The biggest travel drawback in northern Europe is the cost, so taking a cruise is a good option for those hoping to save money. The cruise fare covers the most expensive items in northern Europe, which are room, food, and transportation. Taking a cruise also certainly makes planning easier, since the ship sets the itinerary.
At least 18 cruise lines will send over 30 ships to northern Europe in the summer of 2012. Cruises to Scandinavia and the Baltic often stopover in many of the great capital cities of northern Europe, including Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, and Helsinki. These northern European capitals feature marvelous historical sites, museums, and parks. In addition, you can climb to the top of a ski jump in Oslo, marvel at the ancient Vasa war ship in Stockholm, explore Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, and visit the underground Rock Church in Helsinki. I've done all these things on northern European cruises.
Many travelers to northern Europe find St. Petersburg the most fascinating city of the region. Due to its popularity, cruise ships usually overnight in St. Petersburg. I've visited St. Petersburg three times on cruises, and could easily return a dozen more. The city's history is spellbinding and its museums and palaces are breathtaking. It would take years to see all of the exhibits in the Hermitage Museum.
More on Travel to Northern Europe and Scandinavia from About.com
Church on Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg (c) Linda Garrison
Quite right, Linda! I’ve done maybe a dozen cruises in these waters and the sights are utterly spellbinding.
Your point about St. Petersburg is spot on. Many ships spend three whole days and two overnights here, and yet you can still only scrape the surface of this magnificent city.
And if you’re a lover of nature, few things beat being out on deck when it’s still broad daylight at midnight.
As an alternative to the Med, there’s a lot of good things to be said for cruising the Baltic in summertime!