Malmö

Sweden's third-largest city is a fascinating blend of the past and present that's best represented by its unique amalgamation of historic and futuristic architecture. Scandinavia's tallest building, Turning Torso is the 190-meter-tall crowning achievement that represents the city's love for contemporary design, while the imposing red-brick towers of Malmöhus Castle offer a glimpse of its past legacy. Its top sights include Gamla Staden (Old Town) with its impressive main square and the Stortorget, which promises the charm of a bygone era. Meanwhile, numerous museums, theaters and music venues ranging from the classical to the modern add to the city's varied cultural offerings. Copenhagen is a hop-skip away across the Øresund strait, and can be traversed via the engineering marvel of the Øresund Bridge; Stockholm is also easily accessible, making this city the ideal traveling point for holidaying tourists.