Leith  is an area to the north of the city of Edinburgh, Scotland, at the mouth of the Water of Leith.

The earliest surviving historical references are in the royal charter authorising the construction of Holyrood Abbey in 1128. The medieval settlements of Leith had grown into a burgh by 1833, and the burgh was merged into Edinburgh in 1920.

Historically part of the county of Midlothian, Leith is sited on the coast of the Firth of Forth and lies within the council area of the City of Edinburgh.

The port remains one of its most valuable enterprises, handling over 1.5 million tonnes of cargo in 2003.

Previous to the bridge being built in the late 15th century, Leith had settlements on either side of the river, lacking an easy crossing.

South Leith was larger and was controlled by the lairds of Restalrig: the Logan family. It was based on trade and had many merchants' houses and warehouses. This was where ships offloaded their cargoes at The Shore where they were collected by Edinburgh merchants. Leithers were explicitly forbidden by statute to participate directly in the trade at the port, to ensure that landed goods were not sold elsewhere.

North Leith was smaller but proportionately richer, coming under the jurisdiction of Holyrood Abbey. It was effectively a fishing village consisting of one street, now Sandport Street and Quayside Lane. Burgage plots ran down to the river from each house.[6] This has traditionally been the shipbuilding side of Leith with several wet and dry docks built over time. The first dry dock in Scotland was built here in 1720. A small peninsula of land on the east bank also came under the same jurisdiction on what is now Sheriff Brae/Sheriff Bank.

The first bridge to link both banks of the river was built in 1493 by Abbot Bellenden, who controlled the church at North Leith. The bridge was a toll bridge, the revenue supplementing the church's income. Reputedly Leith's oldest building, it was demolished in 1780 to allow ships to sail further upstream.

The soft morning mist and mirror-like waters greet travelers in Olden, revealing views of glaciers and emerald valleys seemingly painted by nature for unhurried walks. This small Norwegian village by the Nordfjord offers a rare sense of seclusion, where the sounds of waterfalls and seagulls become your only company while you breathe in the crystal-clear air.

Olden is known for its proximity to the Briksdal Glacier, where hiking trails begin with breathtaking panoramas of blue ice masses and mountain peaks. Along the way, you will pass small farms with red houses, and in local cafes, you can taste freshly baked cinnamon buns while enjoying views of the fjord and the slow rhythm of life in this corner of Norway.

Nestled between majestic fjords and the open sea, Ålesund captivates visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty and distinctive architecture. Known for its stunning Art Nouveau style, rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904, the town offers a charming atmosphere where colorful buildings line the waterfront, creating a picturesque setting unlike any other in Norway.

Adventurers and culture lovers alike find plenty to enjoy in Ålesund. From hiking up the viewpoint at Aksla Hill for panoramic views of the archipelago to exploring local museums and fresh seafood markets, this coastal town invites travelers to immerse themselves in Norway’s maritime heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Whether cruising the nearby fjords or wandering the narrow streets, every moment in Ålesund promises memorable discoveries.

Nestled within the dramatic archipelago of the Lofoten Islands, Svolvaer (Svolvær) offers a captivating blend of rugged natural beauty and lively cultural experiences. Visitors here can admire towering peaks that rise sharply from the sea, enjoy vibrant fishing traditions, and explore a charming town filled with colorful wooden houses lining the harbor.

The town of Svolvaer (Svolvær) is also famous for its rich artistic scene, including galleries showcasing local painters and craftsmen. Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on thrilling activities like sea kayaking, hiking, or even joining a Northern Lights safari during winter months, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and authentic Arctic charm.

Honningsvåg is the northernmost city in Norway. It is located in Nordkapp Municipality in Finnmark county. Legislation effective in 1997 states that a Norwegian city/town (same word in Norwegian) must have at least 5,000 inhabitants, but Honningsvåg was declared a city in 1996, thus exempt from this legislation, so it is also one of the smallest cities in Norway. The 1.05-square-kilometre (260-acre) town has a population (2017) of 2,484 which gives the town a population density of 2,366 inhabitants per square kilometre (6,130/sq mi).

Honningsvåg is situated at a bay on the southeastern side of the large island of Magerøya, while the famous North Cape and its visitor center is on the northern side of the island. Honningsvåg is a port of call for cruise ships, especially in the summer months. The ice-free ocean (southwestern part of the Barents Sea) provides rich fisheries and tourism is also important to the town. Even at 71°N, many private gardens in Honningsvåg have trees, although rarely more than 3 to 4 metres (9.8 to 13.1 ft) tall.

Honningsvåg is the northernmost city in Norway. It is located in Nordkapp Municipality in Finnmark county. Legislation effective in 1997 states that a Norwegian city/town (same word in Norwegian) must have at least 5,000 inhabitants, but Honningsvåg was declared a city in 1996, thus exempt from this legislation, so it is also one of the smallest cities in Norway. The 1.05-square-kilometre (260-acre) town has a population (2017) of 2,484 which gives the town a population density of 2,366 inhabitants per square kilometre (6,130/sq mi).

Honningsvåg is situated at a bay on the southeastern side of the large island of Magerøya, while the famous North Cape and its visitor center is on the northern side of the island. Honningsvåg is a port of call for cruise ships, especially in the summer months. The ice-free ocean (southwestern part of the Barents Sea) provides rich fisheries and tourism is also important to the town. Even at 71°N, many private gardens in Honningsvåg have trees, although rarely more than 3 to 4 metres (9.8 to 13.1 ft) tall.

Immersed in the atmosphere of the majestic North, Alta in Norway offers a unique combination of wilderness, cultural heritage, and Arctic serenity. This town in the Finnmark region is famous for its ancient rock carvings, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for being one of the best places in the country to witness the dazzling Northern Lights. Alta is also a gateway to Arctic plateau expeditions and unforgettable tours through icy caves and snowy forests.

Alta is not only a land of natural wonders but also a center of modern Arctic life, where Sámi traditions blend harmoniously with Norwegian innovation. Visitors can experience the famous Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, taste Arctic fish stew, or ride a dog sled. In every season, the town welcomes travelers to rediscover the North—with warmth, hospitality, and unforgettable polar adventures.

Between fjords and green hills, Harstad in northern Norway delights visitors with a cozy city atmosphere and impressive Arctic landscapes. The city is known as the “music capital of Northern Norway” thanks to the annual Northern Norway Festival, which fills the streets with music and creative energy. Here you can stroll along the picturesque waterfront, watch fishing boats in the harbor, and enjoy views of the fjords where sea eagles are often seen.

Visitors to Harstad can discover the northern coast by going kayaking or taking a sea cruise to feel a true closeness to nature. Nearby is the historic Trøndelag center and the ruins of the oldest church in Northern Norway – Trondenes, where you can touch the history of the Vikings. This place offers peace, inspiration, and the true beauty of Norway’s Arctic north.

Situated on the picturesque coast of Northern Norway, this city attracts travelers with its unique nature and vibrant cultural life. Bodø is an important port and gateway to the Arctic, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of fjords and mountains, as well as witness one of the most impressive natural phenomena — the Northern Lights.

In Bodø, everyone will find something to their taste: from outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating to exploring local history in museums and contemporary art spaces. The city is also famous for its proximity to the Saltfjellet Nature Reserve and Rondane National Park, making it an excellent starting point for exploring northern landscapes.

The southernmost coast of Norway invites you to discover the amazing city of Kristiansand. This charming town is surrounded by the sea on three sides. It is the fifth-largest city in the country, and although its center fits within a small area of just 1 km², Kristiansand has much to offer its visitors. It’s not only about the incredibly clean Norwegian air but also many other interesting attractions.

Among them is Norway’s largest zoo, home to 80 species of animals. A visit here will delight both children and adults. You can enjoy rides on carousels, laugh wholeheartedly at the circus, and take the whole family on a sea excursion or spend time together at a playground.

Nestled along the southern coast of Norway, Arendal charms with its cozy maritime atmosphere and historic Scandinavian appeal. This picturesque port town, famous for its colorful wooden houses and narrow streets, is perfect for leisurely strolls and discovering the Norwegian way of life. The Trefoldigheten district, one of the oldest residential areas, features houses dating back to the 18th century.

Arendal also draws visitors with its maritime festivals, museums, and opportunities to explore the nearby archipelago by boat. During summer, the city comes alive with yachts, outdoor cafes, and open-air exhibitions, creating a warm and welcoming vibe. It is a place where nature, history, and modern life blend harmoniously, offering tourists a genuine cultural experience.
 

the capital and chief port of Denmark, a city that occupies the eastern part of Zealand and northern part of the island of Amager; population 518,574 (2009).