SWMBO and I have been looking into other cruise lines since we aren't sure we want to pay the "Disney Tax". In the process, I ran across these excursions from Celebrity, which might be a taste of what is available. (Apologies in advance for the long post).
Oslo, Norway
Take a scenic drive through this impressive capital passing by some of the more prestigious architectural highlights including the Parliament Building, the National Theater and the Royal Residence. Visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park, a fascinating, 80-acre outdoor gallery containing 150 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. This master sculptor created a wonderful world of human and animal figures in stone, iron and bronze. Among them is a striking depiction of the human life cycle, its focal point a 50-foot high obelisk using more than 100 linked forms.
Hadeland Glass Works & Viking Ships - OS05
Trace the history of these hardy adventurers and learn of Norway's maritime heritage as well as observe a two-century-old craft of glass blowing. You will drive through this impressive capital city, past City Hall, the National Theater, and the Royal Palace as you make your way from the ship to Bygdoy Peninsula en route to the Viking Ship Museum.
The Viking Museum is reminiscent of a cathedral, which seems proper homage to the three Viking long ships housed there, dating from the period of 800-900 AD. Unearthed during 19-century excavations, the ships were found buried along the city's fjord. Well preserved and endearingly maintained, you will be amazed at the incredible artisanship these ships display. The museum also offers you a chance to see the vast collection of sleds, implements, and gold and silver jewelry found with the ships.
Rejoin the coach to travel through the suburban areas and farmland of Jevnaker County to the 230-year old Hadeland Glassworks. During your visit, you will learn about the glassworks history and its development through more than two centuries. You will watch glass blowers at work and creating beautiful pieces of art from sand and molten glass. You will have time to visit the museum with its unique collection of glass articles from the beginning of the 18th century through today. Time permitting; you can visit the glass shop for gifts and souvenirs. Coffee and light pastries will be served in a local establishment prior to the return to the vessel.
Henie Onstad Art Center - OS34
You will begin your tour from the pier when you board your coach for a scenic drive through Norway's capital city. You will pass by some of the more prestigious architectural highlights including the Parliament Building, the National Theater, and the Royal Residence. You will visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park, a fascinating, 80-acre outdoor gallery containing 150 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Funded by the city, this master sculptor created a wonderful world of human and animal figures in stone, iron, and bronze. Among them is a striking depiction of the human life cycle, its focal point a 50-foot-high obelisk using more than 100 linked forms. Vigeland never explained his work, leaving interpretation to the beholder.
From the Vigeland Sculpture Park, you will continue on to the Henie Onstad Art Center. The Center is beautifully situated by the Oslo fjord and is surrounded by an extensive park area with sculptures from the Henie Onstad Collection. In addition to six exhibition halls (nearly 10,000 sq. ft.), the Art Center also includes a library, an auditorium, a workspace for children, a cafe and restaurant and a museum shop that sells art books, prints, posters, exhibition catalogues and designer products. After your tour of the Henie Onstad Art Center, you will re-board your coach for the return ride to the ship.
Hiking the Nordmarka Forest - OS06
Depart the pier on foot for a 15-minute walk to the Theatre Subway Station to board a train for a 25-minute ride up into the hills of the Holmenkollen area. Debark at the Frognerseteren Station to begin your hiking adventure. You will hike approximately 4 miles (7 km) through Nordmarka, a favorite weekend destination for many Oslo citizens seeking outdoor recreation in both winter and summer months. You will walk to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump area from where the views over the city, fjord, islands and skerries are beautiful. Continue on the Holmenkollen Subway to the downtown area where you will walk from the train station back to the vessel.
Norwegian Adventure - OS02
This tour gives you the opportunity to trace the history of these hardy adventurers and learn of Norway's maritime heritage. Drive through this impressive capital city, past City Hall, the National Theater and the Royal Palace as you make your way from the ship to Bygdoy Peninsula. Along the fjord, you will also see the pleasure boat harbors and glimpse the little Castle of Oscarhall, built around 1950 by King Oscar I.
At the Viking Ship Museum, see three authentic Viking long ships, as well as items recovered from the burial mounds of chieftains around the Oslofjord. These well-preserved artifacts, dating from 800 AD, were unearthed during 19th century excavations.
The Kon-Tiki Museum is the home of the balsa raft used by the modern-day adventurer Thor Heyerdahl to cross the Pacific from Peru to Polynesia in 1947. You will also see the papyrus boat, RA II, which he sailed across the Atlantic in 1970.
Visit the popular Norwegian Seafarers Museum, which offers an attractive setting astride the Oslo fjord, and provides a unique insight into the Norwegians' relationship with their marine environment. Your guide will lead you on a journey through the many exhibits concentrating on commercial hunting, fishing, shipbuilding, marine archaeology and many other fascinating sites. There are hundreds of model boats, and a new attraction featuring Ivo Caprino's Super-videograph (wide-angle over 5 screens), offering a unique perspective on the collections presented in the purpose-built auditorium.
Viking Heritage - Tour OS04
Experience the history and culture of the Viking people with a visit to the Viking Ship Museum, Open-Air Folk Museum, Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Holmenkollen ski jump. Driving from the pier, pass the 13th-century Akershus Fortress. See the Town Hall, inaugurated in 1950, just in time for Oslo's 900th anniversary. You will pass the National Theater and Royal Residence before leaving the city center and traveling through the suburbs on your way to the peninsula of Bygdoy, home today to many museums.
Visit the Viking Ship Museum with excellent examples of the Viking periods daring initiative and shipbuilding artisanship. Next to the Viking Ship Museum, you will visit the Norwegian Folk Museum, a vast permanent exhibition showing the way town and country people used to live in bygone days. Your walk will take you through parts of the open-air museum consisting of 150 buildings, including one of Norway's unique stave churches.
Continue to Vigeland Sculpture Park, Norway's most visited attraction where you will view the fantastic sculptures in bronze, granite and iron. There will be a photo stop at the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, where you can take in the view of the fjord and city of Oslo.
Oslo Walking Tour with City Hall - OS07
Begin with a guided walk along the pier, passing the statue of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Stop at City Hall, a modern landmark containing the works of some of Norway's most distinguished artists including such items as frescoes, woodcarvings, sculptures and murals representing many aspects of Norwegian life. See a monumental painting by Henrik Sorensen. The visit will acquaint you with the history of this more than 900-year old city. Leaving City Hall, a short walk will take you to the front of the National Theatre. Passing statues of famous Norwegians and the apartment of Henrik Ibsen, reach the Royal Palace with its surrounding garden. From there, proceed to the main street Karl Johan, passing the University of Oslo and learning more about the author Henrik Ibsen who passed by there every day. Follow in his footsteps to the Grand Cafe, the meeting point of the "Bohemians" in the 1890s. On you return to the ship, you will cross in front of the Parliament Building founded 1866 and walk through the Akershus Fortress, once a medieval castle and Royal Residence. The site offers photo opportunities over the harbor.
Copenhagen, Denmark
A Taste of Denmark Walking Tour - CP04
A special tour that will introduce you to Denmark with its tasty products and specialties. The tour will start at the pier where you will meet your guide and drive to the King's New Square in one of the shuttle buses.
From the King's New Square a short walk will take you to Amalienborg Palace - the residence of the Royal Family. You will continue passing the beautiful Marble Church while making your way to The King's Street. In this street is the well known Ida Davidsen's restaurant you will be able to check out the long list of famous Danish open sandwiches which dates back to 1888. Only a couple more minutes walk and you will pass by one of the oldest wine stores in the city that has been in the location for almost 125 years now. Your adventure continues through charming passages and streets to Kransekagehuset home of the delicious Summerbird chocolate and pastry. You will also pass by different specialty stores, bakeries and special outdoor fruit stands.
During the tour you will have 1 refreshment stop and taste some Danish products. The tour ends at the King's Square. Return by shuttle bus to the ship.
Castles of North Zealand - CP08
This full-day excursion will take you through the beautiful countryside of North Zealand to visit the famous Castles. You will depart from the pier traveling out north of the city along the coastal road known as the Danish Riviera, where you will enjoy a lovely view of the sea and impressive manor houses.
Stop in the town of Elsinore for an exterior visit of Kronborg Castle (viewing the ramparts and courtyard). Dating from 1582, Kronborg was immortalized when Shakespeare chose it as his setting for the tragedy of Hamlet. From the castle's ramparts, enjoy a wonderful view across Oresund, the narrow stretch of water dividing Denmark and Sweden. Afterwards, continue to the charming village of Fredensborg for a short photo stop at Fredensborg Palace, the spring and autumn residence of the Royal Family set amid magnificent parkland. A Danish smorgasbord lunch will be served in a local North Zealand inn.
You'll visit the magnificent Renaissance-style Frederiksborg Castle, serving as the National Museum of History. The grounds include a charmingly small chapel housing the oldest working organ in the world. On your return to the ship, following a scenic road through the lush Danish countryside, you'll pass traditional thatched-roof homes and rolling fields. Time permitting; a stop will be made for shopping in downtown Copenhagen before returning to the ship.
Copenhagen By Bicycle - CP01 Tour
Follow the harbor front passing the Langelinie Yacht Marina and stop at the Little Mermaid, which has become a symbol of Denmark. Peddle along the park and harbor front to the Water Fountain of Gefion, continue to the modern, but elegant Amaliehaven Square, with the Queen's castle, Amalienborg right behind the square. Near the Amalienborg Palace, you will come to the Nyhavn canals. Nyhavn was previously the sailors quarter, but has today been converted into a fashionable promenade with restaurants and bars.
Cross the New King's Square where the Royal Theatre is located and continue pass Kongens Have - the lush green park next to Rosenborg Castle. Continue to Nyboder - the tiny yellow painted houses, which in 17th century were built by the Danish builder king, Christian IV, for the families of the Navy - and which still is the criteria for living in Nyboder.
Copenhagen Harbor Tour - CP05
Enjoy 850 years of Danish history as you glide along the waterways of what was once the capital of Scandinavia. Pass through the pier area for a short transfer to Gammel Strand (former fish market), where you will board your canal boat for this scenic tour. Motor past the Christiansborg Castle, the Old Stock Exchange, and the picturesque Nyhavn canal area. Enjoy cruising through the narrow canals of old Christianshavn while passing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and many of the city's quaint houseboats before the canals open up to Copenhagen harbor. Pass the Royal Library's new building, The Black Diamond, and have time for photographs of Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid. Sailing through the city's scenic canals, your tour will end at the Old Fish Market, where you will transfer back to the ship.
Danish Heritage with Lake Cruise - CP60
Your 4-hour coach and boat tour begins with a drive by coach through one of Copenhagen's modern suburbs, northwest of the city. You will see an example of how a modern development contrasts with old and original village life and how the two can be integrated without striking *******. There you will see charming, old-world thatched cottages in a secluded area surrounded by a modern, 20th century suburban community. Unlike many large cities Copenhagen's expansion has been limited by a number of laws designed to protect and preserve the environment. As a result, a short drive from the center of the city will take you into areas of unspoiled countryside.
Your tour continue on to "Frilandsmuseet" - an open air museum of Danish farms, windmills and cottages, all of which have been dismantled and transported to their present site for re-assembly, forming a rural environment of bygone ages. From Frilandsmuseet, your tour continues to Frederiksdal which is an area of great natural beauty. Here you will board one of the small boats that ply the lovely "Mill Stream" and the surrounding lakes. Your boat trip along the Mill Stream to Lyngby will pass a number of the many mills, some of which can trace their history back to the 15th century and from which the stream takes its name. Upon arrival in Lyngby, you will return to the pier.
Rosenborg Castle & Tivoli Gardens - CP19
Copenhagen - the capital city of the kingdom of Denmark since 1417, has a long history as the "Royal" city of Denmark, having been associated with a long line of monarchs well before its proclamation as the capital. The location of the city, at the mouth of the Baltic and astride the trade routes between continental Europe and Scandinavia, made it the obvious choice for the Danish monarchs, who once reigned over Sweden and Norway as well. Once the city had won royal favour, it attracted the barons, earls and nobility with their retinues and traces of the wealth, remain for all to see, in the form of imposing palaces, mansions and churches.
The tour will take you to Rosenborg Castle, built between 1606 and 1617 by King Christian IV - a prodigious instigator of building and construction work, who today is often referred to as the "builder-king." Today, the castle houses a fine collection of porcelain silverware and fine art, which have belonged to Danish monarchs through the ages, as well as the Crown Jewels and Coronation regalia. From Rosenborg Castle, you will drive through the heart of Copenhagen and see the Royal Theatre and Town Hall Square.
Continue to Tivoli Gardens & Theme Park - the fairy tale gardens and theme park, which opened its gates in 1843. Stroll through the park admiring the romantic lakes, pavilions, flower decorations and the vivid life of the Danes. Before you return to the departure point, pass by Amalienborg Palace- the residence of the Royal Danish Family- the residence of the Royal Danish Family as well as one at the world famous statue of The Little Mermaid, the fairytale creation of Hans Christian Andersen.
Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany
Amazing Rostock with Brewery - WA06
The tour begins with an approximate 30-minute drive through the outskirts of Rostock and into the downtown area. With narrow streets that are mostly closed to traffic, begin your exploration of Rostock with its historic center of ancient Hanseatic buildings, starting at Holy Cross Convent where the ancient town wall meets the gardens of the monastery.
Further along, see the impressive building of Northern Europe's oldest University.
Enclosed in an ensemble of Renaissance and Classical buildings this is definitely worth a photo stop. Not to be missed is the courtyard of the monastery of the holy cross where the ancient town wall meets the gardens of the monastery.
Proceed to the new market where the pink town hall dominates before visiting one of the oldest brick churches in town; St. Mary's Church with its world famous astronomical clock dating back to the 14th century.
Next to the church, the coach will transfer you to the "Hanseatic Brewery of Rostock," the only brewery of nearly 150 breweries that has survived the test of time. Inside, learn about the brewing process, one of the oldest laws governing food in the world. It almost goes without any saying that a beer tasting is mandatory for guests. When you have finished your beer tasting and tour of the brewery, it is then time to return to the ship.
Berlin Discovery Tour - WA13
See the highlights of the former East and West Berlin and have time to discover some of its deeper secrets by yourself. Sightseeing in the morning will include photo stops (exterior stops only) at the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and the Gendarmenmarkt.
You will also pass by other sights such as the famous East Side Gallery (Berlin Wall), TiergartenPark and the Victory Column to give you a good overview of the city.
Enjoy a light lunch before you are given time (approximately 2.5 hours) to discover Berlin on your own in the afternoon. Your lunch venue will be your designated pick up point to transfer back to the train station.
Berlin's Jewish History & Story - WA11
The constant building process in Berlin has lead to some significant additions to the Jewish cultural scene - the Jewish Museum designed by Daniel Libeskind. Since the grand opening two years ago, it has become a major attraction in Berlin.
Begin with a 3-hour train ride through the Mecklenburg countryside en route to Berlin. Hosts will hand out breakfast snacks, coffee, and informational material. On arrival in Berlin, your guide will walk you to your coach to begin your coach tour through the Jewish Story of Berlin covering all main highlights - the highs, and of course, the low points of German Jewish history. This tour does not dwell in the past but looks forward to the future.
In the former East Berlin, pass by the famous East Side Gallery to see remnants of the wall and continue to your first photo stop at the Opera Square. Bordered on one side by the State Opera House and by the Humboldt University on the other, it was in this square that the Nazis burned books in 1933. Continue through the former Jewish Quarter "Scheunenviertel" centered on the New Synagogue. Another highlight during the morning portion will be a visit of the Centrum Judaicum with its exhibition "Open Wide the Doors." The tour continues to the new Jewish Museum built by Daniel Libeskind. A building that is truly exceptional and that you will not quickly forget. Lunch will be inside the Jewish Museum at the Liebermann's Restaurant. A 45-minute guided tour inside the significant exhibition and building will be followed by 45 minutes of free time.
On the way back to the train station, see other highlights such as the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, the Reichstag's building and the Holocaust Memorial designed by Peter Eisenmann, next to the Brandenburg Gate. You will also see the Topography of Terror - on the site of the former SS Headquarters, and also the WW II Memorial for the victims of war and dictatorship.
St. Petersburg, Russia
City Highlights & Pushkin - PZ22
Begin with a visit to Catherine's Palace in Pushkin, originally known as Tzar's Village. Renowned for its splendid fairytale interior of fine furnishings and china, it ranks as one of the masterpieces of world art. Peter the Great presented the estate to his wife Catherine in 1710; it served until the time of the last Tzar as the imperial family's summer residence. You will be guided through the various lavish rooms including the Throne Room, the State Dinning Room, the Reception Room, the Blue Drawing Room and others. During World War II the palace suffered significant damage; painstaking work restored it to its original splendor. After the tour in the palace, you will be escorted through a section of the garden decorated with several pavilions, monuments and bridges in a variety of styles.
A Russian lunch will be served in a local restaurant before continuing your exploration of the city of St. Petersburg. Begin your city highlights tour with a view of the monumental St. Isaac's Cathedral. Its golden dome, coated with more than 200 pounds of gold, dominates the city skyline. Pass the main square of St. Petersburg with its 156-ft high column erected as a monument to victory over Napoleon I. Stop at the Rostral Columns to enjoy a splendid view of the Neva River, the Hermitage, and the golden spire of Peter and Paul Cathedral. You will be guided through Peter and Paul Fortress, which is considered the birthplace of St. Petersburg. This extensive walled complex includes the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, now part of the St. Petersburg History Museum. The cathedral became the burial place of the Tzars starting with Peter the Great. While in the cathedral you will see the tombstones of the Imperial family including Nicholas II and his relatives.
Continue to the Cruiser Aurora, which signaled the beginning of the Bolshevik Revolution. Proceed past the Field of Mars and the Marble Palace before arriving at the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood where you will stop for photographs of this exquisitely decorated church that was built on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated in 1881. Continue with a drive along Nevsky Prospect, the main thoroughfare of St. Petersburg past the Kazan Cathedral and further on out of the city for the short transfer back to the vessel.
Grand St. Petersburg with Hermitage - PZ20
This easy sightseeing drive will provide a good overview of St. Petersburg, formerly the capital of Imperial Russia. Driving through the area, your guide will call attention to the splendid architecture and fascinating history of the city. Some of the attractions seen during the drive may include the Academy of Arts, the University, the monumental Rostral Columns and the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood. Proceed past the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Cruiser Aurora, the Admiralty, the Winter Palace, the Bronze Horseman and the Palace Square.
Drive to St. Isaac's Square and the magnificent St. Isaac's Cathedral. Its dome, coated with more than 200 pounds of pure gold, dominates the city skyline. Enclosing a space large enough to hold 14,000 people, the walls are heavily ornamented with marble and precious and semi precious stones as well as 200 mosaics and paintings.
A typical Russian lunch will be served at one of the city's leading hotels or restaurants, after which one of the highlights of St. Petersburg, the Hermitage Museum, will be visited. Founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great as a private court museum, it has evolved into the most remarkable collection of art in the world, containing more than 3 million objects of unparalleled importance. The guided tour will include the State Rooms and a collection of Western European art featuring Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Dyck and also many French Impressionists. The Hermitage tour ends in the Palace Square with its 156-foot high column erected as a monument to the Russian victory over Napoleon.
Hermitage Museum Tour - PZ17
Located on the banks of the Neva River the Winter Palace is home to the Hermitage Museum. The enormous complex comprises five buildings and displays some of the world's greatest art treasures. Today, the Hermitage contains more than 3 million exhibits, which rival the Louvre and Prado in magnificence. The Winter Palace itself is an incomparable work of art. The contoured ceilings, precious woods, chandeliers, magnificent halls, staterooms, and elaborate staircases represent the utmost in opulence and beauty. The guided tour of the museum will include the Gala Suite of apartments, the Malachite Room, the Small Hermitage, Italian Masters, Dutch and Flemish art, and French Impressionists. At the end of the visit, view the Palace Square and the 156-foot tall monument to victory over Napoleon.
The Hermitage Museum is a must see on your visit to St. Petersburg. Due to time constraints, your tour will not include all the exhibits, but rather a concentration of the more popular areas. The approximate time spent in the museum is 1.5 to 2 hours.
Local Life Experience: Metro Ride, Kuznechny Market - PZ02
Begin your experience of todays Russia with a short drive to one of the underground stations. The St. Petersburg Subway or Metro is acclaimed as one of the best in the world for its efficiency, cleanliness and its architecture. Each station has its own unique design. Older stations are richly decorated and new ones are simple and modern but not less impressive. Leave the Metro at one of the Central Stations and follow your guide to the Kuznechny Food Market. Enjoy exploring the large variety of fare as well as the lively atmosphere. Next, board your coach and visit one of the best restaurants in the center of St. Petersburg where you will be welcomed with a friendly cup of tea.
Novgorod - The Spirit of Ancient Russia - PZ27
Travel to Novgorod for a taste of authentic old Russia. On your approximate three-hour drive, enjoy the scenic countryside dotted with small villages and traditional wooden houses. On arrival, revive yourself with local refreshments at one of the citys hotels. Afterwards, explore the heart of old town and the Novgorod Kremlin. Visit the impressive St. Sophia Cathedral. Erected in 1045, the structure is home to priceless icons and works of art. In the Kremlin's Central Square, admire "The Millennium of Russia" monument, which honors those who contributed to the development of the country. Leaving the Kremlin, proceed to the Volkhov River and cross to the opposite bank along a footbridge to reach the Yaroslav's Court. This unique open-air museum features numerous 12th and 16th century architectural monuments including the Cathedral of St. Nicholas and churches of St. John the Baptist. Following a traditional Russian lunch at one of the city's best restaurants, journey to the Vitoslavlitsy to view preserved 16th and 17th century buildings from different parts of the Novgorod region. Finally discover the 12th century Yuriev Monastery and marvel at the striking beauty of the St. George Cathedral, a masterpiece of ancient Russian architecture.
River & Canals of St. Petersburg with Peter & Paul Fortress - PZ01
Board your coach for a short transfer to a boat pier where you will begin your river journey. During Peter the Great's time the Neva River was the key point of Russian political and military ambitions, which resulted in the 25-year Northern War with Sweden. This river gave Russia access to Western Europe; and for centuries, it was one of the main trade routes for the country. Nevertheless, Peter the Great foresaw a greater destiny for the Neva River - to carry on its shoulders the city whose beauty was to rival all other European capitals. Following Peter's plan, the rivers were to turn into the main streets of the city, the most aristocratic ones. The famous Romanovs' winter residence, palaces of the courtiers, and elegant administrative buildings designed by the best architects of time appeared along the banks. While drifting along the main river and canals you can see a lot of historical landmarks: Peter and Paul Fortress -- the birthplace of the city, on one of the islands in the delta, numerous monuments of glory and victory, the famous Bronze Horseman, the Rostral Columns, and picturesque draw bridges of St. Petersburg.
The coach will take you to Peter and Paul Fortress, originally constructed in 1703 as a military stronghold. Throughout its history the fortress held such famous prisoners as the celebrated writer Dostoevsky, participants of the 1825 Decembrist uprising, and political activists Maxim Gorky and Leon Trotsky, as well as the elder brother of Vladimir Ilyich Lenin. Visit the Peter and Paul Cathedral that contains the sarcophagi of the Russian Emperors from Peter the Great through Nicholas II, as well as the tombs of other members of the royal family. The cathedral impresses you with its magnificent gilded iconostasis. Return coach transfer to the pier and your waiting vessel.
Helsinki, Finland
Archipelago Speed Boat Adventure - HE07
After a short walk from the ship, change into appropriate clothes before boarding the special rubber boat with a fiberglass-reinforced hull and driven by a powerful engine for a fast boat ride in the Finnish Archipelago.
Begin by cruising towards the city center, past Embassy Park, Suomenlinna Island Fortress and the Open Air Market. As you head towards the narrow straight Kustaanmiekka, you will hit full throttle. Experience the scenic Finnish Archipelago at 40 knots, traveling over the waves and passing both large and small islands. See Finnish summer homes, some of which date back to the 19th century. After getting a taste for speed, you will land at one of the rocky islands where you will enjoy some refreshments, Finnish style. You can fry sausages and have a taste of Finnish summer food.
Speeding back to the city, you will pass the new high-tech center, a new residential area, and reappear next to the shipyard and your cruise ship. You will return to the pier and walk back to your ship.
City of Helsinki - HE01
This excursion offers an overview of the city of Helsinki and some of its major highlights. From the pier you will pass the Helsinki Shipyard before continuing toward the heart of the city along the coastal road. You will pass Embassy Park and the colorful open-air market before arriving in the neoclassical Senate Square. Perched above the square's wide steps, you will see the domed Lutheran Cathedral. Designed by Carl Ludvig Engel, the square is surrounded by the University, State Council Building and Cathedral. Continuing your tour onto Mannerheim Street, the main thoroughfare of the city, you will pass the Parliament House, National Museum and the Finlandia Hall. Designed by famous architect Alvar Aalto, this unique marble structure is the concert and convention center of Helsinki.
You will visit Temppeliaukio, one of Europe's most unusual modern churches. Carved out of solid rock, and topped with a copper dome, the Rock Church is a Helsinki landmark. Due to its magnificent acoustical qualities, the church is also used as a concert hall.
A photo stop will also be made at the Olympic Stadium, site of the 1952 Olympic Games. In front of the Stadium, you will see the famous statue of the "Flying Finn"- Paavo Nurmi. Your tour then takes you to Sibelius Park, where you can photograph the unique stainless steel monument erected for the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. At the conclusion of your tour, you may stay in town and return to the ship independently, or remain onboard the coach for a short drive back to the ship.
Finnish Countryside Home Visit & Helsinki Highlights - HE29
This tour includes some of the main highlights of Helsinki and a visit to a Finnish Farm. From your ship pass the colorful Open air market, the Presidential Palace, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, the Icebreakers docked for the summer and also the Bank of Finland and House of Estates. Stopping at Senate Square, youll get a historical update on the history of Helsinki before heading out to the farming community of Sipoo, so close to the city yet very much typical Finnish countryside. After arriving in Sipoo, you will have a short introduction to the oldest Church in the Community, St. Sigrids, dating back to the 15th century. Continue your drive to a private home and farm, where the lady of the house will welcome you upon arrival. Enjoy your time exploring around the farmhouse, the garden, as your hosts tell you about life in the countryside. You will be served coffee or tea with a typical Finnish pastry. A leisurely drive back to the city takes you along Mannerheim Street, the main street of Helsinki where you will see the Parliament House, Finlandia Hall, the National Museum, Kiasma and the Olympic Stadium.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.5 mile over even and cobblestone surfaces with some inclines and steps. Tour sequence may vary in order to avoid congestion. The Sipoo Old Church is closed to guided tours on Sundays and sometimes holds religious functions, so it is not guaranteed that they will be open during all calls. This is beyond the control of the tour operator and Celebrity Cruises International.
Glimpse of Old Town Porvoo - HE10
Porvoo is an old town situated at the mouth of River Porvoo and was an important trading center in the middle ages. In 1346, the Swedish King Magnus Eriksson gave the town its charter. Porvoo has been loved by poets and artists perhaps more than any other Finnish Town, among them Finland's national poet J.L. Runeberg. Today, Porvoo is a small town with a population of 20,000.
Your tour begins with a drive to Porvoo along the coastal road. Upon arrival, you will stop at the Old Bridge from where you will see one of the most photographed views in Finland: the Old Town of Porvoo with a decorative row of red riverside storehouses. Your guide will take you through the Old Town with its idyllic little houses and narrow winding streets. You will also have time to walk around independently to visit the different small handicraft shops.
After your free time meet your guide who will invite you to the Porvoo Roastery Cafe to enjoy refreshments of coffee or tea and piece of cake. Relax in the summer sun on the cafe's renovated floating barge adjoining the terrace and take in the unique view of the next door red painted wooden warehouses. If the weather isn't favorable enjoy refreshments inside the very atmospheric building built in 1902. The cafe also still roasts coffee beans on the premises which add to the flavor of the venue. Rejoin your coach for the return journey back to Helsinki and your cruise ship.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.5 mile over even and cobblestone surfaces with some inclines and steps. Time permitting; guests will have approximately 30 minutes for shopping and browsing. The drive to/from Porvoo is approximately 1 hour each way, dependent upon traffic conditions. Tour sequence may vary in order to avoid congestion.
Helsinki Walking Tour - HE32
Helsinki's tree-lined avenues, graceful parks, and distinctive architecture are wonderful for a walking tour. A coach will take you from the pier to Senate Square with the Lutheran Church, the Senate Building, and the University with its neo-Classical atmosphere, to begin your walking tour. From the central railway station, see the National Theater and Sanoma Talo before passing Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, Finlandia Hall, the National Museum, and Parliament House. A cup of coffee or tea will be served with a pastry at a waterfront cafe near the Opera House before continuing your walk to the Toolo residential area, through Hesperia Park and onto the famous Rock Church. Your walking tour ends at the Rock Church, from where you will be taken by coach back to the pier.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 3 miles over various surfaces, inclines with steps. Low heeled, comfortable walking shoes and comfortable, loose clothing are recommended. This tour will operate in all weather conditions so participants should take appropriate weather gear with them. In the event of a special function being held at the Rock Church, the inside visit will not be possible.
Suomenlinna Island Fortress - HE05
From the pier, you will be driven to the Market Place to catch the ferry for a 15-minute boat ride to the island fortress of Suomenlinna. This mighty fortress was founded in 1748 by the Swedish King and built as a bastion on six rocky islands in the harbor of Helsinki. Three flags (Swedish, Russian, and Finnish) have at various times flown over the fortifications. For 60 years, Sveaborg defended Sweden against Russia, but in 1808, it was forced to surrender and became a Russian fortification for the next 110 years. In 1918, the fortress was returned to Finland and renamed Suomenlinna. The fortress acted as a Finnish garrison until it came under civil administration in 1973. The site is included on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Treasures. After the guided walking tour of this fortress, you will have some time on your own to explore the museums or to just enjoy the atmosphere of one of the cafes. The return boat will drop you off at the colorful Market Square, where you will have some free time to shop for local handicrafts or perhaps taste the famous berries. You will then board a coach for your return to the ship.
Stockholm, Sweden
Cycling Around Royal Djurgarden - WS10
Once the Royal Family's private hunting grounds, Djurgarden has been a favorite recreation area for Stockholmers for decades. There are yacht harbors, canals, great private mansions, and palaces to view, several museums to visit and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Come along and learn about the beautiful Djurgrden while biking around and enjoying the fresh air of Stockholm's most popular island.
Djurgarden Stockholm's "green lung," has an enormous stretch of open parkland close to the city center, and regarded as the world's most attractive centrally located parkland. Djurgarden was originally a Royal game-preserve but has developed into a popular culture-reserve where many interesting events take place. There are a number of well-visited museums and attractions including the celebrated Skansen Open-Air Museum, Vasa Museum, Grona Lund Tivoli, The Nordic Museum, and various Art Museums. Needless to say, animals and birds thrive on Djurgarden and the island is a part of the Eco Park, the world's first City National Park. The park has become one of Sweden's most frequently visited areas, serving as a major ecological environment for wildlife and plants.
City Hall & Lake Malaren Cruise - WS54
A short coach ride will take you to the island of Kungsholmen where in the distance you will see the three crowns atop the imposing City Hall, beautifully situated by the shores of the Lake Malaren. Inaugurated in 1923 and is the site of the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Experience the grandeur and spaciousness of the impressive Blue Hall and Golden Chamber and enjoy the beautiful view from the Garden.
A short walk will take you to the pier where you will join a motor launch for a relaxed boat tour on the Lake "Malaren" and through the inner city canals around the islands of Kungsholmen, Langholmen and Reimersholme. Learn about the history of Stockholm while enjoying the narrow canals and leafy shorelines; pass the Karlbergs Castle, charming allotment gardens, recreation areas, beaches, residential areas and much more. This boat tour really shows you a lot of where Stockholmers live and spend their free time. Rejoin your coach for a panoramic tour of the modern downtown areas and shopping districts followed by a drive through Stockholm's oldest quarters, the Old Town before ending pierside.
Hiking the Royal Haga Park - WS24
For anyone feeling up to a pleasant and refreshing walk through beautiful parklands, this is the tour for you. Your coach will take you through the center of Stockholm and on towards the Haga Park. Haga is also considered to be one of the most beautiful English style Parks in the world. King Gutav III stood at the center of the 18th century, French oriented, cultural life in Sweden. His interest in Haga had its origins in an infatuation for country life and his dream was to lay out Haga's land as a pleasure park with a palace, in the fashion of Versailles. Walk with your guide along the water of Brunnsviken across green slopes, hills and parklands passing among other buildings the Gustav III Pavilion, one of the classic buildings from the Gustavian period. Another building from the same era is the Echo Temple, built as a summer dining room for Gustav III. The Haga Palace, built in the beginning of the 19th century is also the Palace where the present King and his four sisters grew up. A favorite on the grounds is the King's old playhouse. The Haga Palace is still used by the Swedish government to accommodate and entertain official visitors on state visits. Continue towards the famous Copper Tent Inn, dating back to the 1780's. Before returning to the ship by coach, enjoy some free time with possibilities to buy a cup of coffee with some Swedish pastry, enjoy the park on your own or pay a visit to the adjacent Butterfly and Bird House, a 2000 square meter tropical forest featuring live, free flying butterflies and birds.
Historic Stockholm & Sigtuna - WS05
Commence with a drive to Gamla Stan, the enchanting, medieval Old Town. Witness the historic elegance of the exterior of the dominating Royal Palace combined with the possibility to stroll along the narrow, twisting alleys and cobblestone streets of Stockholm's oldest and coziest quarter. You will experience the medieval intimacy of what is today a living historical monument of international renown. As you wander with your guide, you will savor the Bohemian atmosphere and the sense of age in houses dating from the 16th and 17th centuries with baroque doorways and coats of arms. You will also see Stortorget (Great Square) - the hub of the Old Town and the Stock Exchange, now the home of the Swedish Academy.
Passing through the city center, continue to the nearby island of Djurgarden, once the royal family's private hunting grounds to visit the Vasa Museum. In its day, the early 17th century, the Swedish battleship Vasa was the pride of mighty Swedens navy. While preparing, to set out on her maiden voyage in 1628, she capsized and sank in Stockholm's inner harbor. In 1961, 333 years after the tragic mishap, a Swedish team succeeded in salvaging the great ship, which was astonishingly well preserved. Painstakingly restored to its original magnificence, the resurrected Vasa today is the dramatic centerpiece in the new Vasa Museum - an authentic piece of living history, profoundly worth a visit.
Leaving the Vasa, continue through the northern outskirts of the city into the scenic countryside en route to Sigtuna, an idyllic little town with wooden houses, narrow alleys, and the smallest Town Hall in Scandinavia, dating from 1744 and constructed in wood. Sigtuna lays approximately 45 minutes drive north of Stockholm and is set on Lake Malaren. It was founded about 1,000 years ago by the first Christian King of Sweden. Even today the real strength of Sigtuna lies in its religious and educational foundations, which flourish on the heights above the town. During your visit, tour the major points of interest including, "the oldest street in Sweden" - the Stora Gatan. The town is surrounded by cultivated old areas, which bear countless traces of old cultural traditions.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 400 yards through the Vasa Ship Museum and approximately 1.5 miles over cobblestone streets through the Old Town and Sigtuna with 15 to 20 steps. There is an elevator in the Vasa Ship Museum. The tour order may vary but all mentioned sights would be covered. Lunch is not included in this tour; however, there is time for lunch and shopping on your own.
Ice Bar & Panorama Drive - WS19
Cross Gamla Stan, the enchanting, medieval Old Town passing the Royal Palace over-looking Stockholm's inner harbor. Proceed to the island of Riddarholmen for a view of the City Hall before passing the Parliament Building and the Royal Opera. Continue along Strandvagen to the island of Djurgarden. Tour the island, regarded as Stockholm's outdoor recreation centre, with Grona Lund Tivoli, Skansen open-air Museum and extensive park lands beyond. Continue your tour through the Diplomatic Town and back into town and the city center for your visit to the Ice Bar.
At the Nordic Hotel, in the heart of the city, youll find the year-round ice bar. The interior is kept at below zero temperature - 5 degreeC all year round. All the interior including glasses are made of pure, clear ice from the Torne River in Northern Sweden. Before entering, you'll put on a warm fur poncho, mittens and shoes. A vodka drink in an ice glass will be served as the staff explains the concept of the bar and its construction.
Kayaking in National City Park - WS23
Depart the pier for a short panoramic tour through Stockholm. Arrive at Brunnsviken Bay situated in the Haga Park, a beautiful park planned by King Gustav III at the end of the 18th century and today part of the world's first National City Park. Brunnsviken Bay is ideal for kayaking, as the water is very calm and warm during summer. The stunning beauty and interesting cultural history makes it very attractive among Stockholmer's themselves. The adventure starts at the clubhouse of the city kayak club where your guide will give you a lesson in the technique of canoeing. After the lesson, paddle out into the water of Brunnsviken to explore this little gulf that is actually part of the Baltic Sea. Pause to enjoy the beautiful scenery and listen to the guiding of what you see around you. Your guides will be ever ready to give you instructions and tips to improve your paddling technique.
as it would be nice to have them again. We had them last year Med. Cruise too.
That's my worst nightmare!
