15 Photos That Prove Northern Europe Is Summer's Hottest Destination

Friday, June 28, 2019
By Azamara

Beaches are great, but there's more to summer than sunbathing. Imagine strolling down the cobblestoned streets of a village that appears to be straight from the pages of a fairytale, or cruising through mystical Fjords highlighted by picturesque waterfalls. The natural beauty of Northern Europe is best experienced in the summer, and it will take your breath away. 

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast is no longer a destination that travelers should avoid. The city has undergone quite the transformation and visitor numbers are on the rise. Find Donegall Square in the heart of the city to see the Edwardian City Hall, and the Titanic Memorial. Afterwards, grab a pint at the Crown Liquor Saloon, a Victorian pub dating back to the 1880s. 

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is known for its skyline of spires, its colorful waterfront and its beautiful parks. Explore Tivoli Gardens, or cruise the canals with our Azamara Shore Excursions tour.

Douglas, Isle of Man

Douglas on the Isle of Man is small, but definitely worth visiting. Charming cafes and restaurants line the sea front, gardens brighten up quaint streets, and the island's village of Cregneash is home to the fascinating Manx community. 

Geiranger, Norway

 A cruise through the Norwegian Fjords might remind some of Disney's hit film Frozen. It's a place so magical, you'll think you must have entered a fairytale. A small luxury cruise ship is the ultimate way to explore the fjords and see the spectacular Seven Sisters Waterfalls. 

Edinburgh, Scotland

 When our ships dock in Edinburgh (Leith), Scotland, we often spend several nights. You'll be thrilled to have so much time to explore this incredible city. Begin your day at Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city. 

Cork, Ireland

 The quiet seaside town of Cobh in County Cork is your gateway to this stunning part of Ireland. Explore Cobh's history of seafaring and relationship with the Titanic, see the fortress and monestrey on Spike Island, or take the train to the charming village of Cork.

Helsinki, Finland

 Traditional architecture meets modern design in Helsinki. Visit Kauppatori Market Square to find fresh, local food and unique handicrafts. Join our Azamara Shore Excursions tour, and you'll visit one of the largest ice bars in the world. How cool is that?

Dover, England

Fans of the British TV series Broadchurch have all fallen in love with the show's locale, England's stunning Jurassic Coast. Dover's steep white cliffs and sparkling ocean made for a stunning panorama, so pack your camera. 

North Cape

Honningsvag, Norway, is the last village before North Cape and home to only 4,000 people. From Honningsvag, you can the majestic cliff of North Cape where the Atlantic meets the Arctic. 

St. Petersburg, Russia

 Enjoy several days exploring art and history in St. Petersburg, Russia. The stunning Catherine Palace (pictured here), the Hermitage, Peter and Paul Fortress and the Church of Our Savior on the Spilled Blood are only a few of the city's must-see spots. Azamara Shore Excursions tours can help you make the most of your time in port. 

Isle of Skye, Scotland

 Portree, Scotland is your gateway to the magical Isle of Skye. Soak in the ambiance of rolling green hills, thick misty air and rugged coastline. The spectacular Quirang hike will leave you breathless. This is what Scotland is all about. 

Guernsey, Channel Islands

 If you're in a book club, there's a good chance you've read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. The work of fiction brings Guernsey during wartime to life for readers. The small island of Guernsey was occupied by Germans during WWII, a fact that makes it such an interesting place to visit today.

Liverpool, England

 Love sports? Music? History? There's something for everyone in Liverpool. The city is home to excellent rugby, football (or, soccer, to Americans) and golf, and is the birthplace of The Beatles.

Tromso, Norway

 Tromso, Norway is situated far North of the Arctic Circle, and boasts a dramatic landscape of snowcapped mountains, stunning fjords and scattered islands. The town's Arctic Cathedral is an architecural masterpiece, with eleven arching triangles representative of icebergs. 

Tallinn, Estonia

 The fairytale-like town of Tallinn, Estonia will charm you immediately. There's no need to rush here. Find a seat at an outdoor cafe along the Palace Square and enjoy your surroundings. 


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