Copenhagen and the Baltic Sea

• Day 1 UK - Copenhagen (Denmark)
  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.
• Day 2 Karlskrona (Sweden)
  Karlskrona is made up of 33 different linked islands, just a small part of the 1650 islands that are the Blekinge archipelago. Established as a naval base in 1680 by King Karl XI and named after him, Karl’s crown, it’s still an active base today. Karlskrona was built to impress. Sweden’s only baroque city had one day hoped to replace Stockholm as capital and although it was not to be, a feeling of grandeur and exclusivity remains. The beautifully preserved buildings and churches are a wonderful testament to this history and along with the port, were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1998. At the heart of the city is Stortorget, a huge market square built in the style of a Roman Piazza. A statue of founder King Karl XI takes centre place and surveys the busy market held there several times a week. Browse the surrounding specialty shops or try one of the many delicious restaurants. It’s just the occasion to try local delicacies like delicious stuffed potato dumplings or fabulous fresh fish. You’re never far from the water though and the Navel Museum is a fascinating place to get a real sense of the history of the archipelago. Very interactive, it’s a popular attraction. Climb aboard ships and submarines or gaze at ancient shipwrecks from an underwater tunnel. Being Sweden’s sunniest city makes it easy to explore the ravishing natural scenery by foot, bike, kayak or boat. Follow a network of extensive trails to discover rugged coastland, forests, streams and lakes by water or land.
• Day 3 Visby
  Sweden's holiday island of choice Visby is a pretty medieval city that has been delightfully frozen in time. A dramatically walled Hanseatic trading centre Visby faces out across a 60-mile gulf towards the Swedish mainland. An island of sparse scenic landscapes Gotland is dotted with quiet fishing villages roaming sheep and unusual limestone natural structures. With beautiful beaches as well as spell-binding history crowds from across Scandanavia and beyond set sail for these escapist shores every summer. Set on the Baltic Sea's largest island the steep medieval walls of Visby are at once a gorgeously picturesque and incredibly imposing welcome to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The oldest section the red-roof capped Gunpowder Tower is one of Sweden's oldest surviving constructions. Inside the walls the elegant Cathedral of St. Mary's rises with its pair of pepper-pot towers. Visby has an irresistible tangle of medieval streets with photo-opportunities waiting around every narrow bend. The scattering of ruined churches adds another layer of eerie beauty while a splash of colour is provided by blooming botanical gardens thriving within the island's mild climate. A place of rich history visit museums to learn the island's whole story - from its formation to the ancient inhabitants who have occupied its shores. For the best view head to Hogklint - a coastal cliff area on the south of Visby. Or explore the island via beautiful coastal bike trails.
• Day 4 Stockholm
  Emerald spires puncture the sky across Sweden’s alluring capital, a leafy place of history, culture and waterfront perfection. Innovative and inventive, Stockholm is a city looking to the future, but with a firm grip of its envied past. Stylish Stockholm has enough to occupy you for a lifetime, from cathedral-like food markets to simmering baths and natural escapes. Visit the staggeringly beautiful interior of Stockholm's City Hall, or learn more about one of Sweden’s best-known exports – with a visit to the ABBA museum. The history is deep, and the architecture typically stylish, as you explore this capital of Scandi cool. The Gamla Stan old town is a storied historic core of cobbled streets and brightly hued, towering townhouses standing side by side. Attractive squares fill with the smells of fried herring from traditional restaurants, while the latest culinary trends sweep through the city's revered kitchens. Breathe in the crisp, clean air and relish the tranquillity and atmosphere of a truly great and grand Baltic city. Stockholm's visitors and residents spill outdoors in the summertime, to the city's beaches, and the archipelago's scattering of 24,000 islands and islets nearby. Steamboats puff scenic routes between them. Stockholm itself sprawls across 14 islands, interlinked with dozens of arching bridges. Shimmering canals and leafy green parks offer peace and sanctuary within the city, while trendy bars, coffee shops and rooftop cocktail joints add to the hip and happening appeal. Stockholm's bustling shopping streets also showcase cutting edge trends for the fashion-conscious.
• Day 5 Stockholm
  Emerald spires puncture the sky across Sweden’s alluring capital, a leafy place of history, culture and waterfront perfection. Innovative and inventive, Stockholm is a city looking to the future, but with a firm grip of its envied past. Stylish Stockholm has enough to occupy you for a lifetime, from cathedral-like food markets to simmering baths and natural escapes. Visit the staggeringly beautiful interior of Stockholm's City Hall, or learn more about one of Sweden’s best-known exports – with a visit to the ABBA museum. The history is deep, and the architecture typically stylish, as you explore this capital of Scandi cool. The Gamla Stan old town is a storied historic core of cobbled streets and brightly hued, towering townhouses standing side by side. Attractive squares fill with the smells of fried herring from traditional restaurants, while the latest culinary trends sweep through the city's revered kitchens. Breathe in the crisp, clean air and relish the tranquillity and atmosphere of a truly great and grand Baltic city. Stockholm's visitors and residents spill outdoors in the summertime, to the city's beaches, and the archipelago's scattering of 24,000 islands and islets nearby. Steamboats puff scenic routes between them. Stockholm itself sprawls across 14 islands, interlinked with dozens of arching bridges. Shimmering canals and leafy green parks offer peace and sanctuary within the city, while trendy bars, coffee shops and rooftop cocktail joints add to the hip and happening appeal. Stockholm's bustling shopping streets also showcase cutting edge trends for the fashion-conscious.
• Day 6 Helsinki (Finland)
  "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. 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."
• Day 7 Mariehamn
  Sprinkled across the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Finland, no fewer than 6,700 islands and skerries make up this archipelago, which boasts rich seafaring tradition. Settled between the mighty Baltic sea capitals of Stockholm and Helsinki, Mariehamn is the comparatively pocket-sized capital of the Åland Islands, and a place of low-key, breezy appeal. Discover a walkable town's streets where flowerbeds bloom, peacocks strut, and hammers tap away in traditional craft shops. Summer nights at this latitude are long and leisurely, with the sun barely taking rest during the midnight sun's months. Blessed with extra hours, make excellent use of them by lounging in the cafes, or enjoying the hikes, beaches and wholesome foods of this fractured, confetti-spread archipelago. Named as one of Finland’s best museums, Åland's maritime museum is a seafaring voyage through the islands’ proud traditions - where you can see a genuine skull and crossbones flag - which once flew above a pirate ship - before stepping aboard the Pommern windjammer ship museum. The capital’s Western Harbour was once home to the world's largest fleet of wooden sea-sailing ships, which traded around the world. Leisurely, signposted walks along the coastline will provide more details on this illustrious history. The islands have also been treacherous over the years, however, and hundreds of wrecks rest below the waves, tempting scuba divers to explore. It was in the skeletal confines of one doomed ship where the world’s oldest champagne was discovered in 2010. Some of the prized bottles, dating back to the 1840s, are now on display in the town’s museum.
• Day 8 Tallinn (Estonia)
  A fairytale city of new and old, Tallinn boasts one of the best-preserved UNESCO listed old towns in Northern Europe, and balances the traditional and contemporary astutely. A beautiful Baltic capital of storied culture and history, Tallinn is riding the wave of a burgeoning reputation as Europe's hidden gem, and it boasts a picturesque allure that few cities can rival. Having endured countless occupations in its history, Estonia finally gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has been hell-bent on progressive, forward-thinking policies ever since. The European City of Culture award in 2011 was a symbol of the country's increasing integration with the European Union, and offered Tallinn a chance to showcase and upgrade its cultural marvels. Walk into the old town through Viru Gates, past flower vendors and the smells of roasting nuts. Town Hall Square is the heart and soul of Tallinn, and when you walk the narrow cobbled streets that open out into it, you’re walking the same pathways that Tallinn's people have walked since the 13th century. Surrounded by practically complete medieval walls, lose yourself in deep museums, and visit pretty churches like St. Olaf church - one of the city's most famous, with its sharp green spire puncturing the sky. Head to Kohtuotsa platform in the upper town for views of the city's sea of red roofs, interrupted by church towers and rounded turrets. From here, climb Toompea Castle's central hill, before visiting the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - easily recognisable by its bold colours and trio of black onion domes.
• Day 9 Tallinn
  A fairytale city of new and old, Tallinn boasts one of the best-preserved UNESCO listed old towns in Northern Europe, and balances the traditional and contemporary astutely. A beautiful Baltic capital of storied culture and history, Tallinn is riding the wave of a burgeoning reputation as Europe's hidden gem, and it boasts a picturesque allure that few cities can rival. Having endured countless occupations in its history, Estonia finally gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has been hell-bent on progressive, forward-thinking policies ever since. The European City of Culture award in 2011 was a symbol of the country's increasing integration with the European Union, and offered Tallinn a chance to showcase and upgrade its cultural marvels. Walk into the old town through Viru Gates, past flower vendors and the smells of roasting nuts. Town Hall Square is the heart and soul of Tallinn, and when you walk the narrow cobbled streets that open out into it, you’re walking the same pathways that Tallinn's people have walked since the 13th century. Surrounded by practically complete medieval walls, lose yourself in deep museums, and visit pretty churches like St. Olaf church - one of the city's most famous, with its sharp green spire puncturing the sky. Head to Kohtuotsa platform in the upper town for views of the city's sea of red roofs, interrupted by church towers and rounded turrets. From here, climb Toompea Castle's central hill, before visiting the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - easily recognisable by its bold colours and trio of black onion domes.
• Day 10 Riga (Latvia)
  Centred around a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site listed Old Town, Latvia’s capital is a quirky and artistic place - with an extensive collection of gleaming art-deco architecture. Trolleybuses trundle the streets, while the Old Town harbours 800 years of Hanseatic history. Church spires rocket up across the skyline, combining with sleek new architecture and spruced up Soviet-era remnants. With a quirky underbelly and beautifully preserved fairytale architecture, it’s no wonder Riga is affectionately known as the Baltic Berlin. Ascend the tower of St. Peter's Church for a view down over the gingerbread-architecture below. The House of Blackheads is one of the city’s standouts, a historic trade guild’s meeting place, it adds grace and grandeur to the spacious town square. The much-photographed Three Brothers lean together with their pastel-shaded facades and idiosyncratic personalities. Look out across the River Daugava for an example of modern Riga - the steel and glass of the National Library building. The Freedom Monument stands a full 42 meters tall and is a proud statue, marking Lativa’s incredibly hard-won independence. Cavernous hangers – that once housed bomber zeppelins from the First World War – now host one of Europe’s biggest and best food markets. Soak up the smells and sights of Riga Central Market, where you can taste pickles, smoked herring and piragis – local rolls, stuffed with bacon. Take time out in brightly painted cafes and flower-laced courtyards, which serve up refreshments and dizzyingly strong, self-brewed, craft beers. Or head to the greenery of Bastejkalna Park to stroll the banks of the canal and over ornate bridges.
• Day 11 At Sea
  Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
• Day 12 Gdansk (Poland)
  Gdansk, one of Poland’s oldest and most beautiful cities, sits on the edge of the Baltic Sea. Looking around today, it’s difficult to imagine that during World War II, much of the city was reduced to rubble. Painstakingly reconstructed with great skill, the Hanseatic architecture and historical treasures rose like a phoenix from the ruins. Head to the city centre and walk in the footsteps of Polish royalty down the Royal Route, which leads to many of Gdansk’s best-preserved treasures. Passing through majestic stone gates is the wonderful Amber Museum. Learn all you need to know about amber or Baltic gold as it’s known. It’s been collected and worked for over 6000 years in Gdansk, a major contributor to the city’s wealth. Through the Golden Gate lies Dluga street, peek behind the exquisite facades and visit some of the beautifully restored town houses. Stroll on past landmark buildings like the soaring Town Hall, ending up on the very photogenic Mariacka street. Along the waterfront is the striking, modern architecture of the World War II Museum, a poignant space, in the very city where the first shots of the war were fired. The excellent exhibitions leave few unmoved and has rapidly become one of Gdansk’s top attractions. More recent history is explained wonderfully at the European Solidarity Centre down by the shipyards. The trade union “Solidarity” was formed in the 1980’s and Poland’s’ struggle to topple Communism began. Gdansk has certainly earnt its place in the history books of Europe.
• Day 13 Ronne (Denmark)
  Boats entering the port of Ronne, on the rocky island of Bornholm, are welcomed by the sight of St Nicolas’s church - patron saint of seafarers, towering over the harbour, guiding the ships in. Bornholm sits in the Baltic Sea between Denmark and Sweden and is popular for Scandinavians in search of a break from city life. The outstanding open countryside, sandy beaches and quaint villages make it the perfect get away. Ronne is charming with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, painted in sunny yellow and orange colours. Maybe along with the mild weather, the bright colours are why the island is often referred to as “Sunshine Island”. On summer days head to one of the many beaches. Norrekas is popular being right in the town and Antoinette, has a long stretch of inviting, fine sand and clear water. Captivated by the natural beauty of the island, many artists and craftspeople live and work here. Potters have long been attracted to the high-quality clay found locally, glassblowing has recently flourished, silver smiths and textile artists have found inspiration too, many have open galleries and workshops and welcome visitors. Word has spread over recent years about the high-quality foods produced on the island from traditional smoke house fare, farm shops, microbreweries and even licorice. No doubt explaining the growing numbers of excellent restaurants. So what better way to get to know Ronne than trying delicious local ingredients and settling back to admire the scenery at a slower pace.
• Day 14 Warnemunde (Germany)
  Imbued with wealth from their time as a Hanseatic trading power, Rostock and Warnemunde offer a bright and breezy, Baltic escape. The beachy Warnemunde resort lies close to the port, offering some of the best sands in northern Germany. Emerging from the shackles of an East German past, discover a welcoming place of festivals, sandy beaches and colourful architecture - and a port gateway to Berlin. Warnemunde beams when the sun is shining - breathe in hearty lungfuls of salty sea air and enjoy leisurely strolls along wide bands of sandy beach. The picturesque lighthouse, dating back to 1898, adds a charming accent, while the clamshell-shaped Teepott building is an unusual leftover from the East German heritage. The old fishermen’s houses add an extra layer of colourful heritage. Stroll the waterfront, beside repurposed, painted timber warehouses. Grab a fried fish sandwich to keep you going, or settle into a beer garden with a local pils, to toast the wide waterfront views. Don’t overlook Rostock in the dash for the beach. A larger city, it waits on the mouth of the Warnow River, and its stack of tall trading houses stand either side of the Kropeliner Strasse street, adding a splash of vibrant colour, and some excellent shopping opportunities. Wander to the pretty-in-pink City Hall, and breathe in the fragrances of the blooming Botanical Gardens. The intricate astronomical clock, which dates back to the 15th-century and displays exemplary, intricate craftmanship is a feature of Rostock’s St. Mary’s Church.
• Day 15 Copenhagen (Denmark) - UK
  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. The excursions are provided as a sample of what may be offered on this voyage and are subject to change. We are constantly updating our shore excursion programme with immersive and authentic experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your tour programme choice closer to your sail date. We invite guests to visit my.silversea.com for the most updated information.

Copenhagen and the Baltic Sea Itinerary