Times of the standards and axes are over, and the Vikings don’t bother restless Europe any more. Modern Danes found other occupations, like banking, sea trade and brewing. But those are not only grown-ups who need their toys.

One of my favorite places I visited as a child was Copenhagen, Denmark. When I returned there as an adult, I was captivated all the more. Charming and eclectic, this Scandinavian city exudes a unique mix of urban excitement with old-fashioned civility. With a hint of magic in the air from its historic folklore, travelers will enjoy its succulent cuisine, vibrant arts scene, many museums, and impressive architecture.

Say “Greenland” and a traveler immediately thinks of a giant slab of ice. With attractions such as Disko Bay, Motzfeldt So Lake, and the hikes around Qaqortoq, Greenland is great for travelers looking for something off the beaten path.