Northern Europe & Fjords

A northern European diet is typically high in protein and consists of a generous serving of meat, fish or poultry which is accompanied by one or more small side dishes of vegetables and starch.

Seafood plays a big part in menus in many Northern European countries including Sweden, Norway and Iceland, due to the proximity to the Baltic Sea, North Sea and Atlantic Ocean, while meats are firm favourites in Germany, Belgium and Estonia, often forming the basis of hearty stews and soups. From meatballs in Sweden and brätwurst in Germany to moules-frites and verivorst in Estonia, there's no shortage of culinary delights to tantalise your taste buds.

When it comes to desserts, Northern Europe boasts many scrumptious offerings including Belgian waffles, apple strudel in Germany, Dutch stroopwafel in the Netherlands and Skyr in Iceland. Popular beverages in Northern Europe include Pilsner lager in Germany, Aquavit in Scandinavia, Jenever in Belgium, Brennivín in Iceland and Kali in Estonia, an unusual drink made with fermented bread.

Summers in Northern Europe are normally bright, warm and humid, while winters are typically dark, humid and cold. It’s worth noting that winter has particular appeal to many holidaymakers who want to visit the region at that time of year for a variety of reasons – for example, to witness the spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Iceland or to make a trip with children to see Santa, his Elves and reindeer in Lapland.
This region spans a huge area, but the hottest and sunniest months are often July or August in many North European countries, with daily temperatures averaging 22°C. The coldest month is often January, with the mercury sometimes tumbling to -13°C, while the rainiest month is often September. Maximum sea water temperatures average around 16°C in July. Some Northern Europe countries – including Iceland, Norway and Sweden - experience the Midnight Sun, a spellbinding natural phenomenon in the summer months where the sun remains visible at midnight.      

Northern Europe is brimming with a plethora of incredible things to see and do, to ensure families, couples and groups of friends enjoy the cruise adventure of a lifetime. Outstanding architectural landmarks, famous works of art, world-class restaurants, glitzy designer stores and thrilling theme parks for children are just some of the delights in store. Magnificent fjords, active geysers, the spellbinding Northern Lights, magical sunsets, glistening lakes and enchanting glaciers are among the captivating natural wonders in this diverse part of the world. There’s also an abundance of wonderful wildlife including reindeer, arctic boxes, snowy owls, elk, brown bears, puffins, white-tailed eagles and cormorants.
Major must-see attractions in Northern Europe include Peterhof Palace in St. Petersburg, the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn, the Royal Palace and Opera House in Oslo, the 17th century Grand Place in Brussels, the Royal Palace in Stockholm and the Hallgrímskirkja Lutheran parish church in Reykjavik. Popular outdoor pursuits in various parts of Northern Europe include dog sledding, hiking, mountain biking, buggy safaris, ice fishing, canoeing, horseriding, snowboarding, rafting, ziplining, canyoning, tobogganing, yachting, abseiling and caving.