Trip Name | From | Days | Next Departure | Summary |
---|---|---|---|---|
Arctic Sights and Northern Lights | $8,195 | 12 | Sep 15, 2025 | Embark on a 12-day expedition to and from Reykjavik aboard the Sea Spirit. Experience stunning fjords, icebergs, and wildlife in Greenland, visit an Inuit village, and enjoy various outdoor activities before returning to Iceland's Westfjords. |
Enchanting Rhine | $5,699 | 12 | Apr 26, 2025 | After spending two nights in both Zurich and Lucerne, Switzerland, board the MS Amaprima on an exclusive 7-day Rhine River cruise through the historic old towns and big cities of Germany, the historic borderlands of Strasbourg, France, and finally to Amsterdam in the Netherlands. |
Rhine & Moselle Delights | $7,219 | 15 | Sep 03, 2025 | This 15-day Rhine & Moselle River cruise aboard MS Amaprima takes you from Zurich to Basel to Amsterdam, passing through Germany and France along the way. Hike and bike in the lush Rhine Valley, stroll the "Crossroads of Europe" in Strasbourg, and savor the best wines and beers that have made this region famous. |
Magna on the Danube - Budapest to Vilshofen | $3,749 | 8 | Apr 20, 2025 | Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen aboard MS AmaMagna. Enjoy captivating architecture, music, and culinary experiences. Explore Vienna's Baroque gems, savor epicurean delights, and discover vibrant cultures in Budapest and Bratislava. |
Northeast Greenland's Unexplored Sea Ice | $27,810 | 15 | May 24, 2025 | This 15-day cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore Greenland's northeast coast, one of the most remote regions in the Far North. Take the time to explore the coasts of Blosseville, Ittoqqortoormiit, and Greenland's northeast. |
Castles along the Rhine | $3,699 | 8 | Jul 03, 2025 | Embark on an 8-day Rhine River cruise from Basel to Amsterdam aboard the S.S. Antoinette. Discover the charm of medieval towns like Breisach and Braubach, explore the cobbled streets of Strasbourg, and visit the majestic Marksburg Castle. Delight in guided walking tours, bike rides along the Rhine, and panoramic views from cable cars. |
Arctic Sights and Northern Lights | $8,395 | 11 | Sep 07, 2026 | Embark on an 11-day expedition to and from Reykjavik aboard the Sea Spirit, exploring Iceland's landmarks and Greenland's stunning Scoresby Sund. Experience Inuit culture, witness the Northern Lights, and enjoy whale watching back in Iceland. |
Jewels of the Arctic | $22,295 | 15 | Jul 10, 2026 | Join a 15-day expedition cruise aboard the Greg Mortimer from Reykjavik to Oslo. Explore Svalbard's endless daylight, meet polar bears and sea ice walruses, and hear guillemot calls. Venture through East Greenland's Scoresbysund, visit remote Ittoqqortoormiit and glide amidst stunning icebergs. |
The Baltic Sea is bordered by nine countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, and Sweden. Each of these countries offers unique attractions and cultural experiences, making the Baltic Sea region a diverse and intriguing travel destination.
The best time to visit the Baltic Sea region is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring coastal areas. The summer months (June to August) are particularly popular due to the long daylight hours and numerous cultural festivals.
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the specific countries you plan to visit. EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa to travel within the Schengen Area, which includes most Baltic Sea countries. Non-EU/EEA citizens, such as those from the US, Canada, and Australia, can typically visit Schengen countries for up to 90 days without a visa. For Russia, a visa is required for most travelers. Always check the specific visa requirements for each country in your itinerary before traveling.
The currencies used in the Baltic Sea region vary by country. Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania use the Euro (EUR). Sweden uses the Swedish Krona (SEK), Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK), Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN), and Russia uses the Russian Ruble (RUB). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the region, but it’s advisable to carry some local currency for smaller establishments and markets.
Traveling between Baltic Sea countries is convenient due to well-developed transportation networks. Options include flights, trains, buses, and ferries. Major cities like Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Tallinn are well-connected by air and sea routes. Ferries are a popular choice for short trips across the sea, providing scenic and comfortable travel. For travel to Russia, flights and ferries are common, but it's essential to check visa requirements and border regulations. Baltic Sea cruises are also common and a comfortable way to visit multiple countries and remote visitor sites, without having to worry about further logistics.
The Baltic Sea region boasts numerous must-see attractions. In Sweden, visit the historic Vasa Museum and the scenic Stockholm Archipelago. Denmark offers the charming Nyhavn in Copenhagen and the ancient Kronborg Castle. Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, is known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town. In Finland, explore Helsinki’s modern architecture and the picturesque Suomenlinna Fortress. Poland’s Gdańsk features the beautiful Old Town and the impressive Malbork Castle. In Russia, St. Petersburg is a highlight with its stunning Hermitage Museum and the opulent Peterhof Palace. Each country offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions.
English is widely spoken in the Baltic Sea region, especially in tourist areas, major cities, and among younger generations. In countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, English proficiency is generally high. While you may encounter fewer English speakers in rural areas and parts of Russia, basic communication is usually manageable, and many signs and menus are available in English.
Packing for a trip to the Baltic Sea depends on the season. In summer, bring light clothing, a jacket for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For spring and autumn, pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and warmer clothing. If visiting in winter, bring thermal clothing, a heavy coat, gloves, a hat, and sturdy boots. Regardless of the season, a travel adapter for electrical outlets and any necessary medications are essential.
The Baltic Sea region has high healthcare standards, and no special vaccinations are required for travelers. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. EU/EEA citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the newer European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare services. Non-EU/EEA citizens should check with their insurance provider for coverage details. When traveling to Russia, it is advisable to ensure your insurance covers any medical treatment there.
Cultural etiquette in the Baltic Sea region is generally similar to that in other European countries. Punctuality is valued, especially in business and formal settings. It’s polite to greet people with a handshake and to use titles and last names unless invited to use first names. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is common. Respect for personal space and privacy is important, and it’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home in many Baltic Sea countries. In Russia, it’s also polite to bring a small gift if invited to someone’s home.