Northern Europe: Iceland & Norway

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.

At the end of a long sheltered fjord, surrounded by steep dramatic mountains is where you’ll find the remote, astoundingly picturesque valley of Seydisfjordur. Once the capital and a booming town thanks to an abundance of silver herring, Seydisfjordur is now known for its multi-colored wooden buildings, iconic Blue Church and flourishing art scene. A sunken British oil tanker (El Grillo), a casualty of WWII, rests at the bottom of the fjord and is a popular dive site.

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.

Tromsø is the largest city above the Arctic Circle and is a jump-off point for Arctic explorations. Visit the museum for insights into Lapp culture, and see the city’s strikingly modern Arctic Cathedral.

Considered the artistic hub of Northern Norway, Svolvær is also your base for exploring the fairytale landscape of the Lofoten archipelago. If there’s an outdoor activity that you enjoy, chances are you can find it here. From fishing and rock climbing to hiking, horse back riding, surfing and more, the volcanic-rock islands are your outdoor playground to discover. Or explore Svolvær and surrounding towns for a glimpse into local culture and traditions and the region’s dramatic Viking past.

Located on the northwestern tip of Alsta Island, Sandnessjøen is situated between the 12-mile long Leirfjorden and a dramatic mountain range known as The Seven Sisters. Explore this storied landscape by water on an unforgettable sea kayaking tour or take to the mountains and soak up panoramic island vistas. With everything within walking distance in Sandnessjøen, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll through town, browse local shops and savor traditional Norwegian cuisine at a café or restaurant.

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

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!

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!

Golfers will love a scenic drive to St. Andrews, birthplace of the challenging sport. This capital city has thousands of years of history, incredible views, and the world's largest art festival. Tour Craigmillar, Dalhousie and Edinburgh Castles or see the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Protected from the frequent storms of the English Channel by the Isle of Wight, Southampton has survived a turbulent history to serve as a principal port of the United Kingdom today. Pay homage to one of the most famous ships to sail these shores at the Mayflower Memorial. Visit the stoic walls of Bargate and the Tudor House Museum.