Iconic Capitals & Towns of the Baltic

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.

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

Lying on the Baltic coast of Poland, the port city of Gdansk is known for its beautiful Hanseatic architecture and colourful Old Town. The city was left in ruins after World War II and has been masterfully restored. Most ships will dock in the neighbouring town of Gydnia, while some small ships will dock at the Oliwskie Pier in Gdansk.

Top Things to Do in Gdansk:

• visit the Malbork Castle and museum
• stroll along Long Street
• shop for Amber on Mariacka Street
• tour Stutthof Camp
• visit the Oliwa Cathedral

Bornholm boasts a wealth of scenic beauty ranging from bucolic farms to one of Denmark's largest forests. The island also features sandy beaches, quaint fishing ports and a rugged coast crowned by the ruins of the largest medieval fortress in Northern Europe. Ships will dock at the Port of Ronne.

Top Things to Do on Bornholm:

• explore the medieval Hammershus fortress
• sample the local beer in Svaneke
• tour the Baltic Sea Glass studios
• cycle in and around the city of Ronne
• visit the islands famed round churches

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.