Day 1 (JUL 13): Oslo, Norway

Overlooking a gorgeous fjord, Norway's capital and largest city simply radiates with natural beauty and sophistication. Oslo's rich seafaring history is on display at the Viking Ships Museum, rivaled only by the Kon-Tiki Museum, which holds the balsawood raft that Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl used to sail from Peru to Polynesia. History aside, Oslo exudes a love of the outdoors in city parks like Vigeland, which is adorned with over 200 life-size sculptures by artist Gustav Vigeland. Much of Oslo is heavily forested with pines, making it one of Europe's greenest cities.

Day 2 (JUL 14): Aalborg, Denmark

Founded by Vikings in the first century, this historic city straddling the Limfjord Sound exhibits evidence of settlements dating as far back as 400 AD. Stroll through Gammeltorv, the oldest town square in the city, or take a tour of Jens Bang’s Stonehouse, a magnificent six-story mansion built in the 17th century. Step back in time to the Viking Age as you explore Lindholm Høje Museum, which includes an outdoor section with nearly 700 graves from the Viking and Iron ages.

Day 3 (JUL 15): Copenhagen, Denmark

See another side of this lovely city with a cruise along its charming canals. Visit the quaint old harbor at Nyhavn and beautiful Rosenborg Castle and, of course, the famed statue of the Little Mermaid. Or venture into the countryside and enjoy its panoramic vistas, fairy tale castles and the village of Fredensborg.

Day 4 (JUL 16): Kiel, Germany

The grand harbor and seaside promenade take center stage in this historical maritime city that’s the gateway to the famed Kiel Canal. Everywhere you go – the Kiel Fjord, the museums and memorials in the city center, the bustling waterfront known as Kiellinie – you’ll feel the seafaring and naval influences. Top choices include the maritime-focused Schifffahrtsmuseum, Aquarium GEOMAR, Botanical Gardens Kiel and of course, stopping at a café along the promenade to enjoy the ever-changing vista of the harbor. Just outside of Kiel in Laboe, you can explore a restored German submarine U-995 on Ostsee beach, a somber reminder of the city’s role as the main German submarine base during World War II.

Days 5-6 (JUL 17-18): Berlin, Germany

Enjoy a scenic drive to the German capital and savor landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the glorious Charlottenburg Palace. Stroll down Unter den Linden, see the site of the Berlin Wall and take a boat ride along the city's canals. Explore on your own and visit one of the many museums. Or discover charming Warnemünde and its lovely Gothic church, market square and seaside promenade.

Day 7 (JUL 19): Ronne, Denmark

Largely rebuilt after World War II, Rønne still feels historic because even the new buildings reflect the older architecture. As a result, walking from more modern areas into the charming Old Town (Gamle Stan) is less noticeable. Don't miss the 14th century St. Nicholas Church, one of the more iconic buildings on Bornholm Island, or the massive round-tower castle and its fascinating military museum in the south of Rønne. To better understand the island's seafaring and natural history, visit Bornholm Museum.

Day 8 (JUL 20): Klaipeda, Lithuania

Lithuania’s third largest city, Klaipeda has been in and out of the hands of the Russians, Swedes and Germans. Marvel at the impressive, and verbosely christened, St. Mergeles Marijos Taikos Karalienes Church tower and walk through Anika Square. Head to the pristine Baltic waters lapping at the broad sands of Smiltyne Beach. Or duck into the Clock Museum or Castle Museum.

Day 9 (JUL 21): Riga, Latvia

Once called the "Paris of the Baltics," Riga has regained its status as a cosmopolitan capital with dozens of museums and arguably Europe's most exceptional Art Nouveau architecture. Founded in 1201, Riga boasts a magnificent Old Town called "Vecriga." Riga Castle, the residence of Latvia's president, was built on the site of the original settlement next to the Daugava River. St. Mary's Dome Cathedral is renowned for its stained glass windows and massive 19th century organ comprised of more than 6,500 pipes. Outside the city limits, traditional Latvian life is on display in outdoor exhibits at the Open Air Ethnographic Museum.

Day 10 (JUL 22): Tallinn, Estonia

Step back in time as you walk through this beautifully preserved medieval town and discover its upper and lower levels, the guild houses, the churches and squares, the famous apothecary shop and the exquisite town hall. See delightful parks, Baroque palaces and a ruined 15th century convent. Or visit a lovely recreated rural Estonian village by the sea.

Day 11 (JUL 23): Helsinki, Finland

Admire the city's stunning modern architecture, visit its lovely parks and bustling open-air market. Take a harbor cruise past forests, beaches, villas and a ruined Suomenlinna fortress that spans five islands. Or visit historic, colorful Porvoo, Finland's second oldest town.

Day 12 (JUL 24): Stockholm, Sweden

Spend a marvelous day discovering this lovely city and its beautiful buildings. Visit the charming Old Town, medieval Gamla Stan, the elegant royal palace, the wonderful parks and the impressive Vasa, the magnificently restored 17th century warship that sank in the harbor on her maiden voyage.