Scandinavia Cruise: Norway, Iceland & Faroe Islands

Charming Copenhagen is the jewel of Denmark and a delightful stop for any traveler. Well-known as an eco-friendly haven for sustainable and green living, Copenhagen has embraced its status as the best “bike city” on earth and promoted the use of bicycles by locals and tourists. Hop on a bike, electric bus, or train to easily traverse and explore this colorful and historic city.

Copenhagen has its share of iconic landmarks and visually stunning architecture. The oft-photographed Little Mermaid sculpture, whose pensive frame overlooks the harbor, is inspired by the work of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen and has come to symbolize the city. The Nyhavn canal is perhaps the most famous attraction in Copenhagen, where vibrant 18th-century townhomes in hues of red, yellow, pink, and blue line its waterfront. The splendid Tivoli Gardens are an absolute must-see; millions of visitors delight in thrilling amusement park rides and captivatingly lush gardens. Take a seat at the Tivoli Concert Hall or Glass Hall Theatre to watch operas, classical music and rock concerts, or stand-up comedy.

Sightseeing, shopping, and dining opportunities abound in any of Copenhagen’s fourteen distinct neighborhoods! Vestebro, the city’s former red-light district, is now a trendy hub for designer boutiques, authentic and Michelin-star eats, and Copenhagen’s nightlife scene. Go for a swim in the harbor baths of Islands Brygge or venture a little further from the city center to the Amager neighborhood, where you’ll find Denmark’s National Aquarium and Amager Beach, a summertime favorite. There are plenty of historic and cultural sites to pique your interest, too. Breathtaking royal dwellings like Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance gem that houses the country’s crown jewels, and Amalienborg Palace, the queen’s rococo-style abode and a vast royal museum, beckon you to revel in the enchanting world of vintage Copenhagen. The city’s Round Tower, a 17th-century observatory tower, provides spectacular views of the city and informative exhibitions on Danish art and science.

There is so much to discover and savor in Copenhagen, Denmark!

Gothenburg, Sweden’s vibrant west coast gem, offers a perfect blend of maritime charm, innovative design, and sustainable living. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and classic Nordic architecture, Gothenburg invites visitors to explore its rich history and modern flair. The city’s heart is anchored by the famous Kungsportsavenyen (Avenyn), a grand boulevard lined with cafes, boutiques, and cultural landmarks like the Gothenburg Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of Nordic and international masterpieces. Stroll through the historic Haga district, with its 19th-century wooden houses, cozy cafes, and unique shops, or take a leisurely boat ride through the city’s network of canals, reminiscent of Gothenburg's Dutch-style origins.

Haugesund, located on the southwestern coast of Norway, is known for its rich Viking heritage and natural landscapes. The town's maritime history is celebrated at the Nordvegen History Centre, where you can learn about the Viking kings who once ruled the area.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Folgefonna Glacier, where they can enjoy guided glacier hikes and breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords. The nearby island of Røvær offers more serene landscapes and opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

Eidfjord offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is a gateway to Norway's Hardangervidda National Park, providing access to vast plateaus and diverse wildlife. The Vøringsfossen waterfall is a must-see attraction. Water cascades 182 meters (nearly 600 feet) into the Måbødalen valley, creating a cinematic atmosphere. A pedestrian bridge over the waterfall, built in 2020, allows visitors to experience it up close.

Outdoor activities abound in Eidfjord, from hiking and fishing to boat tours on the fjord. The town's proximity to the Hardangervidda plateau makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Norway's largest national park.

Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, offers a unique blend of Scandinavian charm and rugged natural beauty. Nestled between dramatic fjords and windswept landscapes, Tórshavn is one of the smallest and most picturesque capitals in the world. Visitors can start their exploration in the historic Tinganes area, the cradle of Faroese civilization. Here, ancient wooden turf-roofed houses and narrow lanes dating back to the Viking era provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. The red-painted buildings, still in use by the Faroese government, sit on a rocky promontory that has been a meeting place for the Faroese parliament since the 9th century, making it one of the oldest parliamentary meeting places in the world.

Art and culture are at the heart of Tórshavn's appeal. The National Gallery of the Faroe Islands (Listasavn Føroya) houses an impressive collection of Faroese art, showcasing works that reflect the archipelago’s unique landscapes and cultural identity. For a more intimate cultural experience, visit the Nordic House, a cultural center that hosts concerts, exhibitions, and performances year-round, promoting Nordic and Faroese heritage. The city's dining scene also adds to its allure, with restaurants like Ræst offering traditional Faroese cuisine with a modern twist, featuring local delicacies like fermented lamb and fresh seafood sourced straight from the North Atlantic.

The natural surroundings of Tórshavn are equally compelling. A short hike from the city center takes visitors to Kirkjubøur, the most important historical site in the Faroes, where the ruins of St. Magnus Cathedral stand against a backdrop of the ocean and distant islands. Another must-see is Svartafoss, a waterfall located just outside Tórshavn, surrounded by verdant landscapes perfect for nature enthusiasts. The city also serves as a gateway to more adventurous pursuits, such as bird watching in the nearby cliffs of Vestmanna or boat trips around the archipelago’s rugged coastline, where puffins, seals, and sea caves await discovery.

Fun fact: Tórshavn translates to "Thor's Harbor," named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder. The Faroe Islands’ weather can be just as dramatic as their landscapes, with sudden changes that can include sunshine, fog, rain, and even snow—all within the same day. It is this capricious climate, combined with the warmth of the Faroese people, that creates a unique travel experience that is as unpredictable as it is unforgettable.