Norwegian Fjords Cruise 7 nätter • Southampton, England • Freedom of the Seas

A cruise out of Southampton unlocks all kinds of incredible destinations, from French and Spanish wine country to Norway’s majestic fjords. But this charming port is also a great destination in and of itself. Spend some time getting to know it before your vacation — you won’t be disappointed. If you have a soft spot for medieval history, you’ll find plenty of interesting sites here. Like Bargate, a gatehouse that dates back over a thousand years to Norman times. Or visit St. Michael's church on Castle Way — built in the 11th century, it’s home to ancient Norman artifacts and relics. Then, fast forward a few centuries at the Tudor house in St. Michael’s Square, which served as the home of a wealthy merchant family in the 15th century. Today it’s a museum that showcases exhibits featuring nearly a thousand years of local history.

Nestled between the North Sea, islands and mountains is Haugesund, Norway. When you disembark here, you'll experience a region rich in history, culture and nature. Spend your day visiting Harald Fairhair's burial site; Fairhair is the Viking who united Norway into a single kingdom. Or indulge yourself (and your stomach) by tasting some of the fresh seafood you can find. Stroll through the city, where you can learn about glassblowing. If nature is more your speed, hike up Himakånå, the little sister of Trolltunga, where you can take in some of the most stunning views you've ever seen. If you're looking for even more adventure, hop on a boat to the island of Utsira or get up close and personal with the Langfoss waterfall, which is listed as one of the 10 most beautiful waterfalls in the entire world. There's something for everyone during cruises to Haugesund, so start exploring.

Explore the village of Skjolden, nestled between Norway's highest mountain range, Jotunheimen National Park and two spectacular glaciers. Head to the Fjordstova cultural center, where you'll find the tourist office, a cafe, a swimming pool and a climbing wall. Go hiking in Morkridsdalen, the valley north of the village. Admire one of the magnificent waterfalls in the area, such as Vetlefosso.

Explore Inner Nordfjord with a paddling trip that will bring you close enough to the Briksdal Glacier to touch it. The tourist train provides local information while it brings you up the mountain. Once you get there, you can hike to the glacier to see it up-close. If you're more adventurous, try Via Ferrata Loen, a challenging tour that takes you to the mountain tops.

Start by exploring Old Stavanger, where traditional pastel cottages remain in remarkably good order. See Stavanger Cathedral, the oldest church in Norway. About 90 minutes away by car, you'll find the trail that will take you to the top of Prekestol, which offers views over all of the 40 kilometers that make up the unusually straight Lysefjord. Formed during the Ice Age, Lysefjord's mountains reach more than 3,000 feet above sea level and run as far as the eye can see.

Your adventure doesn't have to end once you've gotten back to Southampton. Before you go, spend a few days exploring the quaint English towns of the Hampshire region like Winchester, the ancient capital, or the pretty market town of Romsey. This village is also home to the Romsey Abbey, one of the most magnificent churches in Southern England thanks to its round Norman arches and lofty nave.