Explora Journeys Northern Europe: 15 nights from Copenaghen with Explora IV
Aug 20, 2027

Ronne

Rønne is the main city of the small rocky island of Bornholm, it is also a port metropolis that connects Bornholm in Denmark (Køge, south of Copenhagen), Sweden, Germany, and Poland. The city of Ronne and Nexø were bombed after the end of the Second World War. Despite this, there are still many old buildings rich in history. The Swedish State donated 175 particular red wooden houses to help rebuild the city, which are still visible today. Cultural capital of the island: it has the oldest theater in Denmark, the Bornholm Concert Hall. Considered as a starting point for excursions around the island, it has been given the name of Pearl of the Baltic. With its beautiful countryside, rocky coasts and sandy beaches, the place is a popular tourist destination. Discover the medieval fortress of Hammershus, the largest in Northern Europe, a round church from the Middle Ages, a traditional mill, herring smoke, and much more. The easternmost point of Denmark is the island of Christiansø, characterized by the absence of cars. The island mainly lives on fishing, handicrafts, agriculture, and summer tourism, but is also committed to the growth and development of renewable energy.

Goteborg

Located between Oslo and Copenhagen, the fifth-largest city in Scandinavia and its main port, Gothenburg is the second Swedish municipality with the greatest demographic and economic importance. In addition to its cultural and intellectual influence, in this place, you will grasp a special atmosphere of casualness and joy that reigns throughout the area. The center is located on the left bank of the Gota Alv river, whose right bank forms a large island called Hisingen. The city has spread over a multitude of wild and friendly islands, forming the archipelago of Gothenburg. Economically very dynamic, (cars, stationery, and mechanical engineering) this metropolis is classified among the most enterprising and recommended European cities. Thanks to the mentality of the population, it has a strong transcendental spirit in the intellectual and cultural field, with its universities, its orchestra, opera, theater, and its events, such as the book fair and the international film festival. Finally, to complete this idyllic picture, Gothenburg holds no less than three renowned parks, Liseberg, the most famous Swedish amusement park, the Trädgård Horticultural Society garden and the Göteborgs Botaniska, the city's botanical garden. Sweden is generally associated with the sea, but once you visit the village, you will also be able to discover the country through the river. The Gota Canal and the largest in Sweden, (58,000 young people were employed for its construction for 22 years) and connects the city to Stockholm. A stay in this country can be the occasion for a cruise vacation to get to know the beautiful Swedish landscapes. With its 61,000 students and many visitors all year round, Goteborg guarantees more than 193 venues and 671 restaurants! Unmissable are the fish dishes, especially near the traditional Feskekörka market. In the evening you will find celebrities at the Cabaret Lorensberg and at Excet Madison, one of the most popular clubs in the city.

Oslo

Oslo, located in the south-eastern part of the country, is the capital and largest city of Norway. Oslo is a lively city that perfectly blends its rich history with modern urban development, making it a dynamic and attractive place to live and visit.

It was founded around 1040 by King Harald Hardrada and became the capital of the country in 1299 under King Håkon V. The city was partially destroyed by a fire in 1624 and its reconstruction began under the reign of King Christian IV. King Christian IV renamed the city Christiania. The original name, Oslo, was restored only in 1925. Oslo is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, hills and lakes. Thanks to its beautiful landscapes, it is possible to practice numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing and canoeing.

These unique features make the city an ideal destination for nature lovers. The city is home to several world-renowned museums, including the Viking Ship Museum, the Munch Museum (dedicated to the works of Edvard Munch, famous for “The Scream”), and the National Gallery. Don't miss the opportunity to visit one of these museums and share your photos with your friends! Every year, Oslo hosts one of the most important cultural events, the Nobel Peace Prize, which is awarded annually in the city at the City Hall.

Hamburg

Hamburg is without a doubt the best city in Europe for seeing unique bridges. Its tourist sites are characterised by the typical bohemian style of the sailors and its port.

Just behind Berlin in terms of size and population, the city of Hamburg is home to one of the largest ports in Europe. You will understand why it is know as the 'Venice of the North', when you explore its many canals and waterways. Do not forget to take a trip to the fish market and to the merchants' district, where you will find unique architecture and impressive red brick buildings. Having a delicious dinner by the river or spending a night in the university district is a must.
Hamburg is a destination with many tourist attractions, especially its ancient port and the exclusive lake located in the city centre.
You should also be sure to visit the renowned Kunsthalle (north of the Hauptbahnhof). The Kunsthalle houses an art collection of international importance, covering everything from medieval portraits to 20th century minimalism.
The Rathaus, a neo-Renaissance style building, is home to Hamburg's city hall. When Parliament is not in session, several guided tours are available.
There are also big exhibitions and historical events that are great for tourists.

Southampton

Southampton is a city positioned in the South of Great Britain and its port is one of the main ports in Europe. From the port of Southamptos it is possible to set sail for a Cunard transatlantic cruise and reach New York, or visit Amsterdam and Belgium with an MSC cruise. The city offers, further to the New Forest National Park, a wide natural park with its suggestive woods, also many museums and art galleries and remarkable architectural works. Noteworthy is King John’s Palace, of Norman origins as well as the old walls with 7 entrances to the city. An evidence of the Victorian Age is Tudor House, collecting objects dated back to that period. For the art lovers, Southampton City Art Gallery offers exhibitions of any kind of art, from drawing to photography with shows that attract many visitors.

Set sail from Southampton, the historic and vibrant port city on England's south coast, renowned as the UK's premier cruise departure point. With its rich maritime heritage, including its association with the Titanic, and excellent transport links, Southampton offers a grand beginning to voyages across the Atlantic, to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and beyond. Before embarking, explore its ancient city walls, maritime museums, and lively shopping districts. Southampton provides a seamless and exciting start to your global cruise adventure.

Cruises departing from Southampton open up a world of possibilities, from transatlantic crossings to the Americas, sun-drenched Mediterranean escapes, and captivating Northern European explorations. Whether you dream of iconic cityscapes, breathtaking natural wonders, or culturally immersive experiences, Southampton serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the convenience of a world-class port and the anticipation of new discoveries as you leave the shores of England for unforgettable experiences on the open water, promising relaxation, entertainment, and endless exploration. Each voyage from Southampton promises a journey of a lifetime.

Belfast

Belfast has grown to become a cosmopolitan and attractive city, so much so that it has become a very popular and cool destination for European tourism.

Belfast offers the frenetic pace of the British capital, providing a gateway to the deep countryside of Northern Ireland. With feelings of optimism and life pulsing through the city, Belfast makes itself exciting and intense for the tourist. It has never been easier to tour the city, thanks to a series of buses, taxis, and boats available and, of course, the pedestrian option. Don't miss the Ulster Folk Museum and Belfast Cathedral, be sure to try some of the award-winning restaurants, bars, clubs, galleries, and theaters. Also known thanks to its numerous monuments, the city also contains a series of Victorian and Edwardian buildings. Ulster Bank, built in 1860 and the Northern Bank, founded in 1769, were built from large representative buildings from these architectural styles. Spectacular and unique beauty of the Antrim coast, flanked by cliffs, not to mention the Giants Causeway, its peculiarity will remain forever etched in your memories. A couple of hours away, you can admire attractions such as the Giant's Causeway, stroll through the Mourne mountains or fish in Fermanagh. This metropolis is the ideal place to discover what remains of Northern Ireland! Belfast's industrial heritage, the birthplace of the Titanic, has designed a place rich in culture. The splendid exhibitions of the Ulster Museum and Culturlann reveal the best heritage of the place, where you can learn about its history. Located on the slopes of Cave Hill, 120 m above sea level, is the imposing Belfast Castle. If you visit the city with children, don't miss W5, a large interactive museum with interesting exhibits. And in summer the best places to relax outdoors are Sir Thomas, Lady Dixon Park, or Cave Hill Country Park. Its historic center is definitely the ideal place to go shopping, sip a cocktail in the various bars and clubs in the area. Rich in attractions for all tastes and all ages.

Stornoway

Akureyri

Akureyri is the center of cultural, educational and recreational activities in North Iceland, the city is by far the largest outside the capital area of ​​Reykjavík

Akureyri is the center of cultural, educational and recreational activities in North Iceland, the city is by far the largest outside the capital area of ​​Reykjavík. And 'surrounded by mountains, the highest is Kista of 1,447 meters and another smaller one of 1538 meters at the head of Glerá í dalur, from the Glera river which crosses the city, there is a narrow flat coastal strip, a lot of land has been recovered from the sea, so that the coast today is more uniform. Nicknamed the capital of the north of Iceland, Akureyri is an important port and fishing center.

The area where Akureyri is located was resolved in the 9th century. During the Second World War, the city was the location of Allied units and a further increase occurred after the war. Akureyri has a robust cultural scene, during the summer there are many festivals, an example is the medieval festival held every summer at Gásir, The International Music Festival, a series of live band concerts and the Arctic Open Golf Championship international golf event at the Akureyri Golf Club.

Isafjordur

Reykjavik

The gateway to Iceland, a land of incredible natural wonders, ranging from huge glaciers to thermal pools and geysers.

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is small but boasts a vast historical and cultural heritage. Founded thousands of years ago by Nordic settlers, this destination is set on a breathtaking coast with scenic peninsulas, straits, and picturesque islands. Known for its natural beauty and charm, the small city, Reykjavik, is also known to attract travelers as "the capital of Northern nightlife" for its vibrant and social atmosphere. The island's landscape seems to be in a continuous process of transformation like society, which combines Nordic tradition with sophisticated technology.

Reykjavik

The gateway to Iceland, a land of incredible natural wonders, ranging from huge glaciers to thermal pools and geysers.

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is small but boasts a vast historical and cultural heritage. Founded thousands of years ago by Nordic settlers, this destination is set on a breathtaking coast with scenic peninsulas, straits, and picturesque islands. Known for its natural beauty and charm, the small city, Reykjavik, is also known to attract travelers as "the capital of Northern nightlife" for its vibrant and social atmosphere. The island's landscape seems to be in a continuous process of transformation like society, which combines Nordic tradition with sophisticated technology.