Reykjavik to Oslo

Isolated in a northern landscape of icy tranquility, Iceland is a land of volcanoes, hot springs, mountains and glaciers. As the capital of Iceland, Reykjavík reflects this natural diversity with ancient maritime history as well as a thriving modern energy and sophistication.

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.

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.

Norway’s Longyearbyen is nestled in the majestic Adventfjord on the west coast of Spitsbergen, a mountainous island in the Svalbard archipelago, north of the Arctic Circle. The town, which is the administrative hub of the area, claims about 2,100 residents, and is the gateway for most adventures in Svalbard. There is an airport as well as a variety of lodgings, shops, restaurants, bars, and museums. Polar bears often roam its outskirts, while reindeer sometimes walk right through the town center.

Norway’s Longyearbyen is nestled in the majestic Adventfjord on the west coast of Spitsbergen, a mountainous island in the Svalbard archipelago, north of the Arctic Circle. The town, which is the administrative hub of the area, claims about 2,100 residents, and is the gateway for most adventures in Svalbard. There is an airport as well as a variety of lodgings, shops, restaurants, bars, and museums. Polar bears often roam its outskirts, while reindeer sometimes walk right through the town center.

The northernmost town in Europe, Honningsvåg embodies the natural majesty of Norway, presenting a sprawling natural landscape of Arctic adventure. Quaint fishing villages set along spectacular fjords offer delectable seafood, with quests for king crab on the “can’t miss” list. Within reach are the North Cape and magical Magerøy Island, as well as endless opportunities for rugged exploration in any direction from town center.

Leknes possesses is some of the most spectacular scenery in Norway, and perhaps the world. The surrounding mountains and cliffs are awe-inspiring and the perfect setting for hiking, climbing or cycling. Visit the old schoolhouse in the Fygle neighborhood, which offers a taste of the area’s history and culture. Local shops offer an array of unique goods and souvenirs that capture the spirit of this beautiful port.

AUNESCO World Heritage City treasure and a European Capital of Culture, beguiling Bergen is surrounded by mountains and fjords, including Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest. In its heyday, Norwegian Kings resided here, and there were no less than 27 churches and abbeys. An immaculate city, locals take great pride in their rich seafaring history and hold firm to traditional values.

At the head of the Oslofjord, which boasts many densely wooded islands, lies the impressive Norwegian capital of Oslo. This inspiring city is the site of many of Norway’s finest historic and cultural achievements., including the imposing Akershus Fortress and Castle. Graceful Viking ships, the Munch Art Museum and Gustav Vigeland’s awesome sculpture collection are among the city’s rich treasury of attractions.