Just a short distance from Amsterdam, IJmuiden offers beaches, sand dunes, scenic views, and the country's biggest fish market. It's North Holland's gateway to the North Sea and sits at the head of a canal leading directly to Amsterdam. Amsterdam is known for its liberal spirit, rich culture, 140+ art galleries, 40 museums, baroque architecture, canals, cobblestone streets, and bicycle transport.

Zeebrugge is the gateway to Bruges, capital of Belgium's West Flanders. Bruges was wealthy in medieval times through trade with Baltic ports. As the Zwin River, which linked Bruges to the North Sea, slowly narrowed, the city's great trade era ended. Today, visitors come for its charming, well-preserved medieval architecture along narrow streets and canals, and for some of Western Europe's finest artistic masterpieces.

Southampton is the largest city and port on the south coast of England. Tour the historic byways of Old Town with its Medieval walls and Tudor architecture. Spend an hour or two meandering along the pathways of Royal Victoria Country Park, picturesquely set along the waterfront on the grounds of a former military hospital where Florence Nightingale once worked. Southampton's maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here that the Titanic departed on its fateful journey and where the Mayflower sailed for the New World.

Enjoy the scenic trip through the rolling French countryside to Paris and spend the day savoring it's gardens, museums and historic sites. Visit the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Take a boat ride along the Seine and a stroll along the Champs Elysee. Or visit historic Rouen or the battlefields of Normandy.

Ringaskiddy, once a quiet fishing village in County Cork, is now a busy cruise port for visits to Cobh, Cork, and Kinsale. In Cobh's Heritage Center, learn about Annie Moore, the first emigrant processed at Ellis Island in 1892. Explore walkable Cork: Parliament Bridge, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, and the Cork Courthouse, then relax at a Castle Street café. In Kinsale, a former naval base, try Dublin Bay prawns, Galway Bay oysters, or Irish stew.

Waterford, on the River Suir, is Ireland's oldest city, founded in Viking times. Its medieval walls, cobbled streets, and waterfront give it charm. Highlights include Reginald's Tower, Europe's oldest mortared stone tower and home to the Maritime and Civic Museum; the restored City Hall with the Municipal Art Collection; the Heritage Museum; and the world-famous Waterford Crystal factory, where master craftsmen shape crystal into elegant pieces.

Dublin, Ireland's capital and a UNESCO City of Literature founded in 1592, is the birthplace of Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw. Lively, cosmopolitan and walkable, it blends medieval castles and cathedrals with elegant Georgian houses. Cruise the River Liffey for views of the Ha'penny Bridge and Customs House, then explore Trinity College, Temple Bar, St. Patrick's and Christ Church cathedrals, museums, and cozy pubs.

Liverpool is a city and metropolitan borough in Merseyside, in North West England, along the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary. Inhabitants of Liverpool are referred to as Liverpudlians and nicknamed "Scousers," in reference to the local meal known as 'scouse', a form of stew. In 2004, Liverpool's waterfront was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting the city's importance in the development of the world's trading system and dock technology.

In Greenock, explore maritime heritage at the Custom House Museum and historic Victorian docks, then walk the Esplanade for River Clyde views or head into nearby countryside for hiking. Nearby Glasgow offers major museums like Kelvingrove and the Riverside Museum, plus Merchant City, live music, and landmarks such as Glasgow Cathedral and the Glasgow School of Art.

Belfast lies snuggled into the rugged coast of Northern Ireland where the River Lagan flows to the sea. This Northern Ireland capital saw its earliest settlement in the early Middle Ages. At that time, a substantial stone fortress punctuated the horizon. Today, world travelers are eager to view her physical beauty and discover her renewed tranquility. Residents enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shop at trendy stores, and visit pubs lining The Golden Mile.

In Scotland, arrive in Stornoway to begin a Hebridean adventure. This largest town in the Outer Hebrides is the gateway to dramatic island landscapes and Gaelic culture. See prehistoric standing stones and Iron Age brochs, explore the arts hub and new museum, browse independent shops for local crafts and gifts, and watch islanders produce Harris Tweed, the luxury hand-woven wool made here for generations.

Iceland is unique-rugged, remote, modern, and affluent by Nordic standards. Its capital, Reykjavik, is a diverse city blending tradition with advanced technology, and its natural beauty is unforgettable. Visit Krýsuvík's remarkable solfatara fields: steaming volcanic vents and hot springs set amid dramatic, multicolored hills.

Iceland is unique-rugged, remote, modern, and affluent by Nordic standards. Its capital, Reykjavik, is a diverse city blending tradition with advanced technology, and its natural beauty is unforgettable. Visit Krýsuvík's remarkable solfatara fields: steaming volcanic vents and hot springs set amid dramatic, multicolored hills.