Once two of Europe's strongest nations, rich with the footprints of the Vikings and the Hanseatic League wonderfully contrasted modern Scandinavia - you'll love their cultured atmosphere.

Think of Sweden and Denmark and a host of unique images immediately spring to your mind. Quaint, historic capitals rich with the architectural legacies of the Hanseatic League; pristine streets, wide-open spaces; a love of nature and respect for the environment; home of the Vikings, modern monarchies; peace-loving and some of the most pleasant people you will ever meet. All this is true but there really is so much more. You may find it surprising that Denmark and Sweden were two of medieval Europe's most powerful nations. Today both are littered with countless legacies: rich palaces rivalling Europe's finest burst with art and antiques; sleepy thatched villages with exquisite churches abound plus atmospheric gabled towns with delightful cobbled streets and typically Baltic historical centres everywhere. There are significant Viking remains and a host of museums to visit, indeed Stockholm itself has over 100 including a fascinating one dedicated to the Nobel Prizes.

Both cities have played host to royalty since the Viking age and their palaces and wonderful parks, set against a stunning background of picturesque lakes, canals and natural harbours, create a majestic framework for today's vibrant modern capitals where queues are rare, graffiti is even rarer and litter is almost unknown. Colourful waterfronts hark back to the great Viking traditions of yesteryear with a host of cultural delights from the Dark Ages to the ultra-modern of today.