Europe’s largest port city today had humble beginnings as a fishing village in the 13th century. Now, it’s a lively, thriving metropolis that’s home to a multicultural population. The Euromast observation tower provides a great panoramic view of the city and more, especially some of the fine and striking architecture on the Wilhelminapier. The first viewing platform takes you to 100 meters, then you can go a further 85 meters if you’re brave. Or, visit one of the many top-class museums, such as Boijmans, Van Beuningen or the Kunsthal in Museum Park.

Kirkwall is the largest town and capital of the Orkney Islands, off the coast of northern mainland Scotland. Kirkwall’s most outstanding feature is perhaps its sandstone St. Magnus Cathedral, widely considered the finest medieval building in the north of Scotland. The original town is one of the best-preserved examples of an ancient Norse town. Other sites of historical interest in the town include the Bishop’s Palace and Earl’s Palace. Kirkwall was once a quiet place of contemplation but is now a bustling market town, a lively center for shopping and eating out.

Akureyi, Iceland’s second largest city—affectionately known as the Capital of North Iceland—is one of the country’s most important ports and fishing centers. Today, Akureyi is creating something of a buzz for its cool café scene, growing gourmet movement and bustling nightlife. But don’t let that fool you. The atmosphere here is always laidback. From a fabulous summer festival program (energized by the near 24-hour daylight), to some of the best winter skiing you could wish for, Akureyi is a great base for exploring Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, all year round.

Akureyi, Iceland’s second largest city—affectionately known as the Capital of North Iceland—is one of the country’s most important ports and fishing centers. Today, Akureyi is creating something of a buzz for its cool café scene, growing gourmet movement and bustling nightlife. But don’t let that fool you. The atmosphere here is always laidback. From a fabulous summer festival program (energized by the near 24-hour daylight), to some of the best winter skiing you could wish for, Akureyi is a great base for exploring Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, all year round.

Ísafjörður is a town in the Westfjords region of northwest Iceland. It’s known for its dramatic landscapes. The old town has wooden houses with corrugated tin roofs built by fishing merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Westfjords Heritage Museum has exhibits on the town’s maritime history, including a collection of old fishing boats. The old hospital, now a cultural center, contains archives and photography.

Iceland’s capital and largest city is located on the country’s southwest coast at the head of Faxafloi Bay. Settled in 877 AD, Reykjavik has grown into an important seaport and center of government and education with theatres, museums and observatories. Interestingly, this modern city still chooses to use water from nearby hot springs to heat all of its buildings.

Located in the northernmost part of the British Isles, cruises to Shetland Islands provide travelers with an easy way to access this remote and rugged part of Scotland that’s made up of nearly 100 small islands. European cruises visiting this fascinating destination stop in Lerwick, the only town in the region. Lerwick offers a lively and welcoming ambiance with plenty to see and do, and it’s just a short boat or ferry ride away from some of the more remote islands. While exploring the Shetland Islands, you’ll find miles of pristine beaches surrounded by towering cliffs, where bright blue waves crash around impressive rock formations. The archipelago is unlike anything you’ve seen before, making cruises that stop in the Shetland Islands a great way for travelers to get off the beaten path.

Europe’s largest port city today had humble beginnings as a fishing village in the 13th century. Now, it’s a lively, thriving metropolis that’s home to a multicultural population. The Euromast observation tower provides a great panoramic view of the city and more, especially some of the fine and striking architecture on the Wilhelminapier. The first viewing platform takes you to 100 meters, then you can go a further 85 meters if you’re brave. Or, visit one of the many top-class museums, such as Boijmans, Van Beuningen or the Kunsthal in Museum Park.