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.

Known as the Town of Roses, Molde is situated in the midst of some of Norway’s most beautiful fjords. Home to world-class cultural offerings, the town comes alive during its annual international literature festival and the world-renowned Moldejazz festival. Enthusiastic for the outdoors? Hit Molde’s multitude of hiking and biking trails that offer views of the 222 mountain peaks visible from here. Cruise to Norway to take one of the world’s most iconic drives: Molde’s Atlantic Road, voted the Norwegian Construction of the Century, lets you actually drive over the ocean through islands, bays and moorlands.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fresh air and icy beauty are the hallmarks of Olden, known as the Gateway to the Glaciers. Come here to explore the Jostedal Glacier – not only can you take in views of this natural wonder, you can also head to Jostedalsbreen National Park and hike the blue ice yourself. Thanks to Olden’s location at the northern end of Oldedalen Valley, you’ll find an unexpectedly dramatic landscape dotted with valleys, waterfalls and mountains. Explore the town by foot, boat or bike, and head into a gallery to discover why Olden is an emerging centre for contemporary design. Cruise to Norway to check out the Old Olden Church for a unique look into local religious traditions.

Set against the backdrop of seven mountains, Bergen’s natural beauty and historical charm will stop you in your tracks. Stroll through the Bryggen neighbourhood, with its medieval cobblestone alleyways and red, yellow and white painted houses. Take the cable car or a one-hour hike to the top of Mt Floyen, and soak in dramatic views of the city and the surrounding fjords with Norway cruises. Encounter trolls – don’t worry, they’re only statues – in the Troll Forest. Later, learn why Bergen is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy with a meal at one of the city’s forward-thinking restaurants, where chefs prepare cold-water seafood and local produce with modernist techniques.

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.