After cruising with Viking Ocean Cruises on their Homelands itinerary, I wanted to share a few of the highlights we experienced. As we joined the cruise at Berlin, we got to sail from there to Bergen, Norway. Along the way, we stopped at some incredible ports in both Denmark and Norway, all picturesque and charming. Viking Ocean Cruises puts together a spectacular adventure. Each stop is thoughtful and offers excursions that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
(please note, a split cruise is not available. Journalists and bloggers are invited for one week onboard, either the first or second half of this ocean cruise itinerary. The complete itinerary for Viking Homelands sails from Stockholm to Bergen.)
In this post, you’ll find out all about what you can expect onboard a Viking Ocean Cruises. So after a week sailing through fjords and seaside towns, here are some of my favorite parts of the second part of the Viking Homelands Cruise.
Highlights from the Viking Homelands Ocean Cruise
Stop 1: Berlin, Germany
You could easily spend a few days exploring Berlin. There is so much here to discover and if you’re a museum fan, you’ll love this city. I spent most of the time with my Dad museum hopping, exploring some incredible cafes, and checking out the local art scene. When in Berlin, I’d recommend at a minimum doing one museum on museum island to get a taste. Book lunch at Mogg, and explore the city by foot or scooter!
For a full guide, I shared this weekend guide to Berlin, a list of 10 things you must do in the city, and a coffee shop guide.
Stop 2: Copenhagen, Denmark
Oh, Copenhagen. This is one of my favorite Scandinavian cities. It had only been a year since I was here last so I was excited to show my Dad around to my favorite spots. On this full-day in port, we opted to skip the tours and self-explore. We started the time in Nyhavn to see the picturesque sailboats on the water. We grabbed a coffee and a snack at Atelier September and continued on to the downtown to explore the area and shop.
Afterward, we hopped over to Torvehallerne for some open-faced sandwiches. We continued from here into the botanical gardens and toured the scenic Rosenborg Castle. We ended the day at a favorite wine shop called Ved Stranden 10 where they pour you a wine based on what you like. It was an idyllic day in Copenhagen.
+ If you’re visiting for your first time, be sure to check out this guide to restaurants, a travel guide, and some incredible coffee shops.
Stop 3: Ålborg, Denmark
Our final stop in Denmark was in Ålborg. Founded by the Vikings and rich in history, we opted to take the complimentary walking tour. We had a chance to learn about the history, see historic points of interest, and get insight into why this bustling city is so wonderful to live in. I’d recommend hopping on a walking tour while here as you’re only in port for the morning.
Stop 4: Stavanger, Norway
One of my favorite stops in Norway, especially as it was my first time in the country, was Stavanger. This city is incredible and sits not too far away from Lysefjord and the famous Pulpit Rock. We opted to book a local vendor, Rødne Cruises, to take a group cruise into the fjord. It took around 3 or so hours and was incredibly scenic — highly recommend doing this. When we came back into port, we grabbed lunch at Fisketorget (order the fish soup) which was delicious. We walked around town, grabbed a coffee at Kokko Kaffebar, and explored the historic homes of Gamle Stavanger (old town).
Stop 5: Eidfjord, Norway
Our second stop in Norway was in Eidfjord where we joined on the complimentary tour to the Nordic Center. Afterward, we grabbed a few snacks and went for a walk along the fjord here. It is so beautiful and you’re in port for the bigger portion of the day. For the time here, you could even rent bikes and ride around the water here. One recommendation, when you set sail, be sure to be outside to see the views of the fjord, it is mind-blowing!
Stop 6: Bergen, Norway
Our final stop was in the city of Bergen. I’ve heard so many great things about Bergen so when we arrived I was incredibly excited to explore. We started the day with a small seaplane excursion that Viking offered as a paid excursion. It soared high above the fjords and over glaciers — seriously had tears in my eyes as it was one of the most beautiful experiences in my lifetime. This is one of those *splurge* experiences and worth every penny.
When we returned, we walked into the town to explore. We grabbed sushi at Nama (good but pricey). Explored a little up the winding roads up the hill and eventually settled down for coffee at Det Lille Kaffee Kompaniet. Our day continued by foot, just popping down streets, exploring boutiques and taking in the scenery. Bergen is perfect for this.
A huge thank you to Viking Cruises for another memorable cruise!
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