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.

Skagen is rich in art history and modern art galleries. Known as the Land of Light, its sun reflects off abundant sand and water for longer hours than anywhere else in Denmark. Its bustling harbor brings in fresh seafood from Jutland's northern tip, surrounded by sea. Explore its countryside, large white sandy beaches, and Denmark's largest moving sand dune, Råbjerg Mile.

The seaside town of Lysekil is filled with incredible sights. Among them is Lysekil Church, whose granite was carved by hand and winched into place. The tower alone is 206 feet high and the spire rises more than 300 feet above sea level. Embark on a seal safari and see the rare Bohuslän in its true habitat or visit the Havets Hus, a saltwater aquarium where you can see and get the chance to touch some of the around 100 different species that live in the Gullmar Fjord.

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.

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.

Warnemünde is a sea resort and district of Rostock in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, situated at the Baltic Sea in the Northeast of Germany at the estuary of the river Warnow. Being a center of maritime traffic, the district of Warnemünde comprises numerous navigational aids, the oldest of which is the lighthouse located near the beach promenade. The lighthouse, which is currently still in use, was built in 1897. Warnemunde is also our gateway to nearby Berlin.

Explore colorful, restored Old Town Gdansk, once a powerful Hanseatic League city, and admire its grand architecture. Walk the full length of Ulica Długa (Long St.), visiting St. Mary's Church, built over 150 years, and its 1460 Astronomical Clock. Browse museums, shops, and galleries for amber, embroidered linens, silver jewelry, and wool sweaters. See the grand houses, Green Gate, and Golden Gate on the Royal Road, and try vodka served with gold flecks.

Klaipeda, or Memel, in Lithuania is situated at the mouth of the Curonian Lagoon where it flows into the Baltic Sea. During World War II, the city was captured by the Soviet Red Army. Unlike the rest of East Prussia, the Memel Territory was not considered part of the Soviet occupation zone, and was incorporated into the Lithuanian SSR. The city began to develop cultural activities in the 1970s and 1980s, such as the introduction of the Sea Festival cultural tradition.

Liepaja, Latvia's third-largest city, is called "the city where the wind is born." A popular Baltic resort since the 1860s, it offers WWII and Tsarist relics, white-sand Blue Flag beaches, and a music walk of fame. Explore Karosta's bunkers, cannons, and ruined military buildings, then visit Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Latvian Musicians' Walk of Fame. Don't miss the local specialty: cod fish.

"Venice of the North," Stockholm spans 14 islands at Lake Mälar's outlet to the Baltic. Scandinavia's largest city, it's known for handsome architecture, broad streets, waterside parks, and pedestrian paths. Highlights include Old Town, the Royal Palace, Riddarholm Church, the Town Hall observation deck, Skeppsholmen museums, and the Vasa Museum on Djurgården, home to the nearly intact 64-gun warship Vasa, lost on its maiden voyage in 1628.

"Venice of the North," Stockholm spans 14 islands at Lake Mälar's outlet to the Baltic. Scandinavia's largest city, it's known for handsome architecture, broad streets, waterside parks, and pedestrian paths. Highlights include Old Town, the Royal Palace, Riddarholm Church, the Town Hall observation deck, Skeppsholmen museums, and the Vasa Museum on Djurgården, home to the nearly intact 64-gun warship Vasa, lost on its maiden voyage in 1628.

Known as the "Stone City" after being rebuilt in stone following a major fire in 1888, Sundsvall's city center boasts beautiful 19th-century architecture. Immerse yourself in the local history and art by visiting the Sundsvall Museum and the Kulturmagasinet cultural center. Journey outside the city center to UNESCO-listed Höga Kusten, renowned for its granite cliffs and boasting the world's highest coastline at 938 feet above sea level.

Known as the "City of Birches," Umeå is renowned for its lively arts scene. It was once designated as the European Capital of Culture, with museums like the Bildmuseet and Västerbottens showcasing contemporary art, history and local culture. The city is also home to 32,000 students who attend Umeå University and Umeå Institute of Design, adding to the vibrant and dynamic ambiance.

Kemi offers a unique blend of Finnish history, relaxation and winter activities. Visit SnowCastle, the biggest snow fort in the world, made entirely of snow and ice. Nature lovers can explore Bothnian Bay National Park, which is ideal for birdwatching or enjoying serene landscapes. Visit the Kemi Gemstone Gallery to view vibrant minerals and historical artifacts. Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional salmon soup or Karelian pasties.

On the Gulf of Bothnia, Oulu is one of northern Finland's most vibrant cities, known for technology and education. Its compact center is easy to explore, especially Market Square and the lively Rotuaari Promenade. Parks and green spaces soften the city, while the nearby archipelago and forests offer a peaceful escape. Don't miss Oulu Cathedral, with its graceful neoclassical design.

Turku harbors a wonderful mix of old and new with a distinctively Scandinavian charm. Spend time touring the open-air Handicrafts Museum, browsing its workshops and engaging with artisans. Photograph Turku Castle, Finland's largest fortress, and its signature Cathedral Church, looming authoritatively over the Aura River. Consecrated in 1300, this is the colossal mother church of Finland's Lutherans and the final resting place of eminent bishops, military commanders - even a queen.

On the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland lies Tallinn, the capital and main seaport of Estonia. Though the city has been bombed and pillaged many times throughout the ages, much of the town as it was in medieval times remains. Atmospheric streets serve as home to the palaces of Castle Hill. Ancient convents, steepled churches and handsome guild houses are all preserved as they were in Tallinn's Old Town area, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kotka boasts Finnish coastal charm and a major role in maritime battles between Sweden and Russia through the years. That history is on grand display at the Maritime Museum of Finland, where notable ships including the icebreaker Tarmo, the oldest of its kind in the world, are moored. Idyllic landscapes abound - the Sapokka Water Garden is an urban oasis, while the Valkmus National Park highlights the area's natural beauty. Grab some possos (deep-fried doughnuts) to fuel your exploring.

The capital of Finland, Helsinki is also the cultural, commercial and political center of Finland. Helsinki is an easily-navigated city and an architectural delight. Helsinki is laid out with spacious streets interspersed with many gardens and parks. Wide streets and nearby islands add to Helsinki's visual appeal. Beautiful neo classical buildings surround town squares and the cathedral is probably the most recognized of all Helsinki landmarks.