Following the routes of Groningen’s canals will lead you to some of the city’s most interesting and picturesque spots, and give you some insights into its maritime past. Hoge der A, along the west edge of the Binnenstad district, is easily accessible and lined with historic buildings.

You can’t miss the vibrant buildings of the Groninger Museum, on the southern edge of the Binnenstad district. The museum’s exhibitions are as eclectic as its architecture, but mostly focus on modern and contemporary art.

A vast and lovely green space in the heart of the city where you can stop by at the Vigeland Sculpture Park.

Visit the museum of the Nobel Peace Prize, a moving testament to those who have contributed profoundly to creating a more just and peaceful world. 

With amazing views over Oslo fjord, this fortress was built in the 13th century to protect Norway from invaders and has stood firm against a number of sieges over the years. 

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is a museum dedicated to Carl Jacobsen’s vast collection of art and cultural artefacts. Visit the museum to see one of the world’s largest collections of Mediterranean antiquities and 19th-century art.

Copenhagen is one of the most cycle-friendly places in the world, and most locals navigate the city on two wheels. Hire a bike and explore the capital's lakes and parks, and even the beaches to the north in Hellerup and Charlottenlund.

The former meatpacking district of Kødbyen, with its striking white buildngs and blue-framed windows, is now protected as a national industrial monument. It's also a hipster haven with cool bars, restaurants and urban culture and is a great place to chill out in the evening.

Spend an evening in bustling Brüsseler Platz, where you'll be able to sample many a local beer in the bars on the square.

Wander around Cologne's impressive botanical gardens, the Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln, and discover some of the 10,000 or more species of plant that call it home.

Circle the outside of Kölner Dom, Cologne's famous cathedral, to admire its intricate stonework and flying buttresses. The cathedral's iconic spires dominate the city's magnificent skyline, and if you're feeling brave you can climb 533 steps to the top of the south tower.