06/24/2026
First port of call on my Baltic Cruise: Visby (and I'm sure many of you are thinking... Where the heck is that?)
Well, the answer is Sweden - specifically the beautiful island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea.
Visby is known as the "City of Ruins and Roses" and is home to one of the best-
preserved medieval city walls in Europe. This charming UNESCO World Heritage town feels like stepping back in time, with its winding cobblestone streets, ancient church ruins, colorful cottages, and beautiful rose-covered gardens.
Strolling through the town, you'll find a wonderful mix of cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and local shops, making it easy to spend hours simply wandering and soaking up the atmosphere. The lovely coastal promenade offers stunning views of the Baltic Sea and is perfect for a leisurely walk.
Be sure to sample some Swedish favorites while you're there — the traditional Swedish meatballs are delicious, and the Saffron pancakes are a must-try!
We were fortunate to have a gorgeous sunny day, which made Visby even more magical. It was one of those places that completely exceeded expectations — a unique, picturesque town full of history, charm, and character. I truly loved every minute of exploring this hidden gem.
