Soak up the unfathomable beauty of Norwegian fjords, and sample Danish classics from picturesque canals and bridges to modern architecture and Tivoli. You may find it challenging to decide which view is better – looking towards the quaint villages on shore as you cruise deep blue fjords or viewing the fjords from the winding alleyways and Old Towns on land. Fortunately, you won’t have to choose. Enjoy the scenery from all sides as you ride the Loen Skylift to the top of Mt. Hoven, a funicular up Mt. Floyen, a “troll car” to the bottom of Briksdal Glacier, and the mountain-climbing Flam Railway, one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. But don’t overlook all the other irresistible sights beyond the scenery. There are charming Old Towns to explore in Arendal and Aalborg with 15th-century half-timbered houses and a gigantic wooden Town Hall. Historic wharves in Copenhagen and Bergen as full of color and character as any you’ll find in a Hans Christian Andersen storybook. And a multitude of other attractions from palaces and stone circles to world-famous Tivoli Gardens.

This historic city of palaces, canals, and copper spires casts a sense of enchantment upon all who walk its cobbled streets. Little wonder that Copenhagen’s favorite son, Hans Christian Andersen, was inspired to write some of the world’s most beloved fairy tales here. Stroll the 17^th century Nyhavn waterfront where Andersen once lived, complete with colorful row houses and historic tall ships. Enjoy world-class shopping on Strøget, the world's longest pedestrian street. Or find your amusement at world-famous Tivoli Gardens where tree-lined pathways lead to theaters, open air stages, restaurants, cafes, and over 80 attractions.

Aalborg is found in the Jutland region of Denmark on the shores of Limfjord. This university city is full of Viking history, 21st century architecture and a quaint medieval center. This is a small port that only allows one cruise ship at a time. Visit Skanse Park with its stunning view of the city and the fjord. Grab a drink at Jomfru Ane Gade, a charming street packed with locals frequenting the bars and restaurants there.

Arendal is a coastal town in Southern Norway known as the “Venice of the North”.  There’s something for everyone in this bustling town and charming archipelago.   Visit one of the many museums, wander through town, or visit the old church, a stone church dating back to the 13th century.  Arendal is filled with rich history waiting to be explored

Here’s a day for exploration. Your ship will dock in the very city center near the oldest part of town. A short stroll will take you to Stavanger Cathedral, the best preserved medieval cathedral in Norway, the city center and cobblestone pedestrian streets. Just an hour’s boat trip away is the 2,000-foot-high Pulpit Rock with its magnificent views of the lovely Lysefjord.

A tiny town of only 500 residents, yet people have been traveling here from all over since the end of the 19th century. You’ll understand why when you arrive. Take one of the world’s most breathtaking railroad journeys up the mountain to gasp at the fjord below.

The pleasant small village of Olden is located at the inner end of the 66-mile long Nordfjord, the sixth longest fjord in Norway.   Long known for tourism and industry, it is now also famous for contemporary design.  With fewer than 500 inhabitants Olden is an ideal destination for people who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, and is the gateway to Jostedal, the largest glacier on the European mainland. If you can, find a bottle of Olden Mineral Water, as close as you will get to a glacier on tap.

ANDALSNES, Norway

Colorful Bryggen, Bergen’s Hanseatic quay and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is so delightful you may find it difficult to explore further. But do. Watch the Huldras (forest nymphs) dance at Kjosfossen Waterfall, wander the narrow smau between the old buildings climbing the hillside.

Colorful Bryggen, Bergen’s Hanseatic quay and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is so delightful you may find it difficult to explore further. But do. Watch the Huldras (forest nymphs) dance at Kjosfossen Waterfall, wander the narrow smau between the old buildings climbing the hillside.