Iceland is unique-rugged, remote, modern, and affluent by Nordic standards. Its capital, Reykjavik, is a diverse city blending tradition with advanced technology, and its natural beauty is unforgettable. Visit Krýsuvík's remarkable solfatara fields: steaming volcanic vents and hot springs set amid dramatic, multicolored hills.

Grundarfjörður is a charming fishing town best known for its proximity to Iceland's most photographed mountain, Mt. Kirkjufell (Church Mountain). Shaped over millions of years by two glaciers, its steeple-like peak rises above the sea, often framed by the nearby three-pronged Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Visit the town's information center for exhibits on Snæfellsnes history and photographs by Bæring Cecilsson (1923-2002).

This charming, colorful town has a pleasant center and a small square with Greenland's oldest fountain. The Stone and Man project invites exploration to find 30 motifs chiseled into rocks and stones by local and Scandinavian artists. Also worth seeing are the Church of Our Savior (1832) and the two museums. Try traditional Greenlandic suaasat, and shop for Inuit-inspired arts and crafts, such as tupilak carvings.

This colorful fishing village is rich in Inuit culture and closely tied to the sea. Take a guided tour to learn its history and archaeology, with evidence of settlement as far back as 1500 BCE. Explore the stunning coastline by ferry and watch for minke, fin, humpback, and orca whales. Bring home local handicrafts made from oxen wool, mussel shells, soapstone, reindeer antlers, and precious stones.

Nestled within a mountainous landscape of Greenland, Narsaq is home to some of the world's rarest minerals, which many of you will find fascinating. Among them is the Tugtupite, a rare, semi-precious stone that glows under UV light. Gourmands won't want to miss toasting with locally brewed Qajaq beer crafted with ice-age water from the surrounding icebergs. As a place less visited, Narsaq has plenty of treasures that are not well-known, such as Norse ruins buried in the valleys.

Nanortalik ("place with polar bears"), at the mouth of Tasermiut Fjord, is Greenland's southernmost town and a favorite for climbers seeking granite peaks. Founded in 1797 as a trading depot, it has a preserved colonial port, friendly locals, and vast views. Visit Nanortalik Museum's 10 buildings, including the world's oldest umiak, for insight into Norse, Danish, and Inuit history. Also see Qinngua Valley's only forest and the hot springs of Uunartoq.

Discover the dazzling natural beauty of Isafjordur, where steep mountains rise on three sides around a stunning bay. Visit the Maritime Museum in one of the oldest buildings, dating to the 18th century, to trace local history. Enjoy a lively urban atmosphere with music schools, free concerts, and festivals. Shop for handmade wool items, nautical gifts, and arts and crafts, then relax with fresh baked goods and coffee at the many cafés.

Iceland is unique-rugged, remote, modern, and affluent by Nordic standards. Its capital, Reykjavik, is a diverse city blending tradition with advanced technology, and its natural beauty is unforgettable. Visit Krýsuvík's remarkable solfatara fields: steaming volcanic vents and hot springs set amid dramatic, multicolored hills.