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.

Nuuk, Greenland's largest city, is the country's cultural and economic center. Visit the picturesque colonial harbor with its old buildings and the renovated market where locals sell the daily catch. Learn Greenland's history at the National Museum and explore art and culture at the Nuuk Museum of Art and Katuaq Cultural Centre. The surrounding fjords host whales, seals, reindeer, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, and ravens.

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.

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.

Norway's history is written in the buildings and monuments of Norway's first capital and third largest city, Trondheim. The Sagas tell us how King Olav Tryggvason of Viking fame founded the city on this ice-free fjord in 997, mesmerized by the winding Nidelva River and lovely forested hills. The timbered architecture of the beautiful 11th-century Nidaros Cathedral is actually built over the tomb of St. Olav, and even today, Norwegian kings are crowned within its massive nave.

Set in Norway's fjord country, Måløy charms with rugged coastal scenery and a fishing-village feel. Climb Kannesteinen Rock for views of the Norwegian Sea, visit the Måløy Raid Center for WWII history, and wander streets lined with murals. Nature lovers can explore Hornelen, Europe's highest sea cliff, or take a boat tour through beautiful Nordfjord.

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.

The Viking spirit is alive and well in Haugesund. This was once the base of power for the Viking Harald the Fairhair when he united Norway into one single kingdom. One of the best sites to experience its Viking roots is Avaldsnes on the island of Karmøy, which is also known for its long and pale beaches. Take an excursion to the Langfoss waterfall, which has been nominated as one of the 10 most beautiful waterfalls in the world by CNN.

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.