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An Extended Viking Lore of Fjords & Hanseatic Cities Itinerary
Day 1 - Copenhagen
Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.
Day 2 - Gothenburg
Nature is never far away in this happy city circled by Dutch-style canals. Explore a vibrant cultural scene and fascinating history for true escapism. Discover the ancient wooden houses of the charming Haga district, the Gunnebo House, botanical gardens, boutiques, boulevards and the crumbliest, flakiest pastries for fika breaks. As a world leader in brewing beer and an equally proud fishing pedigree, settle in for long lunches of shellfish platters, globally acclaimed lobster and Poppels beer. Venture out to the beautiful islands of Marstand and Vinga or see it all on an archipelago tour. With a truly positive Swedish and scenic outlook, you’ll end the day feeling refreshed and revitalised.
Day 3 - Oslo
Not many cities are greener – in habitat or sustainability - than Oslo. With over half Norway’s capital city being covered by forests and parks, it’s only natural that the fjord creeps into the city centre. Nature aside, there’s so much more to explore; music, museums, opera, the Vigeland Sculpture Park and one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Learn about the works of Edvard Munch and the importance of climate change or attend a private aquavit tasting and the Royal Palace. Embark on an aquatic safari, boat jaunt or bike tour. Then consider concluding your day with a classic finish – plunge fjord deep in for some stimulating cold-water therapy. They say these organic city waters are as clean as they are unique.
Day 5 - Stavanger
Have a sensory delight in this thriving fishing port - with a million brush strokes of colour and some of the best restaurants in the country. Once you’ve dined in style, wander around the historic buildings of Gamle Stavanger, where traditional white wooden houses sit amongst galleries and craft stores. Amble along to cheerful Øvre Holmegata street - known as ‘The Street of Colours’ - where endless colours coat every building. Cruise along the Lysefjord, say grace at the Utstein Monastery and hover by helicopter above a structure forming rainbows. Your only judgement for the day will be whether the paintings that adorn the walls, doors and even the buses outshine the Michelin-starred fine dining.
Day 7 - Hamburg
Known as the gateway to the world and bearing the most bridges, immerse yourself with Hamburgers to the sound of canals and cuisine, architecture and music. Prepare to be submerged in culture; from affluent villas to modest Almshouses, the last castle, an inner-city lake, a floating landing platform, the neo-Renaissance Town hall, an industrial underground tunnel and baroque masterpiece, St Nicholas Church. Wander to the solid brick warehouse district of UNESCO Hafen City; touch the shining wave of glass of the futuristic Elbphilharmonie, listen to crystal clear acoustics that pair with Sydney’s Opera House and enjoy views of the River Elbe. Hamburg offers unique, memorable entertainment - for all your senses.
Day 8 - Rotterdam
Approach this modern metropolis crammed with diverse Dutch character… and Pilgrim beer. Where canal creased streets create unique architecture and cube-shaped houses. Art critics will muse over masterpieces from the great Dutch Masters at The Mauritshuis, The Rijksmuseum and The Vermeer Centre. Whilst food lovers and technologists can appreciate Tomatoworld’s greenhouse horticulture and their ambitious plans to feed the world. Then bend away from glassy, high-rise buildings to pre-war Holland for ancient windmills, Picasso sculptures and medieval Loevestein Castle. Home to shiny new shopping centres, apartment blocks, wide streets and a diverse population, Rotterdam really is ‘Manhattan on the Meuse’. And, of course, they do have the girl with a pearl earring.
Day 9 - Zeebrugge
Fill your senses with wonderful Flemish flavour in UNESCO-praised Bruges. Relax amongst tree-lined canals and cobbled pathways to learn secrets of the city’s world-famous chocolate. Partake in beer tasting, beer blending and beer sinking. Explore the medieval streets of the old town for classic cathedrals, gabled facades and unique Art Deco taverns. Head out to the pretty countryside, ride along canals and shop for comic books, lace and yet more chocolate. And as you slowly savour the taste of Belgian sustainable culture, enjoy a classic waffle that melts in your mouth.
Day 10 - Southampton
Sail into this vibrant quay with enough shops and entertainment to form its own village. Modern and lively, this coastal town bustles with waterfront restaurants, heritage charm, bars, cinemas and offers great access to other spots in the South of England. Sit back and drift through heavenly countryside to ancient Stonehenge, see if the Queen’s at home in Windsor, learn secrets from the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery or slip up to London for some rich British culture. Then enjoy a cup of tea as you reflect on formal traditions, perfect your cockney accent and recall England’s green and pleasant lands.