By Sabrina Emirali-Sheldon, to Museum Spotlight Europe
You’ve done it. You’ve booked the Baltic cruise of your dreams! Already you’re making plans about where to go, what to eat, what sights to explore. But at each port, which museums should you visit? Historical? Modern art? Novelty? Cruises open up an array of different countries in just one trip, but they put a premium on your shore time. At most, you get a day or two in any one port. So you need to make the most of your time, right?
Well, if you’re cruising the ports of the Baltics, then you’re in for a rare treat. Below is a list of museums that will enrich and enliven each stop, ranging from iconic to bizarre, for all your day-trip itinerary needs.
SWEDEN
Most cruises tend to stop in the famous Swedish city of Stockholm. While there, why not visit the Vasa Museum. For those who enjoy all things Maritime, or just incredibly rare sights, this museum is truly remarkable. The museum’s crowning glory is the salvaged 17th century ship, the 64-gun Vasa. The ship sank on its maiden voyage, and is now salvaged almost completely in-tact! Amazing, when you consider that the ship itself was under water for over 300 years and is now the only one of its kind to be preserved. The museum is free to any child below the age of 18 and there are guided tours in English at no extra charge. The museum even offers tips on how to enjoy the exhibits in just one hour.
Sweden’s
own Nationalmuseumin Stockholm is undergoing a five-year restoration and will
re-open this fall, on October 13, 2018.
The museum’s collection features works by Rembrandt and others from the
Dutch school.
RUSSIA
St. Petersburg is home to a vast array of fascinating places for those who wish to discover more about the rich, complex history of the city. However, did you know that the Faberge Museum was established to preserve Russia’s cultural heritage? Of course, given the name, you can be certain that the museum’s collection contains the most amount of famed Faberge Eggs anywhere in the world. That, plus the location is to die for! The museum is housed in an actual palace, and the décor alone will take your breath away. Ticket prices are very reasonable and the opening hours are long too (from 10AM- 8:45PM though guided tours end earlier) which is good for those on a tight schedule.
Speaking
of fabulous architecture, the State Hermitage Museum
at the Winter Palace offers visitors the second largest collection of
artwork in the world. Over three million items in fact! Founded by Catherine
the Great herself, this museum spans six buildings and displays an incredibly
broad range of relics and art. In a
single afternoon, you can enjoy everything from Egyptian antiquities to works
by Rembrandt, da Vinci, and Van Gogh. Guided tours are recommended, as the
museum can get quite busy at times. Even if your time in St. Petersburg is
short, this is definitely a must-see destination. And if your itinerary allows,
you’ll thank yourself for scheduling a longer visit.
NORWAY
A trip to Oslo should include a visit to the Nasjonalmuseet, or, National Gallery. Visitors are rewarded with experiencing a collection of over thirty works by Edward Munch, including his iconic work, The Scream. You’ll recognize the names of Braque, Picasso, and Matisse, but you’ll also sample the artistic styles of some of Norway’s own masters, particularly those of 20th century art.
When
you think of Norway, you tend to think Vikings. Ergo the Viking Ship Museum is another
cosy, but historically fascinating museum. Its focal point is the Oseberg Ship,
so named for where it was excavated.
It’s joined by two other recovered Viking ships, as well as a full
collection of other Viking furnishings and possessions. The museum is also quite close to other
museums as well—time permitting, be sure to visit the Fram Museum, which examines the Norwegian polar explorations
and particularly the ship used from 1893-1912, the Fram, and the Kon-Tiki Museum,
honoring the achievements of Thor Heyerdahl and displaying both the Kon-Tiki and the Ra II.
GERMANY
Yes, many Baltic cruises try to get their passengers an opportunity to visit land-locked Berlin. And, museum lovers, brace yourself. Berlin has its own island made up of FIVE museums, known simply as Museum Island. It is the definition of museum-lover heaven! Not only that, but the island itself is a UNESCO world heritage site. Perfect for those who love culture and photography, as well as those who admire beautiful buildings. The island is closed on Mondays; however, you can buy one ticket at 18 Euros for all five museums. With five museums housing collections from classical antiquity and famous artists, you’re guaranteed to find something you enjoy. Plus, the island is right next to the stunning Berlin Cathedral.
For those looking for more sobering pieces of history to soak in, and while it probably falls outside our definition of a museum, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and Information Centreis an absolute must. The memorial itself is haunting and thought-provoking. Although it is not the largest, or most intricate memorial in the world, it is in the heartland of World War II. It is not recommended for those under the age of 14.
DENMARK
Copenhagen is home to one of the most famous fairy tale writes in history, so we would be remiss not to recommend the loved but niche Hans Christian Andersen Fairy Tale House. The museum is small but provides a good biography of the life of Hans Christian Andersen, author of well-known stories such as The Little Mermaid. The museum also offers interactive displays of his fairy tales, great for the child in all of us.
The National Museum of Denmark in Copenhagenis one of the highest-rated museums on this list. It is a culture-historical museum, covering an immense amount of the history of Denmark. Known as a must-see due to its fascinating collection of rare artefacts, the museum also boasts an interactive exhibit for children. It has been described as a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, though the museum is big enough to warrant a day there.
FINLAND
The Kiasma Modern Art Museum in Helsinki is something to behold in and of itself! The building is a feat of modern architectural design. With free admission on the first Friday of every month, it’s also a steal. For those who love modern, strange and fascinating art exhibits, this museum is not to be missed. You never know what kind of experience you’re going to get when visiting.
The National Museum of Finland also in Helsinki, tells the history and culture of Finland. With interactive exhibits and informative, well-curated displays, this is the perfect place to visit if you wish to understand more about the history of this small country. Like the Kiasma, it is also free on the first Friday of every month.
ESTONIA
Estonia is serious about its art museums. But for a different window on a country, the Estonia Open Air Museum is a truly fascinating and unique place among this list. As the name would suggest, this museum is an outdoor experience. It is a bit further out (a fifteen-minute drive from Tallinn) however if you have the time to visit, do so. The museum has twelve farms, with different homes and workplaces showcasing life from the 18th-20th centuries. It is also a museum that is constantly growing and changing, so no two visits are completely the same and it also has something to offer with every season.
LATVIA
If you want a bit more niche than a national museum, or if you simply love beer, the Aldaris Beer Museum in Riga fits the bill. Located in the historic neighbourhood of Aldaris, this museum offers fascinating insights into the making of beer and well as free pints for those who are thirsty! The staff here are said to be highly knowledgeable and friendly. There are also workshops and a look at an authentic brewery.
