Copenhagen to Liverpool

Originally established as a Viking village in the 10th century, Copenhagen comes with a colorful past, traces of which are still visible today – from centuries-old cobblestoned streets to resplendent royal palaces. But this storied Scandinavian city also sits firmly at the forefront of contemporary culture and design, with its world-class architecture, cutting-edge art galleries, and eco-friendly approach to urban living. Do as the locals do and explore the city on two wheels, pausing along the way at notable sites like the Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle and Gardens, the 19th-century amusement park Tivoli Gardens, and the waterfront hub of Nyhavn, lined with candy-colored townhouses.

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.

Situated on the southern tip of Norway about four hours from Oslo, Kristiansand is the country's fifth-largest city and a top vacationer's destination. No wonder: Kristiansand's water-surrounded setting, many parks and museums, family-friendly zoo and vibrant shopping scene bring culture-minded visitors and outdoors enthusiasts together in happy coexistence. A walk in Posebyen, Kristiansand's old town, offers a look at one of Northern Europe's largest collections of characteristic wooden buildings, while the fish quay presents one of Norway's best fish markets and great dining options. If you can bear to pull yourself away from Kristiansand's narrow streets and wide appeal, a boat trip across the waterway brings you to Lillesand, an immaculate town with charming alleyways and a pretty waterfront.

Steeped in Viking history and surrounded by shimmering lakes and jade-green forests, Haugesund is a young, vibrant city easily explored on foot. The region’s tempestuous past can be discovered at the state-of-the-art Viking Planet Digital Museum, while the city’s clutch of world-class art galleries offers a glimpse of contemporary Norwegian life. Haraldsgata – a long, pedestrianized street lined with traditional Norwegian clapboard houses converted into cafés, boutiques and bars – is the place to pick up classic Scandi knitwear and gifts before a seafood lunch on the quayside, overlooking the tranquil Smedasundet Sound.

Mother Nature pulses through Bergen’s veins. The pretty little town is flanked by a mesmerizing canvas of fjords, mountains, and waterways which must be seen to be believed, and cast in the shadow of majestic Mount Fløyen, and visitors who are not afraid of heights should enjoy sweeping views of the valley via the Fløibanen funicular. Bergen is everything you would expect it to be: colorful fishing huts dot the landscape while the vibrant Fish Market, perhaps the beating heart of the town, is where visitors immerse in the flavors of fresh seafood and local produce. Traditional dishes like "klippfisk" and "smørbrød" reveal a deep connection to coastal resources, and are very tasty to boot! Once you have had your fill of sensational landscapes and traditional food, then take a stroll to iconic Bryggen Wharf—a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with vibrantly hued Hanseatic buildings, echoing tales of centuries-old maritime trade.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

As the main town of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that appeals to everyone. The town's maritime heritage is everywhere from its bustling harbor to its traditional architecture, creating an authentic, picturesque atmosphere and capturing the very essence of island living in Northern Europe. The island can trace its roots tracing back to Viking times, so visitors should expect a healthy dose of historic charm intertwined with day to day modern living. Quaint streets wind past historic buildings, inviting exploration of local shops, cafes, and cultural sites. The bustling harbor reflects Lerwick's maritime heritage, where fishing boats and yachts create a lively ambiance. Be sure to venture beyond the town, and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of the Orkney Islands —ancient standing stones, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches are all within reach. Lerwick's captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and island character makes it a treasure to uncover within the enchanting Orkney archipelago.

A place of contrasts and balance, Kirkwall offers the high points of a large Scottish city – stellar local shopping and impressive historical sites like the St. Magnus Cathedral and ruins of the Bishop’s Palace and Earl’s Palace – as well as the charms of a small village. It is a relatively quiet ferry landing town that is also an excellent example of an ancient Norse settlement, making Kirkwall itself a living museum.

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.

One of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Ireland, Londonderry traces its roots to the 6th century. Walls from the 17th century still fortify the city centre where you will find St. Columb’s Cathedral, built in 1633. The geological marvel known as the Giant’s Causeway lies just east of the city.

Top Things to Do in Londonderry:

• view the murals at Bogside
• take a tour of the Giant’s Causeway
• explore Glenveagh National Park
• drive along the Inishowen Peninsula
• visit the Doagh Folk Village

When a place is called Greencastle, it creates certain expectations. These are amply met by this charming fishing port on Ireland’s Inishowen peninsula, where first impressions reveal verdant scenery all around, and a closer look unearths the eponymous, medieval castle, a substantial ruin overlooking Carlingford Lough. For those staying in the area, gems nearby include Inishowen Maritime Museum & Planetarium and sheltered Kinnagoe Bay, one of many stunning beaches on County Donegal’s wild and windswept coast. Many visitors, however, will want to make a beeline for Londonderry, a storied city once blighted by The Troubles (Northern Ireland conflict), but now a United Nations International City of Peace. There is much to explore here, from the walkable 400-year-old City Walls, the Museum of Free Derry and Bloody Sunday Memorial, to the striking, large-scale street murals and magnificent Peace Bridge.

Known for being the birthplace of the Beatles, the city offers many different attractions dedicated to this iconic band. Liverpool is also home to the stunningly original Anglican cathedral, considered the biggest in Britain, and of the famous dish known as “scouse,” which you can enjoy in multiple restaurants across the city.