Viking Oceans Cruises – Iceland’s Majestic Landscapes (Norway, Faroe Islands, Iceland) 13 Days

Bergen, Norway
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Bergen is home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence. Bryggen wharf, a row of timbered Hanseatic warehouses along a quaint quay, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Narrow wooden walkways are flanked by parallel rows of small, vibrantly painted buildings overlooking the picturesque Vågen Harbor. This is perhaps the most charming district of Bergen and a delight to explore, from its tight-knit community of workshops where artisans sell their wares to its cafés where freshly prepared smørbrød, or open-faced sandwiches, are on the menu.

Bergen, Norway
Bergen, an ancient city with deep Viking roots, is located in the heart of western Norway, nestled between seven gargantuan mountain peaks. It is also the gateway to the country’s magnificent fjords, including the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord. Founded in 1070 on what was a Viking settlement, Bergen was Norway’s capital during the 13th century; today, it is the second-largest city in Norway. Not to be missed is a stroll through the picturesque outdoor fish market, Fisketorget, where the fresh catch of the sea awaits—from cod and prawns to local caviar and icy oysters.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Bergen
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the main sights of Bergen during a panoramic drive and a leisurely walk. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen features many historic sites, including the medieval King Haakon’s Hall, the Rosenkrantz Tower, the bustling fish market and the Nordnes Peninsula, with its 19th-century white painted wooden houses. During a scenic drive, see these and more, pausing to take a photo stop at Nordnes to admire the views over Bergen Harbor. At the National Stage, disembark your motor coach and walk downhill to Festplassen, passing the statue of Ole Bull before arriving in Bryggen. Hear interesting stories from your guide about Bergen’s colorful past as you admire the picturesque wooden buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, you may return to your ship via motor coach, or explore the district and return independently on your own.

Shore Excursions – Bergen on Foot
Duration: 2 hours
Explore Bergen’s historic sights during an invigorating walking excursion. Meet your guide at the pier and set off on foot to Bergenhus Fortress, one of Norway’s best-preserved fortifications. Pass the Rosenkrantz Tower and arrive at Bryygen to admire its picturesque wooden buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hear interesting stories from your guide about Bergen’s colorful past as you get acquainted with this Hanseatic town. Formerly the capital of Norway, Norwegian kings once resided here. Bergen owed its wealth and prominence to the fish export trade, which has been at the heart of the town since the Middle Ages. Head to Festplassen to its music pavilion, and continue your walk, pausing to see the old telegraph, the historic post office and to admire the quaint residences. Afterward, walk back to your ship.

Flåm, Norway
The charming village of Flåm sits eight hours inland through the breathtaking Aurlandsfjord. It is world-renowned as one of the world’s most spectacularly scenic places and the gateway to sprawling green valleys dwarfed by towering peaks. These primeval mountains, glacial lakes and glorious waterfalls were sculpted during the Ice Age. The landscape around Flåm is dramatically steep and the town is the starting point of the world-renowned Flåm Railway, which chugs through the magnificent scenery of Norway, past roaring waterfalls and breathtaking vistas.

Shore Excursions – The Surroundings of Flåm
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Marvel at the stunning landscape of a Norwegian fjord from a viewpoint high above the Aurlandsfjord. Take a drive along the waterway, enjoying views of this narrow fjord’s steep mountains—some reaching nearly 6,000 feet—and deep waters. Stop at a church in the original village of Flåm and learn about the local history. After taking a switchback, you will reach Stegastein Viewpoint. Set between Aurland and Laerdal, the viewpoint is a 100-foot-long laminated wood ramp that sits more than 2,000 feet above the fjord. Its design expresses a desire to lift visitors out into open space and enhance their experience. Breathe in the fresh air and admire the panoramic views of the fjord and the village of Aurland beneath you. After time for photos, descend to Aurland, a charming village nestled between the shores of the fjord and towering mountains, before returning to your ship.

Ålesund, Norway
Ålesund is a fascinating blend of coastal splendor, alpine magnificence and unique architecture. Its art nouveau architecture appeared after a fire destroyed much of the city in 1904. More than 50 architects and builders designed the new city, which spreads across several islands, in the art nouveau style that still graces Ålesund today. For nature lovers, the city is a convenient base from which to explore a magnificent canvas of alpine splendor. Nearby mountains, fjords and waterfalls offer a haven for countless seabirds that jockey for position on rocky islets.

Shore Excursions – Art Nouveau Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Explore the rich art nouveau architecture of Ålesund, amid the city’s beautiful island setting. A large part of Ålesund was destroyed by fire in 1904. When German Kaiser Wilhelm heard of the tragedy, he sent four ships to support the people of Ålesund while they rebuilt their beloved city in the Jugend (art nouveau) style, typical for the period. Today, it is a bustling town where the fish industry provides the main source of revenue. With a local guide, you will pass many of the buildings artfully designed by Norwegian architects who took their inspiration from all over Europe. Our route includes the inviting streets of the Jugend quarter in the town center, the inner harbor and the attractive park at the foot of Mt. Aksla. After free time to browse this charming city on your own, return to your ship.

Geiranger, Norway
Geiranger is the gateway to some of coastal Norway’s most magnificent natural treasures. Nearby, the Seven Sisters Waterfall tumbles 1,000 feet into the fjord’s water, while directly across the fjord, the Suitor Waterfall also plunges down a steep face. The overlook known as Eagle’s Bend towers 2,000 feet above the village, accessed via a winding mountain road with 11 hairpin turns. The Norwegian Fjord Center puts all this natural splendor into perspective with fascinating exhibits.

Shore Excursions – Eagle’s Bend Overlook & Panoramic Drive
Duration: 3 hours
Witness Geiranger’s pristine majesty as you ascend to the heights of Geirangerfjord on a magnificent drive. You will meet your guide at the berth and drive up a winding road to Eagle’s Bend viewpoint, passing through 11 breathtaking hairpin turns. At the road’s pinnacle, you will witness the spectacular scenery that has earned Geirangerfjord status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, you will drive to Flydalsjuvet viewpoint for more impressive views. After a photo stop, continue into the green Flydal Valley to the high mountain plateau at Djupvatn Lake. Its gorgeous waters shimmer in the Norwegian sun. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Sail the North Sea
Cross the North Sea, where Vikings sailed as they established colonies on Scottish islands, coastal France and beyond. As you sail today, attend an informative lecture or watch a film in our state-of-the-art theater. A range of insightful TED Talks and destination-inspired seminars are offered daily.

Shore Excursions – Faroe Island Vistas
Duration: 2 hours
Get to know the Faroe Islands through the stunning landscapes of Streymoy, rich in Viking lore and fishing culture. Begin with a drive to the rocky Tinganes peninsula in Tórshavn harbor, home of the Viking Parliament and still host to the islands’ government buildings. Then, trace the scenic ridgetop road along the southern stretch of Streymoy Island, pausing above Tórshavn for photos. You will continue to Nororadalur (the North Valley), where on clear days you will have views of the island of Koltur. Farther north, marvel at the Kaldbak and Kollafjørdur fjords. Later, twisting roads lead into a picturesque valley, where you will stop to admire the hand-hewn stone salmon ladders leading into Lake Leynar. En route back to your ship, our road takes us through a two-mile tunnel and along a fjord’s shore, where you may see salmon jumping in sea farms.

Sail the Norwegian Sea
Journey to what was once believed to be the “end of the world,” where sea monsters lurked and ships were lost on treacherous waters. As you sail today, relax in the Explorers’ Lounge, inspired by epic journeys of discovery. Marvel at the views through the two-story panoramic windows as you share a cocktail with friends, or settle down to read a book.

Akureyri, Iceland
Nicknamed the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri is set at the end of the Eyjafjördur and enjoys a mild climate, unusual for a northern city just 62 miles from the Arctic Circle. Folk culture is robust in Akureyri; the Vefarinn dance was invented here to celebrate the harvest. Other points of pride include the Public Park and Botanic Garden, where some 2,000 plant species grow, and the hilltop Akureyrarkirkja, the local church that is home to a stained glass window that originated in a church in London, England, prior to World War II.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Akureyri
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Enjoy the fjord setting and alpine backdrop of Akureyri, one of the most attractive Icelandic towns. You will be welcomed at the dock by your knowledgeable local guide to Iceland’s undisputed “Capital of the North.” Influences of its Danish trading past prevail, evident in the many contrasts in the town’s varied architecture. Pass by Akureyri Church; one of the town’s proud symbols, which houses many interesting artifacts including a stained glass window above the altar that was part of a set originating in England before being brought to Akureyri for safekeeping during World War II. Explore the historic midtown area and continue to Akureyri’s Public Park and Botanic Garden; the excellent botanical garden was opened within the park’s grounds in 1957. Two thousand species of local and foreign flowers grow here thanks to Akureyri’s warm microclimate.

ĺsafjördur, Iceland
ĺsafjördur was founded in the 9th century by the Viking Helgi Magri Hrólfsson. Foreign merchants arrived in the 16th century and set up trading posts here. Today, ĺsafjördur is home to one of the largest fisheries in Iceland and, despite its remote locale, boasts a cultural scene rich in music and drama. The oldest house in Iceland is here, built in 1734, as is the country’s largest concentration of old timber-frame homes. Many visitors explore farther afield, delving into the surrounding wilderness of Hornstrandir or discover the fishing heritage of charming coastal towns.

Shore Excursions – Ísafjördur & Bolungarvík Village
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the wild beauty of Iceland’s northwest corner, and the culture and history of the region’s small towns. Embark on a scenic drive around Ísafjördur, the principal town of the Westfjords peninsula. Surrounded by mountains that offer endless opportunities to enjoy nature and wilderness during all seasons of the year, the town is also known throughout the country for its rich cultural life. The fishing industry, however, has traditionally been the mainstay of the town and surrounding municipality, known as Ísafjardarbaer. Visit the Ósvör Maritime Museum, a fascinating replica of an old fishing outpost that offers a glimpse of how life treated the Icelandic fishermen until the beginning of the 20th century. Continue to Bolungarvík and enjoy a guided tour of the village before returning to Ísafjördur.

Shore Excursions – Ísafjördur & the Önundafjördur
Duration: 2 hours
Visit the coastal village of Flateyri and view the golden sands and dunes of Holt Beach. Meet your guide and embark on a scenic drive along the picturesque Önundafjördur. Arrive at Holt Beach and pause for photos of the sweeping bay, with its remote beach, tranquil waters and mountains that form a protective circle around the fjord. The grassland area is a breeding ground for eider ducks, who nest here during the early summer months. Visit the village of Flateyri and take a stroll around its harbor. This small town has a long history dating back to the 9th century; it was once a major fishing and trading center, and many of the historic buildings here reflect this legacy. En route back to your ship, you will stop at a viewing point for photos of the beautiful vistas over the fjord.

Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík is the world’s northernmost capital city yet captures the distinctive feel of a fishing village. The Kentucky-sized island is Europe’s westernmost nation and one of the wildest places on earth. It is also lauded as one of the cleanest and most civilized countries, committed to finding the perfect balance between day-to-day living and harnessing its natural resources with eco-friendly practices. Vikings landed on this pristine land during the 9th century; their arrival is well chronicled in the medieval Sagas preserved at the Culture House.

Shore Excursions – Árbær Open Air Museum & Snapshots of Reykjavík
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Get acquainted with Iceland’s picturesque capital and visit the Árbær Open Air Museum. Begin with a panoramic drive to the museum, a unique collection of historical buildings that showcase Iceland’s cultural heritage. Listen to insights from knowledgeable guides as you stroll through this charming village setting, where traditional houses and turf-roofed buildings offer a glimpse into Icelandic life from the 19th and 20th centuries. Continue your drive into the city, passing The Pearl and the University of Iceland, and pausing for photos in Grandi, Reykjavík’s old harbor, to view the Þúfa, a striking art installation. See Höfði House, where Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev met and marked the beginning of the end of the Cold War. Then head to the Harpa Concert Hall, where you can choose to continue exploring Reykjavík on your own or return to your ship.

Reykjavík, Iceland
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.