Copenhagen to Helsinki

See another side of this lovely city with a cruise along its charming canals. Visit the quaint old harbor at Nyhavn and beautiful Rosenborg Castle and, of course, the famed statue of the Little Mermaid. Or venture into the countryside and enjoy its panoramic vistas, fairy tale castles and the village of Fredensborg.

The grand harbor and seaside promenade take center stage in this historical maritime city that’s the gateway to the famed Kiel Canal. Everywhere you go – the Kiel Fjord, the museums and memorials in the city center, the bustling waterfront known as Kiellinie – you’ll feel the seafaring and naval influences. Top choices include the maritime-focused Schifffahrtsmuseum, Aquarium GEOMAR, Botanical Gardens Kiel and of course, stopping at a café along the promenade to enjoy the ever-changing vista of the harbor. Just outside of Kiel in Laboe, you can explore a restored German submarine U-995 on Ostsee beach, a somber reminder of the city’s role as the main German submarine base during World War II.

Enjoy a scenic drive to the German capital and savor landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the glorious Charlottenburg Palace. Stroll down Unter den Linden, see the site of the Berlin Wall and take a boat ride along the city’s canals. Explore on your own and visit one of the many museums. Or discover charming Warnemünde and its lovely Gothic church, market square and seaside promenade.

Established in 1680 when Sweden was a great military power, Karlskrona was founded as a naval port, and the city’s rich maritime and architectural heritage have earned it the designation of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many Baroque buildings remain intact, such as those on the grand main square, Stortorget. Having protected the harbor for more than three centuries, Kungsholm Fortress and Drottningskär Citadel reveal a remarkable history. In the fascinating Marine Museum, explore a Soviet submarine, inspect a World War II minesweeper, and observe an 18th century shipwreck through an underwater tunnel.

Enjoy the old medieval quarter of this Baltic jewel and see the lovely Golden Gate, the astonishing 15th century Artus Court, beautiful St. Mary’s Church and Oliwa Cathedral, renowned for its three pipe organs. Then see Solidarity Monument Square and the famous shipyard where workers rallied against the communist government. Or drive into the countryside and see the fascinating 13th century Malbork Castle, once home to Polish kings.

Lithuania’s third largest city, Klaipeda has been in and out of the hands of the Russians, Swedes and Germans. Marvel at the impressive, and verbosely christened, St. Mergeles Marijos Taikos Karalienes Church tower and walk through Anika Square. Head to the pristine Baltic waters lapping at the broad sands of Smiltyne Beach. Or duck into the Clock Museum or Castle Museum

Once called the “Paris of the Baltics,” Riga has regained its status as a cosmopolitan capital with dozens of museums and arguably Europe’s most exceptional Art Nouveau architecture. Founded in 1201, Riga boasts a magnificent Old Town called “Vecriga.” Riga Castle, the residence of Latvia’s president, was built on the site of the original settlement next to the Daugava River. St. Mary’s Dome Cathedral is renowned for its stained glass windows and massive 19th century organ comprised of more than 6,500 pipes. Outside the city limits, traditional Latvian life is on display in outdoor exhibits at the Open Air Ethnographic Museum.

Spend a marvelous day discovering this lovely city and its beautiful buildings. Visit the charming Old Town, medieval Gamla Stan, the elegant royal palace, the wonderful parks and the impressive Vasa, the magnificently restored 17th century warship that sank in the harbor on her maiden voyage.

Step back in time as you walk through this beautifully preserved medieval town and discover its upper and lower levels, the guild houses, the churches and squares, the famous apothecary shop and the exquisite town hall. See delightful parks, Baroque palaces and a ruined 15th century convent. Or visit a lovely recreated rural Estonian village by the sea.

Admire the city’s stunning modern architecture, visit its lovely parks and bustling open-air market. Take a harbor cruise past forests, beaches, villas and a ruined Suomenlinna fortress that spans five islands. Or visit historic, colorful Porvoo, Finland’s second oldest town.