Scandinavian cruises are a great way to explore northern Europe and a fantastic opportunity to get to know the countries, rugged landscapes, unique architecture and friendly people. Let’s take a closer look at some of the focal points of Scandinavian cruises.
Sweden
Sweden is a fascinating country. The capital city of Stockholm is very old and interesting. The first mention of it can be found in ancient sagas, but the actual date of birth has long been lost. The only thing known with certainty is that it is at least 800 years old, and who knows how long fisherman settlement had existed here before that. Like many other Scandinavian cities and cities around the Baltic, it has a traditional Old Town area. Additionally, most of the modern areas of Stockholm have grown quite substantially, completely changing the city’s appearance. Cruise stops in Finland and Sweden are always aimed to familiarize the travelers with the ancient architecture of northern Europe, and Stockholm is a must-see destination of this journey.
Considering the presence of cultural monuments, architecture and art, Stockholm is in one of the top positions among major European cities. Not surprisingly it was called the European Cultural Capital in 1998. The evidence of this title can be seen everywhere during your visit. The main architectural heritage of Stockholm is the old mansions. Alas, the majestic castle – theoretically the oldest building in the city that used to look upon the development of the Swedish capital – was destroyed during a fire back in the seventeenth century, but its surroundings, although almost completely rebuilt, survived to this day. They are represented by several cathedrals in the Baroque style. If your Scandinavian cruise includes a fair amount of time in this glorious city, note the differences in style, which can be detected in old buildings. Through differences in style, you can trace the history of Stockholm: the rise in national consciousness has led to construction of buildings that were built in the style of old houses and mansions, and modernism that followed thereafter, brought about the contemporary features.
All in all Scandinavian cruises is a paradise for artists and romantics, because of the ample opportunities to experience extraordinary diversity.
The fjords of Norway
Norwegian fjords have been named number one tourist destination in the world. Geirangerfjord , Lysefjord, Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord, Stavangerford, Shkoldenford and Glomford Geirangerfjord were glorified very long time ago in Norse sagas. Geirangerfjord is known for fantastic contrasts, piercing blue water, green meadows, rocks, waterfalls, and the eternal snow capping the mountain tops. Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in the world. Its waters originate in Yostedalsbreen glacier. Besides, Sognefjord has the largest number of waterfalls – simple and cascading. Port of Bergen is considered the gateway to the kingdom of the fjords. Cruises to the fjords usually start here. Some cruises last just for a few days, and some longer. Like, for example, a cruise from Bergen to Kirkenes – a town, located above the Arctic Circle. Coastal liner Hurtigruten goes all along the Norwegian coast, calling at 34 ports. Dense greenery and waterfalls give way to the southern flat mountain plateaus in northern Norway – the land of fishing villages, deer trails and endless polar days. An extended cruise takes about two weeks.