11-Day Baltic from Helsinki to London: France, Germany & Belgium

Welcome to Scandinavia's “White City of the North,” a city defined more by its people and Art Nouveau architecture than its chilly climate (from October to April). Helsinki is a classic sea-city, with a dramatic coastline coloured by bays and inlets. The city keeps its historical roots intact. Explore more of Helsinki on a European cruise!

The capital of Estonia impresses cruise guests with its mix of medieval houses and very modern boutiques and café culture. Journey inside the ancient walls of Old Town to explore stunning Medieval landmarks like Toompea Castle and a 15th Century apothecary shop. Move up a couple centuries to experience Tsar Peter I's Kadriorg Palace, filled with art and surrounded by sculpted gardens and peaceful woodlands.

When your cruise ship pulls into this small Swedish port, you'll be greeted by ferries transporting travellers to Gotland island. Nynashman hosts a harbour party each summer where boaters and travellers alike flock. The small and laidback town offers picture-taking opportunties from the surrounding scenic nature and of course, the Baltic Sea.

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. Mergelės Marijos Taikos Karalienės Church tower and walk through Anika Square. Head to the pristine Baltic waters lapping at the broad sands of Smiltynė Beach. Or duck into the Clock Museum or Castle Museum.

Stroll the beautiful waterfront of Gdynia before heading to nearby Gdansk, the largest city in northern Poland. For a taste of local life, walk along bustling Long Market lined with delicious cafes and unique boutiques. Explore the sites of historic Old Town, which was restored after being destroyed in World War II. Tour St. Mary’s Church – one of the world’s largest brick cathedrals – or visit the Maritime Museum for a glimpse into the past of this ancient port city. Explore more of Gdynia on a European cruise!

Just a hop from Warnemünde, you can visit medieval Rostock or tour the beautiful Mecklenburg countryside by train. But the big ticket here is an excursion to Berlin, where history comes alive in fantastic museums, Prussian palaces, grand monuments like the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building, famed for its controversial architecture.

The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, is filled with canals, cobbled squares and copper spires. But don't let the historic appearance fool you. This is also Scandinavia's most cosmopolitan city. Certainly you can relive medieval times in The Latin Quarter, but you can also enjoy some of Europe's finest shopping, museums, cafes and nightlife prior to your cruise around the Baltics. Explore more of Copenhagen on a European cruise!

History, culture and architecture intertwine in Amsterdam among its narrow lanes and numerous canals. Featuring more bridges than Venice, enjoying a canal tour is a great way to take in the many sights of Amsterdam (and get some great photo ops). Art lovers won't want to miss the Van Gough Museum and the Rijksmuseum while history buffs will want to make time for the Anne Frank House and the Amsterdam Museum.

Rebuilt after World War II, this busy port is gateway to picturesque Normandy, Honfleur and the spires of Rouen. Or spend the day in Paris, the City of Lights and gastronomic, fashion and cultural capital of the world.

Protected from the frequent storms of the English Channel by the Isle of Wight, Southampton has survived a turbulent history to serve as a principal port of the United Kingdom today. Pay homage to one of the most famous ships to sail these shores at the Mayflower Memorial. Visit the stoic walls of Bargate and the Tudor House Museum.