On the River Rhine and overlooked by the towers of its stunning 157m-high Gothic cathedral, Cologne (Köln) is one of Germany's largest cities. The city's unique identity is a mix of the narrow alleys of its old town, the Kölsch dialect (and Kölsch beer), and contemporary architecture down by the ultramodern Rheinauhafen riverfront complex.

Practicality meets style in Sweden's capital, from its architecture to its culture and its famously well-dressed locals. Spread across 14 islands on Lake Mälaren, the city of Stockholm is also the gateway to a pristine archipelago of 30,000 forested islands and islets.

On Sweden's northeastern coast, Sundsvall is the only major town in the Medelpad province. A history of manufacturing can still be felt today (the town is said to be responsible for Sweden's industrialisation), and, having been burned down several times, was rebuilt in stone in 1888 giving Sundsvall the nickname of 'the stone city'. Despite its urban centre, the surrounding natural landscapes offer a haven of outdoor adventure, including the famous St. Olavsleden walking trail that extends across the border to Norway.

Storlien is a border village and ski resort nestled in the hills of the Swedish Jämtland county. Aside from Easter where it's a frequented holidaying spot for the Swedish Royal family, Storlien's small station, mist-shrouded mountains and general quietness only add to the liminal and forlorn feel of this border village. There might not be much to do off-season, but Storlien makes a natural pause for those journeying the road less travelled between Sweden and Norway.

Norway's third-largest city is an industrial-chic port town made for cycling (don't miss the world's first bicycle lift that climbs Brubakken Hill) and walks along the riverside. With a slew of Michelin-starred restaurants, Trondheim has been voted by Condé Nast as one of the top food destinations and dubbed the 'home of Nordic flavours'

Capital of contemporary art, rising star of gastronomy and home to a dance-until-dawn nightlife: Oslo is a city where a waterfront stroll in the nordic sun feels just as luxurious as sipping an Aquavit at a rooftop bar. Thanks to a handful of sprawling parks, you won't need to go far for a dose of natural beauty, but the Oslofjord's islands make a wonderful day's excursion.

With three rivers that feed a maze of waterways and canals, Hamburg has been dubbed the "Venice of the north" (with six times as many bridges). The city has its roots in Maritime history, but also in music-making. It was the birthplace of Mendelssohn, the formative city of the Beatles, and recently, the state-of-the-art Elbphilharmonie concert hall has put Hamburg firmly on the map as one of the top cities for live music, as has its hip-hop and jazz club scene.

The capital and most populous city of The Netherlands, Amsterdam is known for its art, colourful architecture and myriad canals. It's also packed with fascinating museums and independent shops, and has thriving food and nightlife scenes.