Behind the Scenes at Highclere Castle
Lady Carnarvon reveals what lies beyond the walls of her historic home, Highclere Castle, recognised by fans worldwide as the ‘real Downtown Abbey’.
From the Arctic Circle to the south of England, discover a region where history and natural beauty are the stars of the show. Where ancient cities pulse with vibrant modernity, and enchanting landscapes leap straight from the pages of a fairytale.
Surrounded by the same legendary seas plied by the Vikings centuries ago, a Northern Europe or Baltic voyage is the ultimate way to explore the UK, Ireland, and the Nordic countries. With Viking's longer stays in port and smaller ships, we take you to the heart of the destination, where you will have ample opportunity to dive deeply into rich history, bustling cities, and verdant green landscapes.
HIGHLIGHTS OF NORTHERN EUROPE
Trace ancient Viking trade routes as you cruise from the Hanseatic port of Bergen along the Norwegian fjords to the United Kingdom. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the midnight sun’s extended daylight or the dazzling display of the northern lights in winter. Explore glittering cultural capitals as well as far-flung outposts like Scotland's remote Orkney and Shetland Islands. Uncover the history and sophistication of London and Edinburgh, and don't miss Iceland's breathtaking natural landscapes.
The best way to see it all? A Northern Europe ocean voyage with Viking allows you to visit multiple destinations with longer stays in port, plus with our smaller ships, we take you to unique, lesser-known ports of call.
Whether you choose a UK, Scandinavian or a more comprehensive Baltic Sea voyage, Viking's culturally enriching, carefully curated and destination-focused journeys allow you to immerse yourself in the unique history and culture of each destination on a deeper level. We offer you a window into a destination’s rhythms of local life, its working world and take you behind closed doors with our signature Privileged Access excursions. A voyage with Viking is designed to provide personal enrichment and cultural connections – it’s why we’ve become known as 'The Thinking Person’s Cruise'.
On this page, you'll find inspiration about the most incredible destinations in this region, as well as information to help you plan your Northern Europe ocean voyage.
TRAVEL GUIDES & TIPS
The best way to experience a destination is with the guidance of a local, and that’s exactly how Viking helps you explore. Here you’ll find our handy destination guides, as well as our top tips to help you plan your visit.
CULTURE
Discovering the intricate rhythms and traditions of daily life is a vital part of the travel experience for the curious traveller. From language to religion, every nation has its own unique customs. Here you will discover what makes each destination’s way of life special.
HISTORY
Like you, Viking believes that understanding a destination’s past is fundamental to appreciating it’s present. Here you will find a window into the historical record of the forces that have shaped this destination, and continue to play an important role in the cultural fabric you see today.
ART, MUSIC, FILM & LITERATURE
Appreciating a destination’s art tells the stories of its people, and its soul. It has been said that the basic condition required to appreciate art in all its many forms is a chair, a statement that’s never rung truer than right now. We hope you enjoy this virtual journey into the wonderful world of art, music, films and literature.
EXPLORE TV EPISODES
Join Trevor Cochrane, host of Channel Nine’s Explore TV, as he sails Into the Midnight Sun from Bergen to London, and meets a whole host of colourful local characters along the way. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show – your window into cruising in Scandinavia.
NORTHERN EUROPE EXTENSIONS AND TOURS
More days mean more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking voyage. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting locations.