A crossroad in the English Channel for centuries, Zeebrugge is the entry to Flanders, whose golden age heritage resides in three historic cities: Ghent, Antwerp and Bruges-a jewel of a town beribboned with picturesque canals and a truly charming medieval beauty. In this region, museums proudly display the glories of the old Flemish masters, from Van Dyck to Rubens, and summertime is delightful when window boxes boast colorful flowers and the graceful arcs of windmills can be seen.

Hamburg's port on the river Elbe has been busy since medieval times, when it was a cornerstone of the Hanseatic League. It is a graceful city of parks and lakes, and grand old buildings like the Rathaus (City Hall). Brahms and Mendelssohn were born here, and Hans Leip, who wrote Lili Marlene.

Norway's political and cultural capital, Oslo was recently selected as the city with the highest quality of life in Europe. It's not surprising, considering the city's treasures: beautiful Frogner Park filled with modern sculpture, the emotional power of the Munch Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, together with forested mountains and secluded coves, all within the city limits.

The European culture capital in 1996, Copenhagen is Scandinavia's liveliest city. The musical and artistic pageantry are rivaled only by the changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Amalienborg Palace, home of the royal family since 1794. Yet certain parts of Copenhagen maintain a village-like feel, like the winding streets around the Raadhuspladsen and enchanting Tivoli Gardens.

Kristiansand is a vibrant coastal city in southern Norway, known for its beautiful beaches and lively cultural scene. The city features a charming harbor, picturesque wooden houses, and a variety of attractions, including the Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, explore local markets, and experience the city's festivals, making it a popular summer destination.

This is a classic Norwegian town full of colorful charm. You can wander up narrow streets into the surrounding hills or enjoy Gamte Bergen, the old town, with cobbled streets and wonderful little shops and bakeries.

There are 100 islands comprising the Shetlands, the area known for its beautiful woolens. They were first settled by the Vikings, and only became Scottish in the 15th century. Today, ferries run to Aberdeen, and to Norway. Lerwick enjoys the tradition of raising sheep and fishing, and the riches of oil in the North Sea.

Distributed across fourteen immaculate islands in a sheltered Baltic bay, crisscrossed by scenic bridges, Sweden's capital is one of the most beautiful cities on earth. It is a sightseeing smorgasbord, including the medieval "city between the bridges," the vast Royal Palace, and the City Hall, which hosts the yearly Nobel Prize ceremonies.