Europe Cruises: Excursions

Your tour begins with a scenic drive through the cultural heart of Tallinn. View the Tall Herman Tower, one of the three remaining towers of the Knights of the Sword Castle. From the base of the nearby Cannon Tower, enjoy a wonderful view of the churches and towers of Tallinn's Upper Town. You’ll then continue through Kadriorg Park, a true highlight with its charming Baroque ensemble that was designed as a summer residence for Peter the Great. You’ll also see the beautiful Swan Pond where a photo stop will be made. You’ll visit the Song Festival Ground, a natural amphitheater that hosts Estonia's national song festivals. You’ll pass by the Forest Cemetery where distinguished Estonians are buried amongst the pine trees, before continuing on to Pirita, the beachside location of the yachting complex built for the 1980 Olympic Games. From this vantage point, the 16th century ruins of St. Bridget's Convent can be seen. As you return to the harbor, you'll drive past the summer residence of Count Orlov and the delightful statue of Russalka, Estonia's mermaid, on the sea coast. Note: Participants are not required to disembark the coach at the photo stops. Restrooms are available at selected stops. Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes less

Discover the main sites of interest in Helsinki, also known as the 'White City of the North.' Along the way you’ll pass Embassy Park and the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral with its brilliant gold onion domes. Continue on to Senate Square and see important buildings attributed to the Neo-Classic architect Carl Ludwig Engel, including the famous Lutheran Cathedral. You’ll pass the open-air market on your way to the Olympic Stadium where the 1952 Olympic Games were held. Then it’s on to Sibelius Park where you can photograph a monument honoring the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Pass by the Opera House and then stop to see the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, a unique house of worship blasted into solid rock and topped by a copper dome. Finally it’s on to Mannerheim Street, Helsinki’s main thoroughfare, and other important landmarks. At the end of the tour, you can get off in the downtown area to explore the city on your own or return by your bus to the cruise pier. Should you decide to remain in the city, you’ll be responsible for your own return to the cruise pier. This option is only available for morning departures. Note: Order of sights might vary. Guides are not allowed to escort large groups through churches while a service is in progress. In this instance the guide will describe the church from the outside. We cannot guarantee entry if services are being held. Due to new traffic restrictions, buses will no longer be allowed to drive nearby the rock church; therefore, there will be a 20 minute walk to and from the church (approximately 1,600 feet). less

Get acquainted with the fascinating songs and dances from the nations inhabiting Russia, and the republics of the former Soviet Union. The evening will take you on a spiritual journey through different regions of Russia, with energetic dances of Don Cossacks and melodic Russian, Ukrainian and Gypsy songs including the world-famous Kalinka and Katyusha. You'll be offered Russian Champagne and mineral water.

A drive from the harbor takes you through the city center and along the main street passing Estonia’s modern and elegant 19th century buildings. As you approach the Old Town, you’ll get fascinating views of the medieval city wall with its fairy-tale turrets. The walking portion of your tour begins at Nun’s Street in the Lower Town. Strolling through the old streets, you’ll see the beautiful medieval guild houses, the Gothic Town Hall and the charming 15th century apothecary. Continue to the beautiful Kadriorg Park, founded according to the order of Peter the Great and named after Peter`s wife, Catherine. Admire the architecture of the Baroque palace and enjoy the lovely restored gardens, a small replica of Versailles. The tour continues to the Song Festival Ground where national song festivals are held and up to 30,000 singers participate. Following a brief visit to the interesting ruins of the 15th century St. Brigit’s Convent, you’ll drive back to the city, past the famous Estonian Russalka monument and the summer residence of Count Orlov. Note: Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes. less

This touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that really interest you. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide (other languages available on request) at your disposal. You set your pace and itinerary, just tell us where you want to go! Note: Entrance, parking fees and meals are not included, in order to allow you complete freedom of choice. Bring local currency, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. Extra hours are available at an additional cost. Guests, who are planning to visit the religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately. No bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. Prices are per vehicle and not per person, so only one person in the party needs to book this tour. Other languages are available on request and there may be an additional charge. Please check onboard for entrance costs and availability of sites as not all locations are available when in St. Petersburg, Russia. less