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.

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.

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.

Rosendal, nestled by Hardangerfjorden in Norway, is known for Barony Rosendal, a unique 1665 castle and the only one of its kind in Norway. Take a guided tour of its period interiors, small museum, and Renaissance gardens, and stop at the Tea Room in the Rosendal Greenhouse. Also visit 1255 Kvinnherad Church and the Furebergfossen waterfall near town.

Located on the shores of the Sognefjord, Vik is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the beauty of Norway's natural surroundings, from lush valleys to dramatic fjords. Don't miss your chance to explore scenic hiking trails, visit the historic Hopperstad Stave Church and see the famous Fridtjov Statue overlooking the fjord. The village is a peaceful retreat where you can experience traditional farming culture, taste locally made cheese, and indulge in raspberries while taking in the views.

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.

Kirkwall is the largest town and capital of the Orkney Islands, off northern mainland Scotland. It is one of Scotland's most attractive, well-preserved small towns, with many 17th-18th century vernacular houses and buildings. It also has the English-speaking world's most northerly Carnegie library, opened by Andrew Carnegie and his wife in the early 20th century.

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.