordon, located in the Scottish Highlands, serves as a gateway to the region's stunning landscapes and historical sites. Ships dock at Invergordon Cruise Port, which is conveniently situated within walking distance of the town center. The port is approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) from Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, which can be reached in about 45 minutes by car or train.

Nestled between the Highlands and the Border Hills, Edinburgh is a gracious city noted for its superb skyline, its impressive collection of architecture and its beautiful parks. Here you'll find the best of central eastern Scotland: spectacular views, rolling hills and castles. Ships will dock at the Port of Leith Cruise Liner Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Edinburgh:

• explore the Edinburgh Castle
• visit the Holyroodhouse
• wander down the Royal Mile
• play a round at the worlds oldest golf course

When you cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line you'll have plenty of great places to shop. Whether you are looking to splurge on yourself at one of our onboard boutiques or you want to shop for gifts for your friends and family on shore, our friendly staff will help you find exactly what you are looking for. Check your Freestyle Daily for shopping seminars, special sales and more on shopping while you cruise with us.

Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is famed for its picturesque canals and historic charm. Start your visit with a leisurely canal cruise, offering a unique perspective of the city's stunning 17th-century architecture. The Anne Frank House, located on Prinsengracht, provides a poignant glimpse into history, making it a must-see landmark.

Wander through the Museum Quarter, home to the renowned Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum. For a local experience, explore the lively Jordaan district, filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Don't forget to stop by the Albert Cuyp Market, where you can sample Dutch treats like stroopwafels and fresh herring, immersing yourself in Amsterdam's vibrant culinary scene.

IJmuiden serves as a key cruise port for Amsterdam. The port is approximately 27 kilometres (about 17 miles) from Amsterdam's city centre, a journey that takes around 30-45 minutes by car or shuttle bus. IJmuiden itself offers attractions like the expansive Zuid-Kennemerland National Park and the historic Forteiland, providing a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

A visit to Bruges offers a step back in time with its medieval architecture, winding canals, and charming cobblestone streets. The Belfry of Bruges provides stunning panoramic views of the city, and don’t miss the chance to sample world-famous Belgian chocolates from local chocolatiers or take a leisurely boat tour through the picturesque canals.

As the heart of the European Union, Brussels boasts a blend of historic sites and modern attractions. Art lovers will appreciate the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the surrealist artist René Magritte. Be sure to try a classic Belgian waffle or indulge in mussels and fries at one of the city’s renowned brasseries, enjoying a quintessential Brussels culinary experience.

Zeebrugge serves as the gateway to both Bruges and Brussels. Bruges is approximately 17 km (10.6 miles) away, a 20-minute drive, offering medieval architecture and charming canals. Brussels, the Belgian capital, is about 100 km (62 miles) from the port, taking around 1.5 hours by car or train.

Paris, the 'city of light,' blends monumental landmarks with intimate corners easily explored in a day. The Eiffel Tower dominates the skyline, while a stroll along the Seine reveals bookstalls and bridges framing views of Notre-Dame. The Louvre showcases treasures from every era, and nearby the glasswork of Sainte-Chapelle dazzles. In the Marais, elegant squares and boutiques sit alongside centuries-old architecture, while classic cafés provide the perfect pause before returning to the heart of the city.

Cruise ships dock at Le Havre Cruise Terminal, close to the city center. Paris is 200 km (124 miles) southeast, reached in about 2.5–3 hours by train, coach, or private transfer. Many cruise programs offer full-day excursions that cover the highlights of Paris or the coast of Normandy. An early start and late return are typical, but a visit to Paris from Le Havre is both possible and rewarding.

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

To reach London from Southampton, you can take a train from Southampton Central (the station is within a short taxi ride from the cruise terminals) to London Waterloo, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours - that's approximately 128 km's (80 miles). Alternatively if you're travelling by coach or have arranged a private transfer, please allow around 2 hours for the journey.