Arctic Circle Cruise

Amsterdam delivers a sensory overload – from its welcoming gezellig Dutch spirit to the clinking of bicycle chains and tulips of every colour. This is where 17th-century Golden Age estates meet gritty Red Light District alleys, all woven together by an elaborate system of canals. Stand amidst the bustle of Dam Square and pick fresh blooms at Bloemenmarkt. See where celebrated painter Rembrandt once worked and admire his masterpieces at Rijksmuseum. Nibble on Gouda amid the greenery of Vondelpark – or relax in one of the city’s quirky coffee shops. Here it’s easy to let go and give in to romantic adventures.

Welcome to the Jewel in the Crown of Norway’s fjords. Geiranger Fjord was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, but the area has been luring tourists since the turn of the 19th century. Take the Waterfall Walk to the heart of the cascades. Climb the Skywalk for Europe’s highest fjord view with Norway cruises. Explore Geiranger by bike or on foot, or hop in a raft or kayak for a view from the water. Once you’ve taken in your fill of mountain air, stroll the quaint village center. Indulge your sweet tooth at the local artisan chocolate shop, or sit back at a cafe with a coffee and a krumkake — a rolled cake with whipped cream in the center — and enjoy the view.

Tromso, Norway’s gateway to the Arctic, is surrounded by deep blue fjords and snow-capped mountain peaks. Explore this lively city, linked to the mainland by a gracefully arched bridge. Visit the fascinating Polar Museum or the arctic aquarium Polaria. Be blown away by panoramic views on a cable car ride up to Storstein Mountain, or hike up one of the trails that run through the Lyngen Alps. Cruise to Tromso, Norway and stop into a cafe and refuel with carrot and cardamom marmalade on toast. If you visit between September and April, you might be lucky enough to spot the Northern Lights.

Situated above the Arctic Circle, Honningsvag is surrounded by fjords and waterfalls, offering views across the sea to the Svalbard Islands and the North Pole. First settled more than 10 thousand years ago, today you’ll find a modern central area around the harbour. Shops sell local crafts, including traditional Sami jewellery, as well as sleek Scandinavian home décor. Jump onboard a Norwegian fjords cruise and watch the indigenous Sami people herd reindeer through the area, and explore the history of the area at the Nordkappmuseet. Then, head to one of the restaurants in the harbour area for king crab risotto.

Looking for adventure in an out-of-the-ordinary destination with immense, raw beauty? Welcome to the Arctic Circle, the most northern of the five major circles of latitude. At the very top of Europe, youll find broad horizons, dense forests, snow-capped mountains and the sound of thousands of seabirds. Dress warmly and explore the remote region around the North Pole. Marvel at the Northern Lights, filling the sky with green, yellow, red and violet above the horizon. Jump onboard an Arctic cruise and admire the colourful wooden houses, meet interesting people, experience the Midnight Sun or the Polar Night, and take a peek at the Arctic wildlife.

Alesund is a small but lively city with a unique, modern feel. A rebuilding effort following a major fire in 1904 gave the city its distinctive Art Nouveau – or ‘Jugendstil’ – architectural style, defined its ornate details, asymmetrical facades and curving forms meant to resemble plants, animals and flowers. From the city park, walk up the 418 steps to the city’s peak, Aksla – you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous panoramic view on the city, the islands and the rugged Sunnmorsalpane mountain range. Alesund is the home base for Norway’s largest cod fishing fleet, so you won’t have to go far to try some of the delicious and fresh seafood dishes during your Norway cruise.

Arriving in Flam feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Home to only 350 inhabitants, the village is situated at the inner end of the Aurlandsfjorden, the world’s deepest fjord reaching a staggering 1,308 metres. From the harbour, take a brief stroll to the Flam Railway and take the 20-kilometre ride through the Myrdal Mountains and along the fjord. Cruise to Norway and head to Otternes Farm Village, made up of 27 different buildings that date back to the 17th century. Then, let the waterfall at Stalheimsfossen take your breath away, or drive to Stegastein viewpoint to take in the beauty of the fjord.

Perched on Norway’s dramatic western coast, Stavenger is a city full of historic architecture, quaint cafes and ocean views. Check out Gamle Stavanger, the picturesque old town, where you’ll find well-preserved wooden buildings dating back to the 18th century painted in unique pastel hues. Cruise to Stavanger to learn more about the Vikings at the Museum of Archaeology, or visit 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral – thanks to a series of rebuilding efforts over the years, it features architectural elements from Romanesque to ornate Baroque. Then, take the short trip to Prekestol, the ‘Preacher’s Pulpit’, a rocky natural viewing point overlooking Lyse Fjord.

Kristiansand, named after its founding king, is the lively capital of Southern Norway. Stroll through the old town of Posebyen, known for its neat grid design with wooden white and pastel-colored houses. Explore the area around the quayside and fish market, and relax in an outdoor cafe. In summer, the Bystranda Beach is filled with cheerful Norwegians catching a spot of sunshine. Take a boat trip to visit the quaint fishing villages nearby. Cruise to Kristiansand and bring your little ones to the large Dyrepark, which includes a zoo, a fantasy village, and a water park.

Amsterdam delivers a sensory overload – from its welcoming gezellig Dutch spirit to the clinking of bicycle chains and tulips of every colour. This is where 17th-century Golden Age estates meet gritty Red Light District alleys, all woven together by an elaborate system of canals. Stand amidst the bustle of Dam Square and pick fresh blooms at Bloemenmarkt. See where celebrated painter Rembrandt once worked and admire his masterpieces at Rijksmuseum. Nibble on Gouda amid the greenery of Vondelpark – or relax in one of the city’s quirky coffee shops. Here it’s easy to let go and give in to romantic adventures.