As the capital of Sweden and the largest city in Scandinavia, Stockholm is a must-see on any Northern European itinerary. Since this modern hub of sophistication actually spans across several islands along the Baltic Sea, Stockholm is also an idyllic cruise port.

Because so much of the city shines with pristine 21st-century amenities, you might be surprised to learn Stockholm's history spans back to the Stone Age. Of course, there are the cobblestone streets, bridges, colorful 13th-century buildings of Gamla stan, or Old Town. Don't miss the Royal Palace Drottningholm and the Skogskyrkogarden Woodland Cemetery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other top Stockholm attractions include the open-air Skansen museum and the Viking ships at Vasa Museum. Naturally, there are also countless hip venues for dining and nightlife as well as endless fashion boutiques and other shopping opportunities.