MSC Cruises, Northern Europe from Hamburg, October 5, 2023

Cruising from: Hamburg, Germany;

Departure Date: 5 October, 2023;

Cruise Line: MSC Cruises;

Cruise Ship: MSC Preziosa;

Duration: 10-day cruise;

Ports of Call: Hamburg, Copenhagen, Oslo, Bruges, Le Havre, Southampton, Vigo, Lisbon;

Day 0 Hamburg, Germany

Straddling the Rive Elbe, Hamburg is Germany's second largest city and is affectionately known as the Gateway to the World, thanks to its rich maritime history and its privileged position as one of the premier sea ports in Europe. The best way to take in the Hamburg's culture and history is to hop aboard the Maritime Circle Line, a shuttle service which connects all of Hamburg's most important maritime attractions.

Day 1 At Sea, At Sea

Wonderful day at Sea.

Day 2 Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, the Danish capital's compact dimensions packed with cafes, shops and the best restaurants in Scandinavia are perfect for exploration on two feet or two wheels. The city's no.1 attraction, more than 100-year old amusement park Tivoli Gardens, is centrally situated a short distance west of the Central Train Station, while royal palaces Amalienborg and Rosenborg and museums like the National Gallery and the National Museum are also within the downtown area.

Day 3 Oslo, Norway

Set on the banks of the Oslofjord, which is in fact a lake, not a fjord, Norwegian capital Oslo is one of the sparsest capital cities in Europe, despite being one of the largest in terms of size. Oslo has a special combination of city life and easy access to the great outdoors. This provides lots of space for nature to thrive in the very heart of the metropolis. Outdoor activities like kayaking, skiing, hiking and cycling are just as popular within the capital as they are in the countryside.

Day 4 At Sea, At Sea

Wonderful day at Sea.

Day 5 Bruges, Belgium

Zeebrugge is a Belgian port and seaside resort. It's linked to the city of Bruges by the Baudouin Canal. Located in the Flanders region of northern Belgium, Bruges is the closest thing you're likely to find in the real world to a fairytale city. The focal point of the town is Grote Markt, a large medieval square overlooked by the most perfect belfry you'll ever see. Bruges is also home to a number of fascinating art and history museums, with the Groeninge Museum being one of the best.

Day 6 Le Havre, France

Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking, more than any other French city, France's postwar energy and optimism. Numerous museums and galleries provide cultural interest, and in summer, there are several beaches for the sun-seekers.

Day 7 Southampton, England

Known as the cruise capital of Europe, the Port of Southampton is a passenger and cargo port located in the central part of the south coast of England. There are four dedicated cruise terminals at Southampton which play host to a wide variety of cruise lines. Southampton is one of the most lively and dynamic cities in the south of England. From bustling shops and marinas to seaside resorts and areas of outstanding natural beauty, the city and region have lots to offer.

Day 8 At Sea, At Sea

Wonderful day at Sea.

Day 9 Vigo, Spain

Vigo is the most populous municipality of Galicia, in northwest Spain on the Atlantic Ocean. Vigo has an abundance of fresh seafood, which is arguably the highest quality in Galicia. And apart from the food, the city has several art galleries and museums, water sport activities and sites. For those who want to enjoy the Galician coast to the fullest, there are multiple beaches southwest of the city center.

Day 10 Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal's capital, is a fascinating and inspiring place spread over a string of seven hills north of the Tagus River. The most enjoyable activity while in the Alfama district is a ride on the number 28 tram, going through some of the oldest quarters and many tourist attractions.