Explora Journeys Northern Europe: 38 nights from Copenaghen with Explora V
Aug 27, 2028

Lysekil

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.

Mandal

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.

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.

Southampton: The UK's Grand Gateway to Global Cruises

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.

World-Class Journeys Begin from Southampton

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.

Oban

Oban (Scottish Gaelic: An t-Òban) is a town on the west-central coast of Scotland (United Kingdom), overlooking the Firth of Lorne (Atlantic Ocean) and administratively belonging to the county of Argyll (south-west of the Highlands region). The town is a starting point for ferries to some islands belonging to the Inner Hebrides archipelago.

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.

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.

Paamiut

Qaqortoq

Saint John's

Protected by a narrow, rocky entrance, the port of San John's may look like a picturesque village, but it is actually a modern city with a lot of cultural attractions.

This city with its lively port is a nice contrast to some of the more rural outlying areas and offers a lot of services for travelers and local residents.

St. Pierre Miquelon

Sydney

Sydney, a city where architecture and nature come together to give life to a unique landscape that characterizes the panorama of the main Australian port city. There are numerous cruises departing from Sydney bound for the main destinations located in the South Pacific such as New Zealand, New Caledonia and French Polynesia but also to national destinations such as Auckland, Brisbane and the Kimberley region with its wild nature which goes well with cruise expeditions.

Sydney: destinations and experiences

The port of Sydney is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. From its shores it is impossible not to notice the elegant architecture of the iconic Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, symbols par excellence of the city. Hyde Park is instead the green lung located in the heart of Sydney. Not far from the urban boundaries, it is possible to get lost in the local natural wonders such as the Blue Mountains National Park, a World Heritage Site, the famous Bondi Beach which takes its name from an ancient Aboriginal term which means 'noise of the water that breaks on the rocks' and the Congee cliff beach. Among the things to absolutely taste before leaving the city is the oyster soup, the Australian mango salad and the Meat Pie.

Halifax

The Canadian historic city, preserves the charm of the colonial era and the adventurous spirit of the time

As the ship enters port, a bagpiper will welcome you to Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia. The "city of trees" offers the warmth and charm of a small town along with all the excitement and attractions expected from a big city. Cove Peggy, Citadel Hill, and the Acadian village are just some of the places that herald your arrival here. The capital of Nova Scotia and the largest city in the Atlantic provinces of Canada, Halifax, was once an important military bastion of Great Britain in North America. The beautifully restored buildings on the Halifax waterfront are reminiscent of the city's centuries-old naval and maritime heritage. A walk on the waterfront, and you can find historic galleons and ships like the schooner Bluenose II, tied up to the pier of the corsair, as well as old sailing ships over 200 years old. Halifax is also the gateway to breathtaking landscapes in Nova Scotia, including the famous Peggy Cove, where granite cliffs and a lonely lighthouse create a scenery with unsurpassed charm based on natural beauty.

New York

New York is an incredibly diverse and active place, which consists of an intricate mosaic of neighbourhoods, each has its own character and history, yet they merge together seamlessly.

New York is an urban island full of unparalleled art and architecture, lively ethnic neighbourhoods, thousands of shops and some of the best restaurants in the world. The main attractions are grouped in Midtown Manhattan, not far from the cruise port.

Drift down the Hudson River and discover unforgettable attractions, such as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. In the city that never sleeps there is no end of things to do, from the lights of Broadway and Times Square to world-class museums, shopping and a plethora of places to eat.

New York

New York is an incredibly diverse and active place, which consists of an intricate mosaic of neighbourhoods, each has its own character and history, yet they merge together seamlessly.

New York is an urban island full of unparalleled art and architecture, lively ethnic neighbourhoods, thousands of shops and some of the best restaurants in the world. The main attractions are grouped in Midtown Manhattan, not far from the cruise port.

Drift down the Hudson River and discover unforgettable attractions, such as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. In the city that never sleeps there is no end of things to do, from the lights of Broadway and Times Square to world-class museums, shopping and a plethora of places to eat.

Portland (GB)

Saint John

Charlottetown

Largest metropolis on the island Charlottetown is a Canadian city, capital of the province of Prince Edward Island.
The city is named in honor of Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III.

With kilometers of lush rolling landscape, red sandstone cliffs, ancient farmhouses and a warm welcome of smiles, it is no surprise that it is called "the sweet island".

Rich in cultural, coastal and culinary activities, Charlottetown Offers opportunities such as boat trips and walks in local markets, culinary experiences and golf courses. There are also several extraordinary buildings. Fishing excursions, internationally renowned theater and numerous art galleries, will allow you to enjoy an unforgettable experience. Ideal for relaxing by the sea or discovering lively streets that you will find in the capital, with a wide range of activities.
The city center has many Victorian houses and buildings, as well as the development project around the port in recent decades has added paths and parks to industrial areas.

A cruise ship pier was inaugurated in September 2007, making the city a tourist attraction for ships traveling in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Magdalen Islands

Gaspe

Located near the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula at the mouth of the St. Lawrence River, Gaspé offers a splendid variety of coastal landscapes and natural scenery.

Gaspé really has something for everyone. National parks will delight nature lovers and historical sites will seduce history buffs. For these reasons, the Gaspésie has become an important and original summer holiday resort.

Quebec City

Quebec City is, among Canadian cities, the one with the most charm. Its historic center located on top of a rocky hill dominates the course of the St. Lawrence River.

The Rich History of Quebec City

Quebec City, a jewel of Canada's heritage, stands as a living museum of New France's history. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, it is one of North America's oldest cities, boasting a well-preserved old town that has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage designation. The city's fortified walls, cobblestone streets, and the iconic Château Frontenac are testaments to its storied past, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries-old European charm in the heart of modern Canada.

Climate: A City for All Seasons

Experiencing Quebec City means embracing its continental climate, with distinct seasons offering unique charms. Winters are magical, transforming the city into a snowy wonderland, ideal for the world-renowned Winter Carnival. Summers are warm and lively, perfect for exploring outdoor festivals and the vibrant terrace scene. Spring and autumn provide a picturesque setting, with blooming flowers or stunning fall foliage, making every visit memorable.

Must-Visit Attractions

The city's attractions are as diverse as its history. The historic district of Old Quebec is a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings. Beyond the walls, the Plains of Abraham offer sprawling green space and pivotal history. For a touch of nature, Montmorency Falls exceeds Niagara's height and is just a short drive away. The Musée de la civilisation bridges past and present with its engaging exhibits.

Flavors of Quebec City

Quebec City's cuisine is a reflection of its French heritage and the bounty of the Canadian landscape. Local specialties include comforting poutine, savory tourtière, and fresh seafood. Maple products abound, offering a sweet taste of the region's forests. Artisanal cheeses and craft beers provide a gourmet experience that rivals the city's stunning views.

Conclusion: A Gateway to Adventure

Beginning a cruise from Quebec City not only promises an exploration of this enchanting city but also an adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the St. Lawrence River. As a launch point for journeys into the heart of Canada or the rugged coasts of the Atlantic, Quebec City offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, setting the stage for an extraordinary cruise experience.