Amsterdam, The Netherlands - Amsterdam is a great city in which to discover the charms of northern Europe. The graceful canals of its central district are lined with beautiful gabled houses. It's many grand art museums display masterpieces of Rembrandt and Vermeer, and the largest collection of Van Gogh's work is found here. Fine food is also easy to find along with ample opportunities for shopping (including excellent vintage finds). This great city is well worth a day or two's stay before or after your cruise.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Alesund, Norway - The picturesque Art Nouveau town of Älesund has a beautiful setting across several islands stretching out into the sea, and is situated at the very entrance to the world heritage listed Geirangerfjord. The town is also an excellent starting point for round trips to some of Norway's most popular tourist attractions. Ålesund is internationally renowned for its unique architecture in the Art Nouveau style. The town was devastated by fire a winter's night in 1904, laying 850 houses in ashes and leaving 10.000 people homeless. During a remarkably short period of time, the new Ålesund was rebuilt in the unique architectural style, especially significant from 1890-1910, with a myriad of turrets, spires and medieval ornaments. The Art Nouveau Centre portrays the town's unique position in Norwegian architectural history.

Bergen, Norway - A key member of the medieval Hanseatic League of Merchants, Bergen has had plenty of practice combining commerce with community. In this delightful city, you will find pleasure in the Bryggen waterfront district and marketplace, or travel out of town for some great backcountry hikes. On the shores of Nordnes Lake is Troldhaugen—the historic home of composer Edvard Grieg.

Geiranger, Norway - Welcome to the Jewel in the Crown of Norway's fjords. Geiranger Fjord was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, but the area has been luring tourists since the turn of the 19th century. Take the Waterfall Walk to the heart of the cascades. Climb the Skywalk for Europe's highest fjord view with Norway cruises. Explore Geiranger by bike or on foot, or hop in a raft or kayak for a view from the water. Once you've taken in your fill of mountain air, stroll the quaint village center. Indulge your sweet tooth at the local artisan chocolate shop, or sit back at a cafe with a coffee and a krumkake — a rolled cake with whipped cream in the center — and enjoy the view.

Stavanger, Norway - Perched on Norway's dramatic western coast, Stavenger is a city full of historic architecture, quaint cafes and ocean views. Check out Gamle Stavanger, the picturesque old town, where you'll find well-preserved wooden buildings dating back to the 18th century painted in unique pastel hues. Learn more about the Vikings at the Museum of Archaeology, or visit 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral — thanks to a series of rebuilding efforts over the years, it features architectural elements from Romanesque to ornate Baroque. Then, take the short trip to Prekestol, the "Preacher's Pulpit," a rocky natural viewing point overlooking Lyse Fjord.