Military-maritime heritage, friendly ambiance, and easy access to outdoor adventures are all part of the urban fabric and Karlskrona. Only here, for example, can you paddle around a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve while admiring the well-preserved architecture and fortifications of a 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage City. In 1680, King Karl XI chose Sweden’s most southern archipelago for a new base for his Royal Navy, stretching over 33 islands.

The seaside resort of Travemünde sits at the meeting point of the Trave river and the Baltic. A holiday destination since the early 19^th century, it offers the timeless pleasures of sun, sand and simple fare like fischbrötchen along broad beaches dotted with giant wicker chairs called strandkörbe. Watersports, including a July regatta, are also major draw. The riverfront Vorderreihe, lined with restaurants, cafes and boutiques, is lovely to stroll, as is the charming Old Town.