Costa Favolosa - August 11, 2024

Hamburg's port on the river Elbe has been busy since medieval times, when it was a cornerstone of the Hanseatic League. It is a graceful city of parks and lakes, and grand old buildings like the Rathaus (City Hall). Brahms and Mendelssohn were born here, and Hans Leip, who wrote Lili Marlene.

Lerwick is a town in the Shetland Islands, an archipelago north of the Scottish mainland. Historically a major fishing port, Lerwick today attracts those drawn to the combination of Norse and British culture in the area. Every January, the Up-Helly-Aa fire festival features a Norse ship that is dramatically dragged through the town and burned.

Akureyri is the capital of the northern part of Iceland and serves as the gateway an area full of stunning waterfalls. It's also the place that Icelander head went they want some sun. From here, it is a short trip to the magical and mystical Dimmuborgir area and its ominous black castles.

Isafjordur, capital of Iceland's Westfjords, dates back to the 9th Century and is one of the country's main fishing ports. Isafjordur also boasts a lively cultural scene and the West Fjords Folk Museum is definitely worth a visit. Take a walk down the harbor and see local fisherman at work or see many of the nearby homes that date back to the 18th Century.

Reykjavik, the largest city and capital of Iceland, is a city full of history, great theatre, and exciting nightlife. For a dose of Icelandic and Viking history, visit the National Museum and visit Hallgrimskirkja, a church that features a famous statue of explorer Leif Erickson and a great spot to view the entire city.

Kirkwall is the capital of the Orkney Islands, and is a major regional seaport located off the northern coast of Scotland. The Cathedral of St. Magnus, a red sandstone structure, is the town's most prominent landmark. Other architectural specimens, such as Earl's Palace, Bishop's Palace, and Tankerness House, add to Kirkwall's picturesque quality.

Invergordon is a small port on the North Sea, and enjoys deep and safe waters. Invergordon is home to a variety of industrial activities, including production of aluminum and protective coating for pipes. Linksters can play a round of golf on the par-69 golf course. Take an excursion to Loch Ness, the home of the legendary Loch Ness monster.

Hamburg's port on the river Elbe has been busy since medieval times, when it was a cornerstone of the Hanseatic League. It is a graceful city of parks and lakes, and grand old buildings like the Rathaus (City Hall). Brahms and Mendelssohn were born here, and Hans Leip, who wrote Lili Marlene.