Scandinavia - full of Nordic promise

Wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen is the capital of the oldest kingdom in the world. Top of the list of attractions is of course the Little Mermaid. Made of bronze and waiting on her rock, she attracts almost one million tourists every year. For no end of fun, the Tivoli Gardens, right in the centre of town, has it all - whether you want pure entertainment, an artistic event or a gourmet meal. Or for a look at the history of Copenhagen, the city has four royal palaces, including Amalienborg, the residence of Queen Margrethe II, and Christiansborg. This is the most important building in Denmark today, being the centre of Danish democracy as the seat of the Folketinget (the Danish Parliament), the Supreme Court, the Prime Minister's office and the Royal Reception Rooms.

Finland's capital is something of an undiscovered gem, with its own unique character. The Senate Square and its surroundings form a cohesive example of neo-classical architecture, dominated by the magnificent Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland. Built on islands just off the coast of Helsinki, Viapori-Sveaborg fortress, founded in 1748, is one of the biggest sea fortresses in the world. For a family day out, Linnanmäki amusement park has an enormous selection of fun rides, from the mega-scary to the easy-peasy. Built into the natural bedrock, Temppeliaukio church is one of Helsinki's most fascinating tourist attractions and is a popular venue for concerts. Uspenski cathedral is the largest orthodox church in Western Europe and is clear evidence of the Russian impact on Finnish history.

Norway’s capital city is a little out of the ordinary, being situated at the head of a fjord and surrounded by forested ridges, with city limits that encompass wilderness areas as well as an array of restaurants almost unparalleled in Scandinavia. Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s main pedestrian street, is lined with shops, and is the location of the Royal Palace - the grounds of which are perfect for a picnic. The Domskirke cathedral, which dates from 1697, features some stunning and elaborate stained glass. The Changing of the Guards takes place at the Akershus Fortress at 13.30 daily. One of Norway’s most famous sons, Thor Heyerdahl, and his balsa-wood raft, is remembered at the Kon-Tiki museum. The fascinating Norsk Folksmuseum, the largest open-air museum in Norway, features over 140 restored buildings ranging from rustic barns to timber farmhouses

Gothenburg is probably the most popular town among Swedes. The older buildings have their origins in the Viking era, the oldest of which is in Gamlestan (or Nya Lödöse). The beautiful Gunnebo castle, just south of the city, was built during the 18th century, and includes the famous Orangerie. In the city, the Botanical Gardens are reckoned to be among the finest in Europe, and include the Rhododendron Valley, Japanese Glade and the Greenhouses with about 1,500 orchids and its rare Eastern Island Tree. The nearby Universeum is a hugely impressive science museum and scientific centre for the whole family. Elfsborg fortress, built in 1667, includes a museum, and Skansen Kronan, to the south of the city, is somewhat younger. The gorgeous archipelago, just outside the city, is quiet throughout the summer, with hundreds of beaches to choose from.

Stockholm is one of the world’s most beautiful capitals, built on 14 islands around one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved mediaeval city centers. The city is superbly located and offers a wealth of museums, theatres, attractions and events, whether your interest lies in history, art, opera, modern dance, traditional handicraft, contemporary design or virtually anything else. The Drottingholm Palace and Theatre, located on the outskirts of the city in a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the private residence of the Swedish royal family. By contrast, their official residence is the Stockholm Royal Palace. For a day out, a trip to Haga Park is ideal for walking, shopping or visiting museums. The Vasa Museum, with a beautifully preserved ship from 1628, and the Skansen Open Air Museum, which is also a zoo, are also must-sees.