Costa Cruises Northern Europe: 8 nights from Oporto with Costa Diadema
Apr 22, 2027

Vigo

Set sail on a captivating cruise from Vigo, Spain, a vibrant port city in Galicia, known for its stunning Rías Baixas, fresh seafood, and rich maritime history. Vigo offers a picturesque departure point for exploring the rugged beauty of the Galician coast, the Portuguese coastline, and Atlantic routes. Experience its lively atmosphere and culinary delights before embarking on a journey filled with historical discoveries and breathtaking ocean views.

Le Havre

Le Havre is worth a visit, not only as a stopover on the way to Paris or other inland destinations, but also as one of the great examples of post-war planning. It is a strange and strangely fascinating city, listed by
Unesco as a World Heritage Site.
Wandering through the streets of the seaside town of Le Havre, one might think one had stumbled upon a forgotten outpost of the Eastern Bloc. Obliterated by World War II bombings, the city was completely rebuilt by the Belgian architect Auguste Perret and, what emerged from the ashes of old Le Havre, is a kind of love letter to concrete: endless rows of blocks of buildings, straight avenues stretching out from the central square, dominated by the 100 m high 'Stalinist Baroque' style cathedral, looks like something straight out of the pages of '1984'.

Walking through the streets of the seaside city of Le Havre, you might think you've stumbled into a forgotten outpost of the Eastern Bloc. Erased by the bombings of the Second World War, the city was completely rebuilt by the Belgian architect Auguste Perret and, what emerged from the ashes of old Le Havre, is a kind of love letter to concrete: endless rows of blocks of buildings, straight avenues that extend out of the central square, dominated by the 100 m high cathedral in 'Stalinist Baroque' style, looks like something directly from the pages of '1984'.

Dover

Just 21 miles from the European mainland (the French cliffs are visible on a clear day), it is the main passage through the English Channel.

Enveloped by the passage of time, Dover stands as a monumental beacon of Britain's heritage. Situated at the closest point to continental Europe, it has served as the gateway to England for centuries. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover, symbolic of hope and freedom, have witnessed the ebb and flow of conquerors, traders, and travelers. Central to its historical narrative is Dover Castle, known as the "Key to England," boasting an extensive history dating back to the Iron Age and later fortified by the Romans and Normans. This town is not just a witness but a storyteller of England's tumultuous history.

Dover's climate is characterized by its mildness, a trait particularly appealing to those seeking to escape extreme weather conditions. Summers are pleasantly warm without being oppressively hot, with average temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F), making it an ideal time for exploring. Winters are moderate, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. This temperate climate ensures that Dover can be enjoyed year-round, offering a comfortable environment for all its visitors.

Dover is not just a historical gem but also a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural sites. Beyond the White Cliffs, Dover Castle stands as a formidable reminder of the past, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into history. The Secret Wartime Tunnels weave beneath the castle, offering an immersive experience into WWII strategies. For nature lovers, the Samphire Hoe Country Park, created from the material dug to build the Channel Tunnel, offers serene walks and stunning vistas. Each site in Dover tells its own unique story, inviting exploration and discovery.

The culinary landscape of Dover is as rich and varied as its history. Known for its fresh seafood, the town boasts dishes like Dover sole, celebrated worldwide for its delicate taste. Local pubs and restaurants also offer traditional English fare, from hearty stews to the classic fish and chips, often with a contemporary twist. Regional produce, like Kentish apples and artisanal cheeses, add to the gastronomic experience, making Dover a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Embarking on a cruise from Dover is not just a journey; it's an adventure steeped in history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. This port, renowned for its strategic importance and breathtaking views, serves as the perfect gateway to exploring the British Isles and beyond. With its convenient location, temperate climate, and rich cultural tapestry, Dover invites cruisers to begin their voyage in a city that promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn by the call of history, the allure of gastronomy, or the simple joy of scenic landscapes, Dover is a destination that transcends expectations, making it an ideal starting point for your next cruise adventure.

Aarhus

Aarhus is a dynamic city on the peninsula of Jutland in Denmark. From here, the beach, the harbor and the forest are all within a 15-minute bike ride. 315,000 people live in Aarhus and 1.2 million people live in the metropolitan area of ​​Aarhus Area.

Aarhus is a dynamic city on the peninsula of Jutland in Denmark. The beach, the port and the forest can be reached in 15 minutes by bycicle. 315.000 inhabitants live in Aarhus and 1,2 million people live in the metropolitan area of Aarhus Area. Aarhus has been selected ar European Capital of Culture for the year 2017 and is a combination of innovation, media and communications with architecture and design and has a wide variety of cultural institutions. In Aarhus you can find gatherings of highly specialised companies, research and educational structures guided by a desire of collaboration and innovation. Aarhus stands out in renewable energy, food, health and productivity. As it is a university city, the atmosphere is a vibrating mixture of young energy. Welcome to Aarhus.

Kiel

Kiel is a city in Eder River and it is near the Baltic Sea. Hamburg and Lübeck are the nearest cities and are about 90 kilometres far from Kiel.
The origins of Kiel are dated back to XII Century. The city was established by Schauenburg Family and it was the farthest north city of the Holy Roman Empire. Among the noteworthy structures, the University is one of the most ancient and was founded in 1665.
During the years, Kiel was subjected to the influence of the neighbouring countries and has been property of Denmark and Sweden. Germany took it back in 1815. At the end of XIX Century, Kiel Canal was opened. It is about 100 kilometres long, and it links the Baltic Sea with the North Sea and it’s been so far one of the most congested canals in the world. Kiel is an important port for the cruises to Northern Europe and has all summer long many departures for the Baltic Capitals and the Norwegian Fjords.

Kiel is an important port of the cruise market: many of the cruises to Northern Europe depart from Kiel. It is no coincidence that it is the most important port in Germany.