This west coast harbor, where the Gullmarsfjorden meets the sea, is a favorite haunt of Swedes, who come here to reconnect with the great outdoors and feast on oysters, mussels and other shellfish plucked from the bountiful local waters. While Lysekil built its fortunes on fishing, especially the herring shoals that patrol the Bohuslän coast, someone had the bright idea of promoting the virtues of the salty air and sea in the mid-19th century and turned this place into a fashionable health resort. You can still take a restorative dip in one of the baths, a later edition of the original Kallbadhuset. Overlooking it all is the neo-Gothic church cut from this coast's distinct pink granite.

Ålesund is of Norway's most captivating emerging destinations. Nestled along the Norwegian coast, this picturesque town offers a captivating journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. The town was ravaged by a devastating fire in 1904 and was thus rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style of the era. Today, Ålesund's architecture is a not only beautifully preserved but a masterpiece of design. Walking its cobblestone streets reveals ornate facades, intricate details, and a palpable sense of history. The Jugendstilsenteret museum provides insight into this architectural renaissance and is well worth a visit. However pretty Ålesund town may be, it is nothing in comparison to the stunning surroundings. Ålesund is a gateway to the majestic fjords and islands of western Norway. Adventurers can explore the Geirangerfjord, while wildlife enthusiasts can spot seals and seabirds on nearby Runde Island.

Viking heritage, urban art, and cutting-edge, Michelin-starred cuisine all mix harmoniously in this invigorating city, where the wonders of Norwegian nature are never far away. The former Viking capital of Norway, Trondheim is perhaps best known for Nidaros Cathedral, built over the burial site of King Olav II, and a pilgrimage destination for nearly 1,000 years. Step into the charm of yesteryear in Bakklandet, where colorful wooden homes, cobblestone streets, riverfront cafés, and inviting boutiques will give you that “koselig” (cozy) feeling. Fast forward to now with innovative farm-to-table restaurants and urban art trails showcasing the city's creative spirit. Kayak along the Nidelva River to admire the city from the water or stride out on a bracing hike in the Bymarka Nature Reserve.

Tucked deep inside a mountain-walled fjord, this colorful town would look right at home in Norway. The bright wooden houses, the wandering reindeer, barking seals, snow-dusted peaks and cascading waterfalls. But its 100% Icelandic, rich with outdoor adventures and home to a vibrant arts scene. Hiking in Skalanes Nature Reserve promises sightings of diverse wildlife, on land and in the air. The floating geothermal pools at Vok Baths spa are a luxury not to be missed. Kayaking's great here, too.

Situated on one of the most magnificent fjords in Iceland, bounded by snow-capped mountains and gently sloping pastures, the weather here is surprisingly moderate despite being just 60 miles from the Arctic Circle. Charming and historical, here you'll find over 2,000 species of plants in the Botanical Gardens, which thrive without the benefit of a greenhouse.

Ringed by dramatic mountains and perched on a narrow fjord-side spit of land, this old trading post's as remote as they come – yet boasts a trending arts scene. Walk among tin-roofed homes built by salt fish merchants, admire seagoing artifacts and – for some reason – a world-class accordion collection at the Maritime Museum. Discoveries further afield might include splendid Icelandic waterfalls, a pint-sized botanic garden in the tundra, and tiny villages dwarfed by their surrounding peaks.

Formed by volcanic eruptions and settled by Norse Vikings, Iceland is an unforested land of volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, glaciers and northern lights. While its preserved language remains, this is a forward-thinking, eco-friendly country and Reykjavik is its capital where 60% of the population lives. Europe's second largest island is known for whale watching and its ancient maritime history.

Formed by volcanic eruptions and settled by Norse Vikings, Iceland is an unforested land of volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, glaciers and northern lights. While its preserved language remains, this is a forward-thinking, eco-friendly country and Reykjavik is its capital where 60% of the population lives. Europe's second largest island is known for whale watching and its ancient maritime history.

Delightful Stornoway is the capital of the Western Isles with a population of only 8,000. Beautifully situated on the seafront, overlooking a magnificent harbor, Stornoway is considered by many to be in one of the most picturesque regions in Scotland. The town's friendly inhabitants are revered for their seafaring traditions and they enjoy a level of self-sufficiency that is normally only seen in larger towns on the mainland.

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is a place of rich history, vibrant culture, and striking landscapes. The city is steeped in political history, and no visitor here should ignore the impact “The Troubles” have had on the urban landscape. However, while the scars of the conflict still linger, the city has made remarkable progress in healing divisions and rebuilding communities. Visitors to Belfast can learn about this history through various educational resources, tours, and exhibitions, gaining insights into the challenges faced by the city's residents and the strides made toward reconciliation and peace. Belfast's cultural scene is alive with theaters, galleries, and music venues. The Cathedral Quarter is a creative hub, bustling with art galleries, quirky shops, and a vibrant nightlife. The city's food scene has flourished, offering everything from traditional Irish fare to international cuisine. Head to one of the local pubs to order a Guinness and plate of Lamb Stew for a real taste of city.

Situated in the southern coastal area of Dublin, the town of Dún Laoghaire is a residential area with many things to do and see. You can visit the People's Park Farmers' Market to shop for hand-made crafts and try local delicacies, walk along the charming East Pier or try water sports such as sailing or kayaking.