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Baltic Sea Cruise Tours & Travel Packages 2025/2026
6 Baltic Sea trips. Compare tour itineraries from 5 tour companies. 12 reviews. 5/5 avg rating.
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Top Baltic Sea Attractions
Discover a variety of experiences on Baltic Sea cruise tours. From historical landmarks to scenic landscapes, there's a tour package for every interest.
- Gazing at the masterpieces in St. Petersburg's vast Hermitage, one of the world's greatest art museums
- Sailing through Stockholm's scenic archipelago, passing dozens of small islands on the way
- Discovering the hidden charms of the medieval walled city of Tallinn, Estonia
- Wandering the pedestrian-friendly streets of trendy Helsinki, Finland, before settling into an outdoor café to catch the buzz of activity
- Riding the roller coaster and downing a Danish hot dog in Copenhagen's delightful Tivoli Gardens, one of Europe's premier amusement parks
- Checking out Edvard Munch's famous painting "The Scream" in Oslo, Norway
- Visiting vibrant Berlin through its gateway port of Warnemunde, Germany
- Admiring the Gothic architecture in the old section of Riga, Latvia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Baltic Sea Tours & Travel Guide
Baltic Sea Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Northern Europe's island-dotted Baltic Sea, long coveted for its strategic location, has now become a popular cruising destination -- and for good reason. Among the nine countries it borders are most of Scandinavia and parts of Germany, Poland, and Russia.
The cities often included on Baltic itineraries include some of Europe's most beautiful: St. Petersburg, Russia; Stockholm, Sweden; Helsinki, Finland; Copenhagen, Denmark; Oslo, Norway; and Tallinn, Estonia. Small ship cruises permit stops in smaller ports as well.
Why Cruise the Baltic Sea?
While the sunny Mediterranean still lures more visitors, the Baltic Sea — spanning much of northern Europe – is becoming increasingly popular as a cruise destination. Part of the reason, no doubt, is that many travelers have "done" the Med more than once and are looking for something new and different.
But the Baltic can hold its own against just about any competition, offering a convenient and perhaps less expensive way to tour some of Europe's most alluring cities and smaller ports.
Historically, the Baltic has provided strategic access to the sea for the nine nations that border it:
- St. Petersburg, Russia: St. Petersburg is famous for its palaces and the Hermitage Museum, one of the world's largest art museums. Visitors can explore grand architecture and cultural heritage, making it a staple on Baltic Sea itineraries.
- Stockholm, Sweden: Known for its beautiful archipelago and historic Gamla Stan, Stockholm offers a mix of modern and medieval attractions, including the Royal Palace. The city's vibrant culture and scenic views make it a must-visit destination.
- Helsinki, Finland: With its scenic parks, waterfront cafes, and vibrant city center, Helsinki offers a blend of nature and urban life. The pedestrian-friendly streets and lively atmosphere are perfect for exploration.
- Copenhagen, Denmark: Home to the famous Tivoli Gardens and a picturesque harbor, Copenhagen is renowned for its unique blend of old-world charm and modernity. Visitors can enjoy historic sites, trendy cafes, and beautiful architecture.
- Tallinn, Estonia: This medieval walled city with cobblestone streets and historic buildings is perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts looking to experience Estonia's rich heritage.
- Riga, Latvia: Riga features stunning Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. The city's narrow cobblestone streets and diverse architecture, dating back centuries, offer a fascinating exploration.
- Oslo, Norway: Oslo is known for the Viking Ship Museum and the Edvard Munch Museum. The city offers a rich historical experience with world-class museums and cultural sites.
- Gdansk, Poland: Gdansk, also known as Danzig, is on many Baltic itineraries. Its Old Town, with colorful facades and a rich maritime history, is worth exploring.
- Hamburg, Germany: Hamburg is a colorful city that is often included in Baltic tours. Its vibrant cultural scene and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop.
Now, it also provides access to travelers who board small ships and other cruises to tour countries and cities that are often overlooked in the rush toward southern European favorites like Spain, France, and Italy.
While Baltic countries are generally cooler and reputedly less "passionate" than their Mediterranean cousins, they also offer world-class architecture, art, scenery, and their own brand of passion.
Top Destinations on a Baltic Sea Cruise
The Baltic Sea region is home to the ancient travel routes of Vikings and presents a mythological aura.
Scandinavia
Denmark, Sweden, and Finland are Scandinavian countries that border the Baltic while neighboring Norway is often included on Baltic itineraries. Baltic cruises tend to focus on the region's great cities: Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, and Oslo.
In and around all these cities — some built on multiple islands — you'll find lively waterfront walkways, castles to tour, urban parks and offshore islands to explore, refined cuisine and outdoor cafes to enjoy, and — always during the summer cruising season — local people out and about, celebrating their long days of daylight.
This is when otherwise more reserved northern Europeans tend to let their hair down, so to speak; summer solstice and other seasonal festivals are great fun. Turku, Finland, which lies along the famous "King's Road," is a smaller port that graces some itineraries.
St. Petersburg, Russia
If you haven't already visited St. Petersburg on a river cruise through Russia, a Baltic cruise offers a convenient way to tour this indispensable city. Home to palaces, castles, and one of the world's great art museums — the Hermitage — St. Petersburg usually warrants at least two-night stops on Baltic cruises.
One of the best parts, if you've ever gone through the agony of applying for a Russian visa, is that cruise ship passengers can stay up to 72 hours visa-free, though you must remain with a tour guide the entire time on shore. (To wander on your own, you'll need a visa.)
The Three "Baltic Nations"
The former Soviet republics of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania — often known collectively as the "Baltic Nations" — have been independent countries for almost three decades. Tallinn, Estonia — closest to Finland and a walled gem of a city complete with medieval castles — was the first capital city to be "discovered" after the Soviet era and is now a staple on most Baltic cruises.
Riga, Latvia, is an up-and-coming destination rivaling Tallinn. Its narrow cobblestone streets and diverse architecture dating back centuries are juxtaposed with hip new outdoor cafes.
Poland and Germany
Gdansk (Danzig), Poland, is on several Baltic itineraries and has an interesting Old Town well worth exploring. Colorful Hamburg, Germany, is another potential stop. Warnemunde, Germany, is worth a wander but is most often used as a gateway to tours of Berlin, which has blossomed into one of Europe's most dynamic cities.
You can view the Berlin Wall Memorial and the landmark Brandenburg Gate, where the wall used to run, marking the border between East and West Berlin.
Top Activities To Enjoy on Baltic Sea Tours
A cruise to the Baltic Sea offers many activities for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. From exploring historic landmarks to engaging in unique cultural experiences, the best Baltic cruises provide diverse opportunities to enjoy the scenic and cultural richness of the region.
- Exploring Gamla Stan: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Gamla Stan, one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Discover historical buildings, the Stockholm Palace, and charming cafes.
- Visiting the Viking Ship Museum: Learn about the fascinating Viking history at the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo. See well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the Vikings' maritime prowess.
- Touring Majestic Castles: Visit majestic castles like the Royal Palace in Copenhagen and Peterhof Palace in St. Petersburg. These grand structures are a testament to the region's royal heritage and architectural splendor.
- Cruising Through Canals: Experience the scenic beauty of cities like Stockholm and Copenhagen by cruising through their canals. These waterways offer unique perspectives of the cities' architecture and landscapes.
- Enjoying Nordic Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Nordic cuisine, which focuses on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Visit restaurants and markets in cities like Helsinki and Stockholm for a culinary adventure.
- Exploring Estonian Culture: Discover the rich Estonian culture in Tallinn, with its medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and traditional crafts. Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit.
- Walking Cobblestone Streets: Enjoy leisurely walks through the cobblestone streets of historic cities like Riga and Tallinn. These charming pathways are lined with centuries-old buildings and picturesque squares.
- Visiting Iconic Museums: Tour world-renowned museums such as the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg and the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo. These institutions house some of the world's most incredible art and historical collections.
- Enjoying Onboard Entertainment: Make the most of the cruise onboard experience with a variety of entertainment options. From live performances to themed dining nights, there's always something exciting happening on a luxury cruise.
- Exploring Cruise Ports: Take advantage of the diverse cruise ports along the Baltic Sea. Each port, from Copenhagen to Helsinki, offers unique attractions and activities, making every stop an adventure.
- Witnessing Natural Wonders: Marvel at the natural wonders of the Baltic States, including the Curonian Spit in Lithuania and the Gulf of Finland. These sites offer stunning landscapes and unique ecological features.
- Participating in Shore Excursions: Join shore excursions that take you deeper into the local culture and natural beauty of each destination. Excursions include guided tours, hiking, or visits to local markets and landmarks.
- Discovering the Wonders of the World: Explore the architectural and historical wonders of cities like St. Petersburg and Berlin. From palaces to cathedrals, these landmarks are among the most remarkable in the world.
- Experiencing European Cruise Vacation Highlights: Enjoy the highlights of a European cruise vacation with a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty. The Baltic Sea tours offer a comprehensive experience of northern Europe's treasures.
Chasing Northern Lights on Baltic Sea Cruises
The best time to see the Northern Lights on a Baltic cruise is between October and March when the long nights and clear skies increase your chances of encountering this natural phenomenon.
As you prepare for this extraordinary journey, bring plenty of cozy clothing. Scarves, hats, long underwear, and thick socks are essential to keep warm while you wait for the lights to appear.
The temperatures can drop significantly, but the reward of seeing the Northern Lights dancing across the sky is worth every shiver. The experience of watching nature's most incredible light show from the deck of a luxury cruise ship is unforgettable.
Imagine standing onboard, wrapped in warmth, as the sky comes alive with vibrant greens, purples, and reds. Many cruise itineraries include stops at prime viewing locations during the day to explore the local culture and landscapes. So, bundle up, bring your camera, and prepare for a magical experience you'll cherish forever.
Baltic Sea Reviews & Ratings
Great places to see, fantastic guide &
Great places to see, fantastic guide & overall terrific experiance
This style of travelling is not for
This style of travelling is not for everyone so there are some people I know who travel - but only want the VERY best of everything - especially when it comes to hot...
This trip was just what I expected
This trip was just what I expected of an Intrepid Original trip.
Why not, you earned it
Why not, you earned it
As always for me, the trip was
As always for me, the trip was well organized, fascinating,...
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