Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.

Spanning 14 islands, more than 50 bridges and many more museums, Sweden’s capital is naturally known as the ‘Venice of the North’. Gently pedal on a cultural discovery of this Baltic Sea archipelago; tread the cobblestone streets to the iconic city hall, the world’s first open air museum, the adored ABBA exhibition, and the royal family residence of Drottningholm where the opera house still retains original stage machinery. Heighten your interest with two other UNESCO heritage sites, a woodland cemetery and the archaeological site of Birka. Dine at the Hornhuset district, perhaps only after strolling small streets that narrow to 90cm at Mårten Trotzigs Gränd. And for further sustenance, wander down to fashionable Strandvagen Boulevard and open-air Hornstull Marknad for new and vintage goods.

Spanning 14 islands, more than 50 bridges and many more museums, Sweden’s capital is naturally known as the ‘Venice of the North’. Gently pedal on a cultural discovery of this Baltic Sea archipelago; tread the cobblestone streets to the iconic city hall, the world’s first open air museum, the adored ABBA exhibition, and the royal family residence of Drottningholm where the opera house still retains original stage machinery. Heighten your interest with two other UNESCO heritage sites, a woodland cemetery and the archaeological site of Birka. Dine at the Hornhuset district, perhaps only after strolling small streets that narrow to 90cm at Mårten Trotzigs Gränd. And for further sustenance, wander down to fashionable Strandvagen Boulevard and open-air Hornstull Marknad for new and vintage goods.

Compact yet richly packed with Soviet history and architectural charms, there’s plenty to explore in Riga with its UNESCO-acclaimed medieval old town, where cobbled streets wind up at colourful squares. Gaze at the wonderful eclectic buildings, from gothic and baroque, to innovative art nouveau. Listen to the Latvian National Opera, drink age old liqueur seasoned with 24 herbs, or find plenty of personal space on the 20-mile stretch of fine, sandy beaches. Build up an appetite whilst bartering at Riga’s flavourful Central Market. Then step down into cosy restaurants that serve up hearty Latvian truffle and seafood dishes. Known as the Pearl of Latvia, it’s easy to understand why.

Visit Visby on the island of Gotland for authentic Swedish riches. Well-preserved walls protect the city and set the scene for what lies within. You’ll be warmly welcomed with cuisine, culture, nature and Viking archaeology. With a long history and UNESCO World Heritage ruins dating back to the 12th century, this orderly medieval town rejoices in being one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved towns. Roam peaceful streets on foot or by bike to boutiques selling warm woollens for winter and shelves laden with local crafts. Visit the lengthy Lummelunda Cave in a nature reserve, experience the traditional Swedish coffee ritual and taste beer at the local brewery. Soak up the history and atmosphere in well-groomed Visby for a slice of time gone by.

The beautiful harbour town of Rønne is housed on the rocky island of Bornholm, home to narrow streets lined with merchant timber houses and small craft shops proudly displaying creative passion. Gently stroll to the heart of the art scene at Hjorths Fabrik museum and join workshops to create your own ceramic artefacts. In contrast to the bustling harbour, discover the fascinating street food market and cruise across waters in a private yacht. Charming and romantic, use a bike and roll around this pretty town at your own pace.

Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.