Northern Europe: Norway, Greenland & Iceland

As the largest town in South Greenland, Qaqortoq offers something for everyone – history, culture, outdoor adventures and relaxing hot springs. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times; you can tour the Qaqortoq Museum for a glimpse into its rich history. Stroll among its colorful buildings tucked into the hills to see 40 sculptures that are part of a permanent art exhibit and visit nearby Norse ruins. Or head into the surrounding countryside for numerous hikes boasting spectacular vistas.

Located on its namesake island in the Labrador Sea, Nanortalik is the country’s southern-most town. The name Nanortalik means “Place of Polar Bears” because the pack ice brings the animals to the area in the spring and summer. High mountain peaks, deep fjords, pockets of woodlands, expansive glaciers and enticing hot springs all await your exploration. From kayaking excursions and whale watching tours, to hiking, fishing, climbing or simply soaking in a hot spring, there are many ways you can experience this unique region.

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.

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.

Nestled in between the two fjords, Hamarsfjörður and Berufjörður, you’ll find the remote little town of Djúpivogur. Captivating as it is quant, this humble fishing village is home to breathtaking scenery that moves from gently sweeping beaches to jagged cliffs and Búlandstindur, the iconic pyramid-shaped mountain. In contrast to the high-energy hustle and bustle of modern life, Djúpivogur encourages a slower, more contemplative way of living. Savor incredible seafood, have drinks with locals and shop traditional handcrafts you can’t find anywhere else in the world. While the town of Djúpivogur might be small, there’s no doubt it will make a big impression on your next Northern Europe adventure.

This colorful capital city of the Faroe Islands on the island of Steymoy features a panoply of Nordic landscapes, with fjords, straits, deep green valleys, and a wonderful harbor dotted with colorful boats. Thorshavn began as a Viking settlement, and later became a thriving town, replete with quaint, colorful neighborhoods, and historic cathedrals and fortresses from the Middle Ages.

The capital of Scotland's Shetland Islands is a vibrant and energetic city colored by grand Victorian houses and the region's namesake ponies. It is a cruise ship's primary entry to the Shetlands, a mosaic of over a hundred islands inhabited by about 22,000 people and an abundance of wildlife. It is a land shaped by the sea featuring views of dramatic sculptured cliffs and tranquil sandy bays. Explore more of Lerwick on a European cruise!

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.

View this lovely and charming Norwegian city from your cruise ship and you'll see how the city is nestled between seven mountains, seven fjords and the North Sea. The Norwegian King resided here, and many historical events took place in this busy port. These events come alive when you amble down the old streets of Bryggen, past picturesque, wooden buildings and the Romanesque-style St. Mary's church. Explore more of Bergen on a European cruise!

Norwegians head to Kristiansand during the summer for the agreeable weather, plenty of attractions and a popular city beach. Stroll through the Posebyen old quarter and its grid pattern of historic streets, looking out for a former post office dating back to 1695. Don’t miss the Kristiansand Zoo, featuring moose, wolves, lynx, wolverines and so much more. And be sure to visit the Agder Museum of Natural History and Botanical Gardens, with its 19th-century rose garden and extensive collection of succulents.

Imagine sailing on the incredible Viking long ships in the Viking Ship Museum. Picture perfect, the oldest Scandinavian city sits at the head of a 60-mile fjord framed by lakes, woods, moors. Views forever, visit the cliff-dwelling Akershus Castle, originally built in 1300.