Itinerary

Day 1 May 30, 2028 Reykjavik, Iceland Departs 19:00 Reykjavík is mirrored in the waters of its bay, as you can see when your cruise ship sets anchor in the port. The quays along the seafront host a variety of shops, live music clubs and cafés. Take a stroll down Frakkastigur up to Lækjartorg, to admire the Sólfar, also known as the Sun Voyager, a large modern steelsculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason, that represents a Viking vessel, with the bow pointing towards the north. Go back in history as you reach the historic centre, in the districts of Aðalstræti and Suðurgata, where you can still see the remains of some primitive Icelandic dwellings. Also the church of Hallgrímur, probably the most important architectural monument in Reykjavik, is worth a visit. As you will discover during your MSC cruise of Northern Europe, geothermal energy positively conditions the life of the entire country and there is an abundance of spas. Don’t miss an excursion to the Þingvellir national park, in the south west region of the island, a UNESCO world heritage site since 2004. On the northern shores of the Þingvallavatn, the largest Icelandic lake, the Öxará river forms the Öxaráfoss waterfall in the vicinity of Almannagjá, the largest cleft in this land. If you like waterfalls, you should not miss a visit to Gullfoss, in the south east of the island: the river Hvítá here drops down 11 and then 21 metres forming the queen of all Icelandic waterfalls and then continues along a narrow gorge in the plateau. In this area we also find the Strokkur, the only geyser that regularly erupts every 4-8 minutes. Then proceed to Geysir, in the Haukadalur valley, the oldest known geyser, from which the term originates. Its eruptions spray boiling water up to 60 metres into the air, but often reach higher than 100 metres: it is the tallest of the active geysers. Reykjavik, Iceland Reykjavik, Iceland port guide Search cruises visiting Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland photo — Day 1 May 30, 2028 Reykjavik, Iceland Departs 19:00 Reykjavík is mirrored in the waters of its bay, as you can see when your cruise ship sets anchor in the port. The quays along the seafront host a variety of shops, live music clubs and cafés. Take a stroll down Frakkastigur up to Lækjartorg, to admire the Sólfar, also known as the Sun Voyager, a large modern steelsculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason, that represents a Viking vessel, with the bow pointing towards the north. Go back in history as you reach the historic centre, in the districts of Aðalstræti and Suðurgata, where you can still see the remains of some primitive Icelandic dwellings. Also the church of Hallgrímur, probably the most important architectural monument in Reykjavik, is worth a visit. As you will discover during your MSC cruise of Northern Europe, geothermal energy positively conditions the life of the entire country and there is an abundance of spas. Don’t miss an excursion to the Þingvellir national park, in the south west region of the island, a UNESCO world heritage site since 2004. On the northern shores of the Þingvallavatn, the largest Icelandic lake, the Öxará river forms the Öxaráfoss waterfall in the vicinity of Almannagjá, the largest cleft in this land. If you like waterfalls, you should not miss a visit to Gullfoss, in the south east of the island: the river Hvítá here drops down 11 and then 21 metres forming the queen of all Icelandic waterfalls and then continues along a narrow gorge in the plateau. In this area we also find the Strokkur, the only geyser that regularly erupts every 4-8 minutes. Then proceed to Geysir, in the Haukadalur valley, the oldest known geyser, from which the term originates. Its eruptions spray boiling water up to 60 metres into the air, but often reach higher than 100 metres: it is the tallest of the active geysers. Reykjavik, Iceland Reykjavik, Iceland port guide Search cruises visiting Reykjavik, Iceland

Day 2 May 31, 2028 Isafjordur 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore When your MSC cruise to northern Europe takes you to the north western point of Iceland, you will cast anchor at Isafjordur, a small town of ancient origins. In Isafjordur you will find the oldest standing Icelandic house, built in 1743. In the periphery of Bolungarvík, the northernmost location in the western fjords, one can instead visit Ósvör, once a fisherman’s village and now an open air museum. The past re-emerges also in the old town of Nedstikaupstadur, where Icelandic and Norwegian merchants first, and then British and German ones, would meet in the mid-15th century in the bay of Isafiord. Here, in the second half of the 18th century, Krambud (the shop) was built, that was converted in the 20th century into a private home; as well as Faktorshus (the farmers house); Tjoruhus (the tar house) and Turnhus (the tower house) used as warehouses and fish processing centres. While on your MSC cruise to Northern Europe, if you want to get an idea of how Icelanders used to live in the past, try an excursion to Vigur, literally the “spear-shaped island”. Its waters host a great deal of sea lions who feed on marine birds such as the puffin, the black guillemot, the aggressive arctic tern (who can attack people if it feels threatened) and the common eider. Another spectacle of nature is the Naustahvilft, the “troll’s seat”, a large depression shaped like a half moon in the flat mountains that surround the Isafjordur fjord. Legend has it that it was created by a troll caught by the sunlight sitting on the mountain with its feet in the water. Whether you believe in the legend or more likely in a valley dug out by the ice during the last ice age, try this brief but intense excursion, it is certainly worth it. Isafjordur Isafjordur port guide Search cruises visiting Isafjordur

Isafjordur photo — Day 2 May 31, 2028 Isafjordur 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore When your MSC cruise to northern Europe takes you to the north western point of Iceland, you will cast anchor at Isafjordur, a small town of ancient origins. In Isafjordur you will find the oldest standing Icelandic house, built in 1743. In the periphery of Bolungarvík, the northernmost location in the western fjords, one can instead visit Ósvör, once a fisherman’s village and now an open air museum. The past re-emerges also in the old town of Nedstikaupstadur, where Icelandic and Norwegian merchants first, and then British and German ones, would meet in the mid-15th century in the bay of Isafiord. Here, in the second half of the 18th century, Krambud (the shop) was built, that was converted in the 20th century into a private home; as well as Faktorshus (the farmers house); Tjoruhus (the tar house) and Turnhus (the tower house) used as warehouses and fish processing centres. While on your MSC cruise to Northern Europe, if you want to get an idea of how Icelanders used to live in the past, try an excursion to Vigur, literally the “spear-shaped island”. Its waters host a great deal of sea lions who feed on marine birds such as the puffin, the black guillemot, the aggressive arctic tern (who can attack people if it feels threatened) and the common eider. Another spectacle of nature is the Naustahvilft, the “troll’s seat”, a large depression shaped like a half moon in the flat mountains that surround the Isafjordur fjord. Legend has it that it was created by a troll caught by the sunlight sitting on the mountain with its feet in the water. Whether you believe in the legend or more likely in a valley dug out by the ice during the last ice age, try this brief but intense excursion, it is certainly worth it. Isafjordur Isafjordur port guide Search cruises visiting Isafjordur

Day 3 Jun 1, 2028 Akureyri 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore When you set ashore from your cruise ship for a vacation in Akureyri, you should take an excursion to Lake Myvatn. To get there you will pass through Eyjafjördur, where you can enjoy a splendid view of the city port. The first worthy stopover is in Godafoss, here the waters if the Skjálfandafljót form a 12 meter tall waterfall. According to the legend, in the year 999 or 1000, one of the Icelandic rulers proclaimed Christianity as the official religion of Iceland and hurled the idols of the Nordic gods (Odin, Thor and Freyr, to which probably the waterfall was previously dedicated) in its waters. A stained glass window of the church of Akureyri (Akureyrarkirkja) depicts this legend. As you continue along the Icelandic wild nature, with its incredible variety of colours, varying from the bright green meadows to the red minerals erupting from the depths of the island, one reaches the pseudo-craters of Skutustaðir, generated by underground vapours produced by an eruption 2500 years ago. From here one can reach Dimmuborgir, an incredible labyrinth of lava, where amidst peculiar formations rises the Kirkjan, a natural church with two pointed-arch portals and, inside, real chapels with altars. You can end your visit at the Viti crater, known also as the Inferno, one of the many mouths of the central Krafla volcano. If you feel like tackling the steep climb from its internal lake, you can also enjoy a relaxing hot bath. Here you will also find the Askja, an immense caldera that extends for 50 sq.km., a desert of lava and the finest sand resembling moon dust: this in fact was where the astronauts of the Apollo 11 trained for their lunar landing. Before returning to Akureyri, if you feel curious, you can stop to visit Santa Clause’shouse, about ten kilometres south, a delightful Christmas toy shop, with the largest Advent calendar in the world. Akureyri

Day 4 Jun 2, 2028 Seydhisfjordur 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The lush valleys and dramatic waterfalls of Seyðisfjörður are some of the most picturesque sights on Iceland’s east coast. And at the head of the fjord sits the colorful, lively town of Seyðisfjörð with a thriving art and music scene thanks to the LungA Art Festival and concerts in the landmark Blue Church each summer. The Skaftfell Center for Visual Art, open year round, exhibits the work of young artists and also has a popular bistro and a bookstore. Seyðisfjörð was founded in the 19th century by Norwegian settlers, who built some of the brightly painted wooden buildings you see today. The town, population 700, has kept its connection to the European mainland: It's the only port in Iceland that regularly sees passenger ships from Europe, through a ferry service to and from Denmark and the Faroe Islands. The residents in the area surrounding Seyðisfjörð are more likely to be wild reindeer—originally imported from Norway, they're the only such animals in Iceland—and arctic foxes, while seals and porpoises swim along the coast. Many native bird species, including puffins and arctic terns, nest around town, with dozens of species at Skálanes, a nature reserve and research center. Farther afield is Iceland’s largest forest, one of its tallest waterfalls and many opportunities for hiking, cycling and kayaking. Seydhisfjordur

Day 6 Jun 4, 2028 Runavik (Faroe Isles) 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Originally a fishing port, Kongshavn harbor on the southern end of Eysturoy, the Faroes’ second-largest isle, is now a major staging port for the North Sea oil platforms as well. Runavik’s buildings are scattered across an alluvial fan below looming, green-clad peaks beside the Skalafjordur fjord. The mountainous island is criss-crossed with hiking trails, some of which date from Viking times. The main attraction for visitors is the grandeur of nature, along with the birds and animals that inhabit the island. Lake Toftavatn is one place to see them, on a Ventures by Seabourn hike. A drive around the island will include views of 2,890-foot Mt. Slaettaratindur with stops at the picturesque village of Gjogr on the north end, and a visit to Glyvrar to see the Forni Museum that preserves a typical 17th century island home. Your Ventures by Seabourn team will offer kayaking excursions on Skalafjord, or an excursion the the major Viking site of Toftanes with your expert archaeologist. Runavik (Faroe Isles)

Day 7 Jun 5, 2028 Kirkwall, Scotland 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The seventy or so Orcadian isles apart from rugged rock of Hoy - are low-lying and richly fertile. First inhabited by late Stone Age settlers, followed by broch-builders and Picts, fromthe 15th centuries Orkney was ruled as a Norse kingdom, passing to the Scottish crown in 1471. Mainland Kirkwall is the capital. The Orkney Islands are politically a part of Britain, yet seem quite different in many ways. Numerous place names have non-English sounds, reflecting the original Viking settlement of the 9th century. Norse crafts and traditions are obvious everywhere. These islands were ruled from Norway and Denmark until 1468, when a Norwegian king gave them to Scotland in lieu of a dowry for his daughter's marriage to King James III. In addition to the Norse heritage there are numerous remains of prehistoric monuments such as the Stenness Standing Stones at Finstown. The archipelago is located at the same latitude as southern Greenland; the Gulfstream accounts for the islands' temperate climate. Approximately half of the 60 islands are inhabited; the rest are home only to seals and sea birds. Most of the inhabitants, who draw their livelihood from the fertile hills rather than the sea, live on Mainland, the largest of the Orkney Islands. Kirkwall, located on Mainland, is the principal harbor and capital of the Orkneys. Steep-roofed stone houses line streets that wind around the medieval St. Magnus Cathedral. A museum featuring Orkney historical artifacts is housed in the 16th-century Tankerness House. Other attractions around the island include Maes Howe, the site of Britain's best-preserved megalithic tomb, and the stone-age village of Skara Brae. Scapa Flow serves as a reminder of more recent times when, during both World Wars, Britain's naval base was located here. Kirkwall, Scotland Kirkwall, Scotland port guide Search cruises visiting Kirkwall, Scotland

Kirkwall, Scotland photo — Day 7 Jun 5, 2028 Kirkwall, Scotland 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The seventy or so Orcadian isles apart from rugged rock of Hoy - are low-lying and richly fertile. First inhabited by late Stone Age settlers, followed by broch-builders and Picts, fromthe 15th centuries Orkney was ruled as a Norse kingdom, passing to the Scottish crown in 1471. Mainland Kirkwall is the capital. The Orkney Islands are politically a part of Britain, yet seem quite different in many ways. Numerous place names have non-English sounds, reflecting the original Viking settlement of the 9th century. Norse crafts and traditions are obvious everywhere. These islands were ruled from Norway and Denmark until 1468, when a Norwegian king gave them to Scotland in lieu of a dowry for his daughter's marriage to King James III. In addition to the Norse heritage there are numerous remains of prehistoric monuments such as the Stenness Standing Stones at Finstown. The archipelago is located at the same latitude as southern Greenland; the Gulfstream accounts for the islands' temperate climate. Approximately half of the 60 islands are inhabited; the rest are home only to seals and sea birds. Most of the inhabitants, who draw their livelihood from the fertile hills rather than the sea, live on Mainland, the largest of the Orkney Islands. Kirkwall, located on Mainland, is the principal harbor and capital of the Orkneys. Steep-roofed stone houses line streets that wind around the medieval St. Magnus Cathedral. A museum featuring Orkney historical artifacts is housed in the 16th-century Tankerness House. Other attractions around the island include Maes Howe, the site of Britain's best-preserved megalithic tomb, and the stone-age village of Skara Brae. Scapa Flow serves as a reminder of more recent times when, during both World Wars, Britain's naval base was located here. Kirkwall, Scotland Kirkwall, Scotland port guide Search cruises visiting Kirkwall, Scotland

Day 8 Jun 6, 2028 South Queensferry 08:00 – 19:00 11.0 hrs ashore Eight miles north-west of Edinburgh city centre is the small town of South Queensferry, located at the southern end of the two mighty Forth Bridges. When you are cruising the North Sea with MSC Cruises, South Queensferry will be your port of call. It’s an attractive old settlement, with a narrow, cobbled High Street lined with tightly packed buildings, most of which date from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Moreover, a shore excursion on your MSC Northern Europe cruise can be the opportunity to discover the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, a far more handsome city than London; it’s famous for its magnificent setting, majestic castle and ancient royal quarter of Holyrood, not to mention an acclaimed international arts festival and some excellent museums. Edinburgh’s Old Town, although only about a mile long and 400 yards wide, represented the total extent of the twin burghs of Edinburgh and Canongate for the first 650 years of their existence, and its general appearance and character remain indubitably medieval. Containing the majority of the city’s most famous tourist sights, the Old Town is compact enough to explore in a single day, though a thorough visit requires a bit longer. The history of Edinburgh, and indeed of Scotland, is indissolubly bound up with its castle, which dominates the city from its lofty seat atop an extinct volcanic rock. The disparate styles of the fortifications reflect the change in its role from defensive citadel to national monument, and today, as well as attracting more visitors than anywhere else in the country, the castle is still a military barracks and home to Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The oldest surviving part of the complex is from the twelfth century, while the most recent additions date back to the 1920s. South Queensferry

Day 10 Jun 8, 2028 Southampton 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Cruises from Southampton are part of a storied maritime heritage. Famous ships have sailed from Southampton port and, before commercial air travel, it was the gateway to the world with Hollywood celebrities like Bette Davis and Elizabeth Taylor passing through to board a Southampton cruise. In its atmospheric Old Town, 12th-century churches, cobbled streets, and timber-framed houses like the impressive Tudor House & Garden sit side-by-side, surrounded by one of the most complete Medieval city walls in the UK where the Bargate – the ancient entrance – still stands intact. There are bustling marina-side bars, shiny shopping districts and a vibrant cultural quarter where the Mayflower Theatre puts on West End musicals and the SeaCity Museum catalogues Southampton’s seafaring past. Some of England’s most impressive landmarks are an easy drive away, including the Neolithic wonder Stonehenge, the picturesque spa city Bath or Buckingham Palace, Tate Modern and Tower Bridge in the bustling capital of London. Discover 5,000 years of history and more on a Southampton cruise. Southampton Southampton port guide Search cruises visiting Southampton

Day 12 Jun 10, 2028 Cobh, Ireland 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore When you step ashore from your MSC Northern Europe cruise in Cork, everywhere there is evidence of its history as a great mercantile centre, with grey-stone quaysides, old warehouses, and elegant, quirky bridges spanning the River Lee to each side of the city’s island core. But equally powerful draws are its lively atmosphere and large student population, combined with a vibrant social and cultural scene. Massive stone walls built by invading Normans in the twelfth century were destroyed by William III’s forces during the Siege of Cork in 1690, after which waterborne trade brought increasing prosperity, as witnessed by the city’s fine eighteenth-century bow-fronted houses and ostentatious nineteenth-century churches. The graceful arc of St Patrick’s Street – which with Grand Parade forms the commercial heart of the centre – is crammed with major chain stores. Just off here on Princes Street, the English Market offers the chance to sample local delicacies like drisheen (a peppered sausage made from a sheep’s stomach lining and blood). The west of the city is predominantly residential, though Fitzgerald Park is home to the Cork Public Museum, which focuses on Republican history. Kinsale, 25km south of Cork city, is also waiting to be enjoyed on an MSC Northern Europe cruise excursion. Kinsale enjoys a glorious setting at the head of a sheltered harbour around the mouth of the Bandon River. Two imposing forts and a fine tower-house remain as evidence of its former importance as a trading port, and Kinsale has built on its cosmopolitan links to become the culinary capital of the southwest. Add in plenty of opportunities for watersports on the fine local beaches and a number of congenial pubs, and you have a very appealing, upscale resort town. Cobh, Ireland Cobh, Ireland port guide Search cruises visiting Cobh, Ireland

Day 13 Jun 11, 2028 Dun Laoghaire, Ireland 07:00 – 19:00 12.0 hrs ashore Dun Laorghaire, pronounced Dunleary, is an elegant little coastal town situated close to Dublin and is steeped in history. You’ll be sure to receive a traditional Irish welcome as you step ashore and begin your explorations. Breathe in the Irish sea air as you take a stroll along the mile-long East Pier Walk, marvelling at the stunning views across Dublin Bay, passing by the beautiful Victorian bandstand, as small boats quietly sail in and out of the harbour. Explore the People’s Park, created as a formal Victorian Garden, encircled by wrought iron railings, and housing a multitude of landscaped lawns and sweet-smelling flowers. Each weekend, market vendors bring colourful art collections and local produce here, drawing visitors in to browse contentedly. The famous James Joyce Tower and Museum, noted for its appearance in the opening scenes of the novel Ulysses, now houses many artefacts of Joyce, including letters, photographs and rare first edition books. For those feeling brave enough, take a dip in the Irish Sea at Forty Foot, a historic bathing pool, named among the best places to swim in the world. Visit Mariner’s Church, or the Oratory of the Sacred Heart, both of which are easily accessible. Dun Laoghaire, Ireland

Day 14 Jun 12, 2028 Belfast 07:30 – 20:00 12.5 hrs ashore Reborn as a cool, modern city, Belfast has successfully left its troubles behind, emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture, where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. Take a voyage of discovery in its maritime quarter, home to a celebrated museum dedicated to the most famous ship ever built, which was constructed right here in the city’s shipyards. A walk across the Lagan Weir Footbridge brings you to Belfast’s fascinating Titanic District – an area of the city devoted to its rich ship-building heritage. The state-of-the-art Titanic Museum brings the story of the doomed vessel to life, and is the largest museum dedicated to the infamously ‘unsinkable’ ship. Wind up a nautical-themed ramble along the Maritime Mile with a visit to SS Nomadic, the smaller cousin of the Titanic, and a ship which serves as a fascinating time capsule back to the pomp and grandeur of the Titanic, while also telling its own stories of service in both World Wars. There’s just enough time to give the 10-metre long Salmon of Knowledge sculpture a quick peck for luck, before continuing to explore. A stark barbed wire and graffitied sheet metal barrier marks an abrupt scar through the city’s residential areas. The Peace Line was constructed during the height of the Troubles, when Belfast was plagued by sectarian divisions between Protestants and Catholics. Nowadays, you can jump in a black taxi tour to see the colourful murals and living history of the walls, which stand as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace. After exploring the city’s historic divisions, a reminder of Belfast’s uniting creativity can be found at the Metropolitan Arts Centre – a seven-storey tall building, which invites light to gloriously cascade inside. The Cathedral Quarter is a cobbled blend of flower-adorned pubs, restaurants and theatres, and venues where music spills out onto the streets at night, and many a pint is cheerily shared. Belfast Belfast port guide Search cruises visiting Belfast

Belfast photo — Day 14 Jun 12, 2028 Belfast 07:30 – 20:00 12.5 hrs ashore Reborn as a cool, modern city, Belfast has successfully left its troubles behind, emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture, where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. Take a voyage of discovery in its maritime quarter, home to a celebrated museum dedicated to the most famous ship ever built, which was constructed right here in the city’s shipyards. A walk across the Lagan Weir Footbridge brings you to Belfast’s fascinating Titanic District – an area of the city devoted to its rich ship-building heritage. The state-of-the-art Titanic Museum brings the story of the doomed vessel to life, and is the largest museum dedicated to the infamously ‘unsinkable’ ship. Wind up a nautical-themed ramble along the Maritime Mile with a visit to SS Nomadic, the smaller cousin of the Titanic, and a ship which serves as a fascinating time capsule back to the pomp and grandeur of the Titanic, while also telling its own stories of service in both World Wars. There’s just enough time to give the 10-metre long Salmon of Knowledge sculpture a quick peck for luck, before continuing to explore. A stark barbed wire and graffitied sheet metal barrier marks an abrupt scar through the city’s residential areas. The Peace Line was constructed during the height of the Troubles, when Belfast was plagued by sectarian divisions between Protestants and Catholics. Nowadays, you can jump in a black taxi tour to see the colourful murals and living history of the walls, which stand as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace. After exploring the city’s historic divisions, a reminder of Belfast’s uniting creativity can be found at the Metropolitan Arts Centre – a seven-storey tall building, which invites light to gloriously cascade inside. The Cathedral Quarter is a cobbled blend of flower-adorned pubs, restaurants and theatres, and venues where music spills out onto the streets at night, and many a pint is cheerily shared. Belfast Belfast port guide Search cruises visiting Belfast

Day 15 Jun 13, 2028 Killybegs 10:00 – 20:00 10.0 hrs ashore Killybegs has offered mariners a safe haven from the churning waters of the Atlantic Ocean for centuries. Its sheltered deepwater harbor opens out into Donegal Bay and the vast northeastern Atlantic. In ancient times, the town consisted of no more than a huddle of small beehive-style huts called “Na Cealla Beaga,” a Gaelic phrase from which the town takes its current name. Fast-forward to today, and the maritime theme is just as strong. Modern-day Killybegs is a tight-knit seafaring community with Ireland’s largest fishing fleet. This part of County Donegal is also home to a number of traditional industries and artisan workshops, where craftspeople specialize in carpet-making, weaving and knitting. Killybegs is surrounded by some of the most scenic landscape Ireland has to offer. As a stop along the 2,500-kilometer-long coastal route known as the Wild Atlantic Way, there are several stunning spots you can’t miss, including the white, sandy expanse of nearby Fintra Beach and the vertigo-inducing cliffs at Slieve League. Come here to soak up the small-town atmosphere and drink in the natural beauty that abounds. Killybegs Killybegs port guide Search cruises visiting Killybegs

Day 16 Jun 14, 2028 Galway 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Rich in medieval heritage, yet oozing with contemporary style, Galway – Ireland’s fifth largest city – is one of the Emerald Isle’s most engaging destinations. The city’s vibrant centre is hub of culture, visitors and locals – many of which continue to speak age-old Irish dialects – alike flock here to be part of various festivals and events that take place throughout the year; visit the interesting museums and galleries, such as Galway City Museum; and sample the famous ‘craic’ at traditional Irish pubs. Intertwined with the delights of modern Galway are remnants of medieval walls and centuries-old structures such as the Spanish Arch and St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church – the oldest medieval church still in use in Ireland – offering an insight into the city’s fascinating past. Situated on the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is also a gateway to Western Ireland’s spectacular coastal scenes. Within easy reach of the city is the picturesque seaside suburb of Salthill, well-worth visiting to stroll the long promenade and admire views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands, and sample locally-caught seafood, such as the area’s famous oysters, at your pick of the fantastic restaurants. Further afield, it’s possible to uncover the treasures of County Galway on day trips; the beautiful Connemara National Park and charming villages such as Spiddal and Roundstone are among the highlights. Galway

Day 18 Jun 16, 2028 Southampton 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Cruises from Southampton are part of a storied maritime heritage. Famous ships have sailed from Southampton port and, before commercial air travel, it was the gateway to the world with Hollywood celebrities like Bette Davis and Elizabeth Taylor passing through to board a Southampton cruise. In its atmospheric Old Town, 12th-century churches, cobbled streets, and timber-framed houses like the impressive Tudor House & Garden sit side-by-side, surrounded by one of the most complete Medieval city walls in the UK where the Bargate – the ancient entrance – still stands intact. There are bustling marina-side bars, shiny shopping districts and a vibrant cultural quarter where the Mayflower Theatre puts on West End musicals and the SeaCity Museum catalogues Southampton’s seafaring past. Some of England’s most impressive landmarks are an easy drive away, including the Neolithic wonder Stonehenge, the picturesque spa city Bath or Buckingham Palace, Tate Modern and Tower Bridge in the bustling capital of London. Discover 5,000 years of history and more on a Southampton cruise. Southampton

Day 19 Jun 17, 2028 Zeebrugge 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The ultimate fairytale city, Bruges is a snowglobe medieval town brought to life and lovingly preserved. The medieval majesty rises just inland from Zeebruge's busy port and sandy beaches, and the two are linked by the short stretch of the Baudouin Canal. Arrive in Bruges to discover a dreamlike place where time has stood still. Explore the Unesco World Heritage Site centre to wander at leisure among some of the world's most atmospheric streets. View less Laced with pretty canals, winding paths of cobbled stones, and glorious squares surrounded by soaring church spires, Bruges is an irresistible journey back through time. A city for the seasons, see the towering cups of tulips glowing, or snowy layers adding a cosy blanket during winter. The climb is not to be underestimated, but there are few better places to start a visit to Bruges than the ascent up to the 83-metre lookout of the Belfry of Bruges, which rockets up from the city's primary market square. Discover the city's pretty canals, and admire the colour-splashed facades - tangled with ivy - that line up appealingly on their banks. With plenty of museums and galleries among the incredible architecture, Bruges is a city that effortlessly lives up to its heavy hyping, and there are countless cultural attractions to immerse yourself in. Indulge a sweet tooth at the chocolate museum - or sample the wares of countless artisan chocolate shops - to leave this Zeebrugge's port with the most satisfying of tastes lingering. Zeebrugge Zeebrugge port guide Search cruises visiting Zeebrugge

Zeebrugge photo — Day 19 Jun 17, 2028 Zeebrugge 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore The ultimate fairytale city, Bruges is a snowglobe medieval town brought to life and lovingly preserved. The medieval majesty rises just inland from Zeebruge's busy port and sandy beaches, and the two are linked by the short stretch of the Baudouin Canal. Arrive in Bruges to discover a dreamlike place where time has stood still. Explore the Unesco World Heritage Site centre to wander at leisure among some of the world's most atmospheric streets. View less Laced with pretty canals, winding paths of cobbled stones, and glorious squares surrounded by soaring church spires, Bruges is an irresistible journey back through time. A city for the seasons, see the towering cups of tulips glowing, or snowy layers adding a cosy blanket during winter. The climb is not to be underestimated, but there are few better places to start a visit to Bruges than the ascent up to the 83-metre lookout of the Belfry of Bruges, which rockets up from the city's primary market square. Discover the city's pretty canals, and admire the colour-splashed facades - tangled with ivy - that line up appealingly on their banks. With plenty of museums and galleries among the incredible architecture, Bruges is a city that effortlessly lives up to its heavy hyping, and there are countless cultural attractions to immerse yourself in. Indulge a sweet tooth at the chocolate museum - or sample the wares of countless artisan chocolate shops - to leave this Zeebrugge's port with the most satisfying of tastes lingering. Zeebrugge Zeebrugge port guide Search cruises visiting Zeebrugge

Day 20 Jun 18, 2028 Amsterdam 09:00 – 21:00 12.0 hrs ashore Few can resist the grand beauty of Amsterdam’s famous canals, which thread through this place of evocative beauty and thrilling contrast. Open-minded and tolerant, Amsterdam is a place for history buffs and hedonists alike, and its diverse neighbourhoods have something for everyone - whether it’s the beachside relaxation of Bloemendaal, nocturnal thuds of Buiksloterham, or characterful charm of Jordaan. 160 serene canals serve as the arteries of this city, imbuing it with its unique essence. Cruise along concentric waterways, past cherry red and oak-wood cladded houseboats, as you learn of its Golden Age history. Culture is also deep in Amsterdam’s DNA, and the Van Gogh Museum – which pays tribute to the tortured genius of the Dutch post-impressionist artist - stands out among its leading museums and galleries. One of history’s greatest tragedies is also rendered in heart-breaking clarity at Anne Frank House. Visit the site where the precocious teenager hid from the Nazi regime for so long, and the room where she penned the most famous diary ever written. Compact and easily walkable, Amsterdam remains consistently postcard-perfect as you watch bright bicycles trundling over ornate bridges, and stumble across hidden, tulip-decorated courtyards. ‘Gezellig’ is the local word for Amsterdam’s unhurried outlook on life. No translation can quite do the concept justice, but you’ll recognise it instinctively as hours float by in a happy haze browsing De Negen Straatjes street’s independent shops, or as you sip coffee with gooey stroopwafel. Broodje haring - a raw herring sandwich - is Amsterdam’s must-try delicacy, but many visitors find tompouce, a delicious pastry topped with vivid pink icing, a little more to their taste. Amsterdam Amsterdam port guide Search cruises visiting Amsterdam

Amsterdam photo — Day 20 Jun 18, 2028 Amsterdam 09:00 – 21:00 12.0 hrs ashore Few can resist the grand beauty of Amsterdam’s famous canals, which thread through this place of evocative beauty and thrilling contrast. Open-minded and tolerant, Amsterdam is a place for history buffs and hedonists alike, and its diverse neighbourhoods have something for everyone - whether it’s the beachside relaxation of Bloemendaal, nocturnal thuds of Buiksloterham, or characterful charm of Jordaan. 160 serene canals serve as the arteries of this city, imbuing it with its unique essence. Cruise along concentric waterways, past cherry red and oak-wood cladded houseboats, as you learn of its Golden Age history. Culture is also deep in Amsterdam’s DNA, and the Van Gogh Museum – which pays tribute to the tortured genius of the Dutch post-impressionist artist - stands out among its leading museums and galleries. One of history’s greatest tragedies is also rendered in heart-breaking clarity at Anne Frank House. Visit the site where the precocious teenager hid from the Nazi regime for so long, and the room where she penned the most famous diary ever written. Compact and easily walkable, Amsterdam remains consistently postcard-perfect as you watch bright bicycles trundling over ornate bridges, and stumble across hidden, tulip-decorated courtyards. ‘Gezellig’ is the local word for Amsterdam’s unhurried outlook on life. No translation can quite do the concept justice, but you’ll recognise it instinctively as hours float by in a happy haze browsing De Negen Straatjes street’s independent shops, or as you sip coffee with gooey stroopwafel. Broodje haring - a raw herring sandwich - is Amsterdam’s must-try delicacy, but many visitors find tompouce, a delicious pastry topped with vivid pink icing, a little more to their taste. Amsterdam Amsterdam port guide Search cruises visiting Amsterdam

Day 22 Jun 20, 2028 Oslo 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Norway's capital lies at the head of the majestic Oslofjord, encircled by wooded hills and snowcapped peaks. Dating back to the mid-11th century, it was at one time renamed Christiania while under Danish and Swedish rule. An act of Parliament finally changed the name back to Oslo in 1925. With barely half a million inhabitants, Oslo is the smallest among the Scandinavian capitals. Yet it has much to offer - most notably its spectacular scenic beauty, as well as many of the nation's finest cultural achievements. Arriving by ship, your first sight is the imposing Akershus Fortress towering above the docks. With the city center only a few blocks from the pier, you can easily spot the handsome modern City Hall with its two block towers. Dedicated in 1950 to commemorate Oslo's 900-year anniversary, it is the city's most familiar landmark. Many of Norway's leading artists contributed to the decoration of the interior and as a result Socialist modernism in its purest form can be seen here. More extraordinary art works can be admired at Frogner Park, site of the famous Vigeland sculptures depicting a world of human beings and animals in stone. Fine examples of Scandinavian impressionists, referred to as the "Northern Light" artists, are exhibited in the National Gallery. The Munch Museum houses an enormous collection of art bequeathed to the city by Norway's leading artist Edvard Munch. Most of Oslo's historic sites are concentrated on the Bygdoe Peninsula; the Norwegian Folkmuseum, the Viking Ship Museum, the Fram, and the Kon-Tiki Museums are outstanding. Oslo Oslo port guide Search cruises visiting Oslo

Oslo photo — Day 22 Jun 20, 2028 Oslo 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Norway's capital lies at the head of the majestic Oslofjord, encircled by wooded hills and snowcapped peaks. Dating back to the mid-11th century, it was at one time renamed Christiania while under Danish and Swedish rule. An act of Parliament finally changed the name back to Oslo in 1925. With barely half a million inhabitants, Oslo is the smallest among the Scandinavian capitals. Yet it has much to offer - most notably its spectacular scenic beauty, as well as many of the nation's finest cultural achievements. Arriving by ship, your first sight is the imposing Akershus Fortress towering above the docks. With the city center only a few blocks from the pier, you can easily spot the handsome modern City Hall with its two block towers. Dedicated in 1950 to commemorate Oslo's 900-year anniversary, it is the city's most familiar landmark. Many of Norway's leading artists contributed to the decoration of the interior and as a result Socialist modernism in its purest form can be seen here. More extraordinary art works can be admired at Frogner Park, site of the famous Vigeland sculptures depicting a world of human beings and animals in stone. Fine examples of Scandinavian impressionists, referred to as the "Northern Light" artists, are exhibited in the National Gallery. The Munch Museum houses an enormous collection of art bequeathed to the city by Norway's leading artist Edvard Munch. Most of Oslo's historic sites are concentrated on the Bygdoe Peninsula; the Norwegian Folkmuseum, the Viking Ship Museum, the Fram, and the Kon-Tiki Museums are outstanding. Oslo Oslo port guide Search cruises visiting Oslo

Day 23 Jun 21, 2028 Kristiansand, Norway 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore In Kristiansand the MSC cruise of Northern Europe touches the southernmost part of Norway, the region of Sørlandet, where thousands of islands and rocks dot the coast along the Skagerrak straits. As you step ashore from the ship you find yourself in a lively town offering plenty of opportunities and attractions, such as the Kilden Performing Arts Centre, a striking building for its bold architecture, that hosts exhibitions and concerts all year round. The zoo and the Kristiansand amusement park (12 km from the town) are also an experience for the whole family. There are museums like the Vest-Agder that gives the visitor insight into the local culture and history with impressive models of the town with its most representative buildings. The nature museum with its botanical gardens instead hosts the largest collection of cactus plants in Norway. The Sørlandet museum of art hosts a permanent collection of Norwegian art while the imposing canons museum hosts the second largest cannon in the world and a rich collection of military exhibits. If instead you wish to immerse yourself in Kristiansand’s everyday life, visit the fish market, here you can find restaurants where you can enjoy the freshest fish, while there’s a bustling of boats coming and going. Try an experience into the past with a ride on the steam engine train. You can get to the village of Vennes and then get a ticket for the Setesdal railway, which has since the 19th century connected Kristiansand and the other coastal towns to the once remote region of Setesdal. You should not miss an excursion to the delightful town of Lillesand, known as the jewel of the Sørlandet, with picturesque fishermen’s houses that have been turned into holiday homes in an environment of rare charm with the colourful port and ever-present Norwegian nature. Kristiansand, Norway

Day 24 Jun 22, 2028 Skagen 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore On Denmark's northern tip, where the Baltic meets the North Sea, lies Skagen (pronounced "Skain"). Skagen is a fishing town with a maritime history that reaches back to the early Middle Ages. Boasting white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and stunning natural landscapes, the area has lured artists since the mid-19th century, drawn to the radiant light's interplay on the rugged landscapes, seascapes and cityscapes. The town has been featured in world-famous paintings by artists such as Michael and Anna Ancher and P.S. Krøyer, and the area has long enjoyed a rich artistic heritage. Guided bicycle excursions give a unique, up-close perspective on this pretty town, with its picturesque white-picket fenced neighborhoods featuring brightly painted yellow houses crowned by red-tiled roofs. Stroll through one of the many art galleries and museums, such as Skagen Art Museum and the Skagen Odde Nature Center. When it's time to taste the delicacies of the region, head to Pakhuset for a chance to discover one of Skagen's most iconic foods-marinated herring accompanied by Aquavit, a traditional spirit of Scandinavia infused with spices and herbs. A visit to Grenen, where the North and Baltic Seas converge, is a must for all voyagers-you can even straddle the waters with a foot in each mighty sea. Skagen Skagen port guide Search cruises visiting Skagen

Skagen photo — Day 24 Jun 22, 2028 Skagen 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore On Denmark's northern tip, where the Baltic meets the North Sea, lies Skagen (pronounced "Skain"). Skagen is a fishing town with a maritime history that reaches back to the early Middle Ages. Boasting white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and stunning natural landscapes, the area has lured artists since the mid-19th century, drawn to the radiant light's interplay on the rugged landscapes, seascapes and cityscapes. The town has been featured in world-famous paintings by artists such as Michael and Anna Ancher and P.S. Krøyer, and the area has long enjoyed a rich artistic heritage. Guided bicycle excursions give a unique, up-close perspective on this pretty town, with its picturesque white-picket fenced neighborhoods featuring brightly painted yellow houses crowned by red-tiled roofs. Stroll through one of the many art galleries and museums, such as Skagen Art Museum and the Skagen Odde Nature Center. When it's time to taste the delicacies of the region, head to Pakhuset for a chance to discover one of Skagen's most iconic foods-marinated herring accompanied by Aquavit, a traditional spirit of Scandinavia infused with spices and herbs. A visit to Grenen, where the North and Baltic Seas converge, is a must for all voyagers-you can even straddle the waters with a foot in each mighty sea. Skagen Skagen port guide Search cruises visiting Skagen

Day 25 Jun 23, 2028 Copenhagen, Denmark 05:00 – 16:00 11.0 hrs ashore Effortlessly cool and down to earth, Copenhagen is a contemporary, clean and classy highlight of Scandinavia. A city built to be liveable, Copenhagen has refused to compromise, resulting in a forward-thinking metropolis that’s green and clean. Swim in the waters of Havnebadet Islands during summer, or shelter from winter’s bite by snuggling in beside a roaring open fire during winter. You can even hop on a train to Sweden, traversing the famous span of a Nordic Noir star - the Öresund Bridge. It takes just a touch over half an hour to step off the train in Malmö. There’s only one way to truly explore Copenhagen and that’s on two wheels. Easy bike hire schemes will get you moving across this flat city, designed with bikes at the forefront of the mind. Choose a model with electronic assistance to take the strain out of any journey, giving you the freedom to whizz around and explore the modern angular architecture of the centre, and the pastoral colours of Nyhavn waterfront. Head out to the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale - the strikingly-restrained statue is the perfect landmark for Copenhagen; unshowy, self-assured and utterly irresistible. The Danish concept of hygge is very much alive here, and you’ll feel that warm cosy feeling as you visit cafes illuminated by the warm glow of hanging filament bulbs, and stuffed to the brim with thick, dusty books. Home to mega-brewer Carlsberg, Copenhagen is also a city for hop enthusiasts, and there is a thriving craft brewing scene to sample. Danish Smørrebrød sandwiches are a must try, or for something a little more substantial, settle in for a culinary voyage and try a taster menu – the city’s restaurants are littered with Michelin stars. Copenhagen, Denmark Copenhagen, Denmark port guide Search cruises visiting Copenhagen, Denmark

Day 26 Jun 24, 2028 Aarhus 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Different, modern and fun, Aarhus is one of the happiest cities on Earth and is also known as “the smallest big city in the world.” On an MSC cruise, you will be introduced to this incredible place located on the Jutland peninsula in Denmark full of beaches, forests and nature trails to explore. Aarhus is rich in attractions and places not to be missed, including the Jelling rune stones, one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites, along with the fjords and coasts. In 2017, it was also elected the European Capital of Culture and hosts many events, performances and exhibitions. The highlight of the city is Den Gamle By, or the “old city”, much more than an open-air museum. With approximately seventy-five buildings from different periods, the urban life of past centuries is faithfully reproduced in every detail. In addition to traditional shops, there are also schools, the customs office, a theater and much more. It is a perfect attraction for taking a fascinating journey back in time. Looking out over the urban buildings of Den Gamle By, you pass from the 18th century to the 1970s. Another stop not to be missed during your visit of Aarhus is at its town hall: known for its modernist structure, the building was designed by the famous Danish architect Arne Jacobsen and inaugurated on June 2, 1941, on the exact day of the 500th anniversary of the foundation of the city. On your holiday with MSC Cruises, you will also have the opportunity to visit the southern Jutland, a breathtaking natural site with rivers, lakes and areas that offer fantastic views. The city of Silkeborg in particular, rich in culture, is a splendid starting point for enjoying its lakes and beautiful countryside by hiking and exploring the best of Danish nature. Aarhus

Day 27 Jun 25, 2028 Kiel, Germany 08:00 – 23:30 15.5 hrs ashore Arriving on your MSC Cruise of Northern Europe, you will have the chance to visit Kiel, an expanding urban centre on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Kiel became the Imperial military port of Germany in 1871 and, when its canal was opened to connect the Baltic and the North Seas in 1895, the town began to control the largest artificial waterway in the world. Kiel is the ideal location for a relaxing vacation in Germany with an MSC cruise: it is simple and quiet, even during the Kieler Woche international regatta, an event not to be missed by sailing enthusiasts. The few city museums can be visited in one morning, however, if you want to get acquainted with Kiel you cannot ignore its waterways, to which the town is indissolubly bound: they can be visited by taking the Kiellinie footpath or taking a cruise along the Kieler Förde and along the canal. A spacious promenade along the pier will give you the chance to admire a variety of vessels of all sorts, amongst which the dinghies of the sailing school and, from the wet dock in front, the best view one can get of Kiel. 6 km south-west of the centre, in Molfsee, where we find the Schleswig-Holsteinisches Freilichtmuseum. This open air museum shows about seventy traditional buildings taken from the Lande and assembled in miniature villages: the colonial houses still maintain the original furniture – outstanding beds sleeping the entire family in order to keep warm in the freezing winters. While on vacation in Kiel with your MSC Cruise, an excursion will take you to Lubecca, one of the few towns on the northern coasts of Europe that has kept its Medieval glory. For more than two centuries it has been one of the wealthiest and most powerful European cities. The wealth deriving from trade is best expressed through its architecture: from the oldest Rathaus in Germany to the churches with the tallest bell towers and the merchants’ mansions. Kiel, Germany

Day 28 Jun 26, 2028 Bornholm 10:00 – 17:00 7.0 hrs ashore It’s hard not to fall hook, line and sinker for the captivating charms of this whimsical Danish island. With sandy beaches, historic castles and spellbinding scenery, Bornholm could easily become your new favourite destination. Your guide to Bornholm. Nestled in the Baltic Sea, the Danish island of Bornholm is a captivating port call, offering charming fishing towns, sandy beaches and whimsical castle ruins. Already a favourite holiday spot for Swedes and Danes, the island’s culinary merits and idyllic scenery are just the start of Bornholm’s destination appeal. In the capital town of Rønne, where Cunard cruises to Bornholm call, quaint cobbled streets and half-timbered houses stand much as they did a century ago. Discover native pottery at Hjorths Factory, uncover 10,000 years of history at Bornholms Museum or savour an ice cream sitting on the golden sands at your choice of postcard-worthy beaches. Bornholm

Day 29 Jun 27, 2028 Klaipeda, Lithuania 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore When you arrive in Klaipeda, the cruise ship will berth in the only Lithuanian port, one that has been operating since the middle of the 13th century. The historic centre, that dates back to when the city was known as Memel, is built in the typical fashion of the German medieval towns, including the square with the majestic clock tower. Klaipeda is divided into two parts: the new town, right of the river Dane and the old town that develops on the left bank. The latter is built in the classic chessboard layout of the 17th century German towns and still sports handsome trellised buildings like, for example, those in the artisan district: used as warehouses in the past, they now host art galleries, cafés or clubs. There is a variety of sculptures around town, starting from that of the Four Winds, in the port, at the entrance of the terminal where your MSC cruise ship is berthed. Visit the handsome neo-classic Dramos theatre, which is the main building in the square and where you also find a statue dedicated to the poet, Simon Dach. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe also offers two excursions, both along the coast. Palanga, in the north, is the largest Lithuanian seaside resort with a walk that ends at the long pier on the sea. This is located along the ancient Amber Road and it is not rare to find bits of this resin stone on the white beach after a heavy storm. For sure you can admire this stone in the city’s Amber Museum. To the south instead we find the Neringa peninsula, a 98km long sand bar that separates the Curi lagoon from the Baltic Sea and where, in Nida, you find the largest dune in Nothern Europe; this is a UNESCO world heritage site for its importance in the biosphere. Klaipeda, Lithuania Klaipeda, Lithuania port guide Search cruises visiting Klaipeda, Lithuania

Klaipeda, Lithuania photo — Day 29 Jun 27, 2028 Klaipeda, Lithuania 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore When you arrive in Klaipeda, the cruise ship will berth in the only Lithuanian port, one that has been operating since the middle of the 13th century. The historic centre, that dates back to when the city was known as Memel, is built in the typical fashion of the German medieval towns, including the square with the majestic clock tower. Klaipeda is divided into two parts: the new town, right of the river Dane and the old town that develops on the left bank. The latter is built in the classic chessboard layout of the 17th century German towns and still sports handsome trellised buildings like, for example, those in the artisan district: used as warehouses in the past, they now host art galleries, cafés or clubs. There is a variety of sculptures around town, starting from that of the Four Winds, in the port, at the entrance of the terminal where your MSC cruise ship is berthed. Visit the handsome neo-classic Dramos theatre, which is the main building in the square and where you also find a statue dedicated to the poet, Simon Dach. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe also offers two excursions, both along the coast. Palanga, in the north, is the largest Lithuanian seaside resort with a walk that ends at the long pier on the sea. This is located along the ancient Amber Road and it is not rare to find bits of this resin stone on the white beach after a heavy storm. For sure you can admire this stone in the city’s Amber Museum. To the south instead we find the Neringa peninsula, a 98km long sand bar that separates the Curi lagoon from the Baltic Sea and where, in Nida, you find the largest dune in Nothern Europe; this is a UNESCO world heritage site for its importance in the biosphere. Klaipeda, Lithuania Klaipeda, Lithuania port guide Search cruises visiting Klaipeda, Lithuania

Day 30 Jun 28, 2028 Riga 10:00 – 18:00 8.0 hrs ashore Rīga is the largest, liveliest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, a great city to visit when you are on a MSC cruise to Latvia. A heady mixture of the medieval and the contemporary, the city has much to offer architecture and history enthusiasts in the narrow cobbled streets of Old Rīga and the wide boulevards of the New Town, where beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture line Strēlnieku iela and Alberta iela. The city also has all the trappings of a modern capital, with efficient and affordable public transportation, excellent shopping, and a notoriously exuberant nightlife. An MSC Cruises excursion is a good way to experience Old Rīga, grouped loosely around Town Hall Square and Cathedral Square, which forms the city’s nucleus and is home to most of its historic buildings. With its cobbled streets, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards, it gives the impression of stepping back in time. To the east, Old Rīga is bordered by Bastejkalns Park, beyond which lies the New Town. Built during rapid urban expansion between 1857 and 1914, its wide boulevards are lined with four- and five-storey apartment buildings, many decorated with extravagant Art Nouveau motifs. If you want to see the city unfold before you, with its melange of church domes, vast parks, ribbon of river and squat Soviet creations, follow the urban throng to Šķūņu iela to St Peter’s Church, a large red-brick structure with a graceful three-tiered spire; climb the tower for excellent panoramic views. From the doors of St Peter’s Church, Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) is straight ahead and dominated by the House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams), whose facade is an opulent masterpiece of Gothic architecture and which once served as the headquarters of Rīga’s bachelor merchants, who adopted the North African, non-white St Maurice as their patron (hence the name “Blackheads”). Riga Riga port guide Search cruises visiting Riga

Riga photo — Day 30 Jun 28, 2028 Riga 10:00 – 18:00 8.0 hrs ashore Rīga is the largest, liveliest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, a great city to visit when you are on a MSC cruise to Latvia. A heady mixture of the medieval and the contemporary, the city has much to offer architecture and history enthusiasts in the narrow cobbled streets of Old Rīga and the wide boulevards of the New Town, where beautiful examples of Art Nouveau architecture line Strēlnieku iela and Alberta iela. The city also has all the trappings of a modern capital, with efficient and affordable public transportation, excellent shopping, and a notoriously exuberant nightlife. An MSC Cruises excursion is a good way to experience Old Rīga, grouped loosely around Town Hall Square and Cathedral Square, which forms the city’s nucleus and is home to most of its historic buildings. With its cobbled streets, narrow lanes and hidden courtyards, it gives the impression of stepping back in time. To the east, Old Rīga is bordered by Bastejkalns Park, beyond which lies the New Town. Built during rapid urban expansion between 1857 and 1914, its wide boulevards are lined with four- and five-storey apartment buildings, many decorated with extravagant Art Nouveau motifs. If you want to see the city unfold before you, with its melange of church domes, vast parks, ribbon of river and squat Soviet creations, follow the urban throng to Šķūņu iela to St Peter’s Church, a large red-brick structure with a graceful three-tiered spire; climb the tower for excellent panoramic views. From the doors of St Peter’s Church, Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) is straight ahead and dominated by the House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams), whose facade is an opulent masterpiece of Gothic architecture and which once served as the headquarters of Rīga’s bachelor merchants, who adopted the North African, non-white St Maurice as their patron (hence the name “Blackheads”). Riga Riga port guide Search cruises visiting Riga

Day 31 Jun 29, 2028 Tallinn, Estonia 12:00 – 21:00 9.0 hrs ashore Tallinn, Estonia’s compact, buzzing capital, with its enchanting heart surrounded by medieval walls, has been shaped by nearly a millennium of outside influence. A cruise of the Baltic Sea with MSC Cruises can take you to visit the heart of Tallinn, its Old Town, still largely enclosed by the city’s medieval walls. At its centre is the Raekoja plats, the historic marketplace, above which looms Toompea, the hilltop stronghold of the German knights who controlled the city during the Middle Ages. Raekoja plats, the cobbled market square at the heart of the Old Town, is as old as the city itself. On its southern side stands the fifteenth-century Town Hall (Raekoda), boasting elegant Gothic arches at ground level, and a delicate steeple at its northern end. Near the summit of the steeple, Vana Toomas, a sixteenth-century weather vane depicting a medieval town guard, is Tallinn’s city emblem. The well-labelled and informative museum inside the cellar hall depicts Tallinn town life through the ages, and there is a good view from the belfry. For an even better view of the town square, climb the spiral staircase of the Town Hall Tower. The fourteenth-century Church of the Holy Ghost (Puhä Vaimu kirik) on Pühavaimu is the city’s oldest church, a small Gothic building with stuccoed limestone walls, stepped gables, a carved wooden interior, a tall, verdigris-coated spire and an ornate clock from 1680 – the oldest in Tallinn. Contrasting sharply is the late Gothic St Nicholas’s Church (Niguliste kirik), south-west of Raekoja plats. It now serves as a museumof church art, including medieval burial stones and the haunting Danse Macabre (“Dance With Death”) by Bernt Notke. Tallinn, Estonia

Day 32 Jun 30, 2028 Helsinki, Finland 07:00 – 20:00 13.0 hrs ashore "A thriving, flawlessly-designed seaside city, Helsinki is famously livable and inspiring. A regional powerhouse of outstanding design and creativity, Helsinki lies across a confetti scattering of 300 islands and skerries in the Gulf of Finland. Known for the light granite hue of its buildings - which lend the city a bright, whitewashed appearance - traditional buildings mingle seamlessly with bold new structures, showcasing Finland's celebrated design outlook. Helsinki Cathedral is the crowning glory - rising high over the city's waterfront with its pearly white domes gleaming. View less A city that reveres knowledge and creativity above all else, artworks and statues litter the streets and parks, honouring creative minds of the past. Open parks offer space to lie back and soak up summer's sun, while sculptures like the abstract organs of the Sibelius Monument celebrate national heroes like composer Jean Sibelius - whose music gave Finland national identity in the quest for independence. Feel the stunning acoustics of the incredible Rock Church deep in your gut, as you witness a performance in this collaboration between man and nature. Built into the rock underground, the amphitheatre's soaring copper bowl roof is suspended dramatically on a bed of glass windows. One of Helsinki's many incredible buildings, the Design Museum offers a comprehensive insight into the city's balance of style, function and form. Helsinki's easy-going, forward-thinking way of life was hard fought for, and the spectacular Suomenlinna fortress rears out of the waves as a reminder of the historical struggles that have played out in this stretch of sea. The chain of forts covers six islands and was built to defend the archipelago when it fell under Swedish rule. Sail out to the quaint little beaches, and waterfront pathways that now lend a calm, peaceful ambience to this UNESCO World Heritage Site." Helsinki, Finland Helsinki, Finland port guide Search cruises visiting Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland photo — Day 32 Jun 30, 2028 Helsinki, Finland 07:00 – 20:00 13.0 hrs ashore "A thriving, flawlessly-designed seaside city, Helsinki is famously livable and inspiring. A regional powerhouse of outstanding design and creativity, Helsinki lies across a confetti scattering of 300 islands and skerries in the Gulf of Finland. Known for the light granite hue of its buildings - which lend the city a bright, whitewashed appearance - traditional buildings mingle seamlessly with bold new structures, showcasing Finland's celebrated design outlook. Helsinki Cathedral is the crowning glory - rising high over the city's waterfront with its pearly white domes gleaming. View less A city that reveres knowledge and creativity above all else, artworks and statues litter the streets and parks, honouring creative minds of the past. Open parks offer space to lie back and soak up summer's sun, while sculptures like the abstract organs of the Sibelius Monument celebrate national heroes like composer Jean Sibelius - whose music gave Finland national identity in the quest for independence. Feel the stunning acoustics of the incredible Rock Church deep in your gut, as you witness a performance in this collaboration between man and nature. Built into the rock underground, the amphitheatre's soaring copper bowl roof is suspended dramatically on a bed of glass windows. One of Helsinki's many incredible buildings, the Design Museum offers a comprehensive insight into the city's balance of style, function and form. Helsinki's easy-going, forward-thinking way of life was hard fought for, and the spectacular Suomenlinna fortress rears out of the waves as a reminder of the historical struggles that have played out in this stretch of sea. The chain of forts covers six islands and was built to defend the archipelago when it fell under Swedish rule. Sail out to the quaint little beaches, and waterfront pathways that now lend a calm, peaceful ambience to this UNESCO World Heritage Site." Helsinki, Finland Helsinki, Finland port guide Search cruises visiting Helsinki, Finland

Day 33 Jul 1, 2028 Tallinn, Estonia 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Tallinn, Estonia’s compact, buzzing capital, with its enchanting heart surrounded by medieval walls, has been shaped by nearly a millennium of outside influence. A cruise of the Baltic Sea with MSC Cruises can take you to visit the heart of Tallinn, its Old Town, still largely enclosed by the city’s medieval walls. At its centre is the Raekoja plats, the historic marketplace, above which looms Toompea, the hilltop stronghold of the German knights who controlled the city during the Middle Ages. Raekoja plats, the cobbled market square at the heart of the Old Town, is as old as the city itself. On its southern side stands the fifteenth-century Town Hall (Raekoda), boasting elegant Gothic arches at ground level, and a delicate steeple at its northern end. Near the summit of the steeple, Vana Toomas, a sixteenth-century weather vane depicting a medieval town guard, is Tallinn’s city emblem. The well-labelled and informative museum inside the cellar hall depicts Tallinn town life through the ages, and there is a good view from the belfry. For an even better view of the town square, climb the spiral staircase of the Town Hall Tower. The fourteenth-century Church of the Holy Ghost (Puhä Vaimu kirik) on Pühavaimu is the city’s oldest church, a small Gothic building with stuccoed limestone walls, stepped gables, a carved wooden interior, a tall, verdigris-coated spire and an ornate clock from 1680 – the oldest in Tallinn. Contrasting sharply is the late Gothic St Nicholas’s Church (Niguliste kirik), south-west of Raekoja plats. It now serves as a museumof church art, including medieval burial stones and the haunting Danse Macabre (“Dance With Death”) by Bernt Notke. Tallinn, Estonia

Day 34 Jul 2, 2028 Stockholm Arrives 09:00 Without a doubt Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and a vacation in Sweden with an MSC cruise will prove it. Built on no fewer than fourteen islands, where the fresh water of Lake Mälaren meets the brackish Baltic Sea, clean air and open space are in plentiful supply here. An MSC cruise of Northern Europe will give you the opportunity to appreciate its port front, reach the Baltic Sea and experience the atmospheres with a tour of the town where broad boulevards lined with elegant buildings are reflected in the deep blue water, and rows of painted wooden houseboats bob gently alongside the cobbled waterfront. But Stockholm is also a hi-tech metropolis, as you will find out on your excursion on land during your cruise, with futuristic skyscrapers and a bustling commercial heart. The old town, Gamla Stan, is a district with cobbled streets and narrow alleyways huddled together on a triangular-shaped island. Today the area is an atmospheric mixture of buildings surrounded on all sides by a latticework of medieval lanes and alleyways. The district of Norrmalm swaps tradition for a thoroughly contemporary feel: this is downtown Stockholm where you’ll find shopping malls, huge department stores and conspicuous, showy wealth. In the green island of Djurgården you can see an extraordinary 17th century warship, the Vasa, rescued and preserved after sinking in Stockholm harbour. Cross Norrbron or Riksbron from the Riksdagshuset and up rears the most distinctive monumental building in Stockholm, Kungliga Slottet – a low, square, yellowy-brown construction, with two arms that stretch down towards the water. It’s uniform and sombre outside, but with a magnificent Rococo interior that’s a swirl of staterooms and museums. Itssheer size is quite overwhelming: you should not miss the Royal Apartments and the Treasure Room. The former are used for royal receptions and the second keeps a collection of crowns studded with precious stones. Stockholm Stockholm port guide Search cruises visiting Stockholm

Stockholm photo — Day 34 Jul 2, 2028 Stockholm Arrives 09:00 Without a doubt Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and a vacation in Sweden with an MSC cruise will prove it. Built on no fewer than fourteen islands, where the fresh water of Lake Mälaren meets the brackish Baltic Sea, clean air and open space are in plentiful supply here. An MSC cruise of Northern Europe will give you the opportunity to appreciate its port front, reach the Baltic Sea and experience the atmospheres with a tour of the town where broad boulevards lined with elegant buildings are reflected in the deep blue water, and rows of painted wooden houseboats bob gently alongside the cobbled waterfront. But Stockholm is also a hi-tech metropolis, as you will find out on your excursion on land during your cruise, with futuristic skyscrapers and a bustling commercial heart. The old town, Gamla Stan, is a district with cobbled streets and narrow alleyways huddled together on a triangular-shaped island. Today the area is an atmospheric mixture of buildings surrounded on all sides by a latticework of medieval lanes and alleyways. The district of Norrmalm swaps tradition for a thoroughly contemporary feel: this is downtown Stockholm where you’ll find shopping malls, huge department stores and conspicuous, showy wealth. In the green island of Djurgården you can see an extraordinary 17th century warship, the Vasa, rescued and preserved after sinking in Stockholm harbour. Cross Norrbron or Riksbron from the Riksdagshuset and up rears the most distinctive monumental building in Stockholm, Kungliga Slottet – a low, square, yellowy-brown construction, with two arms that stretch down towards the water. It’s uniform and sombre outside, but with a magnificent Rococo interior that’s a swirl of staterooms and museums. Itssheer size is quite overwhelming: you should not miss the Royal Apartments and the Treasure Room. The former are used for royal receptions and the second keeps a collection of crowns studded with precious stones. Stockholm Stockholm port guide Search cruises visiting Stockholm

Day 36 Jul 4, 2028 Klaipeda, Lithuania 12:00 – 20:00 8.0 hrs ashore When you arrive in Klaipeda, the cruise ship will berth in the only Lithuanian port, one that has been operating since the middle of the 13th century. The historic centre, that dates back to when the city was known as Memel, is built in the typical fashion of the German medieval towns, including the square with the majestic clock tower. Klaipeda is divided into two parts: the new town, right of the river Dane and the old town that develops on the left bank. The latter is built in the classic chessboard layout of the 17th century German towns and still sports handsome trellised buildings like, for example, those in the artisan district: used as warehouses in the past, they now host art galleries, cafés or clubs. There is a variety of sculptures around town, starting from that of the Four Winds, in the port, at the entrance of the terminal where your MSC cruise ship is berthed. Visit the handsome neo-classic Dramos theatre, which is the main building in the square and where you also find a statue dedicated to the poet, Simon Dach. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe also offers two excursions, both along the coast. Palanga, in the north, is the largest Lithuanian seaside resort with a walk that ends at the long pier on the sea. This is located along the ancient Amber Road and it is not rare to find bits of this resin stone on the white beach after a heavy storm. For sure you can admire this stone in the city’s Amber Museum. To the south instead we find the Neringa peninsula, a 98km long sand bar that separates the Curi lagoon from the Baltic Sea and where, in Nida, you find the largest dune in Nothern Europe; this is a UNESCO world heritage site for its importance in the biosphere. Klaipeda, Lithuania

Day 37 Jul 5, 2028 Bornholm 10:00 – 17:00 7.0 hrs ashore It’s hard not to fall hook, line and sinker for the captivating charms of this whimsical Danish island. With sandy beaches, historic castles and spellbinding scenery, Bornholm could easily become your new favourite destination. Your guide to Bornholm. Nestled in the Baltic Sea, the Danish island of Bornholm is a captivating port call, offering charming fishing towns, sandy beaches and whimsical castle ruins. Already a favourite holiday spot for Swedes and Danes, the island’s culinary merits and idyllic scenery are just the start of Bornholm’s destination appeal. In the capital town of Rønne, where Cunard cruises to Bornholm call, quaint cobbled streets and half-timbered houses stand much as they did a century ago. Discover native pottery at Hjorths Factory, uncover 10,000 years of history at Bornholms Museum or savour an ice cream sitting on the golden sands at your choice of postcard-worthy beaches. Bornholm Bornholm port guide Search cruises visiting Bornholm

Bornholm photo — Day 37 Jul 5, 2028 Bornholm 10:00 – 17:00 7.0 hrs ashore It’s hard not to fall hook, line and sinker for the captivating charms of this whimsical Danish island. With sandy beaches, historic castles and spellbinding scenery, Bornholm could easily become your new favourite destination. Your guide to Bornholm. Nestled in the Baltic Sea, the Danish island of Bornholm is a captivating port call, offering charming fishing towns, sandy beaches and whimsical castle ruins. Already a favourite holiday spot for Swedes and Danes, the island’s culinary merits and idyllic scenery are just the start of Bornholm’s destination appeal. In the capital town of Rønne, where Cunard cruises to Bornholm call, quaint cobbled streets and half-timbered houses stand much as they did a century ago. Discover native pottery at Hjorths Factory, uncover 10,000 years of history at Bornholms Museum or savour an ice cream sitting on the golden sands at your choice of postcard-worthy beaches. Bornholm Bornholm port guide Search cruises visiting Bornholm

Day 38 Jul 6, 2028 Kiel, Germany 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore Arriving on your MSC Cruise of Northern Europe, you will have the chance to visit Kiel, an expanding urban centre on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Kiel became the Imperial military port of Germany in 1871 and, when its canal was opened to connect the Baltic and the North Seas in 1895, the town began to control the largest artificial waterway in the world. Kiel is the ideal location for a relaxing vacation in Germany with an MSC cruise: it is simple and quiet, even during the Kieler Woche international regatta, an event not to be missed by sailing enthusiasts. The few city museums can be visited in one morning, however, if you want to get acquainted with Kiel you cannot ignore its waterways, to which the town is indissolubly bound: they can be visited by taking the Kiellinie footpath or taking a cruise along the Kieler Förde and along the canal. A spacious promenade along the pier will give you the chance to admire a variety of vessels of all sorts, amongst which the dinghies of the sailing school and, from the wet dock in front, the best view one can get of Kiel. 6 km south-west of the centre, in Molfsee, where we find the Schleswig-Holsteinisches Freilichtmuseum. This open air museum shows about seventy traditional buildings taken from the Lande and assembled in miniature villages: the colonial houses still maintain the original furniture – outstanding beds sleeping the entire family in order to keep warm in the freezing winters. While on vacation in Kiel with your MSC Cruise, an excursion will take you to Lubecca, one of the few towns on the northern coasts of Europe that has kept its Medieval glory. For more than two centuries it has been one of the wealthiest and most powerful European cities. The wealth deriving from trade is best expressed through its architecture: from the oldest Rathaus in Germany to the churches with the tallest bell towers and the merchants’ mansions. Kiel, Germany

Pricing

Lowest fare we've tracked over the observed 78-day span: $6,167 · range $6,167–$6,214

Current prices

Per person · 2 guests · incl. taxes & fees

Inside

from $6,214

$163 / night

Fare rows

Interior Two Lower Beds

Cabin grade

Available

from $6,214

$163 / night

per person · incl. taxes & fees

Oceanview

from $6,981

$183 / night

Fare rows

Oceanview Two Lower Beds (Obstructed View)

Cabin grade

Available

from $6,981

$183 / night

per person · incl. taxes & fees

Balcony

from $8,353

$219 / night

Fare rows

Balcony Two Lower Beds

Cabin grade

Available

from $8,353

$219 / night

per person · incl. taxes & fees

Suite

from $10,375

$273 / night

Fare rows

Mini Suite with Balcony

Cabin grade

Available

from $10,375

$273 / night

per person · incl. taxes & fees

Prices verified Aug 20, 2026

Prices come from third-party data feeds via Princess Cruises and may differ from the cruise line's current fare. Confirm the final price before booking. How our pricing works

Lowest fares with no residency, age, or service requirement — verify eligibility at booking. How our pricing works

Price history

Cheaper than 12%

30 days

We've tracked this sailing's fares every day for the past 82 days. Here's what each cabin type has cost — today's fare is cheaper than 12% of days we've recorded.

Price history by cabin type
Cabin	Current	Lowest	Highest
Inside	$6,215	$6,168 · Jun 4	$6,215 · Jun 17
Oceanview	$6,982	$6,588 · Jun 4	$6,982 · Jun 17
Balcony	$8,354	$8,354 · Jun 17	$8,368 · Jun 4
Suite	$10,376	$10,248 · Jun 4	$10,376 · Jun 17

Lowest and highest fares we've recorded for each cabin type · verified 3 days ago.

○ = last seen (sold out or delisted). · Verified 3 days ago.

Lowest fares with no residency, age, or service requirement — verify eligibility at booking. How our pricing works

Cabin grades

Lines step when the price changed; a gap means sold out or no public fare that day. Plot up to 6 at once.

Show all 34 cabin grades

Cabin grades and pricing
Name	Supplier code	Type
Premium Balcony	B1	Balcony
Premium Balcony	B2	Balcony
Premium Balcony	B4	Balcony
Balcony Two Lower Beds	BA	Balcony
Balcony Two Lower Beds	BB	Balcony
Balcony Two Lower Beds	BC	Balcony
Balcony Two Lower Beds	BD	Balcony
Balcony Two Lower Beds	BE	Balcony
Balcony Two Lower Beds	BF	Balcony
Interior Two Lower Beds	IA	Inside
Interior Two Lower Beds	IB	Inside
Interior Two Lower Beds	IC	Inside
Interior Two Lower Beds	ID	Inside
Interior Two Lower Beds	IE	Inside
Interior Two Lower Beds	IF	Inside
Oceanview Two Lower Beds	OC	Oceanview
Oceanview Two Lower Beds	OE	Oceanview
Oceanview Two Lower Beds	OF	Oceanview
Oceanview Two Lower Beds (Obstructed View)	OV	Oceanview
Oceanview Two Lower Beds (Obstructed View)	OW	Oceanview
Oceanview Two Lower Beds (Obstructed View)	OY	Oceanview
Oceanview Two Lower Beds (Obstructed View)	OZ	Oceanview
Club Class Mini-Suite	M1	Suite
Mini Suite with Balcony	MB	Suite
Mini Suite with Balcony	MD	Suite
Mini Suite with Balcony	ME	Suite
Grand Suite with Balcony	S1	Suite
Owner's Suite with Balcony	S2	Suite
Penthouse Suite with Balcony	S3	Suite
Penthouse Suite with Balcony	S4	Suite
Premium Suite with Balcony	S5	Suite
Vista Suite with Balcony	S6	Suite
Suite with Window	S7	Suite
Family Suite with Balcony	S8	Suite