The city center is a charming mix of old city walls and a large modern shopping centre. With multiple restaurants, museums, cinemas and theatres there is plenty to be explored. Time spent at embarkation and disembarkation ports may be limited which may restrict availability of shore excursions.

This handsome capital has an eclectic mix of medieval and Georgian architecture. One of the city’s most obvious attractions is Edinburgh Castle, first founded in the 7th century. It’s still the headquarters for several of the British Army’s Scottish regiments and, at noon each day, the sound of a cannon fired from the castle’s battlements reverberates throughout the city. The castle sits at one end of the Royal Mile with the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. Founded as a monastery in 1128, Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

The 70 or so Orkney Islands lie at the north west tip of Scotland, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the North Sea. Kirkwall, the capital of the archipelago, is a Viking town founded in 1035 by Earl Rognvald Brusason. You’ll find that the original ancient Norse town has been beautifully preserved and provides an intriguing place to while away your time.

Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles and the capital of Lewis and Harris in Scotland. The town’s population is around 8,000, making it by far the largest town in the Hebrides, as well as the second largest island town in Scotland after Kirkwall in Orkney.

Founded in the 17th century, the city was one of the world’s leading industrial names, home to Harland and Wolff – the shipbuilders who built the ill-fated Titanic. Despite its more recent political troubles, Belfast is today an alluring destination. Amidst its majestic Victorian buildings, shop in stylish boutiques, sip a Guinness, or take a scenic stroll in Barnett Demesne park. The city’s centrepiece is the City Hall, completed in 1906, with its domed roof and grand Italian marble staircase. Must-sees include the Crown Bar. Owned by the National Trust, it’s still a vibrant drinking venue, with an amazingly rich and ornate interior of brightly coloured tiles, carvings, stained and etched glass, period gas lighting and cosy snugs.

If you’re looking for a place in Northern England that is the most reminiscent of the exciting city of London, then Liverpool is your answer. Full of history and culture, Liverpool is second only to London for the highest number of museums, theaters, and art galleries in England. But Liverpool isn’t just an alternative to London. Liverpool has an energy and vibe all its own. Liverpool has a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and was even named the European Capital of Culture in 2008. Beyond the monuments, you’ll find beloved soccer teams like Liverpool FC and Everton FC. (Don’t forget it’s football, not soccer, in England!) Clubs pay homage to one of Liverpool’s most famous exports, the Beatles. European cruise passengers sailing to Liverpool dock right in the city center and can spend the day learning more about the city where the Beatles got their start, touring old English heritage sites, and walking along the historic waterfront.

If you’re looking for a place in Northern England that is the most reminiscent of the exciting city of London, then Liverpool is your answer. Full of history and culture, Liverpool is second only to London for the highest number of museums, theaters, and art galleries in England. But Liverpool isn’t just an alternative to London. Liverpool has an energy and vibe all its own. Liverpool has a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and was even named the European Capital of Culture in 2008. Beyond the monuments, you’ll find beloved soccer teams like Liverpool FC and Everton FC. (Don’t forget it’s football, not soccer, in England!) Clubs pay homage to one of Liverpool’s most famous exports, the Beatles. European cruise passengers sailing to Liverpool dock right in the city center and can spend the day learning more about the city where the Beatles got their start, touring old English heritage sites, and walking along the historic waterfront.

Cork is Ireland’s second largest city. Here you can visit St Finbarr’s Cathedral, Cork City Museum and the 19th Century Cork Jail. Don’t miss your opportunity to visit Blarney Castle, a short ride away, to kiss the Blarney Stone!

The city center is a charming mix of old city walls and a large modern shopping centre. With multiple restaurants, museums, cinemas and theatres there is plenty to be explored. Time spent at embarkation and disembarkation ports may be limited which may restrict availability of shore excursions.