The picturesque birthplace of Icelandic democracy is drenched in the blood of its brutal past.

A sulfuric martian landscape that looks far better than it smells.

If a glacial river suddenly diving into a sheer chasm via a dramatic, multi-stage waterfall isn't peak Iceland, it's certainly close.

This valley of hot springs and boiling mud pots is home to the record-holding "Geysir," which originated the English word.

This elegant arc of a waterfall marks a religious turning point.

An encyclopedic collection of mammal penises.

Strange rock formations tower above the river that snakes through this enchanting Icelandic canyon.

This eye-popping Icelandic crater lake is surrounded by red volcanic rock.

Iceland's largest lagoon is home to stunning multi-colored icebergs.

One of the tallest buildings in Iceland, and perhaps, the most visually impressive.

The unique waterfall in Iceland's south features a backdrop of geometric black lava columns.

Medicinal spa created with the discharge from a geothermal energy plant.

A blend of art, antiquities, and Americana fill this museum, surrounded by whimsical, enchanting gardens.

The tiny statues form China's only known terracotta army from the Han dynasty.

The once highest point in China blends symbolic design with a kick of adrenaline.

Hidden behind musical flora and forgotten for over a thousand years, this cave is now a neon dream.

This urban oasis is a marvelous meld of music and landscape architecture.

One of the largest underground systems runs under Canada's largest urban center.

This unusual structure may be on its way to becoming a cultural landmark in Toronto.

A collection of more than 12,000 shoes, displayed in a building shaped like a shoebox.

One of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World holds the world's tallest metal staircase.

The Victorian-era greenhouse is stuffed with tropical plants, and open 365 days a year.

A 98-room castle in the middle of Toronto that bankrupted a 19th century electricity multimillionaire.

One of Canada's most incredible rare book collections holds hundreds of thousands of gorgeous tomes that the general public can touch.