Northern Europe Cruises: Your Extraordinary Voyage of Discovery

From the majestic fjords of Norway to the imperial grandeur of St. Petersburg and the fairy-tale charm of Scandinavia’s capital cities, discover why Northern Europe is one of the world’s most captivating cruise destinations.

Your Extraordinary Northern European Adventure Awaits

Northern Europe is a destination that stirs the soul — a land of towering fjords, storied capitals, and endless summer light. From the cobblestone streets of Copenhagen and the art nouveau elegance of Riga to the breathtaking Norwegian coastline, every port reveals centuries of history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant living cultures. Summer sailing temperatures averaging 55–70°F create the perfect conditions for exploring on foot, savoring open-air markets, and witnessing the magic of the midnight sun.

A stunning panoramic view of the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic, during a magical winter sunset with snow-covered buildings and golden lights.
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A breathtaking panorama of floating blue icebergs in a tranquil glacial lagoon, with a dramatic pink and purple sunset illuminating snow-capped mountains in the background.
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A stunning winter view of the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic, with illuminated baroque buildings and a pastel pink and purple sunset sky.
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A stunning panoramic view of Prague's historic city center, featuring the Prague Castle complex, colorful baroque buildings, and the Vltava River with the iconic Charles Bridge in the foreground.
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Majestic Fjords & Scenery

Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and mirror-still waters — Norway’s fjords deliver some of the most awe-inspiring natural landscapes on Earth.

Imperial Capitals

Explore world-class museums, royal palaces, and centuries of art and architecture in iconic cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, and St. Petersburg.

Midnight Sun & Viking Heritage

Experience nearly 24 hours of daylight during summer sailings, and walk in the footsteps of the Vikings at ancient sites and living history museums.

Explore the Northern Europe Regions

Northern Europe encompasses several distinct cruising regions, each offering its own extraordinary blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. Our cruise advisors will help you find the perfect match for your dream voyage.

A stunning panoramic view of Prague's historic cityscape featuring Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Vltava River under a clear blue sky.
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Norwegian Fjords

Key Ports: Bergen, Geiranger, Flåm, Stavanger, Ålesund, Tromsø, North Cape

Known For: Dramatic fjord scenery, cascading waterfalls, midnight sun, charming fishing villages

Ideal For: Nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking awe-inspiring landscapes

Duration: 7–14 nights

A picturesque medieval town with iconic orange-red rooftops nestled in a meandering river bend, showcasing classic Central European architectural charm and landscape.
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Scandinavia & the Baltic

Key Ports: Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Riga, Gdańsk, Warnemünde (Berlin)

Known For: Imperial palaces, world-class museums, medieval old towns, vibrant culinary scenes

Ideal For: Culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who love cosmopolitan capitals

Duration: 7–14 nights

A panoramic view of Prague showcasing its historic city center, featuring multiple bridges crossing the Vltava River, surrounded by lush green trees and purple lilac flowers in the foreground.
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British Isles & Iceland

Key Ports: London (Southampton), Edinburgh, Dublin, Reykjavik, Akureyri, Belfast, Invergordon, Cork

Known For: Ancient castles, volcanic landscapes, literary heritage, whisky distilleries, geothermal wonders

Ideal For: Adventurers, Anglophiles, and travelers seeking dramatic natural beauty

Duration: 7–14 nights

Compare Northern Europe Cruise Regions

Feature Norwegian Fjords Scandinavia & the Baltic British Isles & Iceland
Typical Duration 7–14 nights 7–14 nights 7–14 nights
Main Departure Ports Southampton, Amsterdam, Copenhagen Copenhagen, Stockholm, Warnemünde Southampton, Amsterdam, Reykjavik
Best For Nature lovers, photographers, scenic cruisers Culture enthusiasts, history buffs, foodies Adventurers, Anglophiles, nature seekers
Highlights Geirangerfjord, midnight sun, waterfalls, fishing villages Hermitage Museum, Tivoli Gardens, medieval Tallinn Edinburgh Castle, Ring Road, Giant’s Causeway, Cliffs of Moher

A panoramic view of Prague showcasing its historic architecture, multiple bridges spanning the Vltava River, and lush green landscapes with purple flowers in the foreground.
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Our Northern Europe cruise travel advisors will show you where to begin.

With so many extraordinary destinations spanning multiple countries and coastlines, choosing the perfect Northern European itinerary can feel overwhelming. That’s where our expert advisors come in.

In the Norwegian Fjords, you can sail into the heart of Geirangerfjord, explore the charming wharf of Bergen’s Bryggen district, ride the legendary Flåm Railway, and witness the midnight sun from the deck of your ship.

The Scandinavia & Baltic region features the royal grandeur of Stockholm, the fairy-tale streets of Copenhagen, the imperial treasures of St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum, and the medieval charm of Tallinn’s Old Town.

Venture to the British Isles & Iceland for Edinburgh’s dramatic castle, Dublin’s literary heritage, the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland’s Golden Circle, and the stunning Cliffs of Moher.

You can also extend your voyage to include the North Cape and the Arctic, the scenic coastlines of Scotland’s Highlands and Islands, or combine Northern Europe with a transatlantic crossing.

If that sounds like a lot to navigate, rest assured — every detail will be expertly handled by Extraordinary Adventures and our dedicated Northern Europe cruise advisors. Call us today!

Beyond Northern Europe

Many Northern European itineraries can be extended or combined with nearby destinations for an even more immersive journey.

  • Arctic & North Cape – Midnight sun, Svalbard wildlife, and the edge of the Arctic Circle
  • Transatlantic Crossings – Combine Northern Europe with a grand ocean voyage to or from North America
  • Scottish Highlands & Islands – Remote lochs, whisky distilleries, and ancient castles
  • Western Europe – Extend south through the English Channel to France, Spain, and Portugal
Panoramic view of Prague featuring the historic Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River, with Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral prominently displayed in the background.
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Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise—whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

Our specialty cruise advisors will ensure your voyage is everything you dreamed.

Rarely will any of us make it to these extraordinary places more than once. So, if you’re going to do it at all, you should do it right. Let the experts at Extraordinary Adventures ensure that your voyage to these remote destinations is everything you dreamed it would be.

They don’t call us Extraordinary Adventures for nothing, you know.

Best Time to Cruise Northern Europe

Northern Europe is a seasonal cruising destination, with the vast majority of sailings concentrated during the magical summer months when long daylight hours and mild temperatures create ideal conditions for exploration.

Peak Season (June – August): The most popular time to sail, with temperatures averaging 55–70°F, nearly endless daylight in northern latitudes, and the best weather for outdoor excursions and scenic cruising. Booking early is essential for the most sought-after itineraries.

Shoulder Season (May and September): Excellent value with fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and the added possibility of northern lights displays in September. Gardens and landscapes are at their most vibrant in May.

Late Season (October): Limited sailings offer dramatic autumn foliage across Scandinavia and the British Isles. Cooler temperatures around 40–55°F and shorter days bring a cozy, atmospheric quality to port visits.

Midsummer sailings in late June offer the extraordinary experience of the midnight sun in Norway and Iceland — nearly 24 hours of daylight that allows for unforgettable late-evening scenic cruising through the fjords.

A picturesque panoramic view of the historic market square in Warsaw's Old Town, featuring colorful tenement houses, outdoor cafes, and a central open cobblestone plaza at twilight.
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Why Book with Extraordinary Adventures

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Northern Europe Cruise FAQs

The prime cruising season for Northern Europe runs from May through September, with peak season in June, July, and August. Summer temperatures average a comfortable 55–70°F, and the extended daylight — including the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle — makes this period ideal for sightseeing and scenic cruising. May and September offer excellent value with fewer crowds and the chance to witness the northern lights in late September.

A Scandinavia and Baltic cruise is an excellent choice for first-time Northern Europe cruisers. These itineraries visit iconic capital cities like Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, and often include an overnight stay in St. Petersburg, giving you extended time to explore. The ports are well-organized, easy to navigate, and offer a wonderful mix of cultural landmarks, museums, and culinary experiences.

Norwegian Fjords cruises focus primarily on dramatic natural scenery — soaring cliffs, cascading waterfalls, charming coastal villages, and the midnight sun. Baltic cruises, by contrast, are centered on historic capital cities, world-class museums, medieval architecture, and rich cultural experiences. Some itineraries combine both regions for the ultimate Northern European voyage.

Most Northern Europe cruises range from 7 to 14 nights, though grand voyages and combination itineraries can extend to 21 nights or more. Norwegian Fjords itineraries are often 7–10 nights, Baltic cruises typically run 7–14 nights, and British Isles and Iceland sailings are generally 10–14 nights. Your Northern Europe cruise advisor can help you choose the ideal duration.

Yes, a valid U.S. passport is required for all Northern Europe cruises, as these itineraries visit foreign ports exclusively. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Some ports, particularly St. Petersburg, may require additional visa arrangements — though many cruise lines offer visa-free excursion programs. Your Extraordinary Adventures advisor will guide you through all documentation requirements.

Layering is key for Northern Europe cruises. Pack a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes with good grip, warm layers including sweaters and a light fleece, and lighter clothing for warmer days onshore. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen for the long summer days, a compact umbrella, and formal attire for elegant evenings onboard. For a comprehensive guide tailored to Northern Europe cruising, explore our packing tips on the Extraordinary Adventures YouTube channel @cruiseandtravel.

Many premium and luxury cruise lines offer exceptional Northern European itineraries. Celebrity, Princess, Holland America, and Norwegian provide outstanding Scandinavia and fjord sailings. For a more intimate, luxury experience, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Seabourn, Oceania, Azamara, and Windstar deliver extraordinary service in smaller-ship settings perfectly suited to fjord navigation and smaller ports. Viking also offers popular Scandinavian and Baltic itineraries. Our advisors will match you with the ideal cruise line for your preferences.

Yes, Northern Europe cruises can be wonderful for families, particularly those with older children and teens who will appreciate the history, culture, and natural wonders. Viking museums, fjord kayaking, whale watching in Iceland, and exploring medieval castles are just a few of the experiences that captivate younger travelers. Family-friendly cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Princess offer robust youth programs alongside their Northern Europe itineraries.

Popular excursions include riding the Flåm Railway through the Norwegian mountains, visiting the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, exploring Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, soaking in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, touring the canals of Amsterdam, witnessing geysers along Iceland’s Golden Circle, visiting Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, and kayaking through the Norwegian fjords. Many ports also offer food tours, whisky tastings, and private guided experiences.

Absolutely! Many cruise lines offer grand voyage itineraries that combine Norwegian Fjords with the Baltic capitals, or link the British Isles with Iceland and Scandinavia. Repositioning cruises and back-to-back sailings also allow you to experience multiple regions on a single vacation. Ask your Extraordinary Adventures cruise advisor about combination options to maximize your Northern European adventure.

Not sure which specialty cruise is right for you?

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