Cruise Time: Northern Europe

By Lindsay Mauck

Hello again!  Today I take you to the northern shores of Europe.  I have to say- some of these destinations are my favorite in the world - especially for summer travel. The weather is gorgeous but gives you a break from the full time summer heat - similar to Alaska depending on the port and the month you sail.  There are so many fabulous ports of call - let's check out just a few of my favorite destinations.

Scotland - Kirkwall/Orkney Islands

We were told that we hit one of the few days without rain in Kirkwall Scotland.  But even if it had been raining I think it would have been just as beautiful!
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​Scotch Lovers? Don't miss the Highland Park Distillery tour and/or tasting. (Book in advance!)

Iceland: Reykjavík & Akureyri

I have never been anywhere more green.  And I found my #1 favorite place in the world here!  Definitely drive the Golden Circle - its 100% worth it - but be sure to stop off the beaten path a bit to visit the town of Flúðir - and the Secret Lagoon - Iceland's first public swimming hole.  Think "Hot Tub Lake"! (You can skip the Blue Lagoon in my opinion)
Bonus: Public Gardens in Akureyri - walkable from the cruise port.

Norway: Bergen & Stavanger

Looking for some classic Norwegian food? Dale of Norway sweaters? Jaw-dropping hikes overlooking Fjiords?  You've come to the right place!  We tasted whale, shopped for sweaters, and hiked Preikestolen to the most stunning vista i've ever seen. Do yourself a favor and get thee to Norway! (You can also sail the Fjiords on much easier day tours... but I like a good challenge!)

Sweden: Stockholm

Full disclosure: I didn't actually  cruise to Stockholm - but you CAN!  And you definitely should- if ONLY to visit the best museum in the entire world (IMHO).  If you are anywhere near Sweden it is worth a trip to Stockholm to visit the Vasa Museum.  Basically, in 1628 this warship sank in the harbor on its inaugural voyage.  Some crazy biological stuff (get the details at the museum) caused the wood to stay preserved, and so 333 years later they raised it up and put it back together.  It's the most amazing thing to see in real life. Go Go Go!!

One perfect day in Stockholm?:
​Vasa Museum + Tivoli Gröna Lund