With its meandering canals, incredible cultural treasures and progressive design scene, the Dutch capital is an urban wonderland easily explored by foot or, as the Dutch do, on two wheels.

But for all its old-world beauty, Copenhagen is a city with enviable modern style and a food scene that’s inspired a new wave of culinary ideals.

A relatively newish city by European standards – Berlin wasn’t established until the 13th century – it has more than made up for its late start by cramming in plenty of fascinating history since then.

With the Baltic Sea lapping at her toes, Tallinn was once a lively port but now trades mostly in tourists who disembark to admire her medieval streets, charming churches and photogenic vistas. Once you’ve taken in the beautiful historic centre, explore the shimmering, modern side to Tallinn, where cutting-edge architecture showcases a city with its finger firmly on the pulse.

In that ambition, it has more than succeeded. Often called the Venice of the North, the city is a hub of fine and performing arts, with festivals and concerts drawing visitors in the summer months when the daylight hours stretch late into the evening and revelry ensues. During the day, St Petersburg’s many art galleries and museums, such as the impressive Hermitage and her wildly embellished baroque buildings, offer plenty of cultural fodder.

A creative hub of boutiques, ateliers and galleries, Helsinki is at the forefront of stylish homewares. Perhaps best known for its textile brand Marimekko, the city also produces beautiful glassware and lighting. Spend some time pottering around the Design District of Punavuori and admire some of the excellent examples of the city’s Art Nouveau movement, such as the Helsinki Central Station.

Although the Swedish capital occupies 14 islands, it’s surprisingly easy to navigate with bridges, ferries and transport links connecting the city. A sustainable, ethical food culture has taken deep root in Stockholm and begs exploring, as does the city’s love for understated, sleek style, so punctuate your sightseeing with a little dining and shopping.

Hamburg is the second German city you'll discover on the Baltic Jewels and Norwegian Fjords cruise.

A vibrant mix of youthful energy and a living history is what makes Aarhus a city with an energetic beat.

A quick pit stop in Amsterdam before you press forward onto Norway.

First stop is Eidfjord, a picturesque, mountain-framed village extolled for its idyllic Nordic scenery.

From Eidfjord, the journey continues on to Hardangerfjord, the fourth-longest fjord in the world, which leads to the ethereal Hardangervidda National Park. The fjord chasing continues after a stop at the charming fishing town of Alesund; touted as Norway’s most beautiful city, it provides ample opportunities to flex your lens before you make your way to the site of the longest and deepest fjords on earth, Geirangerfjord.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is peerless in its sheer magnificence, acting as a true exclamation point at the end of an itinerary rich in experience and absolute wonder.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is peerless in its sheer magnificence, acting as a true exclamation point at the end of an itinerary rich in experience and absolute wonder.

Your 23-day Baltic Jewels and Norwegian Fjords cruise ends in Amsterdam.