11 Night Scandinavia & Northern Europe

Copenhagen has come a long way from its early Viking days. Its historic center of Frederiksstaden has its share of castles and royal-era palaces— but it’s the modern, sleek Scandinavian design and playful, hygge spirit that sets Denmark’s capital apart today. Each neighborhood offers its own unique, exciting adventures. Explore the city’s seafaring past with a canal cruise under a network of bridges, or take a stroll along Nyhavn’s colorful quay. Peek in Kødbyen’s trendy art galleries and savor world-renowned Nordic cuisine in Christiania’s quirky cafes. Adventure comes in many forms in Copenhagen, from Baltic beaches to famous fairytales.

Nestled in the glittering blue waters of the Baltic Sea between Denmark, Sweden, Germany and Poland, Bornholm is a favorite getaway among Scandinavians craving a break from the bustle of city life. This idyllic Danish isle goes by many names, too — some call it “Sunshine Island” because of its clear blue skies and mild weather, and “Rock Island” because of its dramatic granite formations, which store heat during the summer. You won’t find any big towns or crowds here, even during season — just quaint dairy farms, colorful half-timbered houses, Nordic round churches, and beautiful windswept coasts. The busiest spot on the island is Rønne, your gateway to the rest of Bornholm, but even this main port moves at slow, serene pace.

Soak up some sun in Warnemunde, home to some of Germany's best beaches. The fine, sugar-white sand goes on for 15 kilometers along the pristine blue waters of Baltic Sea. Head to popular West Beach and relax in one of the many striped Strandkorben — canopied wicker chairs. Or check out quieter East Beach, lined by high sand dunes. Cruise to Berlin, Germany to watch the waves crash against 19th-century Warnemunde Lighthouse. Then, make your way to the Alte Strom, where you can stroll along the quaint promenade and buy fresh fish straight off the fishing cutters. Take in the salty air of this sleepy fishing village, and savor the relaxed pace of life. Sample fresh-caught seafood, try a local brew and do some people-watching in one of the outdoor beer gardens.

Walking through Gdansk, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. Almost completely destroyed during the Second World War, the Main City was rebuilt during the Soviet era — as a result, today's Gdansk resembles the medieval town it once was. The city is perfect for wandering on foot. Cruise to Poland to stroll over to see the Gothic grandeur of St. Mary's Cathedral, Gdansk's most distinctive landmark and one of the largest brick churches in the world. Then make your way to the Old Town — Mariacka Street is a highlight, with ornate, gargoyle-adorned homes and plenty of cafes you can pop into for espresso and sernik, a Polish cheesecake.

Tallinn's fairy-tale castles, cobbled streets and warm hospitality remain one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Head to the city's Old Town, where you can see medieval Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square) and wander hidden passageways between 17th- and 18th-century earthwork forts. Tour the ornate Orthodox Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, full of detailed mosaics and traditional icons. Take a foray to the unspoiled Baltic coastline just outside Tallinn — check out popular Pirita or quiet Kakumae. Later, stop into one of Tallinn's iconic cellar restaurants to fuel up on hearty Estonian fare like mulgipuder, a porridge of barley and potatoes flavored with smoky bacon.

Finland's capital is a laid-back but vibrant seaside city, surrounded on three sides by sea and tiny islands. Stroll to the heart of Helsinki to its bustling kauppatori, or market square. Admire the graceful 19th-century buildings and Havis Amanda, the lovely mermaid statue commonly regarded as the symbol of Finland. Continue to Temppeliaukio, an astonishing rock-carved church. Finish the day at a local restaurant with a dish of fresh-caught white fish with new potatoes. Join a Helsinki cruise and head to the hip Kallio neighborhood to explore Helsinki's nightlife — you'll discover a host of spots ranging from cocktail lounges to rock music venues all within walking distance from each other.

A small town on the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea, Visby was a popular trading spot during the Viking Age. Today, it's Sweden's sunniest vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the 3.5 km Ringmuren (Ring Wall), built in the 13th Century, and see its 50 towers and surrounding moats. Snap shots of the idyllic red rose-covered cottages, the ruined Gothic churches and the 13th-century Saint Maria Cathedral. If would like to know more about the island's history, don't miss the excellent Gotland Museum. Cruise to Visby and head 20 kilometers south to the Tofta Viking Village, a Viking-era settlement reconstructed around authentic ancient monuments.

Latvia's historical capital is an architecture buff's dream come true. The Gothic structures in the Old Town and the Art Nouveau buildings scattered around the city meld together to create a modern-day fairy tale. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets, and step back into the 14th century. Stroll into the bustling Riga Central Market and sample the bright, colorful produce and local products like hemp butter and amber jewelry. Or wander through the street stalls to taste some traditional Latvian cuisine — fried lampreys, a prehistoric jawless fish that's flavor is less scary than it looks. Cruise to Riga and don't miss the city's iconic site, the House of the Blackheads, the former home of a merchant's guild and expression of Riga's medieval roots.

As you explore Stockholm — the stylish Swedish capital, built across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges — you'll notice water and green space are never far away. Stroll through Gamla Stan, the colorful medieval Old Town, with its imposing royal palace and looming cathedrals. Browse the little shops and art galleries that line the narrow streets, or take a break in one of the many trendy cafes. Visit the large City Hall, the site of the Nobel Prize banquet, with its austere brick exterior accented by playful Venetian turrets and decorated balconies. Don't miss the grand Vasa Ship Museum — you'll see an almost-intact 17th-century warship — and Skansen, the world's first open-air museum, both located on the island of Djurgarden.