Kristiansand, Norway

Established in 1641 by King Christian IV, Kristiansand is a prominent transportation hub and one of the largest cities in southern Norway. History buffs can explore the Vest-Agder museums, a collection of 11 facilities that showcase everything from the town's cultural heritage to the world's second-largest land-based cannon, constructed for defensive purposes by the Germans in the 1940s. Admire the Renaissance-style paintings that adorn the walls of the Sogne Old Church, erected in 1640, and take in the stunning sea views at the Christiansholm Fortress. Family fun awaits at Dyreparken, which features both amusement and water parks, along with a zoo that's home to wildlife such as lynx, moose and wolves. Make time to tour the Kilden performance venue, an architectural masterpiece that hosts concerts, operas, symphonies and other events.

Language: Norwegian
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)