Europe: Norway, Iceland & Belgium

The ultimate European city, Brussels has tons of museums, fountains, gardens and great shopping. Stroll the Old Town area to see St. Hubert Arcades and its shops, as well as Butchers' Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes and the Grand Place with its Baroque guild houses.

Affectionately known as the "Venice of the North," Amsterdam is actually situated below sea level and built entirely on stakes driven into the ground. The Anne Frank House, The Hague and a Delft Blue Pottery Factory are but a few of the sights that await your arrival. Explore more of Amsterdam on a European cruise!

Situated on the eastern side of Vågsøy island, Måløy is one of the country’s most important fishing ports. Though a small coastal village of only a few thousand residents, the region surrounding Måløy is big on outdoor activities, fresh seafood and is steeped in history. From lounging on the nearly mile-long silver sand beach Refviksanden — considered one of the country’s finest swimming spots — to hiking along the rugged coast and visiting picturesque lighthouses, there are numerous ways to soak in the natural beauty of Norway.

Though people first settled in the region thousands of years ago, today the small, picturesque village of Skjolden is home to approximately 200 residents. Situated at the head of Sognefjorden, the village acts as your base for incredible outdoor adventures. Nicknamed the “King of Fjords,” Sognefjorden is more than 3,300 feet deep, nearly four miles wide and extends for 127 miles — all while being framed by sheer cliffs rising thousands of feet. From scenic boat tours to fishing and kayaking expeditions, the fjord offers numerous water-based exploits. For those who prefer hiking, journey into the mountains and discover trails to match every fitness level. Get ready to fall in love with the enchanting landscapes surrounding Skjolden.

One of Norway's most beautiful towns, renowned for its Jugend-style architecture and art nouveau style. Cruise visitors will immediately notice Alesund's unique layout, as it is built on islands extending to the sea, and offers scenic views of fjords and the Sunnmore Alps. Alesund is the fishing capital of Norway.

Nestled along the shores of one of the most breathtaking fjords in Iceland, Akureyri is the nation’s second largest urban area and a center of Icelandic folk culture. Visit the museums, hike along the extraordinary vistas or explore the botanical gardens. Shop in one of the charming boutiques and then catch a glimpse of the most northerly 18-hole golf course in the world. After you’ve worked up an appetite, feast on some Nordic specialties like smoked lamb and fresh fish and then indulge in an Icelandic fried pastry.

As the largest town in Iceland’s remote Westfjords’s region, Ísafjörður is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Boasting an enchanting fjord ideal for watersports and a mountainous landscape brimming with opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Originally a church site and a 16th century trading post, the town of Ísafjörður is home to wonderful museums and historic sites for those wishing to learn about the region’s rich heritage and local culture.

Situated in West Iceland on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, Grundarfjörður is a small fishing village boasting big outdoor adventures. Hike in the surrounding mountains, explore lava fields and visit picturesque waterfalls. Or take to the water on a boating or kayaking tour. And in the summer months, enjoy Viking age re-enactments in a reconstructed Viking village.

There's a good reason that Iceland is considered a photographer's dream destination. Its terrain is visually stunning, offering views of lava flows, hot springs, unspoiled nature – and colorful, fascinating cities like Reykjavik. The world's most northerly capital brings together quaint villages, exciting museums, a flourishing music scene and restaurants that rival Europe's finest. Explore more of Reykjavik on a European cruise!