Virgin Voyages Northern Europe: 14 nights from Portsmouth with Valiant Lady
22 Jul 2026

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.

Copenaghen

Copenhagen, literally "port of the merchants", is the capital of Denmark and one of the country's most densely populated cities. Originally a city mainly inhabited by fishermen, it became a fundamentally important port for trade.
Copenhagen is a year-round tourist destination and in summer the flow of tourists increases considerably thanks to Northern Europe cruises.

It is very common to add a stay in the city before a cruise, to take in its distinguishing relaxing atmosphere and see what it has to offer. Among its famous attractions you cannot miss the statue of the Mermaid which is located right at the entrance to the port and the Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's largest amusement parks, opened in 1843 and loved by everyone.

Copenhagen (København in Danish and 'Copenaga' in Italian [no source]) is the capital and the most populous city of Denmark with 518,574 inhabitants in the municipality (1,167,569 in the urban area). The city stretches across the islands of Sjælland and Amager and is separated from the city of Malmö in Sweden by the strait of Øresund.

Stockholm

The capital of Sweden is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, a mirage of saffron-coloured and iridescent terracotta buildings amidst the blue of the water and skies that are even bluer than the Swedish summer, or candidly covered with snow and dotted with winter lights. It is also a vibrant, modern city, famous for the production of elegant design, cutting edge fashion and world-class nightclubs.

The old city, Gamla Stan, is a compact little maze that seems to have been built for very small, thin people. The red, orange and vanilla stucco walls of buildings that seem to curve into each other are home to countless souvenir shops and ice cream parlours.

Just south of Gamla Stan there is another island-district, Södermalm, where waterfront hills are adorned with beautiful homes and the main streets are dotted with bohemian shops, art galleries and clubs. On the other side of Gamla Stan is the main centre of the city, a bustling metropolis where boutiques and restaurants liven up the cool Swedish evenings.

Stockholm

The capital of Sweden is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, a mirage of saffron-coloured and iridescent terracotta buildings amidst the blue of the water and skies that are even bluer than the Swedish summer, or candidly covered with snow and dotted with winter lights. It is also a vibrant, modern city, famous for the production of elegant design, cutting edge fashion and world-class nightclubs.

The old city, Gamla Stan, is a compact little maze that seems to have been built for very small, thin people. The red, orange and vanilla stucco walls of buildings that seem to curve into each other are home to countless souvenir shops and ice cream parlours.

Just south of Gamla Stan there is another island-district, Södermalm, where waterfront hills are adorned with beautiful homes and the main streets are dotted with bohemian shops, art galleries and clubs. On the other side of Gamla Stan is the main centre of the city, a bustling metropolis where boutiques and restaurants liven up the cool Swedish evenings.

Tallinn

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia as well as its main port, located on the northern coast of the country, overlooking the Baltic Sea, 80 kilometres south of Helsinki. It is also the country's most populous city and largest economic and commercial centre.

Its medieval old town, an ancient Hanseatic port, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Tallinn was the European Capital of Culture for the year 2011, along with the Finnish city of Turku.

Oslo

Oslo, located in the southeastern part of the country, is the capital and largest city of Norway. Oslo is a vibrant city that seamlessly 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 partly 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 in 1925. Oslo is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including forests, hills, and lakes. Thanks to its beautiful landscapes, it is possible to take part in numerous outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating.

These unique characteristics make the city the ideal destination for nature lovers. The city is home to several 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. Do not miss the opportunity to visit one of them and share your pictures with your friends! Every year Oslo holds one of the most important cultural events, the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually in the city at the City Hall.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth's storied past is deeply entwined with the sea, standing as a testament to Britain's maritime heritage. As the home of the Royal Navy, its history is rich with tales of naval glory and adventure. The city's historic dockyard is a living museum, where ships like the HMS Victory offer a glimpse into the life and times of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Battle of Trafalgar. This blend of historic significance and naval prestige makes Portsmouth a city where history is not just remembered but felt.

With a mild maritime climate, Portsmouth offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors year-round. Summers are comfortably warm, perfect for strolling along the seafront or exploring outdoor attractions, with temperatures averaging around 18-22°C (64-72°F). Winters are generally mild, allowing for enjoyable visits outside the peak tourist season. This pleasant weather makes Portsmouth an ideal starting point for cruises, offering smooth sailings and scenic views as you embark on your journey.

Portsmouth is a treasure trove of attractions, blending its maritime history with modern allure. The Spinnaker Tower, soaring high above the city, offers panoramic views of the coast and the bustling harbor. The Historic Dockyard is a must-visit, housing iconic vessels and the National Museum of the Royal Navy. For those looking to delve into Portsmouth's literary connection, the Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum celebrates the life of its famous son. The city’s vibrant waterfront, Gunwharf Quays, is a hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining, making it a key attraction for visitors.

Portsmouth's culinary scene is as diverse as its heritage, with a particular emphasis on seafood. Fresh catches from the day, including Portsmouth's famous oysters and fish, are served up in eateries ranging from quaint pubs to upscale restaurants. The city also boasts a selection of international cuisines, reflecting its cosmopolitan vibe. Traditional British fare, craft ales, and artisanal products from the surrounding Hampshire countryside offer a taste of local flavor and tradition, promising a delightful gastronomic experience.

Choosing Portsmouth as the departure point for your cruise adventure offers more than just a journey; it promises a memorable experience right from the start. This city, with its rich maritime history, stunning waterfront, and welcoming climate, sets the stage for an extraordinary voyage. Whether you’re captivated by the allure of history, the beauty of the sea, or the taste of exquisite local cuisine, Portsmouth provides the perfect backdrop. Embark from a city where every corner tells a story, and set sail for new horizons with Portsmouth as your starting point.