Reykjavik is Europe's northernmost capital and a delight to visit, with modern steel-and-glass buildings contrasting the colorful wooden houses of the old quarter. Outside the city, Iceland's rugged beauty shines: the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa with mineral-rich waters, and the Golden Circle leads to Thingvellir National Park, site of Iceland's first parliament (930 AD) and a place to see tectonic fissures. The country also offers spectacular geysers, glaciers, and waterfalls.

Grundarfjörður, on Snæfellsnes' north coast, is backed by snowcapped mountains and fronted by its landmark, Mount Kirkjufell. Nearby, a waterfall with the solitary peak behind it is the area's most photographed view. A scenic drive leads to Snæfellsjökull National Park, with beaches, mossy lava fields, volcanic craters, and lava tubes; its dramatic landscape inspired Journey to the Center of the Earth. The coast is rich in birdlife, including puffins, and boats visit Melrakkaey nature reserve.

Heimaey, the largest of Iceland's Westman Islands, is famed for the 1973 volcanic eruption from a previously unknown fissure that buried part of the town in ash and lava. Residents were evacuated after a heroic effort to slow the flow with seawater, saving the harbor and fish stock. They later returned and rebuilt amid volcanic peaks. Eldheimar Museum tells the story and includes an excavated ruined home from the eruption.

Streymoy, the largest of the 18 Faroe Islands, is home to Tórshavn, the archipelago's capital and largest town. In old Tinganes, the Faroese parliament met for over 1,000 years, and the prime minister's office still sits there among narrow alleys, black-tarred grass-roofed houses, and mysterious rock carvings. From nearby Vestmanna, boat trips through channels and grottoes reveal cliffs packed with birds, including puffins. Listen for Faroese, often called the purest Norse language.

Lerwick, the capital of the wild, rugged Shetland Islands, is a remote but rewarding destination. Visit the Shetland Museum for 5,000+ years of history and Fort Charlotte for great town views. Fishing drives the local economy, so try fresh cod, haddock, or mackerel, plus roasted lamb or mutton soup. Explore the countryside for sea cliffs, moors, sheep farms, and Shetland ponies, with stops at Scalloway Castle and the Bronze Age site of Jarlshof.

Kirkwall, the largest town in the Orkney Islands, sits in a Scottish archipelago inhabited for over 5,000 years. Highlights include 12th-century St. Magnus Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace, the Orkney Museum, and nearby Skara Brae. The Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness are UNESCO-protected Neolithic monuments. Finish with a tour and tasting at Highland Park Distillery.

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is known for Georgian buildings and two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Edinburgh Castle and the medieval Royal Mile (including the Old and New Towns), and the Forth Bridge. Built on an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle overlooks the city; its Esplanade hosts the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo each August. Also visit the Royal Yacht Britannia at Leith or the café where J.K. Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book.

London blends history and modernity. See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, Westminster, Parliament and Big Ben, then the London Eye over the Thames. UNESCO sites include Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and Greenwich. Art lovers should visit the British Museum, National Gallery, and Tate Modern. For local flavor, explore Camden and Notting Hill markets, Shoreditch cafés and galleries, or Mayfair boutiques.