There’s a good reason that Iceland is considered a photographer’s dream destination. Its terrain is visually stunning, offering views of lava flows, hot springs, unspoiled nature – and colourful, fascinating cities like Reykjavik. The world’s most northerly capital brings together quaint villages, exciting museums, a flourishing music scene and restaurants that rival Europe’s finest. Explore more of Reykjavik on a European cruise!

As the largest town in Iceland’s remote Westfjords’s region, Ísafjörður is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Boasting an enchanting fjord ideal for watersports and a mountainous landscape brimming with opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Originally a church site and a 16th century trading post, the town of Ísafjörður is home to wonderful museums and historic sites for those wishing to learn about the region’s rich heritage and local culture.

Nestled along the shores of one of the most breathtaking fjords in Iceland, Akureyri is the nation’s second largest urban area and a centre of Icelandic folk culture. Visit the museums, hike along the extraordinary vistas or explore the botanical gardens. Shop in one of the charming boutiques and then catch a glimpse of the most northerly 18-hole golf course in the world. After you’ve worked up an appetite, feast on some Nordic specialties like smoked lamb and fresh fish and then indulge in an Icelandic fried pastry.

Honningsvåg is Norway’s third largest harbour and the last port of call before heading eastward to the Arctic Ocean. This is one of the best towns in northern Norway to experience the beauty of continuous daylight. Rebuilt in the 50’s after being destroyed during World War II, Honningsvåg has colourful, modern buildings dotting its landscape. Situated in the Island of Mageroya – with a population of 2,600 – Honningsvåg has a cosmopolitan flair and yet retains the charm of a small enclave. Fishing is the main industry of this Arctic Circle town and the port is always brimming with activity.

Trondheim is Norways history. The countrys annals are written in the buildings and monuments of the nations historic capital. The timbered architecture of the magnificent 11th-century Domkirke was actually built over the tomb of St. Olav and even today, Norwegian kings continue to be crowned within its massive nave. The city has been the keeper of the kingdoms treasures, values, legends, religious life, national aspirations and in short, Norways past since 997 when the Viking King, Olav Tryggvason, established this trading port on this yearround ice-free fjord at the mouth of the river Nid.

One of Norway’s most beautiful towns, renowned for its Jugend-style architecture and art nouveau style. Cruise visitors will immediately notice Ålesund’s unique layout, as it is built on islands extending to the sea, and offers scenic views of fjords and the Sunnmore Alps. Ålesund is the fishing capital of Norway. Explore more of Ålesund on a European cruise!

View this lovely and charming Norwegian city from your cruise ship and you’ll see how the city is nestled between seven mountains, seven fjords and the North Sea. The Norwegian King resided here, and many historical events took place in this busy port. These events come alive when you amble down the old streets of Bryggen, past picturesque, wooden buildings and the Romanesque-style St. Mary’s church. Explore more of Bergen on a European cruise!

The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, is filled with canals, cobbled squares and copper spires. But don’t let the historic appearance fool you. This is also Scandinavia’s most cosmopolitan city. Certainly you can relive medieval times in The Latin Quarter, but you can also enjoy some of Europe’s finest shopping, museums, cafes and nightlife prior to your cruise around the Baltics. Explore more of Copenhagen on a European cruise!