Old World Tales & Trails

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.

Well known throughout the world as the scene for Operation Dynamo in 1940, Dunkirk is one of the few places in Europe that seamlessly combines a wealth of history with fabulous boutique shops, delightful restaurants, a stunning golf course and miles of sweeping sandy beaches.

Top Things to Do in Dunkerque:

• browse a museum devoted to the Battle of Dunkirk & operation Dynamo
• visit the battle sites & Fort Des Dunes
• drive the scenic Opal Coast
• visit Lille, the capital of the French Flanders

The largest port in Europe, Rotterdam, is an intriguing mix of the old and the new, with bold modern architecture intermixed with classic 18th and 19th century buildings. Destroyed during WWII, the city has since been completely rebuilt to become the Netherlands second largest city.

You'll dock at the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal, conveniently located in the heart of the city. The terminal is just 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the city center, making it a quick 10-minute taxi ride or a pleasant 25-minute walk. Public transportation options include trams and buses, providing easy access to key attractions including the Markthal - a bustling market with diverse food stalls, and the Cube Houses, a unique architectural marvel. For a dose of history, visit the Maritime Museum.

Located at the head of the gorgeous Oslofjord, Norway's capital is encircled by wooded hills and snow capped peaks. Explore the striking Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the rooftop for harbor views. The Viking Ship Museum showcases remarkably preserved ships from the Viking era, while Vigeland Park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Visit the Akershus Fortress for a glimpse into medieval history, or stroll along the waterfront Aker Brygge, filled with restaurants and shops.

Sweden's second largest city and the largest port in Scandinavia is laced with a network of gracious canals lined with elegant buildings. Gothenburg is a cosmopolitan city with a wealth of cultural attractions, from its ancient University to its beloved pleasure garden at Liseberg Amusement Park. Ships will dock at the Port of Gothenburg.

Top Things to Do in Gothenburg:

• visit Tjolöholm Castle
• island hop in the Bohuslän archipelago
• cruise the canals
• stroll down Aveneyn boulevard

Berlin, Germany's dynamic capital, is a city steeped in history and modern innovation. Start with the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of unity and peace. Nearby, the Reichstag Building offers a panoramic view of the city from its stunning glass dome.

Art lovers should not miss Museum Island, home to five world-renowned museums. For a poignant glimpse into the past, visit the Berlin Wall Memorial and the East Side Gallery, where vibrant murals cover remnants of the historic divide. End your visit with a relaxing afternoon in Tiergarten, Berlin’s expansive park perfect for unwinding and reflecting on the city’s rich tapestry.

Warnemünde, a quaint seaside resort in Germany, captures the hearts of visitors with its broad, sandy beaches and the charming promenade of Alter Strom, lined with fishing boats and boutiques. This port town is renowned for its maritime flair and historic lighthouse, dating back to 1898, which offers sweeping views of the Baltic Sea.

Warnemünde offers access to both the historic city of Rostock, just 13 kilometers (8 miles) away, and the vibrant capital, Berlin, approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) away. Rostock is reachable within 20 minutes by train, while Berlin requires a longer travel time, about 3 hours by train or coach. Explore Rostock's medieval architecture and Hanseatic history or if you're looking to explore Berlin, plan for a full day experience.

Rønne, the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm, offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Wander through the charming old town with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, visiting notable landmarks like St. Nicolai Church and the Bornholm Museum, which showcases the island's rich heritage.

The picturesque harbour area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with cafes and shops offering local delicacies and crafts. Nearby, the white sandy beaches provide a relaxing escape, while the Erichsens Gård museum gives a glimpse into 19th-century Danish life. Rønne’s blend of historical charm and coastal scenery makes it a captivating destination on Bornholm.

A small town on the island of Gotland, Visby was a popular trading spot during the Viking Age. Today, this pretty medieval city is Sweden's sunniest vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ships will dock at the Visby Cruise Quay.

Top Things to Do in Visby:

• visit the Gotlands Museum
• walk along the medieval Visby Ring Wall
• take in the view from Gallows Hill
• stroll through the Botanic Gardens
• pass through Dalmansporten's gate to explore the medieval city

Finland's capital is a laid-back but vibrant seaside city, surrounded on three sides by sea and tiny islands. Helsinki is a city of graceful neoclassical buildings, striking modern architecture and spacious boulevards dotted with squares and parks. Ships will dock in either South Harbour or West Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Helsinki:

• take the ferry to the fortress of Suomenlinna
• visit the Kiasma Modern Art Museum
• see the rock church, Temppeliaukio
• shop at Market Square
• stroll through Sibelius Park

Tallinn's fairy-tale castles, cobbled streets and warm hospitality remain one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Ancient convents, steepled churches and handsome guild houses are all preserved as they were in Tallinn’s Old Town area, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ships will dock at the Old City Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Tallinn:

• admire the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• take in the city views from Toompea Hill
• visit the Open Air Museum
• stroll the gardens of Kadriorg Park
  

Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.

For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.

Copenhagen captivates with its blend of royal history and modern Scandinavian cool. Visit the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels, or stroll through the picturesque Nyhavn harbor with its colorful townhouses and lively cafés.

The iconic Little Mermaid statue sits serenely by the waterfront, while Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, offers charming rides and lush gardens in the heart of the city. Your ship will dock at the Port of Copenhagen, which is a 30 minute drive to Copenhagen Airport and a 15 minute drive into the city centre.