Amsterdam to Copenhagen

If you have time to explore Amsterdam before your cruise departs today, take a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of the artist's works. Stroll through the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood, renowned for its narrow streets, quaint cafes, and boutique shops, or enjoy a scenic canal cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a unique perspective. If you're looking for a relaxing start to your cruise, head to Vondelpark, the city's largest green space, perfect for a leisurely walk before heading to your ship.

IJmuiden serves as a key cruise port for Amsterdam. The port is approximately 27 kilometres (about 17 miles) from Amsterdam's city centre, a journey that takes around 30-45 minutes by car or shuttle bus. IJmuiden itself offers attractions like the expansive Zuid-Kennemerland National Park and the historic Forteiland, providing a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Stavanger is a fascinating blend of old and new, echoing this duality is the contrast of modern architecture and trendy, stylish cafés with ancient cobblestone walkways, and rows of 18th-century whitewashed wooden houses. The Norwegian Petroleum Museum provides insight into the country’s oil industry. For adventurers, nearby Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) offers breathtaking views. Ships will dock at the Port of Stavenger.

Cut off by high mountains and the Folgefonna National Park, Rosendal is one of Norway’s more romantic villages. What the town might lack for urban excitement, it makes up for in natural beauty with soaring mountains, winding fjords, impressive waterfalls and the 3rd largest glacier in Norway. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests ashore.

Top Things to Do in Rosendal:

• explore the Barony Rosendal manor
• take a scenic drive along the Hardangerfjord
• hike to the Bondhus Lake Viewpoint
• journey to Folgefonn glacier

Nestled on the shores of Sognefjord, Vik offers a serene escape with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Start the day with a visit to the Hopperstad Stave Church, a beautiful 12th-century wooden church showcasing intricate carvings and medieval architecture. Just a short walk away, you can explore the charming village centre with its quaint shops and cosy cafes.

For a taste of local history, head to the Hove Stone Church, another historical gem dating back to the 1100s. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic hikes around Vikafjell Mountain, providing breath-taking views of the fjord and surrounding valleys. Don't miss sampling traditional Norwegian cheeses at the local dairy farms, a true treat for the senses.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Set on the shores of a sparkling fjord, cosmopolitan Kristiansand is the largest city in Southern Norway. It has a cultural and tranquil atmosphere, a blend of contemporary and traditional architecture, and a natural beauty woven throughout and beyond the city. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Kristiansand:

• admire the wooden buildings in Posebyen
• cross the bridge to the island of Odderoya
• visit the Christiansholm Fortress
• hop aboard the Setesdal Vintage Railway
• visit the charming village of Lillesand

A centuries-old fishing village, Skagen (pronounced Skain) is perched along the windswept sand dunes at the northernmost point of Denmark. Boasting white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and stunning natural landscapes, the area has lured artists since the mid-19th century. The town’s vibrant art scene is showcased at the Skagen Museum, featuring works by local painters inspired by the area's stunning landscapes.

Stroll through the charming streets lined with yellow houses or visit the iconic Skagen Lighthouse for panoramic views or explore Grenen, where the North Sea and Baltic Sea meet, creating a dramatic natural spectacle.

Located at the head of the gorgeous Oslofjord, Norway's capital is encircled by wooded hills and snow capped peaks. Explore the striking Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the rooftop for harbor views. The Viking Ship Museum showcases remarkably preserved ships from the Viking era, while Vigeland Park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Visit the Akershus Fortress for a glimpse into medieval history, or stroll along the waterfront Aker Brygge, filled with restaurants and shops.

Step off the ship at Aalborg’s Royal Cruise Berth and into the heart of the city, with the main square just 200m (656ft) away from where you’ll dock.

Explore Aalborg Castle, a medieval gem turned museum, wander through the Old Town and the picturesque Hjelmerstald neighbourhood, or discover Viking history at the burial site of Lindholm Hoje.

Architectural hotspots like Musikkens Hus and the Utzon Center create a modern contrast within the city and Aalborg's culinary scene invites visitors to indulge in some traditional smorrebrod at local eateries. Check out the vibrant cultural centre of Nordkraft, housing exhibitions, theatres and food vendors, all built into a 1940s power station.

Founded during the Viking Age, Aarhus is a compact and vibrant city perfect for history buffs and lovers of the arts and culture. Located on Jutland's east coast, Aarhus is surrounded by dense forests, and provides easy access to Denmark's scenic Lake District. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Aarhus:

• wander through the old Latin Quarter
• visit the Den Gamle By Museum
• spend the day at LegoLand
• visit the old market village of Ebeltoft
• enjoy a scenic drive to the Lake District

Warnemünde, a quaint seaside resort in Germany, captures the hearts of visitors with its broad, sandy beaches and the charming promenade of Alter Strom, lined with fishing boats and boutiques. This port town is renowned for its maritime flair and historic lighthouse, dating back to 1898, which offers sweeping views of the Baltic Sea.

Warnemünde offers access to both the historic city of Rostock, just 13 kilometers (8 miles) away, and the vibrant capital, Berlin, approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) away. Rostock is reachable within 20 minutes by train, while Berlin requires a longer travel time, about 3 hours by train or coach. Explore Rostock's medieval architecture and Hanseatic history or if you're looking to explore Berlin, plan for a full day experience.

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.