Amsterdam delivers a sensory overload – from its welcoming gezellig Dutch spirit to the clinking of bicycle chains and tulips of every colour. This is where 17th-century Golden Age estates meet gritty Red Light District alleys, all woven together by an elaborate system of canals. Stand amidst the bustle of Dam Square and pick fresh blooms at Bloemenmarkt. See where celebrated painter Rembrandt once worked and admire his masterpieces at Rijksmuseum. Nibble on Gouda amid the greenery of Vondelpark – or relax in one of the city’s quirky coffee shops. Here it’s easy to let go and give in to romantic adventures.

For a city of 18,000 residents, Akureyri packs a lively punch. Situated at the head of Eyjafjordur, Iceland‘s longest fjord, the first thing you‘ll notice is the backdrop of dramatic snow-covered mountains. Take a stroll through the Old Town and admire the 19th-century turf houses. Sample some authentic Icelandic cuisine, or warm up in the steaming Akureyri Thermal Pool. Around the corner, you‘ll find Akureyri‘s basalt church, Akureyrarkirkja, with its striking, futuristic facade. Iceland cruises give you access to stroll through Lystigardurinn, the northernmost botanical garden in the world, and breathe in the fresh air and the scent of wild arctic flowers.

Ísafjörður is a town in the Westfjords region of northwest Iceland. It‘s known for its dramatic landscapes. The old town has wooden houses with corrugated tin roofs built by fishing merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Westfjords Heritage Museum has exhibits on the town’s maritime history, including a collection of old fishing boats. The old hospital, now a cultural center, contains archives and photography

Reykjavik is the beating heart of Iceland. The city was founded in 1786, but it‘s also the site of Iceland‘s first permanent settlement, dating back to 874 AD. Check out the Settlement Exhibition, a combination archaeological ruin and museum based around a 10th-century longhouse, where interactive technology and archaeology reveal historical Iceland. The church Hallgrimskirkja dominates the skyline – admire its distinctive Expressionist-style architecture designed to mirror the nearby mountains and glaciers during your Iceland cruise. Need relaxation of the highest order? Take the sub-hour drive to the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by volcanic vistas.

With 3,229 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is a large town for Greenlandic standards. Stroll around the historical buildings in this colourful colonial town, formerly known as Julianeha. Cruise to Greenland to admire the open-air sculpture gallery Stone and Man, and check out the spouting whale fountain. Then, visit the quaint Qaqortoq Museum, housed in the town‘s oldest building. Kayak among the fjords around the city, or hike along the nearby mountain-rimmed Lake Tasersuaq. Later, soak your stress away in the delightful hot springs, bubbling at a perfect 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit on the island of Uunartoq.

Most travellers come to Greenland for the glaciers, ice fields and fjords, but to enjoy this large island‘s culture, be sure to stop in Nuuk. Like most other cities in Greenland, the capital is located along the ice-free, fjord-lined southwest coast, offering beautiful views of both the rolling landscape and the gorgeous icy waters beyond. Cruise to Greenland to stroll around the old harbour, with its wooden homes and fantastic views of the Nuuk fjord. Admire the street art, sculptures and avant-garde architecture like the Katuaq Cultural Centre with its wooden ‘screen‘ meant to symbolise the Northern Lights. Sample some traditional dishes, such as nipisa suaat – Greenland‘s intense, umami-rich signature caviar or browse for a warmer outfit at local boutiques like the family-owned Qiviut.

The sight of the world‘s largest fiddle welcomes you to Sydney, Nova Scotia. In this enclave on Cape Breton Island, metropolitan charm meets local hospitality. Originally founded by Loyalists spooked by the American Revolution, Sydney remains a haven – but today, it‘s one replete with golf courses, a hearty music scene and the world-famous Cabot Trail. Step back into the 18th century while you walk amongst the town‘s classically inspired buildings and dramatically steepled churches. Cruise to Nova Scotia and stroll along the boardwalk, indulge your inner lover of learning at the Cape Breton Centre for Heritage and Science, and end your day toe-tapping to Celtic beats.

Halifax was founded as a naval base in 1749 — but you‘d never know it from the vibe of this bustling urban capital today. Peer a little closer and you‘ll see the Citadel, the star-shaped fortress that still stands guard from its hilltop perch. Discover historic architecture, restaurants, museums and boutique shops on the restored waterfront. Hop a ferry to Dartmouth or visit Peggy‘s Cove. Jump onboard a Nova Scotia cruise and spend your day whale-watching, or sailing, and celebrate the day with some of the best beer and lobster the Maritimes have to offer.

Toting over 400 years of history, Boston is one of the oldest cities in America. Boston cruises allow you to see Revolution-era relics standing tall amid modern cityscapes, and homes where legendary patriots, politicians and poets once lived. Discover cobblestone charm in Beacon Hill and Paul Revere’s midnight route through the North End. Breathe in salty air along the Harborwalk and ride in a swan boat around Boston Public Garden. Whether it’s walking the Freedom Trail, kayaking on the Charles River, or living time-honored baseball traditions at Fenway Park, you’ll come to find Boston is the birthplace of New England adventure.