Helsinki, Finland

Finland's capital city charms with its architecture, design district and abundant dining and entertainment options. In the 19th century, German-born architect Carl Ludwig Engel designed several neoclassical structures such as the state council building and Helsinki Cathedral, completed in 1852. Other must-sees include the Helsinki Olympic Stadium, created for the 1952 games, and a stunning granite railway station built by Eliel Saarinen. The city hosts a smattering of art museums as well as theaters, symphony orchestras and an opera and ballet company. Active visitors can kayak to nearby islands, cruise the canals or stroll along beaches and through expansive gardens and parks. In the Toolo neighborhood, the Sibelius Monument honors the famed Finnish composer Jean Sibelius and Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church) stands out for being carved out of solid stone. Nearby Nuuksio Reindeer Park is the country's southernmost place to see the creatures. Other shore excursions traverse the countryside on bike; tour the historic merchant town Porvoo; or scout the seaside fortress Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawled across six islands.

Language: Finnish
Currency: Euro (EUR)