Northern Europe from Copenhagen

Copenhagen is ideal for exploring by bicycle: its narrow streets and small bridges enclose all the magic that inspired the tales of Hans Christian Andersen. During the stop in the port of Copenhagen, discover the fascinating charm of one of the most beautiful Scandinavian capitals. Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, is the industrial and financial centre of the country but also one of the biggest cities in Scandinavia. It is also a popular tourist destination that seduces with its countless attractions, the beauty of its landscapes and its important historical and cultural heritage. After visiting the port, take a bike ride through streets scattered with beautiful canals and ancient historical monuments before starting on the museums and palaces of the city.

The Norway fjords and wildlife, waterfalls and clear lakes are what we discover stopping at Hellesylt. Hellesylt is a small village located within the Sunnylvsfjord, southwest of Norway. Pretty, traditional houses are surrounded by unspoiled nature. Upon arrival you will be able to admire the harbour, the ancient port used by the Vikings, while from the hill overlooking the town you can enjoy an amazing view. During the stop in Hellesylt, remember to visit the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you can see the famous Seven Sisters Waterfall that drops off a very steep cliff.

The Geiranger fjord is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so it’s no wonder that we are astounded when we arrive in port.
The port of Geiranger is situated at the foot of the little village in the south of Norway. Geirangerfjord, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005. It offers stunning natural scenery and unparalleled beauty. The countless waterfalls that cascade down from the rocks gave rise to legends that you’ll discover during your excursion in an inflatable boat. Take advantage of the stop in Geiranger to admire the beautiful views over the fjord offered on our hike to the mountains.

The ancient Norwegian city of Bergen is embraced by the mountains and waters of the fjord, it is a natural fusion that makes it a unique destination in Northern Europe. A cruise to Bergen will take you to the mediaeval district of Bryggen, a World Heritage Site. It is located on the city’s waterfront and embodies the history of the ancient port of Bergen. Once a city of the Hanseatic League, the alliance that controlled the trade routes of Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea in the 14th century, today its past is palpable along the narrow alleys lined with colourful wooden houses and in the fish market. The Hanseatic Museum is the perfect place to discover the fascinating life of the port of Bergen in mediaeval times and its strategic role in the North. A trip to Bergen will take you on a stunning cruise to the most remote and magical fjords in Norway. If you are looking for a bird’s-eye view over the natural splendour that surrounds the city, choose between a shore excursion with the hike over the ‘seven mountains’ or the funicular ascent to the top of Monte Fløyen.

Haugesund is a port of Norway we visit on our Costa Cruise to Northern Europe. The young and vital city is full of positive energy. Situated on the southwest coast of Norway, not too far from Bergen, Haugesund is a port city of at least 40,000 inhabitants. Here you can stroll along the harbour watching the fishermen or walk along the Haraldsgata, the shopping street filled with bars and restaurants. The city is a culturally vibrant place that hosts various festivals, but it is also the starting point for excursions and walks. From the port of Haugesund you can go to the island of Utsira where you will find many rare birds that you can watch from specially constructed huts.

The port of Kiel in Germany is at the heart of the city. If you like lighthouses, the visit to the Bülk lighthouse will be a source of great satisfaction. Kiel is a city in Northern Germany, whose origins date back to the 13th century. Its story has been widely influenced by maritime activities and currently is one of the European capitals that holds nautical races. The port of Kiel is located right in the city centre and is the ideal starting point for a visit. Between visits to the old railroads and the unmissable WWII submarine, enjoy a stop at the Bülk lighthouse. You can also visit the botanical gardens and the numerous animal ranches out of town.

Copenhagen is ideal for exploring by bicycle: its narrow streets and small bridges enclose all the magic that inspired the tales of Hans Christian Andersen. During the stop in the port of Copenhagen, discover the fascinating charm of one of the most beautiful Scandinavian capitals. Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, is the industrial and financial centre of the country but also one of the biggest cities in Scandinavia. It is also a popular tourist destination that seduces with its countless attractions, the beauty of its landscapes and its important historical and cultural heritage. After visiting the port, take a bike ride through streets scattered with beautiful canals and ancient historical monuments before starting on the museums and palaces of the city.