Europe: Iceland, Greenland & Canada

Admire the rugged coastline that surrounds Halifax, the world's second-largest natural harbor. This beautifully preserved city is Nova Scotia's capital and was founded in 1749. Take steps through history and climb to The Citadel to witness the Old Town Clock.

Step onto French soil without ever leaving North America with a visit to Saint Pierre and Miquelon. From baguettes, decadent pastries and wines to tricolor flags and boutique shops lining narrow roads, you can explore a slice of France on these charming islands. Outside town, lose yourself in the enchanting countryside, whether you’re exploring its rocky coastline on a birding tour or hiking into its rich interior. Each island offers different terrain and scenic vistas to discover and unique adventures for nature lovers.

Canada's oldest city is super friendly (and wait till you see the views)! Go sea kayaking, whale watching or wander down George Street (their version of Bourbon Street). Taste partridgeberry muffins (a Newfoundland treat) and see Cape Spear’s National Historic Site.

As the country’s capital and largest city (population less than 18,000), Nuuk sits at the mouth of an expansive fjord in southwest Greenland. Though the city was founded in 1728, the region’s first inhabitants arrived around 2200 BC. Learn about the area’s storied past at the Greenland National Museum, and then discover the modern boutiques, vibrant cafes and delicious local cuisine as you explore the city and its rainbow-colored wooden houses facing the sea. Or take to the water on a boat or sailing tour in Nuup Kangerlua – one of the world’s largest fjord systems – where you may encounter whales, seals, walruses and more.

Located on the southwestern shores of Greenland at the mouth of Kvanefjord, Paamiut is nestled between the mountains and the sea. The region has been inhabited since about 1500 B.C., and the town was founded in 1742 upon a thriving fishing industry. Although the fishing industry has since declined, today the small town acts as a base from which outdoor adventures abound. From wildlife tours where you might encounter whales and kayaking to birding and hiking in the Blue Mountains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

As the largest town in South Greenland, Qaqortoq offers something for everyone – history, culture, outdoor adventures and relaxing hot springs. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times; you can tour the Qaqortoq Museum for a glimpse into its rich history. Stroll among its colorful buildings tucked into the hills to see 40 sculptures that are part of a permanent art exhibit and visit nearby Norse ruins. Or head into the surrounding countryside for numerous hikes boasting spectacular vistas.

Nestled along the shores of one of the most breathtaking fjords in Iceland, Akureyri is the nation’s second largest urban area and a center of Icelandic folk culture. Visit the museums, hike along the extraordinary vistas or explore the botanical gardens. Shop in one of the charming boutiques and then catch a glimpse of the most northerly 18-hole golf course in the world. After you’ve worked up an appetite, feast on some Nordic specialties like smoked lamb and fresh fish and then indulge in an Icelandic fried pastry.

As the largest town in Iceland’s remote Westfjords’s region, Ísafjörður is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Boasting an enchanting fjord ideal for watersports and a mountainous landscape brimming with opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Originally a church site and a 16th century trading post, the town of Ísafjörður is home to wonderful museums and historic sites for those wishing to learn about the region’s rich heritage and local culture.

There's a good reason that Iceland is considered a photographer's dream destination. Its terrain is visually stunning, offering views of lava flows, hot springs, unspoiled nature – and colorful, fascinating cities like Reykjavik. The world's most northerly capital brings together quaint villages, exciting museums, a flourishing music scene and restaurants that rival Europe's finest. Explore more of Reykjavik on a European cruise!