The Best of the Baltics: Top destinations to see on a Baltic cruise

If you’re searching for your next cruise holiday, look no further than Northern Europe’s most captivating coastline. Whether you’re planning your first Baltic cruise holiday, a Baltic Sea cruise lets you explore a collection of vibrant cities, medieval towns, Scandinavian design hubs and cultural capitals – all in one seamless journey. From storybook architecture to UNESCO-listed treasures, the Baltics offer some of the most rewarding cruise itineraries in Europe.

Whether you’re planning your first Baltic cruise or looking to refine your next adventure, here’s your essential guide to the very best ports in the Baltics.

Tallinn, Estonia – The fairytale capital of the Baltics

Best for: Medieval charm, photography and history.

Tallinn is often the highlight of a Baltic Sea cruise itinerary, thanks to its beautifully preserved Old Town. Step straight into a medieval world of cobbled lanes, pastel guild houses, ancient ramparts and sky-piercing church spires. Don’t miss Toompea Hill for panoramic views or the bustling Town Hall Square filled with cafés and market stalls.

Cruise tip: Tallinn is one of the most walkable Baltic cruise ports – perfect for exploring independently.

A scenic view of a historic cityscape at sunset, featuring medieval stone towers with red roofs, lush greenery, and a tall church spire under a bright blue sky.

Helsinki, Finland – Cool Nordic charm

Best for: Design, modern architecture and food.

Light, bright and wonderfully modern, Helsinki blends Nordic minimalism with timeless Baltic tradition. From the unique Temppeliaukio Rock Church to the seaside Market Square and the striking Oodi Library, the city is full of standout sights.

Cruisers love: Easy transport, clean city streets and a relaxed stylish vibe, ideal for a laidback day ashore.

Stockholm, Sweden – A capital on the water

Best for: Museums, royal palaces and scenic sailing.

Stockholm is a must-visit on many Northern Europe cruises. The approach alone – gliding through the Stockholm Archipelago – is one of the most scenic sail-ins in Europe.

Explore Gamla Stan (the Old Town), home to narrow medieval alleys and the majestic Royal Palace. For culture lovers, the Vasa Museum – with its perfectly preserved 17th-century warship – is unforgettable.

Cruise tip: Getting around Stockholm can involve travelling longer distances; consider a shore excursion to maximise your time.

Copenhagen, Denmark – Scandinavian style at its best

Best for: Design, culture and food.

Copenhagen is every bit as charming as you imagine. Colourful Nyhavn, bicycle-lined streets and one of the world’s best food scenes make it a favourite starting or ending port for Baltic cruise holidays.

Walk along the waterfront to see The Little Mermaid sculpture, shop Scandinavian design or dive into modern Danish cuisine at the city’s trendy markets.

Picturesque waterfront with colorful buildings, docked boats, and a vibrant sunset sky.

Riga, Latvia – Art Nouveau capital of Europe

Best for: Architecture, culture and Old Town exploring.

Riga offers a mix of medieval history and cosmopolitan energy. Its Old Town is packed with Gothic spires, while the Art Nouveau District showcases some of the most ornate architecture in Europe.

Don’t miss: The House of the Blackheads and the Central Market inside converted Zeppelin hangars.

A vibrant European cityscape with ornate historical buildings, a lush garden in the foreground, and colorful facades under a clear blue sky, exuding charm.

Klaipėda, Lithuania – Gateway to the Curonian Spit

Best for: Nature, beaches and quiet strolls.

This peaceful port city opens the door to one of Europe’s most unique landscapes: the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO-listed sand dune peninsula with pine forests, quaint villages and sweeping views of the Baltic Sea.

Ideal for cruisers craving fresh air, coastal walks and off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Aerial view of a vibrant coastal town with a river winding through it. Lush greenery surrounds historic buildings. The harbor and ocean are visible beyond.

Aarhus, Denmark – A cultural gem

Best for: Museums, modern art and Viking history.

Often included on extended Baltic Sea itineraries, Aarhus mixes modern design with Viking heritage. ARoS Art Museum’s rainbow panorama walkway is a showstopper, offering 360-degree views over the city.

Aerial view of Aarhus, Denmark, featuring a striking blue globe art installation by the waterfront. Historic brick buildings and a church spire stand tall.

Why cruise the Baltics?

A Baltic cruise offers:

  • Multiple countries in one trip.
  • Smooth sailing between close-together ports.
  • UNESCO-listed cities and cultural capitals.
  • Easy walking and sightseeing.
  • A blend of Nordic, Slavic and Central European influences.

It’s one of the most enriching cruise regions in the world – perfect for culture travellers, history lovers and first-time cruisers.

Plan your Baltic cruise with Cruise Club UK – The experts in cruise holidays.

Ready to explore the best of the Baltics? Our Cruise Experts can help you find the ideal itinerary, ship and sailing season, whether you’re dreaming of midsummer sunshine or crisp autumn culture escapes.

Discover the magic of a Baltic Sea cruise – your next unforgettable journey begins here.

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