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A charming seaside town in northern Corsica, L’Île-Rousse takes its name from the red hue of the rocky islets just offshore, one of many features in the landscape contributing to this destination’s natural beauty. Perched on the headland, the Lighthouse of Pietra offers sweeping views of the scenery. The town also boasts beautiful sandy beaches with crystalline waters perfect for sunbathing, swimming or snorkeling. The heart of L’Île-Rousse is the main square of Place Paoli, where a statue dedicated to the town’s founder stands in the shade of plane and palm trees.

Docking in Sandnes puts you just minutes from the heart of Stavanger, a city that traces its roots to the 12th century as one of the oldest communities in Norway. With one of the few urban centers in the region not destroyed by fires or World War II, Stavanger has retained a wealth of historic treasures to explore. With its plentiful music venues, international festivals and museums featuring everything from Vikings to sardines, the city is also a vibrant cultural hub.

One of the most important industries in Aberdeen becomes apparent as soon as you lay eyes on the distinctive gray façades of its buildings constructed from locally quarried granite. Discover other sources of the city’s wealth in the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which reveals a rich seafaring history of shipbuilding, whaling and oil drilling in the North Sea. Old Aberdeen transports you even farther into the past with the medieval architecture of King’s College, the 12th-century Church of St. Nicholas, and the 7th-century St. Machar Cathedral.

A picturesque town on Norway's southern coast, Mandal is known for its charming wooden houses, sandy beaches and rich maritime heritage. Start your day with a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you can admire the well-preserved 19th-century homes and one of the largest timber churches in Norway. The Mandal Museum not only illuminates the history of the town’s fishing industry but also showcases the work of the many great artists born here.

A good place to begin your exploration of this maritime city would be Plymouth Hoe, a scenic promenade offering panoramic views of the sound. Climb the iconic lighthouse known as Smeaton’s Tower for a perspective on the scenery from above before exploring the nearby Royal Citadel, a 17th-century fortress. A pleasant stroll takes you to the Barbican district, Plymouth’s historic quarter, where you’ll find charming shops, art galleries and seafood restaurants as well as the Mayflower Steps commemorating the departure of the Pilgrims for the New World in 1620.

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.