To make things even more interesting, I decided to take the ferry across the Baltic Sea --- leaving from Turku (SW Finland) and returning via Helsinki. I was looking forward to the cruise as much as the city itself.

After an overnight cruise, we arrived in Stockholm shortly after sunrise, greeted by the panaoramic view of a beautiful and busy harbour.

I found myself in continual awe of Stockholm's architecture. One of the most striking buildings in the city centre (Ostermalm) is the Drama Theatre.

This museum, on the island of Djurgarden, is one of the most magnificent structures in the city. Originally a church, it is massive -- but smaller than the original plans had called for, because the King at the time refused to let any building be larger than the Royal Palace!!

Another museum of Djurgarden, this one is an example of the more modern (but still fantastic) buildings in the city. It was built to house and display the Vasa ship, which sank off Stockholm and was raised and restored after more than 300 years at the bottom of the sea!!

It is an often overlooked fact that Stockholm is built on a series of rivers, small harbours and islands. In fact, it has as much water as Venice or Amsterdam!! Here, one can see the central role that the river plays in daily life.

I almost wore out my camera on this trip ... every turn resulted in picture-perfect scenery. A must-see city.

Stockholm is also beautiful by night. Here, the fountain and pillar of Sergels Torg overlooks the hopping nightlife of the city centre.

The oldest and most historic part of Stockholm is Gamla Stan (Old City). Located on a small island in the centre of the main city, it is a spectacle in and of itself.

Gamla Stan is a network of old, cobblestone streets which have been bustling with people for centuries. It was humbling to realize that these alleys have seen people living, working and celebrating life for so many years.

But for me, the most inspiring parts of Gamla Stan were the old buildings ... especially Riddarholmskyran, a commanding gothic-style church that stands out above the web of islands and small harbours that is Stockholm.

Also in the old city is the Parliament House - the centre of Swedish government. To the left, Stockholm Cathedral stands guard over the nation capital, just as it has done for almost 800 years!!!

I was awe-struck, standing in the magnificently crafted inside of Stockholm Cathedral -- just imagine the history that this building has witnessed. If only the walls could talk ...

Stockholm is full of little treasures, many of which are the beautiful sculptures and statues dotted throughout the city. This one, depicting the famous story of St. George battling the dragon, is a reproduction of the original copper masterpiece which stands inside the Cathedral.