Cruise ships offer visitors to the Baltic region a chance to see the incredible shorelines, fjords and islands that you can only admire from the sea. Of the 28 ports from which cruise ships regularly depart, here are the five ports of call where you can find fascinating places to explore on shore before and after your journey:

1. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is a part of most cruise ship itineraries and offers some interesting areas to explore. You can take a short ferry ride across the bay to stomp around the Soumenlinna Fortress, an 18th century fort that you can explore on your own or sign up for guided tour.

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The ferry departs from Market Square, an open-air market that supplies local food, crafts and souvenirs — even reindeer sausages and smoked herring. If you are in town for while, consider visiting the many Helsinki museums and climbing to the top of the Olympic tower.

2. Tallinn, Estonia

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As the capital of Estonia, this is the largest city in this tiny country and dates back over 1000 years. This charming locale is one of the best preserved medieval towns in all of Europe, although it does have a “modern” section. The Old Town Square is lined with outdoor cafes, picturesque homes and gothic civic buildings.

The cathedral boast the tallest tower in Europe, and you can climb to the top for a spectacular view of the city and harbor. Just a 2-hour ride across the bay from Helsinki, the towers and walls of Tallinn’s castles and churches border cobblestone streets that wind through this picturesque city, so bring sturdy walking shoes.

3. Stockholm, Sweden

The Old Town section in this Swedish city is called Gamla Stan and is home to the Royal Palace and City Hall — which also has a tower you can climb for a bird’s eye view of the area.

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Wander down the narrow winding cobblestone streets and explore the galleries, cafes, museums and shops along the way. Check out the Vasa museum which is housed in a warship that is adorned with sculptures elaborately carved in the 1600s when this boat was launched. Fully restored in the 20th century, the custom exhibition building that houses this Nordic treasure is open to visitors.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

This cosmopolitan Danish town has many fascinating wonders within walking distance of the port — including the Tivoli Gardens, a popular destination for families during the day and romantic couples in the evening.

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At night, 100,000 lanterns are lit to create a magical ambiance that concludes with a dazzling fireworks show. Jump aboard a canal taxi to sail along the Nyhavn canal which is lined with colorful old buildings and sidewalk cafes. You can even visit the Little Mermaid statue who sits on the rock gazing out to sea waiting for her Prince Charming to return.

5. Saint Petersburg

Last but certainly not least is the Russian city that has impressed the world for centuries with its magnificent art, incredible architecture and fascinating history. Near the harbor is the Winter Palace, where you will find the Hermitage Museum, an incredible art institution that should not be missed.

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Visit the Palace Square and the Russian Museum of National Art or hire a boat and glide through the canals of Saint Petersburg, especially during the midsummer White Nights celebrations.