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Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford is a charming destination known for its rich Viking heritage, picturesque scenery and unique cultural attractions. Start at the Viking Triangle, a historic area where narrow cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings transport you back in time. Here you’ll find the Waterford Treasures, a group of adjacent museums that showcase everything from the 18th-century Bishop’s Palace to the 10th-century Reginald’s Tower, filled with Viking artifacts.

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.

One of the world’s great cities, London seamlessly blends history and modernity in its iconic landmarks and rich culture. After watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, walk through the historic streets of Westminster to see the majestic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and then get a view of it all from high over the Thames on Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel, the London Eye. UNESCO World Heritage sites abound, from Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London to the Royal Observatory of Greenwich.

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.

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.

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.

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.