Travel

Cruise to Northern Europe in the Summer of 2013

By Linda Garrison, About.com GuideFebruary 25, 2013

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When planning a European vacation, many travelers don't think about northern Europe as an option. Instead, they choose the Mediterranean or the British Isles as a European destination.

Church on Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg, Russia

Although those are both terrific travel ideas, why not consider visiting northern Europe for your next summer vacation? The Scandinavian countries are fascinating, most people speak English, the summer weather is delightful, and the long summer days help stretch your vacation hours. After all, you can see much more when the sun is up 14-18 hours per day.

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 2013. 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.