The Norwegian fjords are like nowhere else on earth, blending sublime natural beauty with compelling cultural wonders. Local resident and writer David Nikel shares four of his favourite destinations

Captain Dunlop's top destination picks for Iona

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Lisbon, Portugal

<h2>Lisbon, Portugal</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.pocruises.com/ports/lisbon-portugal">Lisbon</a> is always a joy to explore, whether strolling the narrow cobbled streets of Alfama or paying homage to our sailing forefathers at the Monument to the Discoveries just outside the city in Belém. Lisbon’s café scene is brilliant, so refuel with a hot drink and a pastel de nata before hopping on an iconic yellow tram for a tour of the city with its wonderful blue-tiled façades.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">Join Iona on a cruise to Lisbon <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/find-a-cruise?ports=LIS&amp;ships=IA">here</a>.</h3>


Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

<h2>Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain</h2>
<p>The beaches are beautiful. But venture beyond <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/ports/arrecife-de-lanzarote-spain">Lanzarote</a>’s shoreline and you’ll be rewarded with an out-of-this-world experience. The landscapes here are often compared to those of an alien world: with volcanic terrain and vineyards that grow grapes in moon-like craters, you’ll feel like you’ve sailed to another planet. For more stellar beauty, check out the work of artist César Manrique dotted all over the island.</p>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">View cruises to Lanzarote on Iona <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/find-a-cruise?ports=LAN&amp;ships=IA">here</a>.</h3>


Hamburg, Germany

<h2>Hamburg, Germany</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.pocruises.com/ports/hamburg-germany">Hamburg</a> is an epicentre of cool. It mixes old and new, unpolished and glamorous to intoxicating effect – you never know what you’ll find around any given corner. Explore the Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus district, one of the world’s largest warehouse complexes. It’s linked together by narrow streets, bridges and canals and is home to harbourside pubs and charming restaurants. Culture vultures should head to the stunning Elbphilharmonie concert hall, whether for a show or simply to marvel at its eye-popping architecture.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Visit Hamburg on Iona <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/find-a-cruise?ports=HAM&amp;ships=IA">here</a>.</h3>


Olden, Norway

<h2>Olden, Norway</h2>
<p>Sailing into <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/ports/olden-norway">Olden</a> is a treat. After a journey down the pristine Nordfjord, this charming village offers a warm welcome. From here you can explore Norwegian nature at its finest: beautiful fjordic coastlines, towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes and roaring waterfalls. Don’t miss Jostedalsbreen, the biggest glacier on mainland Europe. There’s easy access to both the Briksdal and Kjenndalen glaciers, plunging dramatically into the valleys below.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">View cruises to Olden on Iona <a href="https://www.pocruises.com/find-a-cruise?ports=OL1&amp;ships=IA">here</a>.</h3>


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{"metadata_en_GB":{"alt-text":"Photo Taken In Amsterdam, Netherlands"}}

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Captain Dunlop's top destination picks for Iona

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