Norway & Iceland: Akureyri & Isafjordur to Tromsø

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.

Nestled along the shores of one of the most breathtaking fjords in Iceland, Akureyri is the nation's second largest urban area and a centre 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 specialities like smoked lamb and fresh fish and then indulge in an Icelandic fried pastry.

There are few places where you can truly feel at the edge of the world as you can in Ittoqqortoormiit. As one of the world's most remote settlements, this small, colorful village of approximately 400 residents is situated in East Greenland near Scoresby Sund. To say that the wild, untouched landscape surrounding the village is incredible would not do it justice. From dogsledding and hiking to kayaking, fishing and boat tours, there are many ways to discover the diverse wildlife, rugged cliffs and large icebergs dotting this unique corner of the world.

High up in the Arctic Circle, wrapped around the dramatic Isfjorden is the island of Spitsbergen. Here you'll stop in the world's northernmost city, Longyearbyen, which is also one of the world's best birdwatching destinations. This enchanting town is characterized by its rich natural splendor, abundant wildlife and fascinating history. From late April to August, you can enjoy daylight 24/7 with the Midnight Sun. Savor extra time admiring the spectrum of colors that pour over Svalbard's longest fjord at the Indre Wijdefjorden National Park. Visit the museums or the famous Global Seed Vault. See mountainsides decorated in tens of thousands of exotic birds and spectacular marine life in the surrounding waters. Experience the Northern Hemisphere's true beauty on this one-of-a-kind magical arctic desert adventure!

High up in the Arctic Circle, wrapped around the dramatic Isfjorden is the island of Spitsbergen. Here you'll stop in the world's northernmost city, Longyearbyen, which is also one of the world's best birdwatching destinations. This enchanting town is characterized by its rich natural splendor, abundant wildlife and fascinating history. From late April to August, you can enjoy daylight 24/7 with the Midnight Sun. Savor extra time admiring the spectrum of colors that pour over Svalbard's longest fjord at the Indre Wijdefjorden National Park. Visit the museums or the famous Global Seed Vault. See mountainsides decorated in tens of thousands of exotic birds and spectacular marine life in the surrounding waters. Experience the Northern Hemisphere's true beauty on this one-of-a-kind magical arctic desert adventure!

Honningsvåg is Norway's third largest harbour and the last port of call before heading eastward to the Arctic Ocean. This is one of the best towns in northern Norway to experience the beauty of continuous daylight. Rebuilt in the 50's after being destroyed during World War II, Honningsvåg has colourful, modern buildings dotting its landscape. Situated in the Island of Mageroya - with a population of 2,600 - Honningsvåg has a cosmopolitan flair and yet retains the charm of a small enclave. Fishing is the main industry of this Arctic Circle town and the port is always brimming with activity.

Situated at the head of Alta Fjord along Norway's northern coast, Alta is nestled among dramatic landscapes and boasts a rich culture and storied past. Enjoy a fishing or kayaking excursion to explore the region by water or embark on an exhilarating whale watching tour. Journey into mountainous terrain to explore fairytale-like landscapes, or truly feel a world away during an immersive Sami cultural experience. From savoring traditional Norwegian cuisine and visiting museums to venturing into the great outdoors, Alta offers memorable experiences for everyone to enjoy.

Considered the artistic hub of Northern Norway, Svolvær is also your base for exploring the fairytale landscape of the Lofoten archipelago. If there's an outdoor activity that you enjoy, chances are you can find it here. From fishing and rock climbing to hiking, horse back riding, surfing and more, the volcanic-rock islands are your outdoor playground to discover. Or explore Svolvær and surrounding towns for a glimpse into local culture and traditions and the region's dramatic Viking past.

Tromsø is the largest city above the Arctic Circle and is a jump-off point for Arctic explorations. Visit the museum for insights into Lapp culture, and see the city's strikingly modern Arctic Cathedral.