Norwegian Fjords 8 Nights • Southampton, England • CELEBRITY APEX

Bergen, Norway is a former Viking stronghold girded by deep fjords, towering mountains and sweeping glaciers. Visit Bryggen Wharf, where you can strike a bargain in one of the many artisans' workshops, or visit the famous Fish Market for a real treat. Bergen specialties include fish soup, cured salmon, herring, shrimp, and venison. Be sure to try the “skillingsbolle”, a sinfully good cinnamon roll while on your Bergen cruise. This city located on the southwest coast of Norway is straight out of storybook. At the center of its allure is the old wharf town of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where winding cobblestone alleys transport you back through 400 years of Hanseatic domination. Indeed, the Middle Ages lurk around every bend of this wonderfully preserved Norwegian treasure, and yet it’s also alive with a youthful exuberance evident in eclectic coffee houses, sensational art galleries and a burgeoning local music scene. Perhaps, the best way to take it all in is by hopping aboard the city’s funicular and climbing some 1,000 feet above sea level. As sweeping views of the city, the surrounding mountains and glistening fjords envelop you; it’s impossible not to marvel at the beauty of Bergen. 

Much of this picturesque town, located at the tip of the Nordfjord, looks as though it is straight out of the 17th century. Its many historic sites include Olden Old Church, built in 1759 on the site of the original stave church dating back to the 14th century, and the Singer Home, former residence of American painter William Singer. Nature lover? Explore the lush, verdant scenery of Lake Olden and experience its tranquility on a relaxing sightseeing cruise. Want something more adventurous? On your Europe cruise, trek through the Norwegian wild to Briksdal Glacier, an arm of the largest glacier in continental Europe. You'll hike along river paths and see gentle waterfalls created by the melting ice.

The town of Flam, Norway is nestled in a tributary of the world's longest and deepest fjord. Surrounded by steep mountainsides, roaring waterfalls, and deep valleys, you’ll experience a one-of-a-kind encounter with nature on your Flam cruise. This quaint Norway town is a place of extremes. The epic majesty of Flam’s dense green mountains dwarfs even the grandest of cruise ships, and the glass-calm water that surrounds the town woos adventurers from near and far. This is place where you can’t help but feel closer to nature for no other reason that it overwhelms at every turn. Climb aboard the Flam Railway for the world’s steepest train ride and rumble 2,800 feet up the wilds of Norway. Kayak through the calm waters of the Aurlandsfjord for breathtaking views of mountain farms with grazing goats or sheep perched at the fjord’s edge. You’ll find many restaurants and cafes offering local Norwegian fare made with farm-fresh ingredients. And you can sample the famous brown and white goat cheese in nearby Undredal. Whether it’s hiking, kayaking, or taking a dizzying train ride into the mountains, Flam is a Norwegian wonderland that’s meant to be explored.

Gracefully combining past and present, as well as Flemish and French, Bruges offers a little something for everyone. Linked by the Baudouin Canal, this medieval town is the stuff of fairytale and storybooks. Cobblestone streets, old, historic churches and a dreamy landscape make this a very sought after destination -- especially during the summer months.  Stroll through the Markt, a bustling plaza where the rhythmic beat of horse-drawn carriages echoes off a soaring belfry tower. Immerse yourself in a rich art history, best reflected in the paintings of Bruges’ own Jan Van Eyck, one of the most significant Renaissance artists of the 15th century. Spend a delightful day on the medieval streets of this city with a seemingly endless supply of charm, culture, and beauty.Foodies will revel in the eclectic dining options at local bistros. Dig into sweet Belgian waffles and stop by the renowned chocolate boutiques on your cruise to Bruges. If sampling the fresh fish of this country is on your agenda, the fish market located here is one of the biggest in Europe. Or, take a scenic cruise through the medieval city of Ghent, Belgium and discover important landmarks, including Chinese Teahouses, 13th-century monasteries and castles of the Counts.