MSC MAGNIFICA: Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany - Warnemunde (Berlin), Germany - 24.09.2026. - 12 days

     The modern city of Helsinki is a fascinating architectural mix, partly in a style based on St Petersburg and partly a futuristic suburbia. As the capital of Finland, it is also the cultural centre, with more than 30 art galleries and museums. The history of Helsinki, known as the 'daughter of the Baltic', over the past thousand years has not been short of dramatic interludes. At the beginning of the second millennium Finland was strongly influenced by Sweden, despite maintaining official independence.
     King Gustavus I of Sweden founded Helsinki in 1550 and the Swedes occupied the city until 1812 when it passed to Russian rule. When Finland gained independence in 1917, this was the beginning of further turmoil. Bloody civil war broke out and at the beginning of World War II the Russians invaded under the leadership of General Mennerheim. After more than one year of being under siege, Helsinki finally gave way to the invading forces. Since the war, Finland has pursued a policy of neutrality.
     In general, the architecture of Helsinki is a mixture of 19th Century imperial design and 20th Century Art Nouveau. However, the city's most impressive buildings and landmarks are the work of Finland's famous designer Alvar Aalto.
     Among the city's most important buildings are the Lutheran Cathedral in Senate Square, the Uspenski Orthodox cathedral, the University and the Presidential Palace. One of the main Lutheran temples is the renowned Temppeliaukio church, carved in rock and a venue for art exhibitions and concerts. The most important music venue is the Aalto-designed Finlandia-talo. Nearby is a park dedicated to the Finnish composer Sibelius and including a statue of celebrated writer Eila Hiltunen. The street markets of Helsinki are another of its main attractions.
     The most popular is Kauppatori in the southern part of the city. Other markets can be found at Hakaniemi, Toolo and Hetalahti. A popular tourist attraction in Helsinki is Suomenlinna Island, reached by ferry shuttle, where it is possible to stroll among the ruins of an 18th Century fortress and visit a number of museums. Finland's cuisine is similar to other Scandinavian countries. Baltic herrings are widely served, often accompanied by boiled potatoes and a glass of spirit. Kalakukko is a sort of rye-bread based pizza baked in the oven and filled with fish. For a hot drink, the Finns are especially proud of their coffee.

     The capital city of Estonia, Tallinn comprises a mediaeval section situated near the port and the more modern, hillside district. The first major power to have an interest in this stretch of coast facing the Baltic Sea were the Danes, who developed considerable commerce in the area. In the 15th Century, Tallinn became the target of Swedish ambitions, followed by the Germans and later the Russians. However, the sense of national identity has always been strong in Estonia, which led first to conflict with the Romanov Tzars, then the Soviet central government, before the country was finally granted independence in 1991.
     Tallinn, the cultural and political heart of Estonia and once known as Reval, is renowned for its art galleries and open-air theatres, and each summer hosts a world-famous music festival. Sailing is one of the favourite activities of the residents of Tallinn, which hosted the sailing events of the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games. So-called 'white nights' when the sun never sets are a particular feature of the city, comparable to those of St Petersburg. The historical sites of Tallinn are within easy reach, making the city ideal to explore on foot. A major landmark is the 13th Century fortification at Toompea, the hill on which Tallinn was originally built by the Danish King Waldemar ll in 1219. The area now houses Estonia's various departments of state. The Gothic Town Hall, complete with soaring steeple, is the oldest civic building in the Baltic. Its symbol, Vana Toomas, dates from 1530 and the interior Congress Hall, with specially carved seats, is of particular interest.
     Estonia is known for beautiful embroidered cloths, carpets and multicoloured tapestries. Other local specialities include leatherwear and ornate jewellery including silver, topaz and ruby.

     The first human presence in Sweden dates back to 3000BC, when settlers following the retreating ice-floes to the north arrived on the coastline near Stockholm.
     The writings of Tacitus, the first clearly to mention the Swedes, described them as 'a population on the northern coasts, devoted to farming, fishing and cattle raising'. The Vikings, who originated in Norway, did not make their presence felt until some 4,000 years later. These legendary sailors then went on to reach the coastline of distant lands including England, Iceland, Greenland and perhaps even North America. They also sailed east towards Russia.
     In 1397, Sweden formed a union with Norway and Denmark under Danish Queen Margareth II. There followed a lengthy period of growing Swedish nationalism, culminating in severe bloodshed when an uprising in Stockholm was crushed by Denmark and many of the rebels were beheaded. This dark period in Sweden's history came to be known as the 'November Days'. A few years later, in 1525, Gustav Vasa was crowned king of Sweden.
     Stockholm's roots go back to the arrival of Christian missionaries after 1000AD. This was followed by a period of rapid development, including the building of many churches. The city grew steadily until it became the capital of Sweden in the middle of the 17th Century. The next 200 years saw the city become rich in beautiful buildings and consolidate its position as the cultural, political and administrative centre of the country. Of Sweden's nine million inhabitants, one million live in Stockholm.
     The city stretches from the Maelaren Lake to the Baltic Sea, built on an archipelago of 14 islands connected by at least 40 bridges. Gamla Stan, the mediaeval city, is particularly charming, with picturesque narrow alleyways and pretty squares. One of the most attractive is Stortorget, the site of the 'Stockholm Blood Bath' in 1520 when more than 80 Swedish nobles were beheaded, their heads piled up in the middle of the square. The 600-room Royal Palace, which was previously home to the court of Queen Christine, but is no longer the residence of Sweden's Royal Family, includes impressive state rooms, a treasury and arms museum. The ceremonial changing of the guards is a particular attraction. Nearby is the cathedral and ancient church of Storkyrkan, where many Swedish kings were crowned. The most visited museum in is the ancient ship, Wasa, which sank in Stockholm bay in about 1600. After it was discovered in 1956, the ship was brought to the surface and restored. It now resides at Wasavarvet Pavilion on Djurgaarden island, a former royal hunting preserve. Another major attraction is the palace at Drottningholm, built on an island in Maelaren lake, and the current residence of the Swedish Royal Family. It features a beautiful Baroque garden and an historic theatre. Distinctive features of Stockholm are the areas of Norrmalm and Sergels Torg, which have a tradition of democratic demonstration.

     The first human presence in Sweden dates back to 3000BC, when settlers following the retreating ice-floes to the north arrived on the coastline near Stockholm.
     The writings of Tacitus, the first clearly to mention the Swedes, described them as 'a population on the northern coasts, devoted to farming, fishing and cattle raising'. The Vikings, who originated in Norway, did not make their presence felt until some 4,000 years later. These legendary sailors then went on to reach the coastline of distant lands including England, Iceland, Greenland and perhaps even North America. They also sailed east towards Russia.
     In 1397, Sweden formed a union with Norway and Denmark under Danish Queen Margareth II. There followed a lengthy period of growing Swedish nationalism, culminating in severe bloodshed when an uprising in Stockholm was crushed by Denmark and many of the rebels were beheaded. This dark period in Sweden's history came to be known as the 'November Days'. A few years later, in 1525, Gustav Vasa was crowned king of Sweden.
     Stockholm's roots go back to the arrival of Christian missionaries after 1000AD. This was followed by a period of rapid development, including the building of many churches. The city grew steadily until it became the capital of Sweden in the middle of the 17th Century. The next 200 years saw the city become rich in beautiful buildings and consolidate its position as the cultural, political and administrative centre of the country. Of Sweden's nine million inhabitants, one million live in Stockholm.
     The city stretches from the Maelaren Lake to the Baltic Sea, built on an archipelago of 14 islands connected by at least 40 bridges. Gamla Stan, the mediaeval city, is particularly charming, with picturesque narrow alleyways and pretty squares. One of the most attractive is Stortorget, the site of the 'Stockholm Blood Bath' in 1520 when more than 80 Swedish nobles were beheaded, their heads piled up in the middle of the square. The 600-room Royal Palace, which was previously home to the court of Queen Christine, but is no longer the residence of Sweden's Royal Family, includes impressive state rooms, a treasury and arms museum. The ceremonial changing of the guards is a particular attraction. Nearby is the cathedral and ancient church of Storkyrkan, where many Swedish kings were crowned. The most visited museum in is the ancient ship, Wasa, which sank in Stockholm bay in about 1600. After it was discovered in 1956, the ship was brought to the surface and restored. It now resides at Wasavarvet Pavilion on Djurgaarden island, a former royal hunting preserve. Another major attraction is the palace at Drottningholm, built on an island in Maelaren lake, and the current residence of the Swedish Royal Family. It features a beautiful Baroque garden and an historic theatre. Distinctive features of Stockholm are the areas of Norrmalm and Sergels Torg, which have a tradition of democratic demonstration.

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, delights everyone – from history lovers eager to explore magnificent Baroque palaces to gourmands looking to indulge in Michelin-starred restaurants.

In the city center, you’ll find three impressive royal landmarks: Christiansborg Palace (seat of the Danish Parliament), Rosenborg Castle (home to the Danish crown jewels), and Amalienborg Palace (residence of the Danish royal family).

Culture and history enthusiasts can enjoy numerous museums and galleries, while those seeking relaxation will appreciate the city's laid-back pace, extensive cycling paths, and beautiful parks – we recommend a leisurely coffee along the Nyhavn canal or the thrill of historic rides at the Tivoli Gardens amusement park. The city’s symbol, The Little Mermaid statue, pays homage to the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen and is a must-see photo spot.

Whether you're looking for an urban adventure, royal grandeur, world-class dining, or simply want to soak up the atmosphere of Scandinavian life – Copenhagen will win you over with its effortless elegance and warm hospitality.

     Aarhus, the second largest city in Denmark, is located on the west coast of Jutland. The city is not only well connected with Copenhagen but also with the major cities of northern Europe. Aarhus dates back to pre-Viking days. The Vikings understood the advantages of Aarhus due to the position of the bay, offering total protection for strategic defence, and the launching of attacks. It offered easy shelter for their boats and the perfect position from which to take to the sea for a raid. The residents of Aarhus are extremely proud of their Viking history. Their sense of tradition and identity with the sea is strongly marked by the presence of numerous maritime museums. It would be hard to prove them wrong, given that the old town has been restored with great care. It was rebuilt with more than 60 wooden buildings, partly based on original designs and partly by moving them from their original locations and rebuilding them in the centre of the city. At the heart of the peoples' attachment to tradition is their cathedral, situated in the middle of the city itself surrounded by a maze of tiny alleys filled with small craft shops and delightful art and cultural centres. A typical day in Aarhus can include having a chat in the square, going for a bicycle ride, or having coffee in the centre. The historic part of its centre is the most important commercial attraction in Aarhus. In the surrounding forest south of Aarhus is the Moesgaard Prehistoric Museum. This prestigious cultural institution is one of the oldest in Denmark and hosts a large number of archaeological finds dating from the Stone Age. Aarhus is also the second residence of the Danish royal family. The population has grown accustomed to seeing them and cheering in approval as the Dannebrog - the red-crossed Danish flag - is raised on the highest flagpole of the Marselisborg Castle. This means that Queen Margrethe has decided to come here to take a rest and enjoy the peace of Aarhus. The relationship between the royal family and this city is truly exceptional, as was the creation of Marseliborg itself, built by the citizens and solemnly offered to Margrethe's grandfather, Christian X as a wedding present. Marselisborg is probably one of the most outstanding places in the whole of Northern Europe. During her reign, Queen Margrethe has strengthened her attachment to Aarhus, having studied at its famous institutions.

     The port of Warnemünde is about a dozen kilometres from Rostock, the largest city of the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (whose capital is Schwerin).
The new passenger terminal was opened in 2005 in the Neuer Strom area. Alter Strom is home to cafés, restaurants and souvenir shops. From an architectural point of view, there is not much to see, with the exception of the 37-metre-tall lighthouse, which stands next to the so-called Teepott (“teapot”), a typical example of 1960s architecture, which was restored and reopened in 2001. The house of the Norwegian painter Edvard Munch, who lived in the city between 1907 and 1908, is picturesque.
A trip to the city of Rostock is certainly interesting for visitors. Rostock was one of the cities of the Hanseatic League, an alliance of cities founded in the twelfth century that maintained a trade monopoly in northern Europe and the Baltic during the Middle Ages and into the early modern period. The main city of the League was initially Lubeck, also in Germany. Although the earliest official documentation in history books dates from 24 June 1218, the first settlements actually originated in the seventh century. Following a period during which the League flourished, the Thirty Years' War (1618–48) signalled its decline and the city of Rostock did not recover until the advent of industrialisation, when the port and shipbuilding yards were established. During the Second World War it was almost completely razed to the ground and until 1989 it was part of the DDR, the former East Germany.
Visitors can enjoy a pleasant stroll around the old town, which has been entirely rebuilt, but preserves its characteristic red-brick buildings. Sights include the city walls, with the Kuhtor (“Cow Gate”), the oldest building.
The main churches are the Gothic-style Marienkirche (Saint Mary’s Church), Nikolaikirche (Saint Nicholas’ Church) and Petrikirche (Saint Peter’s Church). The Gothic-style Rathaus (Town Hall), dating from the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, is also very handsome. Other noteworthy buildings include the University and the Fünfgiebelhaus (“House of the Five Gables”).