Famed for so much of its stunning architecture, enriching medieval museums and art galleries, a Baltic cruise is a fantastic way to visit this striking part of the world, often overlooked when it comes to choosing a European holiday.
If you'd like to make your cruise as stress free as possible, Baltic sea cruise holidays are an ideal choice if thanks to their no-fly cruise option, setting sail directly from the UK with the choice of many northern departure ports as well as Southampton. What's more, with the option to choose from mini cruises through to leisurely 13 night cruises, you have the flexibility to cruise for as long as you like. Alternatively, if you are looking for a cruise around the Fjords, then take a look at our Norwegian cruises.
While the summer months are the prime time to cruise the Baltics, especially June and July when some parts of Russia celebrate almost endless daylight hours, the season runs from late April to mid-September. Although it's likely to be chillier if you choose to cruise early or late in the season, you are more likely to find cheap fares and be able to escape the crowds (and don’t forget to look for last-minute deals!).
There's no better way to taste just what the Baltics have to offer in terms of eating and drinking than during your Baltic sea cruise. Visiting a variety of destinations, you'll get to sample some of the specialities which come from this part of the world.
Taking inspiration from Slavic cuisine, many of the dishes you try will include lots of delicious cuts of meat, accompanied by creamy dairy products to make your mouth water. Delicacies in these regions include blood sausage, sauerkraut, fried herring and all the rye bread you could ask for.
If your cruise takes you towards Scandinavia, you can expect meals that include lots of fresh fish and seafood caught locally and cooked almost immediately. In addition, those with a sweet tooth will be delighted by the array of pastries, jams and desserts that form part of the national diet.
Meanwhile, in Russia, you'll be treated to hearty vegetable soups and boiled meats, where it would be a shame to miss out on one of the countries most famous dishes, Borscht, made from beetroot, vegetables and meats. While you're there, don't forget to wash your meal down with a glass of fine vodka- if you can stomach it!
During your Baltic cruises, you'll be able to take in the best of Scandinavia and the countries surrounding the Baltic sea, visiting the fascinating cities of Copenhagen, Oslo, Helsinki, Tallinn, Stockholm and St. Petersburg. In each of these ports of call you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of each country. Whether this involves taking part in a guided tour of the old town, visiting local markets or getting stuck into the regional delicacies, on a Baltic cruise you'll experience the Baltics like never before!
A Baltic capital cruise is the best way to see many of Europe's most celebrated cities such as Copenhagen, Stockholm, St Petersburg, Tallinn and Riga all in one trip.
Discover the fascinating country of Russia, and its beautiful former capital city, St. Petersburg, with a Baltic cruise holiday. A vast array of culture awaits you in the myriad of art museums throughout this enchanting onion-domed city. The best time of the year to visit this impressive capital is June, where everyone is out on the streets celebrating the almost endless daylight on "White Nights"
Enjoy a fascinating insight into this historic country by taking a shore excursion in Estonia. Legend has it that the capital city of Tallinn was founded by an exiled Danish princess who successfully defended the city against all who tried to overthrow her. Nowadays visitors to the city can marvel at the magnificent domed Russian Orthodox Cathedral, the fascinating Kiek in de Kok watchtower, so called for having a sneaky view into peoples homes, and the fabulously bustling cafe-lined Town Hall Square.
Dock in Sweden's delightful city of Stockholm and wander around the maze of islands, exploring the stunning architecture and the fashionable cafes and shops. Alternatively, stop off in Gothenburg, to the West of Sweden, and visit its quieter streets for a truly "Swedish" experience against the delightful backdrop of canals and parks.
Helsinki stands proudly against its seascape positioning and is one of the most interesting stop offs on your journey. This cosmopolitan capital city plays host to many lively bistros and trendy eateries, and has more more historic culture than you'll have time to take in. Before you leave, be sure to visit the Russian-influenced Cathedral on Senate Square, as well as the fortress of Suomenlinna.
Visit the beautiful city of Copenhagen as you stop off in Denmark and see the statue of the "Little Mermaid", glimmering on her rock, a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen's popular fairytale. This fabulous, lively city is an absolute must while on your Baltic cruise. The restaurant and bar-lined streets are simply oozing with personality and just waiting to be uncovered, while the colourful harbour lined with quirky buildings is the perfect photo opportunity!