27-Day Northern Lights Cultural Crossing Collectors' Voyage

Often called the gateway to Europe, the port city of Rotterdam is full of old-world charm. The harbor offers amazing views and a maze of wharves and canals, along with towering spires make for a beautiful sight. Take a stroll and duck into one of the pubs or eateries along the way. Only three pre World War II buildings in the city centre have survived and are worth a look - city hall, St. Laurence church and the White House. Explore the Museum Boymans van Beuningen, which houses a unique collection dating from the 14th century, or the Museum Voor Volkenkunde - home to ethnological exhibits. Exquisite architecture can be seen in many areas of Rotterdam, most notably in the Delfshaven quarter of the city - where 18th century houses are on display. For a laugh, check out Kijk-Kubus, an upside-down house.

A charming village and urban area at the mouth of Oldeelva river, Olden is a short distance from the Briksdalsbreen glacier, a popular hiking destination. In town, travelers can compare the deep red “new” Olden Church, built in 1934, to the white “old” Olden church, built in 1759.

Although a popular cruise destination, Norway’s Viking capital is often overlooked by other travelers in favor of Oslo and the fjords. Yet Norway’s third-biggest city has plenty to offer those who make the time to explore. The compact city center, enclosed by the Nidelva River, is easy to get around on foot. Within a couple of hours you can explore the main downtown sights and still have time for a bite to eat. The medieval Gothic grandeur of the Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see, as is the historic riverside Bakklandet neighborhood just a few steps away. Despite so much history, the city has a youthful feel to it, thanks to the dominance of NTNU, Norway’s leading technology university. The presence of thousands of students means Trondheim scores well on café culture and shopping. Music lovers will feel right at home here. The Rockheim and Ringve museums chronicle the importance of music to the city’s past, while vinyl stores and basement bars showcase the present.

Gateway to the Arctic and overhung by lofty snowcapped peaks, it's still a bright and lively place, thanks to the Midnight Sun. Visit the Tromso and Polar Museums for fascinating displays of wildlife and Arctic explorations.

Gateway to the Arctic and overhung by lofty snowcapped peaks, it's still a bright and lively place, thanks to the Midnight Sun. Visit the Tromso and Polar Museums for fascinating displays of wildlife and Arctic explorations.

Alta, a 2½-hour drive from Hammerfest, is the commercial center at the head of Altafjord -- home to some 12,000 inhabitants. Since 1791, the Sami people have come here to trade at the markets each March and December. Alta is situated at the 70th latitude, where pine forests and fertile land cover the wide valley, making it the northernmost place on earth where it is possible to grow barley.

Alta, a 2½-hour drive from Hammerfest, is the commercial center at the head of Altafjord -- home to some 12,000 inhabitants. Since 1791, the Sami people have come here to trade at the markets each March and December. Alta is situated at the 70th latitude, where pine forests and fertile land cover the wide valley, making it the northernmost place on earth where it is possible to grow barley.

The Molde area is rich in scenic attractions, including the Trollstigen Mountain Road, the Atlantic Road, and the 222 mountain peaks of Molde Panorama that offer exceptional vistas for photographers to capture. Go for a hike, explore the local caves, or stay in town and enjoy the excellent shopping and dining that Molde has to offer.

Beautiful Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is one of the most popular ports of call on a cruise up the fjords. Step off the ship into the medieval Bryggen wharf area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, where small boats line the harbor and wooden gabled buildings stand proud along the waterfront. Bergen’s rich maritime tradition goes back nearly 1,000 years, including the years the town played an important part in the Hanseatic League, the trading empire that dominated maritime commerce in the region between the 14th and 18th centuries. The city is one of Europe’s oldest settlements, and its cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways lead to emerald-green parks, medieval cathedrals and stone fortresses that kept enemies at bay centuries ago. It's also eminently walkable, with historic buildings and excellent markets selling everything from fish and produce to trinkets and souvenirs. Surrounded by mountains and thick forest, and sitting halfway between Geiranger to the north a…

Although part of the United Kingdom, Shetland’s roots are as much Norse as Scottish. This is reflected in the archipelago's many archaeological sites, cultural events and a unique dialect that borrows heavily from Old Norse. Although economically driven by energy, in particular the North Sea oil industry and a growing number of wind farms, Shetland’s heritage of fishing and textile production lives on. Tradition also drives the islands’ main festivals, including the world-famous Viking-themed Up Helly Aa festival of fire held every January, and smaller folk festivals held throughout the year. Located midway between Scotland, Norway and the Faroe Islands, the archipelago is home to diverse animal life including the iconic Shetland ponies, easily recognizable by their distinctive short legs and heavy fur coats. Get a closer look at the ponies and the unique black Shetland sheep on the scenic drive to the remarkable Bronze Age archaeological site at Jarlshof. If you choose to linger in L…

A stop in Amsterdam offers the chance to explore the sights of one of Europe’s most colorful, dynamic and historic cities—one with a well-earned reputation as a laid-back and inviting place for people of all stripes. Visitors are naturally drawn to the historic city center where you’ll find some of the world’s top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. And at Dam Square, the Amsterdam’s largest public square, you can tour the Royal Palace before continuing to the tourist attractions on the Canal Belt. The iconic network of waterways that surrounds the downtown area offers a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing by bike or canal boat. Be sure to visit the floating Bloemenmarkt to peruse famed Dutch tulips, and take time to wander and window-shop among the narrow lanes of de Jordaan. And you won’t have to look far in Amsterdam to find delicious Dutch treats along the way. Just duck into a cozy brown café to sample a plate of bitterballen with mustard and a beer,…

From this busy port city tour to canal-laced Brugge; Brussels, home of the European Union; and Ghent, mecca for chocolate lovers. Sample shore excursion: Antwerp, City of Diamonds.

Lying on the southern coast of Cornwall, Falmouth is a seaside gem. Explore Pendennis and St. Mawes Castles, built in the 16th century by Henry VIII. Stop by the National Maritime Museum or visit the cathedral in nearby Truro. Wander the quaint streets to discover local eateries and shops, and walk along the area’s fine beaches. Sample shore excursions: Tremendous Trebah & Stunning St. Ives; Spectacular Fowey; Classic Old England.

Near the port city of Hamilton, King's Wharf offers a visit to the Royal Navy Dockyard, with its Georgian-style fort and the Bermuda Maritime Museum. Set your watch by the town's clocktower - but be aware: one face tells the time, the other indicates the time of high tide.

There is an abundance of things to see and do in the Ft. Lauderdale area: visit the newly redesigned Ft. Lauderdale Beach and cafes, stroll the historic Riverwalk, shop the luxurious stores on Las Olas Boulevard or adventure to the Everglades for an intriguing air boat excursion.