Bergen, Norway

Oslo is capital, but Bergen is the quintessential Norwegian city. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bryggen (“the docks”) is filled with carefully preserved wooden buildings. Restored as shops, cafés, and museums, the attractive district looks as though it was lifted from another century. Stroll across Fisketorget, the open-air fish market and allow your senses to take it all in (and be sure to sample some fresh shrimp or smoked peppered mackerel). Ride the funicular to the top of Mount Fløien and admire the sweeping view before heading off to visit composer Edvard Grieg’s birth home.