Hamburg - Kiel The wonders of Norway

Haugesund was once the centre of Viking power, a place where history was made. Today, you can stroll through Norway’s longest pedestrian zone, past small galleries, designer shops and boutiques where traditional craftsmanship blends with modern style. The culinary heritage is also alive: the restaurants along the charming harbour promenade serve freshly caught fish, lamb from the coastal pastures and fermented specialities with centuries-old traditions. You can feel the pride of Nordic grandeur at Haraldsaugen: Norway’s only national monument sits majestically on top of a lush green hill with sweeping views of the rugged coastal landscape. The long lay time extends your impressions into the evening.

Rosendal – a hidden paradise on the banks of the Hardangerfjord, where rugged mountains and sparkling fjord waters provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable day. The small village exudes a special calm and is surrounded by a landscape that resembles a postcard motif. A highlight is the barony of Rosendal, the only one of its kind in Norway: visiting the manor house is like taking a journey through the different styles and eras since the mid-17th century. The beautifully landscaped historical gardens invite you to take a stroll – and complement the impressive glaciers of this region.

Deeply carved into the Norwegian mountains, the Geirangerfjord winds its way inland: a masterpiece of nature, whose emerald-green waters reflect the surrounding panorama like a mirror. Small streams plunge into the depths between tranquil banks and steep mountain slopes. One of the most impressive moments is the spectacle of the “Seven Sisters” – seven tall waterfalls that dance like a veil of light and spray on the rock faces. At the end of the spectacular landscape, Geiranger welcomes you with grass-covered houses, babbling streams and flowering slopes. Here, the world seems to stand still for a moment before the surrounding mountains beckon you to explore further.

Nestled between picturesque fjords and steep hillsides, Norway’s second-largest city, Bergen, exudes the charm of a lively coastal city. The Hanseatic quarter of Bryggen, with its colourful wooden houses as a reminder of the city’s trading and seafaring history, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gives Bergen its unique character. A walk along the harbour, where fishing boats moor up in the mornings, leads you to the busy fish market – a place full of aromas where fresh specialities are sold straight off the boats. The city brings visitors under its spell with its harmonious blend of history, liveliness and breathtaking natural scenery. The long lay time extends your impressions of Bergen into the evening.

From impressive fjords, such as the Lysefjord with its steep cliffs, to idyllic sandy beaches along the coast – there is plenty for nature lovers to explore here. Hike to the famous Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock, an impressive rock formation with spectacular views, or explore the Lysefjord by excursion boat or speedy RIB. You can explore the charming old town of Stavanger on foot, by Nordic Walking or by Segway – Stavanger is a real treasure trove of possibilities.

Kristiansand lies on the estuary of the River Otra in the Skagerrak strait. A particularly charming aspect of the capital of the Norwegian Sorlandet region is the harbour promenade, where cafes and restaurants are the ideal place to enjoy the maritime atmosphere. The sandy headland on which the city was founded in 1641 by King Christian IV, is a great place for an extended stroll, while the nearby city beach and traditional wooden houses in the old town offer relaxation and variety. A walk around the boutiques in the historic city centre will round off your stay in Kristiansand perfectly.

Oslo lies between thick forests and the deep-blue Oslofjord – a city that combines innovative architecture, first-class museums and encounters with nature. The fast-growing capital city of Norway is impressive with its modern districts and interesting sights, such as the Barcode Buildings, the opera house, the Astrup Fearnley Museum, the Munch Museum and the National Museum. Iconic historical sights can be seen at the Akershus Fortress on the Oslofjord. Another highlight of the city is the Holmenkollen, a 371 m (1,218 ft) hill featuring the world-famous ski jump – a mecca for winter sports and a famous Oslo landmark that’s popular with visitors. The ship will stay overnight – perfect for enjoying your time to the fullest.