Karlskrona, Sweden

Military-maritime heritage, friendly ambience and easy access to outdoor adventures are all part of the urban fabric in Karlskrona. In 1680, King Karl XI chose Sweden’s most southern archipelago for a new base for his Royal Navy. The 17^th-century grid design on the island of Trossö remains the Baroque heart of the city, which today covers 33 islands. On Trossö's highest point, the elegant and expansive town square is a civic and cultural hub, with such landmarks as the Town Hall, an old water tower-turned-exhibition space, and Fredrik's Church. Many sights are walking distance from the town center, including the exceptionally preserved original Naval Port, the acclaimed modern Naval Museum, and the charming Björkholmen district, once home to many dockworkers and shipbuilders. The former fish market is now the departure point for exploring the surrounding islands, islets and skerries of the archipelago.