The Baltics
The Baltic region is one of the most fascinating on earth, rich
in history, arts and crafts, museums and breathtaking scenery.
Central to the development of modern Europe, the medieval ports of
call in this area include some of the most cultured and refined
city itineraries in cruising.
Copenhagen in Denmark is usually the first stop along the way.
It's history dates back to pre-Viking days and over the years has
developed a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Known for creative, innovative
architecture, Copenhagen has more Michelin star restaurants than
any other country in Scandinavia. After dining in such a fine
fashion, there is world class ballet to take in and jazz clubs to
chill out in. During the day, antique shops and fashionable
boutiques line the cobbled streets for plenty of shopping.
Stockholm is next in line, located between Denmark and Russia.
The people of Stockholm make this place what it is, with a friendly
warm welcome. The scenery is spectacular and it is often said that
this is the most attractive of the Nordic capitals. To get a
fantastic view of the city, visit City Hall Tower. Here you can see
everything, or you may choose to take Stockholm in from the water
and take the ferry from Gamla Stan to Djurgarden, where you can
also take in some of the finest museums.
Sweden's second city, Gothenburg is on the sunny west coast,
with dutch canals running through it's heart and a lively city
centre boasting galleries, theatres, restaurants and street cafes.
For a relaxed trip out, try the Botanical Gardens.
Helsinki is next, the capital of Finland. In 2000, Helsinki was
an official European City of Culture, with contrasts between east
and west Europe. It is an ideal island for cruising as it is made
up of hundreds of tiny islands with 450 years of history to learn
about. Finnish design blends with innovative and contemporary
fashion for the city, with forests nearby to provide a haven for
peace and tranquillity.
The highlight of many Baltic cruises is St Petersburg, Russia.
Famous for ballet and opera, St Petersburg has something for every
season and every traveller. Although it is just 300 years old, it
has an exciting and dramatic history, and boasts world famous
attractions such as the Hermitage, St Isaacs Cathedral and the
Mariinsky Theatre. Built on over 100 islands, bridges play an
important role in St Petersburg, some being technological and
architectural masterpieces. For those looking for open green space
when they step of the cruise ship, St Petersburg offers beautiful
historic gardens and leisure parks.
As well as other lesser known ports of call, cruise itineraries
also take in cities such as Hamburg in Germany, Riga in Latvia,
Oslo in Norway and Gdansk in Poland. There really is no better way
to see all of these than on a cruise.
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