Portugal's Pleasures - Lisbon & Porto for 6 Nights

About the destination: Sweden's capital, a picturesque blend of waterways, parks, and spire-dotted skylines, is rightfully celebrated as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Spanning across 14 islands and surrounded by thousands of smaller, rocky islets, it merges the dramatic landscapes and open skies of Scandinavia with the energy, dynamism, and urban chic of Western Europe. The city's essence is found in its diverse aspects: the stucco walls of the Old Town, the modern pulse of the galleries, the consumerist hum of the shopping districts, the tranquil serenity of the parks, the pulsating rhythm of the nightlife, and increasingly, the culinary allure of the restaurants. Stockholm's position on the Baltic Sea results in stark seasonal changes, and many locals will tell you that the only thing rivaling the beauty of a summer evening in Stockholm is the winter allure of its frozen lakes and snow-dusted skylines. Indeed, Stockholm's unique charm is a significant factor in its popularity among tourists, and in a continent brimming with captivating urban destinations, it speaks volumes that the city's cultural scene is dynamic enough to compete with any other in northern Europe. In addition to its exhibitions, museums, and concerts, it also offers a deeply romantic backdrop for a leisurely weekend getaway – the combination of preserved medieval architecture, expansive water views, and vibrant nightlife is irresistible. Most importantly, it's worth emphasizing that this city is truly unique. It's the most populated urban area in Scandinavia, yet two-thirds of it is still made up of water and green spaces. And if this seems unlikely, well, it provides the perfect reason to go and see for yourself.

About the destination: Helsinki is located on a small peninsula at the southernmost point of Finland. When you approach Helsinki from the sea, you'll be greeted by the sight of elegant neoclassical buildings in soft hues, and a bustling marketplace filled with strawberries and salmon. The city has been developed with a focus on harmony. During the summer, many locals leave the city's peacefulness for their country homes, but in winter, the capital comes alive with theater, political institutions, and over 20,000 university students. Architecture enthusiasts will adore Helsinki. The beautiful neoclassical buildings around Senate Square were almost entirely designed by German architect Carl Ludwig Engel in the early 19th century, shortly after Helsinki took over as Finland's capital from Turku. The jewel in the crown is the Lutheran Cathedral, which has recently been renovated and looks better than ever, with the 12 apostles on the roof once again gazing down at the world below. Elsewhere in the city, the bold, minimalist designs of the city's renowned 20th-century architects, notably Aalto and Saarinen, complement the sleek neoclassical lines. The breathtaking Jean Sibelius Monument, dedicated to Finland's most famous composer, is made up of hundreds of steel pipes sculpted by Elia Hiltunen. The monument is located in Sibelius Park. The Kansallimuseo, or National Museum, showcases wonderful exhibits of Finnish culture. The City Museum's exhibits depict the city's history. The islands around Helsinki are perfect for day trips. The sandy beaches and smooth rocks of Pihlajasaari make it a favorite summer spot for sunbathing Finns. Every summer, numerous parks in the city host many free outdoor concerts. In the afternoons, all sorts of music can be heard on the leafy Esplanadi. While Helsinki may be a small city compared to the world's mega-cities, it still has a cosmopolitan vibe. Helsinki is a beautiful city, particularly in the summer. The streets are clean, and there's always a quiet spot to be found if you need one. Some people refer to Helsinki as "the world's largest village," and it's an excellent destination for tourism, history, museums, galleries, theater, music, shopping, dining, nightlife, and more, all in an environmentally friendly, pollution-free, and traffic-free setting.