Christmas Markets: A Festive Voyage Through the Baltic & Norwegian Fjords

Pricing is based on departure date: 04 December 2027

Begin in Dover, with easy access to London's dazzling holiday lights and seasonal West End energy, before crossing to Rotterdam, where modern Dutch architecture takes on a festive glow. Continue to Kiel for Hamburg, home to some of Germany's oldest and most cherished Christmas markets, their wooden stalls and mulled wine stretching back centuries. The route turns into the Baltic for Tallinn, whose UNESCO-listed old town becomes something close to a fairy tale each December, and Helsinki, where Nordic design meets the soft glow of winter candlelight. Stockholm's archipelago approach leads into a city embracing the season with quiet elegance, followed by Copenhagen, home to one of Europe's most beloved Christmas markets at Tivoli Gardens, and Aarhus, blending Viking heritage with its own festive traditions. The voyage then enters Norway, where Oslo's winter charm, Kristiansand's coastal calm, a scenic sail through the snow-touched grandeur of Hardangerfjord, the wooden quays of Bergen, and Stavanger's dramatic coastal scenery close out a journey that captures the very best of a Northern European Christmas before your return to Dover.

Itinerary Map

Itinerary highlights

Dover (London), England, UK

Arrive in the historic port of Dover with Holland America Line, your gateway to the rich heritage and iconic sights of England. Explore Dover Castle, venture into the bustling city of London, and experience the picturesque English countryside. Our cruise offers a luxurious and comfortable base from which to explore, with amenities and service that cater to your every need, making your visit to Dover a seamless addition to your European adventure.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

The Netherlands’ second-largest city and Europe’s busiest port is home to some of the 20th and 21st centuries' most important architectural feats, which is particularly impressive when you consider that nearly all of Rotterdam was razed to the ground during World War II. Sometimes referred to as “Manhattan-on-the-Maas,” the city lives up to its reputation as a forward-looking metropolis with fascinating design and some of the Netherlands' finest museums and most trendy shops.

Marvel at buildings by starchitects Rem Koolhaas and Norman Foster or get lost in the maze of gabled homes in historic Delfshaven, the point from which the Pilgrims set sail for the New World aboard the Speedwell in 1620. In the postwar years, Rotterdam has also become one of the most diverse cities on the continent as waves of migrants from elsewhere in Europe, North Africa and Turkey have come to work in the shipping industry, concentrated here thanks to the city’s location on the deltas of the Rhine and Maas rivers. With its sweeping harbor and massive Europoort, the city has quickly grown to become the largest port in all of Europe.

Kiel (Hamburg), Germany

Located a short 90-kilometer drive or train journey from the seaside port of Kiel, Hamburg is one of Germany’s most cosmopolitan cities. The city’s character is powered by the mighty River Elbe, which passes by Hamburg’s stylish neighborhoods on its way to the North Sea. Often referred to as Germany’s “Gateway to the World” due to its position as the biggest commercial port in the country, the city is filled with an air of maritime mystique and excitement. The city has launched ships since the reign of Charlemagne, but it was also instrumental in launching the musical career of The Beatles, who played in multiple venues in the city before releasing their second single, Please Please Me, in 1962 and rising to fame.

Today, with a newly named UNESCO World Heritage Site, upscale shopping districts and a distinct European flavor, Hamburg retains an energetic and eclectic atmosphere where historic and modern charm meet.

Tallinn, Estonia

On the shores of the Baltic Sea, Tallinn, Estonia’s largest city, is impossibly charming. Northern Europe’s oldest capital—it dates back to the 12th century—is also one of its best preserved, with much of its Old Town constructed when it was a bustling port in the Hanseatic League.

Explore the upper portion on Toompea Hill, where there is an impressive castle and the 19th-century Alexander Nevsky cathedral, a vestige from the Russian Empire, then head to the lower section for churches and merchants’ homes off twisting medieval streets.

Tallinn isn’t, however, simply a historic showpiece. Just a short walk from the UNESCO World Heritage-designated core is a dynamic, future-facing city of glass buildings and trendy restaurants and boutiques catering to the city’s young professionals—as well as visiting travelers.

Helsinki, Finland

Finland’s capital, Helsinki, is sometimes overshadowed by its larger Scandinavian counterparts, Copenhagen and Stockholm, but the city has its own singular style and appeal. A lively arts and music scene thrives amid splendid Art Nouveau buildings and classic cafés.

The city's modern architecture is especially exciting: Buildings by Alvar Aalto and Eero Saarinen should be at the top of your must-see list. Finland’s design output, too, goes far beyond familiar Marimekko prints. Wander into the shops in the city’s Design District or check out the exhibits at the Design Museum (Designmuseo). If the weather is good, you’ll want to hop a ferry to a nearby island or enjoy the catch of the day at a harbor-facing restaurant.

If you are lucky enough to be here in the summer, it's a magical time of the year, when the days last for up to 19 hours and the entire city sparkles from the sun reflecting off the water.

Stockholm, Sweden

Spread over more than a dozen islands linked by bridges, the Swedish capital of Stockholm is one of the most effortlessly enjoyable cities in Europe. Go sightseeing in Stockholm's elegant Östermalm with its chic interior design stores; verdant Djurgården with its museums, cultural sights and acres of rolling parkland; ancient Gamla Stan with its cobbled streets that surround the Royal Palace; and trendy Södermalm with its cool neighborhoods and even cooler inhabitants. Stockholm is easy to navigate on foot or by public transport, and wherever you roam, you’re never far from water or parkland attractions in Stockholm.

Food and drink in Stockholm is of a high standard, and recent years have brought a marked improvement in the range of dining options—though it’s hard to resist traditional favorites such as meatballs or herring washed down with a cold beer. The friendly locals speak faultless English, and the only crime you’re likely to encounter has a dragon tattoo and can be found in the bestseller section of a bookshop. And in the unlikely event you ever get bored sightseeing in the stunning city of Stockholm, there are thousands more islands each with many things to do just an easy ferry ride away.

Cruising Stockholm Archipelago

When approaching the Swedish capital by sea, spare a thought for the captain. It can't be easy to carefully navigate the narrow channels of the Stockholm Archipelago—channels densely dotted with somewhere in the region of 30,000 islands. Many of these islands are little more than granite outcrops inhabited only by seabirds. Some have thriving communities year round, but many more see their populations rocket in the warmer months when ferry service from the city resumes and Stockholmers escape to spend time at their summer homes and on their boats.

The larger islands have distinct personalities: Sandhamn, for instance, becomes a major sailing hub, its harbor packed with yachts, while Grinda has a famous värdshus—an old-fashioned inn—where people come for dinner and to spend the night. Whatever time of year you visit, the journey through the archipelago to reach Stockholm—which is itself composed of 14 interconnected islands—is always spectacular, and helps you understand why Stockholm’s residents are so proud and protective of this area of outstanding natural beauty.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of the easiest European capitals to fall in love with. The sights of old buildings, cobbled streets and the tower- and turret-dotted skyline lend fairy-tale charm—this was, after all, the home of author Hans Christian Andersen. But make no mistake: This is a thoroughly modern city with international clout.

Restaurants around the world draw inspiration from the New Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma and other Copenhagen restaurants, while Danish design from this century and the last is universally admired and coveted. Urban planners flock here to try to work out just how the city remains so livable and yet so functional, and despite its wealth of old buildings, Copenhagen’s not locked in the past; there are also thrilling examples of modern architecture.

Copenhagen is a city that’s easy to find things to do and explore on foot or by excellent public transport, where everyone speaks perfect English, the food is fresh and innovative, and there’s plenty of locally brewed beer—which, of course, is best enjoyed sitting by the water on a sunny day.

Aarhus, Denmark

Discover Aarhus, Denmark’s vibrant second-largest city, on a Northern Europe cruise. Explore Den Gamle By’s cobbled streets, visit ARoS Art Museum, stroll the canal, and admire Marselisborg Palace. This charming port blends Viking history, modern culture, and scenic beauty—perfect for your next cruise adventure.

Oslo, Norway

Oslo, Norway's capital, blends history with modernity. This vibrant city features top museums, modern architecture, and Viking heritage. Highlights include the Oslo Opera House, Nobel Peace Prize sites, and Vigeland Sculpture Park. Explore via hop-on-hop-off buses or fjord tours for a diverse array of experiences. Surrounded by the Oslo fjord, hills, and parks, Oslo is a must-see destination.

Kristiansand, Norway

The capital of the southern coastal region known as the Norwegian Riviera, Kristiansand has earned the nickname “Summer City.” The Gulf Stream keeps temperatures mild and snow to a minimum, so Kristiansand is Norway’s outdoor playground.

Even with just a few hours, Kristiansand’s grid layout makes it simple to get around on foot to explore historic sites such as Posebyen (the old town), which dates back to 1631, and former military fortresses and installations. Within the city limits are a number of forested recreational areas, a fish market with harbor views and even a sandy beach. The coastline is dotted with islands, skerries and picturesque fishing villages and farther afield, highlights of the region include Kristiansand Zoo & Amusement Park, the quaint town of Lillesand and Setesdal Mineral Park, with glittering displays of crystals and gems.

Scenic cruising Hardangerfjord

From easy guided hikes and the summer-skiing resort on the Folgefonna glaciers to the serious hiking trails that encompass waterfalls and panoramic vistas, Norway’s Hardangerfjord region offers truly exceptional outdoor experiences. Norway’s Queen Sonja is known to favor the hiking trails around the village of Kinsarvik so much that a tough 16-kilometer (10-mile) hike is named after her.

At 161 kilometers (100 miles) long, the fjord is the fourth-longest in the world and plunges down almost 914 meters (a half mile) at its deepest point. Take in the best of the landscape from the unique vantage point provided by the fjord as you sail inland from the island of Stord toward the ever-more-imposing mountains of the Hardangervidda National Park. Waterfalls, islands and shoreline villages dot the journey. Dangling more than 610 meters (2,000 feet) above Lake Ringedalsvatnet is the Troll’s Tongue, a unique rock formation and one of Norway’s most famous hikes—and photo opportunities.

The deep waters of the fjord are home to plentiful stocks of fish, while brown trout and wild salmon fill the rivers and lakes of the region. The mountainous national parks east of the fjord are the natural habitat of wild reindeer herds, elk and the mountain fox.

Bergen, Norway

Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is a top port of call for cruises up the fjords. Known for its historic wooden buildings and bustling waterfront, Bergen offers a charming mix of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant markets. Immerse yourself in Bergen’s rich maritime history and bountiful forests while visiting during your next cruise to Norway with Holland America.

Stavanger, Norway

Before this port city on Norway’s western coast earned its status as the epicenter of “black gold” and the extraction of North Sea oil, it was a shipbuilding and fish-canning town. Fuelled by its wealth as one of the world’s top energy capitals, it’s now home to top-notch fusion restaurants and a bustling nightlife that caters to a never-ending influx of expatriates.

Amidst this financial boom, though, Stavanger has managed to hold on to its heritage and soul: Archaeological museums and reconstructed settlements pay due reverence to the city’s Viking past. The cobblestoned Old Town is a well-preserved core of white wooden cottages near an Anglo-Norman cathedral, the oldest in Norway. Natural beauty abounds, too, with the nearby Lysefjord and its impressive Preikestolen (“The Pulpit Rock”) drawing a steady stream of visitors during the summer.

Your Ship: Nieuw Statendam

A showcase of Pinnacle Class sophistication — perfectly-sized, refined design, inviting spaces, and standout venues create an elevated experience at sea. 

What’s included with your vacation

Your vacation essentials are always included. Savor a variety of delectable complimentary dining options. Enjoy captivating entertainment, from live shows and music to themed dance parties and more.

• Standard beverages like water and coffee
• Complimentary meals and snacks available in a variety of restaurants
• Live shows and entertainment
• Most onboard activities and games

Upgrade to Have it All to save on top amenities, including crew appreciation, premium Wi-Fi, elite beverage package, up to $300 shore excursion credit, and specialty dining. 

Ask your travel agent how!

Dover (London), Rotterdam, Kiel (Hamburg), Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Aarhus, Oslo, Kristiansand, scenic cruising Hardangerfjord, Bergen, Stavanger, Dover (London)

All fares are displayed in AUD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.