Southampton is the largest city and port on the south coast of England. Tour the historic byways of Old Town with its Medieval walls and Tudor architecture. Spend an hour or two meandering along the pathways of Royal Victoria Country Park, picturesquely set along the waterfront on the grounds of a former military hospital where Florence Nightingale once worked. Southampton's maritime past can be explored by strolling along the Town Quay with its marina and lively bars and restaurants. It was here that the Titanic departed on its fateful journey and where the Mayflower sailed for the New World.

United by seven bridges, Tyne (Newcastle) is a diverse destination. Once a shipbuilding city, it now offers vibrant nightlife, premium global restaurants, and great galleries. Visit Castle Keep, one of the UK's finest Norman keeps, or The Sage Gateshead for entertainment day and night. With more theatres per person than anywhere in the UK, it offers world-class productions for all tastes.

Shaped from shimmering granite and kissed by the North Sea, Aberdeen blends elegance, energy, and old-world charm. Stroll streets of silvery stone that glow under Scotland's changing skies, then head to golden beaches or the bustling harbor steeped in maritime tradition. Its cultural scene offers art galleries, museums, and music venues, while cozy pubs and stylish restaurants serve fresh seafood and local whiskies.

Invergordon has a tremendous history stretching back through two World Wars. Ideally situated in the center of the eastern Highlands, Invergordon received its name from Sir William Gordon, a landowner of the 18th century. For centuries the estate on which Invergordon now stands was known as Inverbreakie, or "the mouth of the Breakie." The Breakie presumably is the stream which enters the Firth at Rosskeen Bridge, near the old parish church west of the present Town.

Surrounded to the north and southwest by towering mountains with dramatic landscapes, Tórshavn is a picturesque port steeped in Viking history. Main attractions include Tinganes, the oldest part of town, with small wooden houses covered in turf roofs. Explore Nordic House, widely regarded as one of the finest examples of modern Nordic architecture; and Listasavn Føroya art museum. To fully experience the Faroe Islands' ancient history, visit the ruins of Magnus Cathedral.

In 1904, much of Ålesund was destroyed by fire, then rebuilt in Art Nouveau style. Its turrets, spires, and ornamentation give the town a distinctive look and strong architectural reputation. Visit the Art Nouveau Centre, Town Park, Atlantic Sea Park, and Gallery Cylindra. Squares feature sculptures on fishing history and WWII. Shop for Norwegian fashions, jewelry, leather goods, tapestries, and glassware, and enjoy seafood to international cuisine.

Olden, at the end of Western Norway's 66-mile Nordfjord, is a charming village known for Norwegian hospitality and stunning scenery. Peaceful valleys, colossal glaciers, crashing waterfalls, towering mountains, and dramatic fjords create a breathtaking setting. Kayak on glassy waters, hike in the mountain countryside, or enjoy views from the Loen Skylift.

Situated along the Byfjord, Bergen is Norway's second largest city, and one of its most charming. The city's history dates back to the early 11th century when Olav Kyrre established a settlement and royal residence here. In 1240, Bergen replaced Trondheim as the capital, and the city quickly prospered. Much of the city's architecture today reflects the lifestyle of the Hanseatic merchants, who resided in narrow row houses near the harbor.

Discover cosmopolitan Kristiansund, set on a sparkling fjord, with a calm cultural vibe, a mix of old and modern architecture, and natural beauty throughout. Visit the old town, Posebyen, for its small white wooden houses. Walk the boardwalk to the town center and Fiskebrygga for maritime history and fresh seafood. See the Adger Nature Museum and Botanical Gardens, then shop Markens gate and Skippergada for boutiques, galleries, cafés, hand-knit sweaters, Norwegian glassware, and local crafts.

Oslo is Norway's capital and largest city. Located at the head of the Oslofjord, the city is encircled by wooded hills and snowcapped peaks. Norway is a maritime nation with Oslo being the chief port for sea services from the Continent and England. Throughout Oslo's 900-year history there have been many fires, and as a result it has a mixture of architectural styles. With a fairly compact city center, many of Oslo's attractions can be explored on foot.

One look at the abundance of canals and gabled houses in Gothenburg, and it's clear that the Dutch founded this robust city on the Göta River. Touring the citadel is fascinating, as are the 17th century Crown House, and Gothenburg Art Museum with masterpieces from Edvard Munch to Picasso. Gothenburg is one of Sweden's greenest cities, compliments of parks such as Slottsskogen. For a vibrant atmosphere, walk along Kungsportsavenyn, Gothenburg's main street, lined with cafés, boutiques and plazas.

Copenhagen, the royal capital of Denmark, is one of Europe's oldest capitals. It was a fishing village until the middle of the 12th century, but then grew in importance after being fortified in 1167. Because of its harbor, it soon became a place of commercial importance. Copenhagen has a long history well-integrated with today's modern life. Theaters, museums, art galleries and musical entertainment are among the attractions that make Copenhagen memorable.