Finland’s oldest city, Turku combines a medieval heart with a modern sensibility. Overlooking the Aura River, majestic Turku Castle is an excellent place to begin your exploration by meandering the labyrinthine halls of this well-preserved fortress dating to the 13th century. Turku Cathedral provides an equally fascinating glimpse into history, and this Gothic landmark is considered one of Finland's most important buildings.
An outstanding example of medieval European architecture, the historic center of Bruges has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the best ways to admire the city’s enchanting bridges, gabled houses and historic landmarks is on a boat tour along the picturesque canals. For a bird’s eye view, climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfry of Bruges.
The unofficial capital of the West Highlands, Oban is a small coastal town that has maintained its place as one of Scotland’s most popular resort areas since Victorian times. Perched high above the town on Battery Hill, McCaig’s Tower is a perfect place to start exploring. The well-maintained gardens and spectacular views of Oban are well worth the 144-step climb from the town below, while a leisurely stroll along Corran Esplanade offers a lovely perspective on Oban’s waterfront and nearby Kerrera Island.
A vibrant city and cultural hotspot, Aalborg has been welcoming visitors since Viking ships traversed the Limfjord. Designed by the architect behind the Sydney Opera House, the Utzon Center on the waterfront showcases innovative art and architecture, while lively pedestrian-friendly streets nearby are lined with shops, restaurants and cafés. Visit the Viking Museum for a fascinating look into Aalborg’s Viking heritage, or the Aalborg Historical Museum to trace the area’s evolution through the centuries.
This charming seaside town has a lovely esplanade that stretches for an easy one-mile stroll from sandy Ayr Beach to the harbor at River Ayr. For a unique encounter with Scotland’s national bard and favorite son, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum celebrates the man whose poetry is known and loved the world over. South of town perched atop the Ayrshire cliffs, the opulent Culzean Castle is filled to the turrets with treasures telling the stories of the nobles who once lived there.
Set on the northwest coast of Spain, A Coruña greets visitors with the monumental Tower of Hercules overlooking the sea. The world’s only functioning Roman lighthouse, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking views of the picturesque coastline. The city boasts over a mile of beaches ideal for sunbathing and watersports, and in the Old Town, narrow lanes and charming squares are built around the lively Plaza de María Pita. Stop into a café here to sample Galicia’s famous seafood dishes, most notably the octopus.
Arriving the in the port of Naxos, visitors will likely catch a glimpse of the island’s most famous landmark, the ancient Portara. This unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo around the 5th century BC overlooks the Aegean Sea and is an excellent place to enjoy a sunset. Naxos’ Old Town is a maze of narrow alleyways that wind through charming whitewashed buildings, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy a meal on the waterfront. The island’s beaches, heralded as some of the best in the Aegean, boast long stretches of golden sands that melt into crystal clear waters.
Often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the charming coastal town of Opatija is set against a backdrop of the lush Učka Mountains. A popular destination for European dignitaries since the 19th century, Opatija was touted as an ideal place for healing thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate and still boasts an abundance of luxury health and wellness spas. A walk along the Lungomare, a waterfront promenade that stretches over seven miles, offers scenic views of the Adriatic Sea and the town’s architecture, originally built for royalty.
