best way to visit scandinavian countries

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Your Perfect Scandinavia Itinerary (1 week, 2 weeks, or 3 weeks)

As far as European travel destinations go, Scandinavia is easily one of the most captivating. This enchanting region is your gateway to out-of-this-world natural beauty, the northern lights , and an enviable lifestyle that’s considered to be one of the happiest and healthiest on the planet.

I could wax poetic about Scandinavia all day long, but don’t worry — I won’t waffle on. If you’re reading this post, I’m guessing you’ve already decided you want to explore this breathtakingly beautiful corner of Northern Europe and you’re looking for some itinerary inspiration. Mapping out a Scandinavia itinerary can be as frustrating as it is fun, so let’s dive right in! 

If you’re not sure what to do with your time in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, here are a few itinerary ideas that’ll give you a taste of the region’s greatest hits.

Travel to: Scandinavia

One-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Stockholm -> Oslo

Thinking of visiting Scandinavia and only have one week to spare? Not to worry! You can still get a feel for the region by visiting its effortlessly cool capital cities over the course of seven days. 

The perfect introduction to Denmark , Sweden , and Norway , this route is great if you’re after a mix of stellar historical attractions, bohemian charm, and a dose of hygge for good measure. Get ready to explore everything from opulent palaces to top-notch museums and world-renowned cuisine in these stylish capitals. 

Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo are connected by frequent and reliable high-speed trains, so travelling between the cities is a breeze.

Two-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Stockholm -> Oslo -> Bergen -> Flåm -> Sognefjord

With two weeks to spend in Scandinavia, you can travel through the contemporary capital cities and explore one of the most spectacular regions in this part of the world: the western coast of Norway .

Immerse yourself in Copenhagen’s superb cafe and culinary scene. Stroll through the cobbled, medieval streets of Stockholm’s Old Town. Learn about Viking history in Oslo. Take in the spectacular vistas on a train ride from Oslo to Bergen. And get ready to be blown away by the spellbinding scenery in Sognefjord. 

See Also: 11 Best Things to do in Stockholm While Travelling Solo

Three-week Scandinavia itinerary

• Route: Copenhagen -> Gothenburg -> Stockholm -> Oslo -> Trondheim -> Bodø -> Lofoten Islands -> Tromsø

Planning to spend three weeks travelling around Scandinavia? Lucky you! This itinerary will take you through the region’s capital cities before heading to Northern Norway for a glimpse of the country’s wild, unspoiled wilderness and (hopefully!) the northern lights.

You could follow this itinerary any time of the year, but Northern Norway is especially magical during the winter months — and, of course, it’s also the best time to see the northern lights . 

Speaking of the northern lights, Tromsø — a small city located 350km north of the Arctic Circle — is renowned for being one of the best places in Europe to witness the remarkable phenomenon that is the aurora borealis. If you have your heart set on seeing those otherworldly celestial lights dancing in the night sky, plan to spend at least a few days here to increase your chances of spotting them.

Want more itinerary ideas? Explore our range of Scandinavia tours and trips to find your perfect adventure now.

Can’t-miss sights and experiences in Scandinavia

Now that you’ve got your itinerary sorted, it’s time to start planning the most exciting part of your Scandinavia sojourn: everything you’re going to see and do in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.

Fuel your wanderlust and get even more amped up about your trip with these can’t-miss attractions and experiences.

• Sail Norway’s fjords. It’s no secret that Norway has some of the most astonishingly beautiful fjords on the planet. There are more than 1,000 fjords dotted around the country’s coastline, but Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord are two of the most famous.
• Visit Copenhagen’s famous landmarks. The colourful facades at Nyhavn, the famous Little Mermaid statue, and Tivoli Gardens are a few musts when you’re sightseeing in Denmark’s laid-back capital.
• Go island-hopping around the Stockholm Archipelago. Made up of roughly 30,000 islands, this is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and go hiking, sea kayaking, or cycling alongside fields of wildflowers and sweeping views of the Baltic Sea.
• Try an open-faced sandwich. Smörgås in Swedish, smørrebrød in Danish, smørbrød in Norwegian — the pronunciation of this traditional Scandinavian sandwich may change depending on which country you’re in, but one thing they all have in common? They’re delicious (and you have to try one while you’re in this part of the world).

• See the stunning landscapes of the Lofoten Islands. You’ve probably seen photos of the Lofoten Islands’ craggy mountains and idyllic fishing villages on Instagram, but nothing compares to seeing the rugged beauty of this remote archipelago in person.
• Explore Denmark’s fairy tale castles. Frederiksborg Castle (which can be visited on an easy day trip from Copenhagen) is a highlight for any castle fanatic, but there are plenty of grand palaces scattered throughout the country.
• Celebrate Midsummer in Sweden. Thinking of heading to Scandinavia in June? Try to plan your visit to coincide with Swedish Midsummer, an annual festival that celebrates the start of summer with traditional food, music, and a whole lot of pickled herring and schnapps.
• See the northern lights . Head to Tromsø — Norway’s gateway to the Arctic — for the chance to cross this once-in-a-lifetime experience off your bucket list.

Getting around Scandinavia 

Thanks to an extensive network of train, ferry, and bus services, travelling between Scandinavian countries is both easy and convenient.

Express trains are available between popular destinations (like Copenhagen and Stockholm, for example) and overnight trains are ideal for longer journeys. However, like almost everything else in Scandinavia, train tickets are expensive. Booking ahead and buying an Interrail or Eurail pass will help to keep costs down.

Buses are surprisingly comfortable in Scandinavia, and they offer a viable alternative to the region’s rail network. It’s also worth noting buses are the best transport method of choice when travelling to remote destinations or around the northern reaches of Sweden and Norway.

If you’re short on time — and if you’re planning to travel to the far north — hopping on a flight with a local carrier is your best bet.

Ferries are also an essential part of the Scandinavia travel experience, so don’t forget to pack your motion sickness remedies.

Keep in mind that it may be more difficult to get around the northern part of Sweden and Norway during the winter — especially if you’re planning to rent a car or travel by bus. It’s entirely possible to run into service disruptions or road closures due to inclement weather, so extra planning and preparation is necessary for a Scandinavian holiday in winter. 

What does your dream Scandinavian itinerary look like? Let us know in the comments!

Ashley Nitransky

Ashley is a Content Editor at TourRadar. When she’s not writing, travelling, or obsessively checking flight prices on Skyscanner, you can find her attempting to fine-tune her photography skills or watching a shark documentary.

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• 39+ Reykjavik Excursions Day Tours Away from the City
• 21+ Biking, Walking, and Canal Tours in Copenhagen Denmark
• 29+ Walking, Biking, and Boat Tours in Stockholm Sweden
• 29+ Sightseeing Tours in Oslo Norway
• 29 Northern Lights Tours in Iceland, Norway, Finland, and Sweden
• MULTI-DAY TOURS
• GUIDE: Scandinavian Hotels
• Best Hotels in Oslo
• Best Hotels in Stockholm
• Best Time to Visit
• How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia
• Copenhagen to Oslo
• Norway in a Nutshell Oslo to Bergen – the Journey
• Guide: Northern Lights in Norway
• Summer Packing List for Scandinavia
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How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia – 10 Tips for the Perfect Vacation

As a former travel consultant and Scandinavian product design specialist, I’ve created and booked MANY trips throughout the Nordic countries. Before diving into booking local tours and hotels, there are a few questions that you want to ask yourself. In this, “ how to plan a trip to Scandinavia ” guide, I will walk you through the process. I will also help you get a clear picture of what kind of trip you are looking for, making the planning process fun and easy.

Let’s plan a trip to Scandinavia!

10 Tips Planning Your Scandinavian Vacation

1. should you do the scandinavian trip planning yourself or hire a professional.

I have been on both sides of the fence. If you want to save time and have somebody else take care of the arrangements for you, your best bet is to hire a professional to put together the tour for you.

If you need a professional to help plan your Scandinavian vacation, please feel free to leave a comment below, and I will be happy to make suggestions. (There is a tour operator article in the making, so will post that when done).

But, if you enjoy researching your destinations, and want to make sure that you get what you are looking for,  making your own arrangements is the way to go. Making your own arrangements is also, a way to stay 100% in control of your trip. Another benefit is the enjoyment of how your trip evolves, to find new places to visit, and new things to discover.

Putting together the arrangements with accommodation, local tours, transportation, and other events does not have to be hard. Many online resources can be of great assistance, many of them which we share on this site. Being in charge of your own arrangements will give you flexibility, 100% control, and most likely save you money as well.

2. Group Travel vs. Exploring Scandinavia on Your Own

When you travel, do you want to explore on your own or be part of a group? With escorted group tours, you have set departure dates to choose from, with most arrangements booked for you. You have a daily program to follow, with a tour guide and driver taking care of you.

Depending on the tour you join, the group size usually varies from small groups of 12 people up to a full coach of 50+ passengers. If you enjoy traveling with others and having a set schedule for 10 to 14 days, this could be a good option for you. You will not miss the highlights, but you might miss out on some of the unique, more personal experiences. If escorted tours are for you, view Scandinavian group tours here  (coming soon).

If you enjoy exploring on your own , and like the flexibility to your itinerary, a customized trip, with your wants and needs in mind, will work best for you. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have local tours booked, in fact you should. But, instead of a full pre-booked 10-day program, you might book a castle tour in Copenhagen, a 3-hour walking tour in Stockholm, and a half-day fjord hiking tour in Geiringer Norway. The rest of the time, you might want to leave open to explore on your own.

It is still a good idea to plan out a daily itinerary for your trip, it will be flexible, and your interests will get priority. Last minute changes, depending on the day, might make for some unexpected highlights. The thing is you never know when you run into an intriguing street performer or strike up an interesting conversation with a local. Don’t rush, enjoy the moment.

3. Your Travel Budget

Do you have a set budget for your trip? Maybe this is a once in a lifetime experience where the memories are more important than the cost of things? Either way, it is a good idea to decide how much you are willing to spend on your Scandinavian adventure.

When budgeting for your trip, include the following;

• International airfare
• Transportation – local and between the Scandinavian destinations
• Accommodation
• City passes
• Local tours
• Planned events

You might also want to include a daily budget for meals, souvenirs, and other spending.

4. Destinations to Include in Your Scandinavian Trip 

When planning your trip to Scandinavia, there is a lot to see. The duration of your tour, along with your personal interests, decides what destinations to include. To give you some ideas, I provide some destination suggestions depending on different interests.

Natural Scenic Beauty

• Fjord Norway with the Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord – deep fjords and stunning mountains,
• Mons Klint on the east coast of Denmark – chalk white cliffs along the coast,
• Österlen Skåne Sweden – open landscapes and a light that artists crave,
• Stockholm Archipelago – get lost among the islands,
• Lapland northern Scandinavia – snow, silence, and undiscovered winter beauty.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife. In the summer, enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and boating. In the winter, snowmobiling, husky ride, and snowshoeing will allow for exciting activities.

Natural Phenomenon – Northern Lights

Northern Scandinavia, with destinations like Tromso and Kirkenes in Norway, along with Kiruna and Riksgränsen in Sweden, are great places to see the Northern lights . Looking at the Nordic countries, northern Finland and Iceland, are other great places to see this natural phenomenon.

Weather permitting, the Aurora Borealis, dancing greenish bluish light on the dark sky, is a unique experience. For best chance to view the Northern lights visit northern Scandinavia in September to early April.

Suggested read:

• The Complete Guide for the Best Chances to the See the Northern Lights in Norway
• 29 Northern Lights Tours in Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland

Natural Phenomenon – Midnight sun

Enjoy the sun visible pretty much all night long, this can be experienced north of the Arctic circle. Great places to see the Midnight sun in Scandinavia is Narvik Norway, or Kiruna Sweden.

In Scandinavia, you are never far from the water, and water activites are easily accessible. Some fun boating suggestions would be;

• Canal tour in Copenhagen,
• Archipelago tour in Stockholm or Gothenburg,
• Ferry ride between Copenhagen and Oslo,
• Ferry ride between Helsingor Denmark and Helsingborg Sweden,
• Fjord tour in Norway from Balestrand to Bergen,
• Cruise tour of Scandinavia.

Architecture

Scandinavia is filled with history and architecture. Just walking around the cities, you will be surrounded by it.

Here are a few places, with unique architecture, worth a visit in Norway;

• One of the stave churches in Norway,
• The opera house in Oslo ,
• The restaurant Under in Lindesnes.

In Sweden some of the interesting architectural landmarks are;

• Turning torso in Malmo,
• Ice hotel in Jukkasjarvi,
• City hall, the woodland cemetery, and the library in Stockholm.

Some architectural suggestions to visit in Denmark;

• Louisiana Art museum north of Copenhagen,
• The round tower in the capital,
• Moesgaard museum in Arhus.

Viking History

Some suggestions to get a taste of the Viking history:

• Do a guided tour in the footsteps of the Vikings in Roskilde Denmark,
• Discover the Viking history around Stockholm with a guided tour,
• Visit mythical rune stones in Lund, Sweden,
• Visit a Viking ship museum in Oslo.

Scandinavian Design

The capitals offer many designs shops worth visiting, here are a few suggestions;

• Stockholm – Svenskt Tenn, NK Nordiska Kompaniet and Design torget.
• Copenhagen – Georg Jensen, Illums Bolighus and Royal Copenhagen.
• Oslo – Pur Norsk, Glasmagasinet and Norway designs.

If you are interested in crystal, the district “ kingdom of crystal ” in Småland, Sweden, is well worth a visit.

Winter Wonderland Adventures

Lapland, including northern Sweden, Norway, and Finland, offers many fun winter activities.

Reindeer-safari, husky ride, ice fishing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling are just a few of the many fun winter activities that you can experience up north. Add hunting for the northern lights to your list, and you have an experience of a lifetime.

Kirkenes Norway, Kiruna Sweden, and Rovaniemi Finland are great winter destinations.

Denmark and Sweden will not disappoint when it comes to unique, well-kept, castles. There are many gems that you can visit for the day, some you can even spend the night in.

Denmark castle suggestions;

• Kronborg Castle , also known as the Hamlet castle, located in Helsingor,
• Frederiksborg Castle, in Hillerod, is a unique place with amazing gardens,
• Amalienborg Castle, the home of the royal family in Copenhagen,
• If you want to spend a night in one of them – Kokkedal Castle north of Copenhagen is an excellent choice.

Sweden castle suggestions;

• Drottningholm Castle in Stockholm, one of the many royal palaces and a UNESCO listed site,
• Sofiero Castle, former summer residence of the royal family in Helsingborg,
• Kalmar Castle, is off the beaten path, but a unique one,
• At the Kronovall Castle in southern Sweden, you can spend the night and enjoy a delicious meal and a tour of the wine cellar.

If you are interested in cars, Volvo and Saab have made their marks in Sweden. A thrilling experience is ice driving on a lake, but there are more fun things for car lovers;

• Ice driving in Åre northern Sweden,
• Saab car museum in Trollhättan Sweden,
• Volvo museum in Gothenburg,
• Join a car racing event in Denmark.

Thrilling Adventures

Nordic nature offers many exciting adventures. These are just a few tours to get your adrenalin going;

• Winter activities like snowmobiling or husky rides in Lapland,
• Watch the northern lights from a hot air balloon up north in Sweden,
• White water rafting and glacier hiking in Norway,
• Skydiving and ziplining in Denmark.

Mindfulness, Yoga, Massage, and Meditation

In unique Scandinavian environments, you can enjoy exercise, mindfulness, yoga, and meditation. Here are a few relaxing activities to try;

• Take a yoga class in Stockholm,
• Join a yoga and hiking retreat in Molde Norway,
• Enjoy a meditation and spa experience in Copenhagen.

If you have a specific interest, please leave a comment below, and we will be happy to give you some tips and ideas on how to experience that in Scandinavia.

5. Get There… Best Ways to Get to Scandinavia

Depending on where in the world you are visiting from, you have a few different alternatives arriving in Scandinavia.

If  flying, start your trip in one of the capitals by flying into Stockholm Arlanda , Copenhagen Kastrup , or Gardermoen Oslo.

Many airlines can get you there. Scandinavia Airlines, SAS, fly many international routes, they are part of the Star Alliance and collaborate with many airlines around the world.

Flying from the USA or Canada:

• SAS Scandinavian Airlines
• Norwegian (budget)
• United Airlines

Flying from Europe:

• British Airway
• Ryan Air (budget)

Flying from Australia or New Zealand:

• Air Singapore

You can also use a service like Expedia to find airline tickets.

From Europe, you can also arrive in Scandinavia via car, train, bus, or ferry.

6. Best Ways to Travel Between Sweden, Denmark, and Norway

Scandinavia is a great place to get around using public transportation like train, ferry, flight, underground, and buses. Transportation well-connected, frequent, and used by pretty much everybody. Locals often use bus or train commuting to work.

Tip: Most places will require you to have a ticket before getting on the bus, underground or train. Ticket stations are located on the platform or station for purchase.

If you want to explore more remote areas, you might want to consider renting a car.

How do you travel between the Scandinavian countries Sweden, Denmark, and Norway?

Flying between different cities in Scandinavia will quickly take you between locations but, there are other maybe more scenic ways to cross the borders.

Sweden – Denmark

Malmö Sweden and Copenhagen Denmark , connected by the Öresund bridge and tunnel, makes it quick and easy to travel either by train or car between the two countries.

The maybe more scenic way is to take the ferry between Helsingborg Sweden and Helsingor Denmark. A 20-minute ride, where you will get a view of the beautiful Hamlet castle arriving on the Danish side.

Sweden – Norway

With a long land border between Sweden and Norway, you can easily cross by car or train.

Denmark – Norway

Traveling between Copenhagen and Oslo can be done with a scenic overnight ferry ride. If you prefer to be moving during the day, enjoy a train or bus ride along Sweden’s west coast. This is a train-ride, that will take you about 8 – 9 hours depending on the day.

Sweden – Finland

Finland might be on your bucket list and added to your itinerary. Taking the ferry from Stockholm Sweden to Helsinki Finland, is a fun way to travel between the two countries.

Travel the Scandinavian Countries

7. Scandinavian Accommodation

When you decide on where to stay. Think of how many people are in your travel party? Are you traveling with kids? How many people do you want in a room? If you are 4 people, for example, do you want a family room or two double rooms?

Another thing to consider is if you are looking for a specific style of accommodation. Do you want convenience, funky, unique, exclusive, or maybe simple?

In Scandinavia, you have many unique options. You can stay in a treehouse, lighthouse, ice hotel, castle, airplane, the smallest hotel in the world, boat hotel, or a plain and simple hotel room. You can make it as fun and crazy as you want it to be.

As far as the room size, in general, rooms are smaller than hotel rooms in the US, for example. If you want more than two people in a room, look for a family room. Some hotels allow for a rollaway bed or fold out couch, when traveling with kids.

No matter the standard of your accommodation, you want to make sure it is in a good location. Making it easy to explore your surroundings.

Read more about hotel options here:

Scandinavian Hotels – The Ultimate Guide

• Copenhagen hotels near Tivoli

8. Local Tours, Excursions and Time to Explore on Your Own

The key to a great vacation is to keep a balance between booked activities and free time. What you can experience in a guided 3-hour city tour, walking or biking, can save you a ton of time in the long run. City tours are usually done in small groups, or as a private tour for you and your travel party.

You will get to see the city highlights, plus you can ask your local guide for tips and ideas of restaurants, events, and other local things going on in the area when you are there.

Here are some tours we suggest:

• 21 Biking, Walking and Canal Tours in Copenhagen Denmark
• 29 Sightseeing Tours in Oslo
• 29+ of the Best Tours in Stockholm
• Norway Northern Lights Tour Packages in Tromso, Lofoten and Alta

Depending on your interests and destinations, you might want to book some more guided tours ahead of traveling. For example, if you plan on going up north to do winter activities like snowmobiling, husky rides, and reindeer safari, you will need to book that ahead of time. Don’t risk that your wanted tour is sold out.

If you want to do the “ Norway in a nutshell ” Oslo to Bergen, for example, including the famous Flam railway and a fjord tour, make sure to book ahead of time.

The key is to plan out your itinerary with a balance of planned activities and free time to explore.

9. Itinerary Suggestion – Sweden, Denmark and Norway in 13 days / 12 nights

Here is a brief overview, itinerary suggestion, for a pretty standard trip of the 3 Scandinavian capitals, including fjord Norway. Depending on your interest, put your touch on the trip, with preferred local tours and accommodations.

Day 1 – Stockholm, Sweden

If you start your trip arriving in Stockholm, flying from overseas, you will most likely land in the morning. It’s always convenient to have made arrangements for a driver to pick you up when you arrive. Take that first day to adjust and get to know the area. In case of delays, don’t book any guided tours this day.

• Spend the night in Stockholm.

Day 2 – Stockholm, Sweden

Guided city tour in the morning.

Explore on your own in the afternoon.

Day 3 – Stockholm, Sweden

Archipelago day tour, or depending on your interests, maybe a Viking tour, or a day on Djurgarden to explore the many museums.

Day 4 – Stockholm, Sweden to Copenhagen, Denmark

Take the train from Stockholm to Copenhagen.

Explore Copenhagen on your own when you arrive.

• Spend the night in Copenhagen.

Day 5 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Explore the city on your own in the afternoon.

Visit Tivoli in the evening.

Day 6 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Day excursion – do a castle tour, or take the train to Helsingor and visit the Hamlet castle on your own. Depending on your interests, you might want to visit a museum, shop, or just stroll around. Here are some more tips on what to do in Copenhagen .

Day 7 – Copenhagen, Denmark

In the morning, take a canal tour of Copenhagen.

In the late afternoon board the ferry to Oslo.

• Spend the night on the ferry.

Day 8 – Oslo Norway

You will arrive in Oslo in the morning, make sure to get up early to see the beautiful entrance, arriving in Oslo.

Do a guided afternoon city tour.

• Spend the night in Oslo.

Day 9 – Oslo Norway

Explore the city on your own. Oslo has a great city card that gets you into many of the museums.

Day 10 – Fjord Norway

The first part of your Norway in a Nutshell tour – Take the train from Oslo via Myrdal and Flåm, and experience the famous Flåm Railway. Then take the ferry from Flåm to Balestrand. This quaint little town is well worth a visit and a great place to spend the night.

• Spend the night in Balestrand.

Day 11 – Fjord Norway

Do a RIB boat safari in the morning.

The second part of your Norway in a Nutshell tour – Take a ferry ride from Balestrand to Bergen.

• Spend the night in Bergen.

Day 12 – Bergen Norway

If you like hiking, do a guided hiking tour in the morning and explore on your own in the afternoon. You can take the Floibanen funicular to the top of Mount Floyen, for a beautiful view.

Day 13 – Bergen Norway

After many memories are created, it is time to fly back home from Bergen.

10. Now It’s Your Turn, Plan Your trip to Scandinavia!

Each and every trip to the Scandinavian countries will be unique, depending on your interest, destinations, duration, and personal preferences. My hope with this article is to help you figure out what’s the perfect Scandinavian vacation for you and your travel party. Let’s recap some of the things to consider;

• Will you take care of the arrangements, yourself, or hire a tour operator?
• Will you travel with a group, or will you travel independently?
• What’s your budget?
• Depending on your interests, what destinations do you want to visit?
• How will you get there?
• How will you travel within Scandinavia?
• What type of accommodation are you looking for?
• What do you want to experience? What local tours do you want to include in your trip?

These questions will help you plan out your Scandinavian vacation. When that is done, it is time to start booking your trip.

• Start booking your international flight
• Accommodation (book with free cancelation if available)
• Scandinavian transfers (trains can be booked 90 days prior to traveling)
• Get travel insurance

I would love to hear from you. Have you been to Scandinavia, or maybe you are planning on going? What’s your favorite booking tips? Please share in the comment section below,

Just want to let you know;   some of my posts might contain affiliate links.  If you buy something through those links, it will not cost you  a penny more, but I might earn a commission.  That will allow for this site to  keep going.  Thanks!

Written by  Veronica

Born and raised in Sweden, now living in the US, Veronica has a passion for Scandinavian travel. As a former product design specialist with a Scandinavian tour operator, she has extensive knowledge of tour planning and the Scandinavian countries.

17 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Trip to Scandinavia – 10 Tips for the Perfect Vacation ”

As a parent, one of the most stressful things to do for me is planning trips. We have to put into consideration each and every member of the family and interest is really important when it comes to trips. I so much love how you’ve listed and explained the facts to consider, it’s very important to know if you can plan it yourself, or hire someone to do it.

If you decide to hire somebody to plan your trip or do it yourself, depends on what you are looking for. There’s really not a right or wrong answer. What you do want to take in to considoration is your travel party, in your case your family, and your interests. Have a good balance of planned activities and free time to explore. Also, consider to break up into smaller groups for a couple of hours if you want to do different things. Scandinavia is very family friendly and there are plenty of fun activities for the whole family.

These are some very good tips to know to travel to the Scandinavian places and I really like it too because I haven’t ever thought that this is really neccessary. I like the way this works and I think maybe after the pandemic, it would make a whole lot of sense for me to go down to maybe Norway.

Norway is a beautiful place. I will be happy to help you out with destination ideas and suggestions of things to do while there. Just let me know 🙂

Thank you for your comprehensive article on planning a trip to Scandinavia.  I am well traveled but I have yet to see the Northern Lights.  I have always chosen to instate the help of a professional planner when traveling.  I feel it translates to a certain confidence when I am actually on my trip.  Trip insurance enhances that confidence for me.  The peace of mind is worth every penny.  Thanks again for the great article.

The Northern Lights are amazingly beautiful, and it is absolutely worth the trip to go see them. Scandinavia, Iceland or somewhere else, the Northern Lights are a beautiful natural phenomenon. Always weather permitting though so you will have to give yourself some time when you do go hunt for it. To use a travel professional to help you with your trip, like you say, can give that extra confidence. It’s great to have that contact person if there are ever any issues that come up. Thanks for your feedback, and if you ever decide to go hunt for the Northern Lights, get in touch and I will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Nice comprehensive list of things to do in Scandinavia! Although we’ve been to Norway, we’ve never done a fjord cruise and that is something that we’re quite interested in. But we wouldn’t want to go on a large cruise ship. Are there any smaller vessels that do multi-day cruises of the fjords? More like the size of a river cruise or one of those smaller expedition type ships?

Exploring the fjords from the water is an amazing experience. Norway offers everything from RIB boat tours, to larger ships with Hurtigruten going up the coast of western Norway, and everything in between. The Sognefjord in a Nutshell tour , will take you from Oslo to Bergen on a combined train and fjord cruise tour. On a tour like this, you will discover small gems like the town of Balestrand. From here you can discover more of the fjords on a RIB boat, a small boat that will get you close to the wildlife and deeper into the fjords. Hurtigruten offers different expedition cruises along the coast of Norway, where they also cruise many of the fjords. Perfect if you want to maximize your trip and have a little bit more time to explore.

Hi Veronica, My husband and I are from Australia and are in the early stages of planning a trip to the UK, Iceland and Scandinavia during August/September/October in 2023, including hopefully seeing the Northern Lights and tick off a bucket list item. I have found this webpage a great starting point, thank you very much, and still have plenty more reading and research to do obviously.

We want to plan our itinerary and trip, but should we go through a tour company to organise the Northern Lights part, and which country would give us the best chance to see them please?

Any other advice would be greatly appreciated too. Thank you in advance.

I suggest that you read this article https://explorenordic.com/best-northern-lights-tours-in-iceland-norway-finland-and-sweden/ it has a ton of information about the Northern Lights. Tour suggestions if you want to book it yourself as well. If you have any question, let me know I will be happy to help, Veronica

Hi there, I need urgent help for planning a 3-week trip in Denmark/Norway/Sweden. We’re traveling by car and because of other issues the vacation-planning has slid down into the “lowest priority” category. I am feeling the stress (it’s my doing, of course!) and need help to salvage this! We are four people, I’m the mom. Let me know if it’s possible for you to help me snap this into focus. I have a vague idea where we want to go and what we want to do. Thanks in advance!

V good and in-depth information. Covered almost all points/ aspects with tips . Thank you so much

Glad you liked it! If you have anything else you would like me to add please let me know.

Very detailed and informative. Thanks for sharing your insight. Had few questions : we are vegetarian ( Not even seafood) are there enough options for vegetarians? Secondly, we prefer airbnb so that dinner wis can Donot our choice. Are there options or good airbnb in Norway. And Denmark. Lastly , can we stay at one place in Norway and cover everything or need to move around along with our luggage Thanks in advance

Hi Raj, Scandinavia offer a verity of Vegetarian food. There is also a sustainable thinking and a lot of restaurants use local organic produce. There are plenty of Airbnb options in the larger cities like Oslo and Copenhagen. When you get out of the bigger cities I would suggest that you stay at a bed and breakfast or hotel if Airbnb is not available. When it comes to cover things in Norway, if you share with me the things you would like to see and explore I will be happy to give you some more information. How much time do you have? If you want to explore some of the fjords and have some what limited time, I would suggest that you do Norway in a Nutshell from Oslo to Bergen. You can read more about that here https://explorenordic.com/norway-in-a-nutshell-tour-oslo-bergen/ . I do suggest getting out of Oslo to explore more of the countryside that’s where you fill find amazing nature and stunning scenery. Will be happy to help if you have more questions,

We are planning a trip to Scandinavia August 2023. I’m afraid I waited too long to get tours I really wanted but I have family in Norway who have a hytte for us to stay in. One thing I am curious about is the visa process. Are there any resources you can recommend

Hi Kristina,

Where are you from? Norway is part of the Schengen Agreement. The Visa rules depends on where you are from. Here are some helpful links about Visa to Norway, hope that helps.

https://www.norway.no/en/usa/services-info/visitors-visa-res-permit/visitors-visa/ https://www.udi.no/en/word-definitions/persons-who-do-not-need-a-visa-to-visit-norway-/

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Scandinavia

Endless day, perpetual night. Rocking festivals, majestic aurora borealis. With effortlessly chic cities and remote forests, Scandinavia attracts style-gurus and wilderness-hikers alike.

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Around 1100 years ago, Vikings dragged up two longships from the shoreline and used them as the centrepiece for grand ceremonial burials, most likely for…

Fotografiska

Since opening its doors in 2010, Fotografiska has become one of the world’s leading photography museums and one of Stockholm’s most popular attractions…

Djurgården & Skeppsholmen

Often called 'Sweden in miniature', Skansen is an unmissable Stockholm highlight. Expect to spend a full day wandering this hilltop open-air museum, with…

Kungsholmen

The imposing Stadshuset (City Hall) defines the Stockholm skyline, with its blocky silhouette and waterside perch. It looks stern and weighty from afar,…

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Kronborg Slot

Best known as the Elsinore Castle of Shakespeare's Hamlet, this Unesco World Heritage Site is a vast Renaissance masterpiece topped by baroque green…

Frederiksborg Slot

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Scandinavia

Scandinavia Trip Costs  | Transportation | Food and alcohol | Accommodation | Water | City passes | When to visit | My Top Travel Tips | Denmark | Sweden | Norway | Top 10 Things to do

With its picturesque forests, a thousand lakes, northern lights, Viking heritage, and the dream of countries filled with tall, blonde, singing people, IKEA, and immaculate fashion, Scandinavia is the perfect destination to combine breathtaking nature with art, architecture, food, and history.

Scandinavia typically refers to the three countries Norway, Sweden, and Denmark and even though the Scandinavian countries share a history, have similar culture and languages they differ enough not to skip any of the three countries on your travels in northern Europe.

As Copenhagen holds the busiest and most well-connected airport in Scandinavia, Denmark is a good starting point. However, all three countries are connected by land (or in some cases bridges or tunnels) making it easy to travel between and within the countries by train or car.

 SCANDINAVIA TRIP COSTS

There is no way to sugarcoat this. Scandinavia is expensive, Norway especially, being the second most expensive country in the world. If you plan wisely, your costs can be reduced significantly.

TRANSPORTATION

Travelling by car or train gives you more flexibility, but it is time-consuming due to the vast countries, so if you are short on time, I highly recommend flying.

Renting a car is no budget option but gives you flexibility and the ability to reach places that can be hard to reach with air travel or train. The distances in Norway and Sweden long so remember that you not only have to pay for the car rental, but you will also use a lot of fuel and it doesn’t come cheap!

If you want to save money on travel costs you are most likely to do so with a combination of flights and trains. The costs of travelling by train or plane can be very similar for long distances, but if you are flexible, the prices for the train tickets can be as low as 20 Euro instead of 100 Euro.

If you travel by train, make sure you are flexible on the time of the day you want to travel as well as the day you want to travel, buy an interrail pass (note that the interrail passes are usually just available during the summers), take the night train and save both time and money. There is no need to buy your train or plane tickets far in advance, the prices go up and down depending on availability.

There is also the option of buses for long distances, they are usually the cheapest option, but you will need a lot more time than if travelling by train or plane.

Except for the capitals most of the cities are walkable and in the capitals, especially Copenhagen, why not rent a bicycle and move on two wheels like the Scandinavians? You´ll get both an authentic, sustainable, and cheap experience!

If you prefer public transportation make sure to buy 24-hour passes or multiple days passes instead of single rides as they tend to be pricey.

FOOD AND ALCOHOL

The restaurants keep a high standard – and high prices. Lunch will usually set you back 9-15 euros while you are unlikely to find the main course for dinner for less than 22-28 euros. Due to a high tax on alcohol, your party nights in Norway and Sweden might be limited. Expect to pay 7-10 euros for a beer and 15-23 euros for a cocktail in a bar. If you buy the alcohol in the specially designated shops for alcohol the prices will be lower, but still high.

In Denmark however the prices on alcohol are lower and more similar to those of the southern European countries, but depending on where you go it might still be pricey. The cheapest bars in Denmark are called Bodegas, small places, nothing fancy, usually with pool tables or boardgames, where a beer usually is around 2 euros, any cheaper than that and you´ll have to make your own.

To cut your costs, buy your groceries in the local supermarkets or markets and your costs for food will be remarkably lower than if you eat in restaurants. There is a lot of money to save here.

ACCOMMODATION

If you are travelling in Norway and Sweden in the summertime and/or are well equipped it is good to know that you are allowed to sleep under the stars or put up your tent anywhere, as long as it is not on private property. In Sweden and Norway, there are also so-called wind protectors, small wooden shelters on strategic places in nature for everyone to use for camping. Camping and using wind protectors are for free, which is amazing, but respect nature and don´t leave any trace, except maybe your footprints. Remember that in the summer the temperatures can differ between 15-30 degrees Celsius or 59-86 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures in the winter are cold to freezing, so be prepared!

So if you don´t want to sleep in a tent or in the grass? Scandinavians are very friendly and there is always the option of couch surfing or renting cabins, but if it isn´t for you hostels are usually cheaper than both Airbnb and hotels. The hostels are of a good standard and normally with cooking facilities.

Sustainability is big in Scandinavia and you can refill your water bottle anywhere for free. The tap water is not only free and drinkable but also delicious! So make sure to bring your own water bottle and save both money and the environment.

CITY PASSES

All major cities in Scandinavia offer city pass that gives you discounts on everything from transportation to museums to food and even shopping!

WHEN TO VISIT

There is no right or wrong time to visit Scandinavia unless you are planning on only visiting the cities, in which case they will be more vibrant between April-September. If you choose to visit Scandinavia in the summer you will witness the lush green nature, you will see the waterfalls and the rivers in their full glory, you will swim and sunbathe, hike and ride a bicycle and of course, see the midnight sun! If you choose to visit in the winter you will experience fairytale-like winters, aurora lights, glistening frozen lakes, and cozy winter markets. If you plan to visit Stockholm in winter make sure you read my Stockholm in winter guide . Out of all the Scandinavian capitals Copenhagen will be the mildest to visit during winter as it’s the southernmost capital out of the three. Copenhagen in winter is actually not that cold and some winter you might not even get any snow.

Remember that the weather and temperatures are unpredictable and you need to be prepared for it. There is no guarantee that the winters are freezing and the summers are hot or vice versa.

MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS

• Even if Scandinavia can be done on a budget, you need to account for that it is not as cheap as South East Asia or Eastern Europe. Be prepared that things will cost and that cheap travel will take time.
• Try to take the night train when possible, the trains are of a high standard and is well worth saving a night’s accommodation and travel time.
• Bring your own water bottle for free refills everywhere.
• Both Sweden and Norway are big countries and require time, it can be done in a shorter time, but to get the most out of your Scandinavian trip I would recommend at least 3-4 weeks.
• Be aware that the weather and temperatures can change quickly and pack accordingly.
• Talk to people, even if they might seem shy and maybe won´t approach you, Scandinavians are super friendly and willing to go out of their way and beyond to show you their countries and all of what they have to offer.

Danes are often referred to as the happiest people on earth and it is easy to see why, with the Danish philosophy of “Hygge” – a word that can´t be translated, but described as way of life where you seek happiness in the simple and cozy things.

Copenhagen might be the coziest and liveliest of the three northern capitals, filled with great bars and nightclubs making the Copenhagen nightlife fantastic. You also find cozy and cool restaurants as well as plenty of outdoor activities.

But Denmark is so much more than just Copenhagen. You have the central region with Aarhus, Herning, and Viborg, with the white sand dunes of the North Sea as well as charming bays and inlets on the east coast. Here you will also find Legoland and dozens of art museums.

In northern Denmark you will find some of the countries most prominent architecture, thriving food scene and not to forget it is home to some of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in Scandinavia.

Sweden with its ever-changing landscapes from the flat south to the mountainous north is filled with beautiful islands and beaches, spellcasting forests, medieval cities and castles, incredible art, and world-famous fashion.

Entering Sweden from Copenhagen is easily done by train to Malmö, where a one-way ticket costs 10 euros. Malmö being the third biggest city in Sweden, although fairly small and walkable, is a mix of an old fisherman´s village and an industrial manufacturing hub. It is charming and has a big cultural diversity. You will hear dozens of different languages, smell the spices of the Middle East, enjoy swimming, and having a look at Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s tallest building. Around Malmö, you have the coziest little beach towns with soft white sand and where time moves as if everyone is on vacation all year round.

From Malmö to the very north of Sweden the possibilities are endless, you can choose to go on the west coast of Sweden up to Gothenburg, stop for amazing seafood and continue your way up north or enter Norway. Or you can choose to go on the east coast, visit the capital, Stockholm, with its archipelago, forests, nightlife, shopping, and then continue your way to the incredible north. Of course, in between Malmö, Gothenburg, and Stockholm, there are amazing places to explore but you will really notice a difference in culture and nature if you travel further north instead. While the south of Sweden offers beaches and city life, the north is all about nature and it is nature you don´t want to miss out on!

While all three countries are like exotic fairytales, Norway is a category on its own. People sound happy even when they are arguing and most of their time they spend outdoors, summer as well as in the winter. And Norway is mostly famous for exactly this, its nature, its Fjords, its mountains, its forests, its coastline, its marine life. There is probably not one part of Norway that isn´t breathtaking. This doesn´t mean that Norway is only for the outdoorsy type, even if, if there is one place that could convert even the most big-city-life-traveler, it is Norway. It is the second most expensive country in the world, but it is well worth a visit and can be done on a budget with a bit of planning. Even if Norway is all about nature you shouldn´t miss out on exploring the capital, Oslo, which gives you a feeling of being in a village rather than a capital. It is very tourist-friendly, filled with restaurants, unique cafés, shops, and interesting museums as well as proximity to nature, you can even go surfing in Norway!

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO

1.the northern lights, sweden and norway.

The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is on most people’s bucket list, and for a reason, it is stunning, and you will never experience anything like it. It is also not easily accessible. Your highest chance of witnessing this natural phenomenon is during wintertime, north of the arctic circle, in Sweden and Norway , the more north you go, the better the chance you will have.

2. The Royal Palace Drottningholm, Sweden

On the list of World Heritage Sites protected by UNESCO is the Royal Palace of Drottningholm in Stockholm, Sweden. The Palace has been compared to the one of Versailles and is the residence of the Swedish King and Queen. The southern wing of the Palace is reserved for the royal family only, but visitors are allowed in the rest of the Palace all year around.

3. The Fjords of Norway

There is no other word than stunning, to describe the Fjords of Norway. The Fjords are formations of ocean water between cliffs caused by the glacier and Norway has thousands of them, making Norway the “Fjord capital of the world”. Once in Norway they are fairly easy to reach and should definitely not be missed! Make it a few days adventure up the coast of Norway to see the most breathtaking ones or just a quick daytrip from Oslo. Neither will disappoint.

4. The little mermaid, Denmark

Copenhagen is like nothing else, the streets of Nyhavn look like they are taken from a fairytale with the canals, boats and tiny colored houses. Speaking of fairytales, you will find one of the biggest Nordic icons in Copenhagen – the sculpture of the little mermaid , based on a story about a little mermaid written by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.

5. Christiania, Denmark

Following the canals between street musicians, the smell of Danish sausage, and never-ending bicycles you will eventually reach Freetown Christiania . In this self-proclaimed free state in the middle of Copenhagen, Denmark, no one owns their homes, the people police themselves, and all decisions are made by consensus. It has a mix of homes, cafes, art galleries, and workshops, many covered with colorful murals or accented by sculptures and if Copenhagen is like nothing else, Christiania is even more so.

6. Bergen, Norway

Filled with cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, surrounded by mountains, fjords, and sea you can mix quirky shopping, lazy days at the seaside with hikes up the two most famous mountain viewpoints, Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken. You will enter the wilderness of the forest and do a few days hike or for the shorter and easier route, begin your hike right in the city center and hike your way to the viewpoints. Don´t worry if you´re lazy, you can go on the funicular train “Fløyen” and still enjoy the same views.

7. Lapland, Sweden

It will not get more exotic than this. You have dog sleds, reindeers, waterfalls, tipi tents, rivers, lakes, midnight sun, mountains and the northernmost indigenous people in the world, the Sami . Sami speak multiple traditional languages and try to secure their culture and heritage even today, which is clearly noticeable when visiting Lapland. And if this isn´t enough if you are visiting Lapland in winter you also have a great chance of seeing the Northern lights. If you feel like splurging it is also in Lapland that you find the world-famous Iglootel , a hotel completely made out of ice and snow.

8. Scandinavian food

In Scandinavia, you will find weird food, fermented, pickled, dried, salted, and even rotten, some of it is not for the weak and even the smell might get your stomach to turn, but for the brave, it is considered delicacies and is even exported to high-end restaurants all over the world.

If you want to play it safer, modern Nordic cuisine is one of the main reasons Scandinavia attracts tourists in the last ten years. Maybe it all began when Noma in Denmark was named the best restaurant in the world. However, since then the scene has only been growing and growing and Scandinavia is at the top of every foodie’s bucket list. Last but not least, DO NOT miss out on the seafood!

9. Briksdal Glacieer, Norway

The mighty Briksdal Glacier is part of the Jostedal Glacier national park. From an astonishing height of 1200 meters or 3 937 feet, you will see the wild glacier drop into the narrow lake surrounded by lush vegetation and smooth rocks – it will take your breath away.

10. Stockholm

Stockholm is the largest city in Scandinavia, but don´t be fooled thinking you will end up in a hectic place. It is made up of 14 islands and situated in the Stockholm archipelago. The archipelago itself is the largest one in Scandinavia, with 30 000 islands, where you will find the urban Swedes swimming and sunbathing in the summer. Stockholm is extremely pretty, filled with beautiful architecture, parks, and museums. Amongst the museums you will find the Vasa Museum, the Vasa ship capsized and sank in Stockholm in 1628. Vasa is the world’s best-preserved 17th-century ship and the most visited museum in Scandinavia.  Don’t miss the picturesc old town or, gamla stan, with it’s narrow streats and cute little shops and cafes.

Ready to travel to Scandinavia? Let us know if there is something ells you’d like to know in the comments below

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The Ultimate Scandinavia Guide: The Best Times & Places to Visit

Are you thinking about planning a trip to Scandinavia ? Made up of Sweden, Denmark and Norway, this region is a top destination whether you’re looking to experience the northern lights or visit the grand capital cities. 

This useful guide will help you figure out the best times to visit and the best places to see in Scandinavia. Get ready for a bucket-list worthy trip to the land of the Vikings, steep mountains, long fjords and majestic waterfalls.

Best time to visit Scandinavia

With four distinct seasons, Scandinavia has plenty to offer all year long. When is best to visit for you is personal and may depend on your pre-booked holidays, what you want to see and experience, or your preferred season.

Read below for a short-and-sweet guide to the best time to visit Scandinavia.

• During the summer months, you could take on a self-drive trip around Scandinavia or join a small guided tour  with a local guide
• Throughout the year, travel around Scandinavia independently via scenic trains and cruises journeys

1. Best time to visit Scandinavia for weather

Summer in Scandinavia, the months of July and August , is a great time to visit. At this time of year, you’re more likely to have pleasant and stable weather. Nature comes alive and locals and visitors alike can enjoy the great outdoors.

Another bonus of summer is the extended daylight hours. Take advantage of long days with more sightseeing and excursions.

The summer is also a good time for a road trip. Take the wheel, enjoy the warmer weather, go off the beaten track, and find your own corner of paradise.

• Browse these summer Scandinavia packages

2. Best time to visit Scandinavia for quieter travel

Scandinavia is very popular with travellers – for excellent reasons! But do you dream of a quiet holiday, to experience the natural wonders in peaceful reflection? Or to capture the perfect photos without too many distractions?

Travelling during in winter has many benefits that you may enjoy. One of which is experiencing the country at your own relaxed pace.

If you would like to take advantage of the fairer weather and quieter attractions, visit during the shoulder season in May or September .

3. Best time to visit Scandinavia to see the northern lights

While summer may be ideal to visit the Nordic countries , it is not the best time to see the northern lights.

To see the aurora borealis you need a clear, dark sky, which is difficult to find in the Arctic region. This includes Northern Norway, Svalbard, Finnish and Swedish Lapland where the sun doesn't fully set in summer.

For the best chances of dark skies and northern lights spotting, visit Scandinavia and especially its northern reaches between October and March.

• Check out Scandinavian northern lights tours

Best places to visit in Scandinavia

Encompassing Denmark, Norway and Sweden, this northern region of Europe has so much to offer. While planning a trip around Scandinavia, the only challenge you’ll have is to narrow down the places you’ll want to see.

Here are some suggestions to add to your Scandinavian itinerary: 

1. Oslo, Norway

Norway's capital, Oslo , is a must-see city blending nature with modern, urban vibes. Chances are you will fly into Oslo to visit Norway, making it a perfect first stop on your itinerary!

Head outdoors to admire the green hills and surrounding mountains of Oslo. Or enjoy the vibrant cultural life, visiting world-renowned museums and galleries, such as the Munch Museum or the Kon-Tiki Museum .

• Book one of these Norway holiday packages

2. Bergen, Norway

Bergen , Norway’s second largest city, is a great place to experience rich cultural and historical attractions, as well as seeing majestic natural wonders.

Nicknamed the "Gateway to the Fjords", you’ll find yourself at the doorstep of Norway’s’ longest fjord, Sognefjord , and the beautiful Hardangerfjord.

You can also spend hours walking around the streets of this vibrant city, exploring museums and its old town, the UNESCO World Heritage site Bryggen .

• Look up city breaks in Scandinavia to explore Bergen as well as the capital cities
• Related: 7 Scandinavian cities you need to visit

3. Lofoten islands, Norway

Discover Norwegian natural beauty at its finest in the Lofoten islands .

As an archipelago within the Arctic Circle, this region boasts plenty of dramatic scenery with mighty mountains, craggy coastal lines, pristine waterways and quaint fishing villages. Svolvær, the main community of Lofoten, is a popular stop on the Norwegian Coastal Voyage.

This is an excellent place to visit for keen bird watchers in summer, and for those chasing the northern lights  in winter.

• Explore tours to the Lofoten islands

4. Flåm, Norway

The small town of Flåm is an ideal stop to relax during a bustling trip around Norway or Scandinavia.

Nestled at the heart of the western fjords, you’ll find a wealth of natural attractions a stone’s throw from this tiny village. Admire the mighty mountains, stunning fjords, and powerful waterfalls.

From here, you could hop on a fjord cruise, or aboard the famous Flåm Railway , known as one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world!

• Experience the comfort of train travel and see the sights from your window with one of these Scandinavian tours by rail

5. Preikestolen, Norway

Conquer your fear of heights at the gravity-defying Preikestolen . Its name means "Pulpit Rock", given because of its odd shape resembling a preacher’s pulpit.

You could admire it from a boat tour along the fjords, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could hike up Pulpit Rock . It takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to make this 8-kilometre (5-mile) round trip.

At the top, enjoy the views over the Lysefjord from the 604-metre (nearly 2,000-feet) high cliff!

• Visit Scandinavia in the summer months, June , July or August , to go hiking, kayaking and more

6. Sognefjord, Norway

Prepare to be amazed by Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. Also known as the "King of the Fjords", it's a breathtaking site with towering mountain peaks and tranquil waters.

If you take part in the legendary Norway in a Nutshell© tour , you will pass through Aurlandsfjord , an arm of the Sognefjord. This will allow you to really take in its vastness. Sognefjord itself also extends inland to Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen national parks.

7. Geirangerfjord & Nærøyfjord, Norway

Escape to an area of renowned natural beauty. The UNESCO World Heritage-protected Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are often referred to as the "world’s most stunning fjords" and you're in for a treat.

Spend a day cruising along their peaceful waters, looking up at the steep mountainsides, and spotting wildlife. You could also admire views of powerful waterfalls, such as the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil .

• Sail along fjords, rugged coastlines and across the Baltic Sea on a cruise of Scandinavia

8. Stockholm, Sweden

Discover Stockholm, the enchanting capital of Sweden. Here you can spend your days discovering Swedish culture and history.

Wander through the cobblestone streets of the 13th-century old town (Gamla Stan). This area is dotted with interesting attractions such as the Nobel Museum and the Royal Palace.

You could also head out to Djurgården to visit the Vasa Museum, the most visited museum in Scandinavia. Or take a boat trip around the stunning Stockholm archipelago .

• Explore these Sweden holiday packages

9. Gothenburg, Sweden

While making your way through Sweden, don’t forget the western city of Gothenburg. With its chilled-out and trendy vibes, the country's second largest city is one of the best vacation spots in Sweden .

Here, you’ll discover neoclassical architecture along quaint streets and grand canals. You could dine at romantic gastropubs in Haga, ride rollercoasters at the 1920s Liseberg amusement park, and take a cruise along the Gothenburg archipelago.

• Check out these tours of Sweden to explore the country in more depth
• Related: Best group tours in Europe for solo travellers

10. Icehotel, Sweden

Sleep on ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL in Sweden – a quintessential Nordic experience!

During the day, you can try your hand at fun winter activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing or snowmobiling. By night, keep warm on a reindeer-skin-covered ice bed. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the dancing northern lights in the sky above. 

• Head north to have a  winter getaway in Lapland

11. Copenhagen, Denmark

Travel to the fairytale city of Copenhagen, where you’ll discover royal palaces, nods to writer Hans Christian Andersen, and canals lined with colourful houses.

You could easily fill several days visiting all of Copenhagen’s cultural and historical attractions. But make sure to visit the extravagant Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish Royal family, and Tivoli Gardens, the world's second oldest amusement park.

• Visit Copenhagen as part of a  Scandinavian triangle tour that also includes Stockholm and Oslo

12. Helsinki, Finland

While not technically part of Scandinavia, don’t forget Finland when travelling through the Nordic countries.

Cross the Baltic Sea to Helsinki and experience Finnish culture at its finest. Here, you’ll find modern buildings alongside ornamental, Art Nouveau architecture, which makes exploring the city a real treat.

We recommend checking out the Design District, Temppeliaukion (an incredible rock-carved church), and Market Square.

• Take an  independent tour of Scandinavia including Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway

13. Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland

Relive childhood fantasies by visiting the official hometown of Santa Claus in the capital of Finnish Lapland.

After you’ve met the jolly old fellow, make sure to visit the Arktikum museum. Or head into the great outdoors to experience the stunning beauty of the Arctic wilderness.

Rovaniemi is also a good spot to chase the northern lights during the winter months.

• Visit in  December , January , February or March to enjoy the winter wonderland

Planning your trip to Scandinavia

Booking a trip to Scandinavia couldn't be easier with Nordic Visitor. You can take your pick from the large selection of self-drive itineraries , train and cruise packages , and guided group tours .

Choose your favourite itinerary and we'll do the rest for you. We'll book your accommodation, in-country transportation and transfers, and activities. So all you have to do is fly here and enjoy your holiday! 

When you’re ready to start planning your Scandinavian getaway, get in touch with our travel consultants who can arrange it all for you. They can even customise your itinerary should you have any particular needs and interests.  We’re here to help you make the most of your time in Scandinavia!

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

SCANDINAVIAN ROAD TRIP

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HIGHLIGHTS OF SCANDINAVIA & FINLAND CRUISE

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How to travel Scandinavia – Tips & Advice

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Scandinavia is a huge and beautiful region to explore but getting around can be a challenge. So we share how to travel Scandinavia.

A holiday in Scandinavia is many travelers’ dream, so if you managed to plan a whole trip around it – you are already halfway there. The countries are incredibly wealthy in culture, historical background, and all kinds of entertainment. However, you might need help navigating everything in general, so let’s look through our tips and advice on how to travel around Scandinavia. 

How to travel Around Scandinavia

Public Transport in Scandinavia

By far, the most popular means of traveling in Scandinavia is public transport! Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland all have very well-developed systems and a wide choice of transportation facilities and vehicles, allowing you to choose whichever suits you best. 

That includes way more than just buses or trains. Being close to so many waterbodies, they find comfort in traveling by boats, ferries, and passenger express ferries. What at some places can be considered poor-people choice, public transport in Scandinavia is at the high end of things. There are great metro, bus, and train systems, ones you can check at scandictrains.com . 

While the capital cities, Oslo, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Helsinki, have better-developed, high-profile railway systems, the smaller towns, and more remote areas are easily reachable by buses. When planning your Denmark itinerary , make sure to take advantage of public transportation.

However, keep in mind that in the winter season, when the roads get particularly difficult to drive through due to heavy weather, public transportation systems might not function as smoothly as they usually do, but they will still get you places! 

Coaches & buses in Scandinavia

Coach networking system in Scandinavia is one of the most thorough in Europe, especially the one in Finland, covering over 90% of public roads. Therefore, riding the coach is one of the most exciting ways to travel through Scandinavian countries overall since you get to enjoy the scenic backdrop, and while trains might not reach every remote corner, you can be sure that the coach most definitely will! 

Biking in Scandinavia

As you might already know, bike culture in Scandinavia is extremely popular, as residents choose it not for environmental purposes only, but they genuinely like crossing long distances and reaching places by them! 

And, actually, we have to understand. There are plenty of cycling routes in the city, all comfortable and completely safe for you to stay in the traffic, but avoid the cars. Additionally, settling on a bike is one of the best ways to see the remarkable scenery and general cityscape. So, you get a free tour and a quick ride!

It is possible to rent bikes at most places of accommodation and tourist offices. In comparison to the overall high pricing in Scandinavia, renting a bike will cost you surprisingly adequately, so do not hesitate if you need a quick, comfortable joyride! 

Hiking in Scandinavia

This one must make a lot of sense to you! Especially if you want to explore the rural part of Scandinavia. If you are full of energy and not at all scared of long walks and the fatigue from hiking, you must pack your good walking shoes and get ready to use them! 

There is a vast number of hiking trails all around Scandinavia, and if you choose to take a walk across some parts of Norway, you should know that their hiking routes are particularly demanding! Not as much in complexity, but in length. 

So, as fun as walking and hiking might be, just prepare for long hours and thousands of steps. A bottle of water may come in handy! 

Driving in Scandinavia

Obviously, you can always rent a car and be king of your own time! No schedules and timetables to follow, so you can relax and go exploring at your own pace. This is the most favored choice for families that come to see Scandinavia. It is much more comfortable to put the kids in the car and drive on without a care, rather than watching over them on trains, or buses, where seats next to each other are not always guaranteed. 

There are both ups and downs to renting a car, though. As comfortable as it is, this is quite a luxury in the grand scheme of things. The fees are quite high, so even if you do decide to go for it, really make sure you rent for the day you need it, not for the whole week! 

The roads are literally perfect in most Scandinavian regions, but you must be extra careful during winter. While the main roads are usually closed due to heavy snow, the highways are still open to use, so you must beware of precipitation and strong winds. 

Other than that, enjoy the views of your ride and the smoothness of Scandinavian roads! 

Walking around the cities of Scandinavia

Yes, we have talked about hiking, but what about the simple yet invigorating act of walking? And we do not mean long trails and hiking roads, but the sidewalks and city streets.

While it is quite doubtful that you will get up and walk straight from Sweden to Finland, you can try out your luck within the country’s borders. 

Avoid taxis and buses if you can, and rather enjoy the clear, crisp air of the Scandinavian climate – a good, long walk is the best way to wake up and get ready for a day full of exploration. We also suggest stopping for a chat or a meal at some local place, if only to rest for a bit. 

There you go – your ultimate guide to navigation across Scandinavia. Hopefully, this will help you make the right choice when deciding which is the best for you and your holiday plan. So have the best time and the best Scandinavian trip! 

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7 Day Denmark Itinerary including Copenhagen | Creative Travel Guide

Sunday 19th of February 2023

[…] the smallest of the Scandinavian countries and one of the happiest nations in the world will charm you with its medieval towns, beautiful […]

Best of Nordic Countries in 3 Weeks – Scandinavia Itinerary

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Planning a trip to Nordic countries? We’d be happy to help you craft a perfect Nordic itinerary or, Scandinavia itinerary (as some may call it), or Northern Europe itinerary.

Itinerary for Scandinavian Countries: An Introduction

First off, let me tell you that a trip to Scandinavia is going to be the best trip of your life. Why? Well, Nordic countries are consistently being listed as the top happiest countries, consistently. Plus, they are stunningly gorgeous!

Nordic Countries or Nordics or Norden consists of five beautiful Northern European countries of Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland along with their associated territories of Svalbard, Greenland, Faroe Islands, and Åland Islands .

Why am I telling you this?

Because…

The terms Scandinavia (Scandia) and Nordics are used interchangeably by foreigners (I’ve been a culprit too before I explored the Nordic region) but they aren’t.

Finns and Icelanders are always quick to correct travelers who call them Scandinavians .

What’s the Difference between Scandinavian Countries and Nordic Countries?

The term ‘Scandinavia’ is commonly used ONLY for Denmark, Sweden, and Norway while the term ‘Nordic countries’ is used for Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, Faroe Islands, and Åland Islands .

However, the associated territories of Svalbard (Norwegian archipelago) and Greenland are technically neither Scandinavia nor Nordics.

The Scandinavian Peninsula (not to be confused with the Scandinavian Region ) geographically comprises Norway and Sweden only.

To sum up, Northern Europe consists of the Nordics (Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland) and the Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). Some definitions of Northern Europe also include the United Kingdom and Ireland .

I guess, this topic makes for another blog post. Let’s now move to Nordics itinerary, the sole reason you’re here 🙂

I’ll be using Scandinavia and Nordics, both terms in my post for the ease of getting found by people randomly searching the terms Scandinavia and Nordic Countries.

The Nordic region is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly regions in Europe. Also, it’s one of the most expensive regions in Europe. Believe you me, exploring the region is worth every penny.

Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway are part of Europe’s Schengen Region. Read everything you need to know to score a Schengen visa for your Nordics trip.

Scandinavia Itinerary: Summer in Scandinavia

We spent 3 weeks in Scandinavia during the summer. The summer is magical here. It’s the time of the year when the sun refuses to go down and shines through the entire day and night. Seriously.

Summer and winter are, in fact, two extremes in Nordic countries.

If winter in Nordics brings sub-zero temperatures, dark days, snow-covered landscapes, and Northern Lights ; summer brings endless days, nightless nights, vibrant landscapes, and Midnight Sun.

The desire to witness the Aurora Borealis dancing in the night sky is such a mad rush among travelers all around the world that they overlook the region’s beauty during summer.

Witnessing the Midnight Sun in summer is as magical as the Northern Lights in winter.

Having said that, the Nordics region deserves two essential trips – one in summer and one in winter and some more to drink in its ethereal beauty.

It’s time to plan your Scandinavia travel !

Scandinavia Itinerary 21 Days: An Overview

Our itinerary lets you explore four epic Nordic countries in 3 weeks.

♥ Denmark ♥ Sweden ♥ Finland ♥ Norway

This is what a brief Scandinavia itinerary 3 weeks looks like –

C openhagen (6 nights) – Ystad ( 2 nights) – Molle ( 1 night) – Helsinki ( 3 nights) – Rovaniemi ( 2 nights) – Oslo (2 nights) – Bergen ( 2 nights) – Hardanger (1 night) – Flam ( 1 night) – Oslo ( 1 night)

Day 1: Fly into Copenhagen Day 2: Explore Copenhagen Day 3: Explore Copenhagen Day 4: Explore more of Copenhagen Day 5: Day Trip to Dragor Day 6: Day Trip to Helsingor Day 7: Road Trip to Malmo (Sweden) via Orseund Bridge Day 8: Explore Ystad Day 9: Explore Skane County. Drive to Kullaberg (Molle) Day 10: Kullaberg to Kastrup, Copenhagen. Fly to Helsinki. Day 11: Explore Helsinki Day 12: Day Trip to Porvoo Day 13: Fly to Rovaniemi Day 14: Explore Rovaniemi Day 15: Fly to Oslo Day 16: Explore Oslo Day 17: Oslo to Bergen train Day 18: Explore Bergen Day 19: Hardangerfjord Day 20: Flam Day 21: Flam to Oslo Day 22: Fly back home

Before we elaborate on our Scandinavia itinerary let’s first discuss the basics of a trip to Scandinavia.

Scandinavia Trip Itinerary: Things to Know Before You Go

Best time to visit scandinavia.

It all depends upon your choices. If you’d love to witness the white nights and want to soak in the Midnight Sun, plan during the months of June , July , and August .

If you dream of sleeping under the Northern Lights , September to March is the best time to go.

The months of May and September see fewer crowds and thus, are less expensive in terms of accommodations.

How much does a Trip to Scandinavia cost?

Scandinavia is infamous for being the most expensive region in the world. To some extent, it’s true. Scandinavia can be exorbitant if you’re not watchful about how you spend your money.

There are ways to cut your costs in Scandinavia –

• A little planning goes a long way. You save money when you plan and book well in advance.
• Prefer apartments over hotels.
• Shop at local grocery stores and cook your own food. If cooking isn’t your thing, you can go for pre-made meals from supermarkets. Aldi, Lidl, Kiwi, Rema 1000, Netto, and ICA are some of the budget-friendly supermarkets in Scandinavia. K-Market in Finland and Coop Prix in Norway are good discount stores.
• Food Market Halls like Kauppahallit in Helsinki or Torvehallerne in Copenhagen are another great option to cut costs on food. They are way cheaper than restaurants yet a great local food experience.
• Take Self-guided city tours and look for free attractions. Almost, all major cities in Scandinavia have tons of free and budget things to do and see.
• Buy City Tourist Cards like Copenhagen Card or Oslo Card that save money on attractions and transport. They work wonders when it comes to saving time, money, and hassle. You can buy them online and collect them at the airport.
• Bring an eco-friendly reusable water bottle. It saves money plus the environment. A water bottle in Scandinavia costs about $5.
• The Everyman’s Right (Right to Roam) in Nordic countries except Denmark makes it easy to camp in the wild. You can save a lot of money on accommodation if you’re traveling to Nordic countries during the summer.
• We found Norway the costlier of all other Nordic countries. You can maybe cut your time in Norway and spend more time in other Nordic countries to save some money.

We roughly spent about $2500 per person for 22 days in Scandinavia.

Getting to and from Scandinavia

From Asia , the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, and the UK, the most convenient way of getting to and from Scandinavia is to fly. If you’re in Europe, you have the option to travel by train, bus, car, or ferry.

From India, only two airlines fly directly to the Scandinavian capitals. Air India flies into Copenhagen directly from New Delhi while Finnair flies into Helsinki directly from New Delhi. There are no direct flights to Oslo and Stockholm from New Delhi.

There are a few airlines that fly directly to the Nordic capitals from North America . Norwegian Air flies into Oslo, Finnair flies into Helsinki, and SAS flies into Stockholm, and Copenhagen, direct from New York.

We use and recommend Skyscanner for the best flight deals.

Getting Around Scandinavia

With a flexible range of transport options, Scandinavia is easy to navigate.

We used a rental car for most of our time in Scandinavia though we tried other modes of transportation like flights, trains, buses, and ferries to make our trip more varied and interesting.

Renting a car in Europe has its own set of rules. You can read our detailed guide to renting a car in Europe which will help you get started .

We always use and recommend Discover Cars for our car rental needs wherever we travel in the world.

We traveled by train from Oslo to Bergen which is considered one of the world’s most scenic train journeys (you gotta experience it), took a ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki, and boarded flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi and Rovaniemi to Oslo.

I’d recommend taking a night train ( Santa Claus Express ) from Helsinki to Rovaniemi if you’ve more time on hand. Also, Norway in a Nutshell package is a great way to explore the dramatic fjords of Norway .

Make sure to book all your intercountry transportation tickets in advance.

It’s recommended to buy a Scandinavia Pass to get around Scandinavia on a budget .

A Detailed Scandinavia Itinerary: Explore Nordic Countries in 3 weeks

As always, our itinerary is packed with activities and leaves less time to just sit and do nothing. We love to explore and mini-me too loves to be on the move. She’s that restless.

This itinerary is made in a way that’ll fit all kinds of travelers, be they family travelers, or solo travelers, or couple travelers.

You can make slight changes and modify the itinerary as per your needs like it misses the famous hiking attractions in Norway (Trolltunga and Preikestolen) that can be added if hiking is what appeals to you.

First Destination: Denmark

Days to spend: 6 days.

You’ll start your Scandinavia exploration with the world’s most bike-friendly city and capital of Denmark, Copenhagen.

How to Get to Denmark

There are regular airline connections from the rest of the world to Copenhagen, Denmark. If you have got a direct flight, that’s awesome else book a flight with the least layover time.

You’ll fly into Kastrup International Airport in Copenhagen which is just about 15 minutes away from the city center.

You can rent a car at the airport or else you can take a train or bus to Kobenhavn H (Central Train Station) from where you can take a subway, bus, or taxi to reach your hotel or apartment in Copenhagen.

If you’re not renting a car, it’s best to book a hotel in and around the city center for ease of access.

Discover the Best Places to Stay in and around Copenhagen City Center, Denmark

Where to Stay in Denmark

Travelers usually keep Copenhagen as the base and prime destination in Denmark. Other cities worth visiting and spending a night or two in Denmark include Aarhus, Aalborg, Skagen, Ribe, and Odense. Dragor, Helsingor, and Roskilde can be visited on a day trip from Copenhagen .

Here are our recommendations for the best places to stay in Danish cities:

• Hotel in Copenhagen: citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen
• Hotel in Aarhus: Villa Provence
• Hotel in Aalborg: Aalborg Hotel Apartments
• Hotel in Skagen: Skagenhus ved Kirken
• Hotel in Ribe: Den Gamle Købmandsgaard Bed & Breakfast
• Hotel in Odense: Hotel Odeon
• Hotel in Dragor: Dragør Hotel & Apartments
• Hotel in Helsingor: Charming and cozy annex
• Hotel in Roskilde: Ann’s cottage

Related Read: 10 Days in Denmark Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Copenhagen

Today, you’ll arrive at the Danish capital, Copenhagen. The day is at leisure.

You can explore the streets of Copenhagen and get familiar with the city depending upon the time you get here or can head to your hotel to relax after a tiring flight journey.

Where to dine in Copenhagen on day 1?

Laundromat Cafe is quite a nice place to have a quick bite. Kids will love it.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen : We recommend CopenhagenApartment and citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen .

Read our detailed guide to the best hotels in Copenhagen .

Day 2 – Explore Copenhagen

Start early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.

The attractions you’ll be visiting today include:

• Frederik’s Church
• Amalienborg Palace
• Rosenborg Castle
• Statens Naturhistoriske Museum
• Round Tower
• Christiansborg Palace

Where to dine and drink in Copenhagen on day 2?

• Breakfast: Bowl Market Copenhagen
• Lunch: Torvehallerne or Restaurant Amalie
• Coffee and Snacks: Original Coffee ILLUM Rooftop
• Taste the traditional Danish pastry at Conditori La Glace, one of the historic cafes in Europe .
• Dinner: Riz Raz

Special Recommendation: A scoop or two of organic ice cream at Hansens Is .

You can visit all the Day 2 attractions on foot. The day-wise itinerary is crafted in a way that needs minimal walking.

Transportation and many attractions are free with the  Copenhagen Card . It’s such a time and money saver!

Day 3 – Explore Copenhagen

This day is reserved for kid-friendly attractions. I mean, today you’ll explore the best things to do with kids and kids-at-heart 🙂

• Copenhagen Zoo
• Frederiksberg Palace
• Assistens Cemetery
• Jægersborggade
• Superkilen Park
• Experimentium

Recommended dining in Copenhagen for day 3:

• Coffee and Cakes: Hart Bageri
• Lunch: The Sixteen Twelve
• Dinner: The South Indian Frederiksberg

Day 4 – Explore more of Copenhagen or Take a Day-Trip to Roskilde

If you’re done with Copenhagen (which I doubt), you can take a trip to Roskilde .

Or you can explore:

• Freetown Christiana
• Gefion Fountain
• The Worker’s Museum
• The Copenhagen Lakes
• Tivoli Gardens

Food recommendations in Copenhagen for the 3rd day:

• Breakfast at Reffen
• Lunch: Restaurant Kastellet
• Coffee and Snacks: Mad & Kaffe
• Dinner: Tivoli Food Hall

Read our detailed 3 days in Copenhagen itinerary

Day 5: Day Trip to Dragør from Copenhagen

Head to Dragor , a cute little fishing town on Amager Island in Denmark.

The visit to this beautiful historic village gives you enough time to relax and take a break from the helter-skelter of sightseeing.

Make sure to take your kids to Den Blå Planet (National Aquarium Denmark), the largest aquarium in northern Europe. It’s on the way to Dragor.

If you plan to spend a night in this quaint village, we suggest booking the classic and beautiful Dragør Fort Hotel .

Where to eat in Dragor? Harborfront Dragør Strandhotel , and Restaurant Beghuset . Don’t forget to taste ice cream at Nam Nam Is .

Read our complete guide to Dragør, Denmark

Day 6 – Day Trip to Helsingor from Copenhagen

How can you visit Denmark and not visit Helsingor aka Elsinore , the home of Shakespeare’s Hamlet?

Encircled by Orseund, the Sound, and the expanse of water between Sweden and Denmark, Helsingor is a colorful town with cobbled streets and a rich history.

Kronborg Castle , a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Helsingor has been a perfect setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The castle hosts Shakespeare’s Festival every summer where international stars portray Prince Hamlet.

You can also visit the Maritime Museum of Denmark, the Culture Yard by AART , and the Danish Museum of Science and Technology .

Where to eat in Helsingør? Værftets Madmarked and Elsinore Street Food .

Note: You can add Aarhus to your Denmark Itinerary if you have an extra day or two. You’d love its Aros Aarhus Art Museum and Infinite Bridge.

How to Get Around Copenhagen? For the most part, Copenhagen is very well accessible by foot and public transportation. A rental car is good for day trips but not suggested for city excursions of course for obvious reasons. Guided tours are also a pretty good option to explore the city without any tension.

We love and recommend Discover Cars to rent a car wherever you go.

Second Destination: Sweden

Days to spend: 3 days.

On the sixth day of your Scandinavia adventure, you’ll say goodbye to Denmark as Sweden welcomes you with a friendly and warm smile.

How to Get to Sweden

Our itinerary needs you to have a rental car as you’ll be exploring the Swedish countryside which is otherwise inaccessible by public transportation.

It’s quite easy to get from Denmark to Sweden by air, bus, or train. There are buses and trains from Copenhagen to Gothenburg, Malmo, and Stockholm.

If you are planning to explore the far north of Swedish Lapland like Kiruna and Abisko, there are regular flights by Norwegian Air and SAS from Copenhagen.

Where to Stay in Sweden

There are umpteen good stay options all across Sweden. Stockholm, being the capital and major city of Sweden offers a variety of hotels, apartments, and hostels for all budgets. Gothenburg, Gotland(Visby), Kiruna, and Skane (Ystad, Malmo, Molle, and Helsingborg) are other popular destinations in Sweden.

Malmo can be easily visited on a day trip from Copenhagen.

Here are the hotel recommendations for popular cities in Sweden:

• Hotel in Stockholm: NOFO Hotel; BW Premier Collection
• Hotel in Gothenburg: Hotel Vanilla
• Hotel in Visby: Hotel Villa Borgen
• Hotel in Kiruna: True Nature
• Hotel in Ystad: Charming Townhouse
• Hotel in Mölle: Pensionat Strandgården
• Hotel in Helsingborg: The Vault Hotel

Day 7 – Drive from Copenhagen to Malmo | Explore Malmo | Drive from Malmo to Ystad.

Take a beautiful drive to Malmo from Copenhagen via Öresund Bridge .

Check with your car hire company if your rental agreement allows you to cross international borders. Our car hire company gave us a paper that we showed at the border check.

If you don’t have a rental car , you can take a train (ACP Rail) or a bus (Flixbus, Netbuss, or Gråhundbus) from København H (Copenhagen Central Station).

Whichever mode of transport you choose, it usually takes about 40 minutes to reach Malmo from Copenhagen.

Great coffee with cakes and croissants at Noir Kaffekultur , that’ll be all you need for a great head start.

You’d love to check Turning Torso, Malmo Castle, and St. Peter’s Church before you have lunch at Sajvva , a great place in Malmo for vegans and vegetarians like me.

Once done with lunch, fasten your seat belt for another beautiful drive from Malmo to Ystad.

It’s a real delight to drive the awe-inspiring Sweden countryside.

We stayed at a lovely holiday cottage in Löderups Strandbad.

That’s all we needed – I mean a secluded cottage in the middle of the lush forest with a beach nearby, a perfect summer holiday.

Spend the day taking long walks through the forest and soaking in the warmth of the Midnight Sun while sitting at the beach with a glass of wine while kids cycle, run around, and play with the sand.

It’s always good to add such destinations to your otherwise action-packed itinerary. Isn’t it?

Here, you need to visit the nearest supermarket as you’ll have to cook your own dinner at your cottage.

If the idea of cooking on a vacation scares you, check out the best hotels to stay in Ystad, Sweden.

Day 8 – Explore Ystad

Ystad, a gorgeous town located in Skane county on the southern coast of Sweden with its cobbled streets lined with medieval, pastel-colored half-timbered houses, white-sand beaches, centuries-old historical sights, and ravishing rolling countryside all around is well worth a visit.

I instantly fell in love with its beauty.

Kurt Wallander’s crime series by Henning Mankell was set in Ystad. If you’re a Scandi-noir and Wallander fan, you can take one of the Wallander guided tours to see all the locations where the scenes were shot.

Don’t forget to visit the largest film studio in Scandinavia, Ystad Studios .

Where to eat in Ystad? Villa Strandvagen , Maltes Mackor , and Glassmakeriet .

Where to stay in Ystad? We recommend Hotell Bäckagården and Charming Townhouse .

Day 9 – Explore More of Skane County | Drive to Kullaberg

There are a whole lot of things to do in and around Skåne County (Scania) but we chose a few of those as we only had a day to explore Skåne.

We started our day with Ales Staner , a ship-shaped henge. It’s located in the tiny and beautiful village of Kåseberga . Legend has it that the ancient stone ship stands on the grave of a mythic king, King Ale.

Forget about history, the site where the stones are erected in the shape of a ship is utterly impressive. As soon as you hike the hill, you can’t help but admire the views overlooking the Baltic Ocean.

Our next stop was Skånes Djurpark in Höör Municipality, Skåne – a must-visit with kids. The zoo has more than a thousand wild as well as tame Nordic animals – elks, foxes, wolves, lynxes, bears, seals, and many more.

Kids had unlimited fun getting up close with animals, trying horse riding, enjoying the Shaun the Sheep theme park, and climbing the wooden bridges in the trees. Definitely, the best family fun in Skåne.

It was time for us to head to Kullaberg in Mölle, Sweden. It took us a little over an hour to reach Kullaberg Nature Reserve , a haven for outdoor lovers.

You can take scenic hikes, experience Porpoise Safari , check out the mysterious caves and coves, go fishing, admire the views from vantage points, paddle, swim, and so much more.

We enjoyed the Porpoise Safari in a RIB boat. The tour lasts for about an hour and costs Kr 450 per adult and Kr 300 per child.

We stayed at Pensionat Strandgården in Mölle. Wowzers it is! Highly recommended.

Where to eat near Kullaberg Nature Reserve? There aren’t many places to eat near the nature reserve. We tried Molle Krukmakeri and Ransvik Havsveranda and found them decent.

PS: And you can’t leave Sweden before you experience fika, one of the most beautiful coffee traditions around the world .

We wanted to extend the time in Sweden and explore Gothenburg and Stockholm and then take a ferry to Turku, Finland, or a flight from Stockholm to Helsinki, Finland but we came back to Copenhagen to catch our flight to Helsinki because car rental companies charge exorbitantly high if you pick your rental from one country and drop it in another. Check out 10 unusual things to do in Stockholm if you’re planning to add Stockholm to your Scandinavian itinerary.

Our car rental charges for 8 days (pick up and drop at Copenhagen Airport) were 8,000 INR ($ 100) and if we returned the car in Gothenburg, we’d had to pay 65,000 ($ 900).

Third Destination: Finland

Days to spend: 5 days.

You’d fall for this little country wrapped cozily into the far up north. Day 9 of the Scandinavia itinerary takes you to Finland.

How to Get to Finland

There are quite a good number of regular flights (Sichuan Airlines, Norwegian, SAS, and Finnair) from Copenhagen, Denmark to Helsinki, Finland. The journey takes a little less than 2 hours.

Where to Stay in Finland

Finland has awesome and unique stay options. For travelers, Helsinki remains the prime or first location in Finland. Summer or winter, you gotta plan a stay in Finnish Lapland to experience the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights.

Here are our recommendations for Hotels in Finnish cities:

• Hotel in Helsinki: Hotel F6
• Hotel in Turku: Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone
• Hotel in Porvoo: Small historic wooden house in Porvoo old town
• Hotels in Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Holiday Village ; Glass Resor t
• Hotel in Saariselka: Villa Karhunpesä ; Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Igloos and Chalets

Day 10 – Fly from Copenhagen to Helsinki | Explore Helsinki

Today, you have to drive back to Kastrup Airport (a 2-hour drive) and leave your car at the car rental drop to catch a flight to Helsinki .

Take a taxi, train, or bus to your hotel in Helsinki to drop off your bags and spend your day exploring the Finnish capital, Helsinki.

Take a self-guided or guided walking tour starting from Helsinki Central Station to explore the beautiful churches, charming streets, and markets of Helsinki.

Where to dine and drink in Helsinki on day 1?

• Lunch at Zucchini
• Coffee and Snacks at Karl Fazer Cafe
• Dinner at Kauppatori Market Square

Day 11 – Explore Helsinki

On your second day in Helsinki, you can go on island-hopping. Take a ferry from Market Square that takes you to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Vallisaari, and Lonna .

Once you’re done with the island-hopping, have a cup of coffee and snacks at Cafe Regatta .

If you’re traveling with kids, take them to the Linnanmaki Amusement Park, or else you can try the famous Finnish Sauna at Löyly , one of the most popular activities in Helsinki .

Where to eat in Helsinki on day 2?

• Lunch at Juuri  
• Coffee and Snacks at Cafe Regatta
• Dinner at Restaurant Savotta

Recommended Reading: Best things to do in Helsinki, Finland A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Helsinki, Finland

Day 12 – Day Trip to Porvoo from Helsinki

Want a break from city sightseeing? Hop on a bus and head to the little fairytale town of Porvoo. Less than an hour away from Helsinki, Porvoo makes for a perfect day trip.

What’s so special about it? Well, you’ll know once you’re there 🙂

It’s so pretty that you’d want to just pack it in your bag and take it back home 😉

Stroll the cobbled streets adorned with pretty rows of pastel houses, museums, and cafes, and make sure to taste Runeberg’s Torte and Brunberg’s truffle .

If you’ve time, you can take a bus from Porvoo to visit Klovharun , fondly known as Moomin Island.

Where to eat in Porvoo? Ani’s Cafe , Zum Beispiel ,  Sinne , and SicaPelle are some of the best places to dine and drink in Porvoo.

If you plan to stay in Porvoo, please, please book this Small historic wooden house in Porvoo’s old town .

Here’s the ultimate guide to the charming town of Porvoo in Finland

Day 13 – Fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi | Explore Rovaniemi

This day is solely for kids – the most awaited experience for kids. You are off to Rovaniemi – the official hometown of the kid’s beloved Santa Claus.

Norwegian Air and Finnair have regular flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Helsinki to Rovaniemi by air.

Santa Express Train is another good option provided you’ve enough time on your hands.

Pick up your rental car from Rovaniemi Airport and spend your day exploring Santa Claus Village – Cross the Arctic Circle, meet Santa Claus himself, feed the reindeer, and visit Husky Park.

Take that mandatory pic with the jolly man in the red!

Relax at your hotel and apartment before you start your hike to Ounsvara to witness the most unique and iconic natural phenomenon, the Midnight Sun .

Rovaniemi is one of the best places in northernmost Finland where you can experience full Midnight Sun when the sun stays above the horizon for about 70 days.

You can spot the magical phenomenon from May to August with June and July being the best months.

Where to eat in Rovaniemi on day 1?

• Lunch at Kotahovi Lapland Restaurant
• Coffee and Snacks at Coffee House
• Dinner at Restaurant Valdemari’s

Where to stay in Rovaniemi? Ukonloma Cottages , Kyyhkynen , Arctic Light Hotel , and Hostel Cafe Koti .

Day 14 – Explore Rovaniemi

Today, you’ll take a day trip to Ranua Wildlife Park , home to about 200 Arctic animals like polar bears, foxes, and lynxes.

Where to eat near Ranua Wildlife Park? We found the Wild Arctic restaurant good.

Try Rosso for Dinner and don’t forget to try Nordic’s pure ice cream by Arctic Ice Cream Factory . There are many outlets in Rovaniemi.

Read to know how a trip to Finnish Lapland in summer looks and feels like

Fourth Destination: Norway

Days to spend: 7 days.

Think Norway, think fjords. Majestic Norwegian fjords – there’s no match to them. There are 1000s of them dotting Norway’s coastline. It’s time to explore the sheer and unmatched natural beauty of Norway .

How to Get to Norway

Rovaniemi, Finland to Oslo, Norway is about 4 hours away by flight with a stopover in Helsinki. There’s no direct flight from Rovaniemi. You can come back to Helsinki and spend a day maybe before catching a flight to Oslo.

Where to Stay in Norway

Norway’s capital, Oslo has amazing accommodation options. Other cities of interest in Norway include Bergen, Flåm, Stavanger, Tromsø, Trondheim, the Lofoten Islands, Kristiansund, and Ålesund.

Here are the hotel recommendations for major Norwegian cities:

• Hotels in Olso: Thon Hotel Storo ; Camillas Hus
• Hotel in Bergen: Scandic Flesland Airport
• Hotel in Flåm: Flåm Ferdaminne
• Hotel in Stavanger: Historical apartments in the heart of the old town
• Hotel in Tromsø: Water-View Home
• Hotel in Trondheim: Affordable three-bedroom apartment
• Hotel in Lofoten: Sennesvik Apartments
• Hotel in Kristiansund: Blåbærdalen 20 Luksusvilla
• Hotel in Lyngstad: Ola Bua Near The Atlantic Road
• Hotel in Ålesund: Hotel Brosundet

Day 15 – Fly from Rovaniemi to Oslo | Explore Oslo

Your Norway itinerary starts in the capital city of Oslo.

From Rovaniemi, it’s about a 4-hour flight to Oslo including a short stopover at Helsinki. Take a shuttle train (Flytoget) to the city center and maybe a taxi from there to your hotel, drop off your luggage and freshen up before you start the sightseeing.

It’s always a good idea to book a hotel in the city center to save time and money on transportation.

On your first day in Oslo, you’ll explore:

• Oslo Opera House
• Frogner Park
• Slottsplassen
• Karl Johans Gate
• Nobel Peace Center
• Oslo City Hall

Where to eat in Oslo on day 1?

• Lunch at Tunco
• Coffee and snacks at Funky Fresh Foods – DogA
• Dinner at Freddy Fuego Burrito Bar Tjuvholmen

There are many awesome places to dine in Oslo but are expensive. I’ve suggested the ones we found cheap yet best – the absolute value of money.

Where to stay in Oslo? Mad Architect’s Shared Apt – Sørenga – Homestay, Thon Hotel Storo , and Camillas Hus .

Day 16 – Explore Oslo, Norway

The second day in Oslo starts with an Oslofjord cruise and then a ferry to the Bygdøy peninsula . The peninsula is brimming with famous Norwegian museums like the Kon-Tiki Museum, Fram Museum, Viking Ship Museum, and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History .

You can’t visit Oslo with kids and not visit one of its amazing museums.

Make sure to grab an Oslo Pass to save money on museums and other major attractions in Oslo.

We recommend visiting the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norwegian Folk Museum), Fram Museum, and Kon-Tiki Museum.

Dining recommendations for your 2nd day in Oslo: Mamma Pizza Osteria , Haralds Vaffel , Habits Coffee , and Oslo Street Food .

Try Statholdergaarden if you want to splurge on food.

Read our guide to the best things to do in Oslo, Norway

Day 17 – Oslo to Bergen on Bergen Railway | Explore Bergen

Day 16 of your Nordic Countries tour is beautiful. Today, you’ll ride one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, the Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen) from Oslo to Bergen .

This train journey is a part of the famous Norway in a Nutshell tour but that needs you to get down at Myrdal to board the Flåm Railway ( Flåmsbana ), another popular scenic train ride from Myrdal to Flam.

We didn’t take the package so traveled to Bergen.

The journey is exhilarating and the best introduction you can have to the Norwegian landscape.

Read all about the scenic train journey from Oslo to Bergen

If you book Norway in a Nutshell Tour , your transportation is managed by them but if you’re exploring Bergen (Gateway to the fjords) and Norwegian fjords on your own like us, the best way is to rent a car.

The car rental services aren’t available at the Bergen Railway Station which means you’ll have to catch a bus (Flybussen) to reach the Bergen Airport and rent a car.

Once you’ve rented a car, check in your hotel, relax, and spend the evening strolling the colorful lanes and pretty harbor of Bryggen and check out the Bergen fish market.

Where to dine in Bergen?

• Coffee and snacks at Lovetann Kaffebar
• Dinner at Trekroneren

Where to stay in Bergen? Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Bergen , YM40 , Bjørnestrand Fjordside View , Scandic Flesland Airport

Day 18 – Explore Bergen

The entire day is dedicated to exploring Bergen . Ride the Fløibanen funicular and/or the Ulriken cable car to get 360-degree panoramic views over the city.

Visit the KODE Art Museums , especially KODE 4 which has Kunstlab where kids can learn the art while playing.

Next, you can visit Bergen Science Center Vilvite (kid-friendly) or Bergenhus Fortress depending upon the time and interest.

You can take the cruise along the Osterfjord if you’ve time and energy. The cruise leaves from the fish market pier. The last cruise leaves at 6 pm during the summer season and 2 pm otherwise.

Dining suggestions for 2nd day in Bergen:

• Lunch at Bare Restaurant
• Coffee and snacks at Godt Brod
• Dinner at the Horn of Africa

With more time, you can take one of many beautiful day trips from Bergen .

PS: We loved Bergen so much that the plan for the second visit is already on my mind. We explored Bergen in the summer and now are keen to witness the magic of Bergen in winter.

Day 19 – Drive to Hardangerfjord from Bergen | Explore Hardanger

The day finally is here when you’ll witness the majestic Norwegian fjord up close. A beautiful drive from Bergen to Hardangerfjord takes less than 2 hours.

The third-longest fjord in the world and second-longest in Norway, Hardangerfjord is wild and stunning.

There are many ways you can revel in the beauty of the fjord – hiking, walking, cruising, kayaking, and many more.

Where to eat in Hardanger? Hardangerviddahallen Restaurant & Cafe, Restaurant Fjell & Fjord, and Mabodalen Camping and Hyttesenter.

Where to stay in Hardanger? Hardangerfjord Hotel , Mo Gardsferie , Apartment in Herand , Vik Pensjonat Og Hytter , and Jaunsen Gjestegjevarstad .

Day 20 – Drive to Flam | Explore Flam

Today, drive the beautiful stretch from Eidfjord to Flam. There are many beautiful stops on the way to Flam like Voss, Gudvangen, and Stalheimskleiva .

Don’t rush but try to soak in the experiences.

You can opt for a Norled express boat from Bergen to Flam along the Sognefjord if you’ve enough time. The round-trip takes the entire day and the single journey takes over 5.5 hours. The boat leaves at 8:00 and makes brief stops at fjord villages on the way before it reaches Flam. The return trip starts at around 15:00 in the afternoon.

Once you reach Flam, take a fjord cruise or fjord safari through UNESCO Nærøyfjord , the most dramatic and wildest arm of the Sognefjord.

The three-hour tour passes through endless waterfalls, mountainside farms, little fjord villages, and colossal mountains.

One of the tours ( Heritage Taste Fjord Safari ) lets you get down to the beautiful village of Undredal , famous for its authentic goat cheese.

You can taste different varieties of cheese and jams at Eldhuset.

Once you’re done with the fjord cruise, board the Flamsbana for the most enchanting train journey from Flam to Myrdal and back.

Where to eat in Flam? Fretheim Hotel Restaurant, Flam Marina and Appartement Cafe, Green Norway Flam, and Bakkastova .

Where to stay in Flam? Flåm Marina , Flåm Ferdaminne , and Visit Undredal .

Related Read: 7 Days in Norway Itinerary 2 Weeks in Norway Itinerary

Day 21 – Road Trip from Flam to Oslo

Day 21. Sigh! We are almost done with our Nordic Countries exploration. Wait! The best is yet to come 🙂

Today, you’ll drive one of the loveliest road trips you’ve ever driven in your life. Believe you me.

The road trip from Bergen via Flam to Oslo passes through exciting tunnels, medieval churches, cute towns, mountain passes, national parks, dramatic fjords, and whatnot.

The entire road journey (300+ km) takes around 5 to 6 hours including the time spent at stopovers.

Here’s a detailed post about the road trip from Bergen to Oslo

You can retire to your hotel or check out the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower in the evening. Climb the observation deck on top of the jump tower to enjoy the panoramic views over Oslo. The evenings are special as they bring beautiful sunsets over Oslofjord .

Day 22 – Fly Back Home

Finally, it’s time to say goodbye to the Nordics. I don’t like the endings especially when it comes to beautiful trips but as they say, “All good things must come to an end.”

You’ll fly out from Oslo to head home, wherever in the world it is. If you have a flight late afternoon or evening, you can spend some time exploring more of Oslo or maybe shopping for souvenirs. We recommend Way Nor for souvenirs.

Phew! This is an exhaustive guide to Scandinavia and we hope it helps travelers across the world to travel to this beautiful region in Northern Europe.

So, it’s basically a Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland itinerary! You can add Iceland to this itinerary to explore the entire Nordic region. I purposely left Iceland as we have planned to visit it sometime soon during the Northern Lights season 🙂

Suggested Scandinavia Itineraries

For all those who don’t have 3 weeks to devote to the trip but still want to explore Scandinavia. Don’t worry, we have got you covered!

Here are suggested itineraries for Scandinavia for 15 days, 14 days, 12 days, 10 days, and 7 days:

Scandinavia Itinerary 15 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark | Explore Copenhagen

Day 2: Explore Copenhagen

Day 3: Take a Day trip to Kronborg Castle from Copenhagen

Day 4: Fly from Copenhagen to Stavanger, Norway | Explore Stavanger

Day 5: Hike Pulpit Rock

Day 6: Fly from Stavanger to Bergen | Explore Bergen

Day 7: Hike Trolltunga

Day 8: Take a Day Trip to Flåm to experience Norwegian Fjord Cruise (Nærøyfjord) and Flåm Railway

Day 9: A Scenic Train Journey or a Road Trip from Bergen to Oslo

Day 10: Explore Oslo

Day 11: Fly from Oslo to Stockholm, Sweden | Explore Stockholm

Day 12: Explore Stockholm

Day 13: Fly from Stockholm to Helsinki, Finland | Explore Helsinki

Day 14: Explore Helsinki

Day 15: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 14 Days (Bonus: Vibrant Estonian Capital of Tallinn)

Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki, Finland | Explore Helsinki

Day 2: Explore Helsinki

Day 3: Take a Ferry to Tallinn, Estonia | Explore Tallinn

Day 4: Explore Tallinn | Overnight Cruise from Tallinn to Stockholm, Sweden

Day 5: Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Fly from Stockholm to Copenhagen | Explore Copenhagen

Day 7: Explore Copenhagen

Day 8: Fly from Copenhagen to Oslo, Norway | Explore Oslo

Day 9: Explore Oslo

Day 10: A Scenic Train Journey or a Road Trip from Oslo to Bergen

Day 11: Explore Bergen

Day 12: Explore Flåm and the Norwegian Fjords

Day 13: Drive or Fly from Bergen to Stavanger | Explore Stavanger

Day 14: Fly Back Home

PS: Alternatively, you can join Norway in a Nutshell Tour on Day 10 that starts in Oslo and covers the beautiful Flåmsbana train ride and fjord cruise, and ends in Bergen. In that case, you can trade the day dedicated to Flam for the Trolltunga hike.

Scandinavia Itinerary for 12 Days: An Exciting Scandinavia Road Trip Itinerary

Day 3: Drive to Gothenburg, Sweden | Explore Gothenburg

Day 4: Drive from Gothenburg to Stockholm | Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Drive from Stockholm to Oslo

Day 7: Explore Oslo

Day 8: Drive from Oslo to Bergen

Day 9: Explore Bergen

Day 10: Explore Flam and Norwegian Fjords

Day 11: Drive from Bergen to Stavanger | Explore Stavanger

Day 12: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 10 Days

Day 3: Fly from Copenhagen to Stockholm, Sweden | Explore Stockholm

Day 4: Explore Stockholm

Day 5: Fly from Stockholm to Oslo, Norway | Explore Oslo

Day 6: Fly from Oslo to Bergen | Explore Bergen

Day 7: Take a Day trip from Bergen to Flåm | Cruise Nærøyfjord | Ride Flåmsbana

Day 8: Fly from Bergen to Helsinki, Finland | Explore Helsinki

Day 9: Explore Helsinki

Day 10: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Itinerary 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Stockholm, Sweden | Explore Stockholm

Day 2: Fly or Board a Train from Stockholm to Copenhagen, Denmark | Explore Copenhagen

Day 3: Explore Copenhagen | Overnight Cruise from Copenhagen to Oslo, Norway

Day 4: Explore Oslo

Day 5: Fly or Board a Train from Oslo to Stockholm | Explore Stockholm

Day 6: Explore Stockholm

Day 7: Fly Back Home

Scandinavia Trip Itinerary: FAQs

What are the Scandinavian countries?

Denmark, Norway, and Sweden are Scandinavian countries, geographically. However, Finland, and Iceland, along with the Faroe Islands, Greenland, and Åland are also considered Scandinavian countries, traditionally. Ideally, they all together are called – Nordic countries.

How many days do you need to visit Scandinavia?

You need at least 10 days to explore the best of Scandinavia. 10 days in Scandinavia allows you to tick off the highlights of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, however, it’d be a bit rushed trip. 2 weeks in Scandinavia are perfect to discover Scandinavia in a relaxed manner while 3 weeks in the region lets you discover the hidden gems or add some of the lesser known places.

What are the best months to travel in Scandinavia?

If you go by book, the summer months of June, July, and August are the best months to visit Scandinavia. It’s when the weather is just perfect, the days are endless, and the magic of the midnight sun adds to the experience. However, I feel winter in Scandinavia is extra special too because it brings the otherworldly northern lights and hygge , mysa , and koselig !

Is it expensive in Scandinavia?

Yes, Scandinavia is costly! Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland rank on the top among the most expensive countries to travel to and live in the world. Yet, there are many ways you can visit Scandinavia on a budget if you choose rental vacation homes over hotels, cook your own food over eating out, visit free attractions, use discount passes, and plan well in advance. Also, planning to go during the low season also helps.

Which Scandinavian country to visit first?

It doesn’t matter which Scandinavian country you visit first. You can start in Sweden or Denmark or Norway or Finland depending on where there are a good number of direct as well as cheap flights to and from your home country available. Your Scandinavian itinerary mostly starts and ends in different countries.

Which country is better in Scandinavia?

Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland; each Scandinavian country is different and more beautiful than the next. Denmark has world-class design and architecture, Norway has unearthly fjords and wilderness, Sweden has lush woodlands, pristine lakes, and islands, and Finland has stunning lakes, and traditional sauna culture, and it is home to the Santa Clause.

Is it easy to travel between Scandinavian countries?

Yes, traveling between Scandinavian countries is quite easy and comfortable. With extensive road, rail, air, and sea networks, getting around Scandinavia is a breeze. Express trains, overnight cruises, short ferry rides, long-distance coaches, low-cost flights – options abound. And, not to mention, a road trip around Scandinavia is the way to go if you have time.

What’s Scandinavia known for?

Scandinavia is famous for its Viking heritage, stunning landscape, endless forest cover, pristine lakes, magical fjords, gushing waterfalls, beautiful beaches, remarkable design, and architecture, royal palaces, pretty churches, unique culture, mouth-watering cuisine, charming towns, northern lights, midnight sun, and happy vibe. It’s one hell of a region!

So, when are you planning your trip to Scandinavia? If you need any further assistance as you plan to travel to Scandinavia, let us know in the comments section below. We’ll be more than happy to help!

Recommended Reading:

• Renting a Car in Europe
• Schengen Visa for Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe
• Cheap and Free Things to do in Copenhagen
• 3 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary
• 13+ Incredible Day Trips from Copenhagen
• Best Hotels in Copenhagen for Families
• Dragør in Denmark
• Best Places to Visit in Denmark
• Cool Danish Words
• Trip to Finnish Lapland in Summer
• Best Things to do in Helsinki
• A First-Timer’s Guide to Visiting Helsinki
• Porvoo in Finland
• Where to Stay in Rovaniemi
• Best Places to Visit in Norway with Kids
• Oslo with Kids
• Where to Stay in Oslo
• Undredal in Norway
• The Train from Oslo to Bergen
• A Road Trip from Bergen to Oslo
• 7 Days in Norway Itinerary
• 2 Weeks in Norway Itinerary
• Beautiful Norwegian Words
• Cool Swedish Words

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Anjali Chawla

7 thoughts on “Best of Nordic Countries in 3 Weeks – Scandinavia Itinerary”

Hello Anjali! What a nice web travel spot you ve created. I am heading to Denmark, Sweden and Finland for 10 days with 3 kids ( 13 to 20 yrs.), mid january. I am from Argentina and that´s our summer holidays. Do you think it still would be an acceptable idea ( short days, cold cold cold ).

Hey Fernando!

I and Neha love it when our readers find our content helpful because that’s our ultimate goal 🙂 Thank you so much for your kind words.

Fernando, the plus points of visiting the Nordic countries in winter are – fewer crowds, lower costs, loads of winter activities, and a chance to witness Aurora Borealis while the downsides include chilly and windy weather, shorter days (translates to less exploration time), and closed roads (matters if road tripping is on your list). Also, many sights and activities remain closed or open on a limited schedule during winter.

Having said that, I’d say winter is a good time to go if your travel goal is to catch the northern lights and indulge in winter sports.

If you can postpone your plan then I’d recommend visiting from late May to early June when the weather is just perfect, days are long, crowds are limited, and all the sights and activities are open.

If you can’t put off your plan then make sure to pack well for your winter adventure as you’ve kids traveling with you. As they say, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.” You gotta exercise caution while packing for your trip so you and your kids can feel comfortable during wintertime and enjoy snowy activities.

Be ready to layer up or bundle up. You must pack insulated, well-ventilated, and weather resistant jackets, waterproof lower, fleece leggings, long-sleeved tops, thermal underwear, warm sweaters to layer on tops, waterproof boots with a good grip, warm cap, war, and waterproof gloves, warm scarves, and thick socks. Make sure that the material of clothes is lightweight and quick dry.

Hope that helps. If you’ve any further questions or concerns, please let me know. I’m here to help!

Happy Travels!

Glad you liked the article and found it helpful. Hope it helps you plan your Scandinavia trip

The best information I read and don’t know even what is Nordic. It’s nice to know and learn other countries and one day we can visit this places.

So beautiful even looking only on the photos. Just saving money for the next holiday. Bon Voyage!

This sounds amazing! Thank your for your hard work in putting it together. I I’m not sure when we’ll be able to go, but it sounds like a dream vacation.

Excellent info – thank you! If I have 4 weeks to travel around these gorgeous countries, is there anywhere you’d add to the above itinerary?

If you have 4 weeks in Scandinavia, I’d suggest you to add 2 or 3 more days in Denmark to explore the charming cities of Aarhus and Odense and 2 to 3 days in Norway for Stavanger, Pulpit Rock Hike, or maybe a visit to Jostedalsbreen National Park. You can also refer to the itineraries for Denmark and Norway on my blog for more ideas.

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Scandinavia Tours: Many Options For Transportation

Transportation in iceland.

• CAR and BUS rides: the famous “Ring Road” circles the country and connects to a myriad of smaller roads which can take you to most locations in Iceland. Keep in mind that many of those smaller roads (and even sections of the Ring Road) can be closed in the winter time, due to snow accumulation. The good news is that in the winter time the Northern Lights are visible from anywhere in the country, not just in the remote areas.
• FLIGHTS: the country harbors about 30 major airports (impressive!) connected by a well-structured network of daily flights. You can fly within Iceland with Icelandair , the country’s main international airline, and the domestic options Air Iceland and Eagle Air . In January 2020 I had the pleasure of visiting the Westman Islands on an Eagle Air flight and enjoyed the 25-min, incredibly-scenic flight from the Reykjavik Domestic Airport just as much as the destination! Another way to fly, of course, is with an awesome helicopter ride. We use one on this winter tour .
• BOAT rides: it is possible to circumnavigate the entire country and stop at many beautiful ports along the way.
• FLIGHTS on major airlines such as Icelandair, SAS, British Airlines and many other European carriers.
• FERRY rides to the Faroe Islands and Denmark (multi-day trip). There are also cruise lines connecting the island to Norway and Sweden.

Creating The Best Tour Of Norway

• The Bergen Line, connecting Hønefoss to Bergen
• The Rauma Line, connecting Dombås to Åndalsnes
• The famous Flåm Line, connecting Myrdal to Flåm
• If you have a few hours to spare, a ferry ride from Flåm to Balestrand to Bergen is a wonderful way to cruise the Sognefjord, the largest of the Norwegian fjords. We expose our clients to that wonderful exploration on this tour . Once in Bergen you can catch a ferry down to Stavanger, in the south, and be there in about 5 hours.
• If you have 7 nights you can embark a Hurtigruten cruise (there are also some Northern Lights cruise) and travel from Bergen all the way to Kirkenes, near the Russian border. Many Norway tours combine a cruise along the coast with a land package as well. With fewer nights you can get to Ålesund, Trondheim or Bodø, for instance. Starting in 2021, travelers will also be able to cruise the Norwegian coast on Havila, a well-established Norwegian company in the shipping arena, now entering the leisure segment.
• FLIGHTS: in addition to SAS, Norwegian Air and other major carriers, count on the domestic Widerøe to deliver you safely and comfortably to some of the more remote airports in Norway.

• Take a short flight on SAS, Norwegian Air and many other carriers.
• Enjoy a ferry ride from Oslo or Kristiansand to Denmark.
• Travel by train to a number of destinations in Sweden.
• There are bus routes north of the Gulf of Bothnia (in between Sweden and Finland), so you can move within certain destinations in Lapland (Norway, Sweden and Finland) by bus.

Creating The Best Tour Of The Nordic Countries (Sweden, Denmark & Finland)

• Daily flights connecting many cities are quick and practical. Most direct flights connecting any 2 locations in Sweden, Denmark and Finland are shorter than 90 minutes! Your top carrier options will be SAS, Norwegian Air and Finnair.
• From Denmark you can catch ferries to Norway (including an overnight between Copenhagen and Oslo ) or Iceland.
• From Sweden you can catch a ferry to Turku or Helsinki (Finland). We employ the Stockholm-Helsinki overnight cruise in our Complete Tour of Scandinavia and our clients love it.
• It is also good to know that from Helsinki you can catch a ferry an be in the Estonian capital, Tallinn, in just 2 hours. Many of our clients visiting Helsinki take advantage of that and enjoy a fun daytrip in gorgeous Tallinn.

• There’s much scenery to be enjoyed and road conditions are generally good, but winter driving requires experience. This is particularly true if you are heading north in Sweden or Finland to see the Northern Lights, for instance. That means that you are getting close to crossing the Arctic Circle… expect snow!
• Returning a car at a location other than the pick up one will cost you. One-way fees are hefty!
• You do not need an international driver’s license. Just bring your license from your home country and your passport with you.
• In the Nordic countries, many rental cars already come standard with some sort of navigation system.
• Can you drive a stick-shift? Automatic cars can be rented, but they are more expensive and not as widely available.

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Best Ways to Travel Scandinavia: Tips and Recommendations

If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, Scandinavia should be at the top of your list. Comprised of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, this region offers stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities. But with so much to see and do, planning a trip to Scandinavia can be overwhelming. Here are some of the best ways to make the most of your travels in this beautiful region.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Scandinavia is through its natural landscapes. From the fjords of Norway to the forests of Sweden, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Hiking, kayaking, and cycling are popular activities, and many areas offer guided tours to help you explore safely. National parks like Jotunheimen and Abisko are must-sees for nature lovers, and the Northern Lights are a spectacular sight in the winter months.

Of course, Scandinavia is also home to some incredible cities. Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm are all worth a visit, offering unique cultural experiences and plenty of attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or cuisine, there’s something for everyone. And with excellent public transportation options, it’s easy to get around and see all the sights. So why not plan a trip to Scandinavia and experience all it has to offer?

Understanding Scandinavia

Scandinavia is a beautiful region in Northern Europe that includes Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. The Nordic countries of Finland and Iceland are also often considered a part of Scandinavia due to their cultural and historical similarities. Here’s what you need to know about the geography and culture of Scandinavia.

Geography and Culture

Scandinavia is known for its stunning natural beauty, with vast forests, mountains, and fjords. The Scandinavian Peninsula is the largest peninsula in Europe and includes Norway and Sweden. Denmark is a separate country made up of the Jutland Peninsula and several islands. Finland is located to the east of Sweden and Norway, while Iceland is an island to the northwest.

The culture of Scandinavia is unique and deeply rooted in history. The Vikings, who were seafarers from the late eighth to early 11th century, played a significant role in shaping the region’s culture. Today, the Nordic countries are known for their design, architecture, literature, and music.

Nordic Countries Overview

Each Nordic country has its own distinct culture and language, but they share many similarities. Here’s a brief overview of each country:

• Denmark: Known for its beautiful beaches, castles, and charming cities like Copenhagen, Denmark is a great place to visit for history and culture lovers.
• Norway: With its stunning fjords, mountains, and Northern Lights, Norway is a nature lover’s paradise. The country is also home to the indigenous Sami people, who have a unique culture and way of life.
• Sweden: Famous for its beautiful cities, stunning archipelagos, and delicious cuisine, Sweden is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Scandinavia .
• Finland: Known for its beautiful lakes, forests, and Northern Lights, Finland is a great place to visit for nature lovers. The country is also famous for its saunas and unique culture.
• Iceland: With its otherworldly landscapes, hot springs, and glaciers, Iceland is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. The country is also known for its Viking history and unique culture.

In summary, Scandinavia is a beautiful region with a unique culture and history . Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or culture, there’s something for everyone in this stunning part of the world.

Best Time to Visit

When planning a trip to Scandinavia, one of the most important factors to consider is the time of year. Scandinavia is a beautiful region, with each season offering its own unique charm. However, depending on your preferences and interests, some seasons may be more suitable for your trip than others. In this section, we will explore the best times to visit Scandinavia and what you can expect during each season.

Summer in Scandinavia

Summer is the most popular time to visit Scandinavia, and for good reason. The weather is mild, with long days and short nights, making it the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. The months of July and August are the warmest, with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). During this time, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, swimming, and boating. The scenery is also at its best, with lush green forests, blooming wildflowers, and sparkling lakes.

In addition to the natural beauty, summer is also a time for festivals and cultural events. Many towns and cities host music festivals, food fairs, and outdoor markets. One of the most popular events is the Midsummer celebration, which takes place in late June. This is a traditional holiday in Scandinavia, where people gather to dance around a maypole, eat delicious food, and enjoy the long summer days.

Winter in Scandinavia

Winter in Scandinavia is a magical time, with snow-covered landscapes and the chance to see the Northern Lights . The months of December to February are the coldest, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F). However, with the right clothing and gear, you can still enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

One of the highlights of winter in Scandinavia is the chance to see the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. This natural phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a spectacular display of colorful lights in the sky. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from late September to early April, with the peak season being December to February.

In addition to the Northern Lights, winter in Scandinavia is also a time for cozy indoor activities. You can warm up with a cup of hot cocoa, relax in a sauna, or visit a Christmas market. Many towns and cities also host winter festivals, where you can enjoy traditional food, music, and entertainment.

Overall, the best time to visit Scandinavia depends on your interests and preferences. Whether you prefer the warm days of summer or the snowy landscapes of winter, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region.

Exploring Major Cities

When traveling to Scandinavia, exploring the major cities is a must. Each city has its own unique charm and attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the major cities you should consider visiting during your trip:

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a beautiful city built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. One of the must-see places in Stockholm is Gamla Stan, the old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming cafes. You can also visit the Royal Palace, which is the official residence of the Swedish monarch and has over 600 rooms. Another popular attraction is the Vasa Museum, which houses a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage and was salvaged in 1961.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a vibrant city with a mix of old and new. One of the most famous places in Copenhagen is Nyhavn, a picturesque harbor with colorful buildings, restaurants, and cafes. You can also visit Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park with rides, games, and shows. Another popular attraction is the Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish royal family, where you can watch the changing of the guard.

Oslo, Norway

Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a modern city surrounded by nature. One of the must-see places in Oslo is Aker Brygge, a former shipyard that has been transformed into a trendy waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and bars. You can also visit the Viking Ship Museum, which houses three Viking ships that were used as burial ships. Another popular attraction is the Opera House, a stunning building that looks like it’s rising out of the water.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a compact city with a mix of Nordic and Russian influences. One of the must-see places in Helsinki is the Old Town, with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming cafes. You can also visit the Helsinki Cathedral, a white neoclassical building that dominates the city skyline. Another popular attraction is the Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built in the 18th century and consists of several islands connected by bridges.

Exploring these major cities will give you a taste of the unique culture, history, and architecture of Scandinavia. Each city has its own charm and attractions that are worth visiting, so make sure to include them in your itinerary.

Natural Wonders of Scandinavia

If you are a nature lover, Scandinavia has plenty of natural wonders to offer. From majestic fjords and waterfalls to the Arctic Circle and Lapland, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to explore. Here are some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of Scandinavia.

Fjords and Waterfalls

Scandinavia is home to some of the world’s most beautiful fjords and waterfalls. One of the most famous fjords is the Geirangerfjord in Norway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fjord is surrounded by majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls, making it a popular destination for tourists. Another popular fjord is the Aurlandsfjord, which is located in western Norway and is known for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters.

If you love waterfalls, then Scandinavia will not disappoint. Some of the most beautiful waterfalls include Vettisfossen, Langfoss, The Seven Sisters, and Vøringsfossen, the tallest being Kjelfossen at almost 800 meters. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature by exploring these stunning waterfalls.

Arctic Circle and Lapland

The Arctic Circle is a must-visit destination if you want to experience the magic of the northern lights. Tromso in Norway is the best place in Scandinavia to watch the show, which can be seen only in polar regions. The effect is caused by particles from the solar wind getting trapped in the Earth’s magnetic field. Lapland, which is located in northern Finland, is also a popular destination for seeing the northern lights. In addition to the northern lights, Lapland is also known for its stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and vast forests.

Stockholm Archipelago

If you are looking for a unique natural wonder, then the Stockholm Archipelago is a must-visit destination. The archipelago consists of over 30,000 islands and islets, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, eagles, and otters. You can explore the archipelago by boat or kayak, or simply relax on one of the many secluded beaches.

In conclusion, Scandinavia is a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you want to explore majestic fjords and waterfalls, witness the magic of the northern lights , or discover the Stockholm Archipelago, there is something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the natural wonders of Scandinavia.

Modes of Travel

When it comes to traveling Scandinavia, there are several modes of transportation available to you. Each mode of transportation has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your options and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Travel by Train

One of the most popular ways to travel around Scandinavia is by train. This is a great option if you want to sit back and enjoy the scenery while you travel. The train system in Scandinavia is extensive, and you can easily travel between cities and even countries by train. The Flåm Railway in Norway is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the Norwegian fjords.

Travel by Car

If you prefer to have more control over your travel itinerary, renting a car is a good option. This allows you to explore at your own pace and visit places that may not be accessible by public transportation. The roads in Scandinavia are generally in good condition, making driving a pleasant experience. However, keep in mind that driving in cities can be challenging due to traffic and parking limitations.

Travel by Boat

Traveling by boat is another popular option in Scandinavia, especially if you want to explore the many islands and coastal towns. There are several ferry services available, and you can even take a cruise to see multiple destinations in one trip. Keep in mind that boat travel can be affected by weather conditions, so it’s important to check the forecast before you go.

Walking and Biking

If you prefer a more active mode of transportation, walking and biking are great options. Many cities in Scandinavia are pedestrian and bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike in most cities, and there are even cycling routes that take you through scenic areas. Walking is also a great way to explore cities and towns, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Overall, there are many modes of transportation available to you when traveling Scandinavia. Whether you prefer to sit back and relax or explore at your own pace, there is an option that will suit your needs. From public transportation to rental cars, boats, and bikes, there are plenty of ways to get around and see all that Scandinavia has to offer.

Planning Your Itinerary

When it comes to planning your Scandinavian adventure, there are several options to consider. Whether you prefer to explore the cities, hit the open road, or take to the fjords, there’s an itinerary that will suit your travel style. Here are three popular ways to experience Scandinavia:

City Breaks

If you’re short on time, a city break is a great way to get a taste of Scandinavian culture. Each city has its own unique charm, so you can tailor your itinerary to suit your interests. Here are a few highlights to consider:

• Copenhagen : Explore the colorful Nyhavn harbor, visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue, and indulge in some Danish pastries.
• Oslo : Check out the Viking Ship Museum, stroll through the Vigeland Sculpture Park, and take in the views from the Holmenkollen Ski Jump.
• Stockholm : Wander through the historic Gamla Stan district, visit the Vasa Museum to see a 17th-century warship, and enjoy a fika (coffee break) in one of the city’s many cafes.

For those who love the freedom of the open road, a Scandinavian road trip is an unforgettable experience. You can rent a car or campervan and explore at your own pace. Here are a few highlights to include in your itinerary:

• Norwegian Fjords : Drive the scenic route from Bergen to Geiranger, stopping to take in the stunning views of the fjords and waterfalls along the way.
• Swedish Lapland : Head north to experience the midnight sun in summer or the Northern Lights in winter. Visit the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi and go dog-sledding or snowmobiling.
• Denmark’s Jutland Peninsula : Explore the charming coastal towns of Skagen and Ribe, visit the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea National Park, and sample some of Denmark’s best seafood.

Fjord Cruises

For a more relaxed pace, a fjord cruise is a great way to see the stunning natural beauty of Scandinavia. There are several options to choose from, including overnight cruises. Here are a few highlights to consider:

• Norwegian Fjords : Take a cruise from Bergen to Flam, stopping to see the UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord and Aurlandsfjord along the way. Or, opt for an overnight cruise from Bergen to Kirkenes, where you can see the Northern Lights in winter.
• Stockholm Archipelago : Explore the thousands of islands that make up the Stockholm Archipelago on a day cruise. Stop to swim, kayak, or hike along the way.
• Copenhagen to Oslo : Take an overnight cruise from Denmark to Norway, passing through the stunning Oslofjord along the way. Enjoy onboard amenities like spas, restaurants, and entertainment.

No matter which itinerary you choose, be sure to plan ahead and book your accommodations and activities in advance to make the most of your time in Scandinavia.

Unique Scandinavian Experiences

If you’re looking for unique travel experiences, Scandinavia has plenty to offer. From chasing the Northern Lights to exploring UNESCO Heritage Sites, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top experiences to add to your Scandinavian travel itinerary.

Chasing the Northern Lights

One of the most magical experiences in Scandinavia is seeing the Northern Lights. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is from late September to early April. Tromsø in Norway is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights , and there are plenty of tour operators that can take you on a Northern Lights hunt. You can also see the lights in other parts of Scandinavia, such as Swedish Lapland or Finnish Lapland.

Exploring UNESCO Heritage Sites

Scandinavia is home to some of the most beautiful UNESCO Heritage Sites in the world. From the historic city of Tallinn in Estonia to the stunning fjords of Norway, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Some of the top UNESCO Heritage Sites in Scandinavia include:

• Bryggen Wharf in Bergen, Norway
• The Royal Palace at Drottningholm in Stockholm, Sweden
• The Vega Archipelago in Norway
• The Old Town of Riga in Latvia

Sampling Scandinavian Cuisine

Scandinavian cuisine is known for its simplicity and focus on fresh, local ingredients. Some of the top Scandinavian dishes to try include:

• Smørrebrød: open-faced sandwiches with various toppings
• Gravlax: salmon cured with salt, sugar, and dill
• Fika: a Swedish tradition of taking a coffee break with a sweet treat
• Reindeer meat: a popular meat in Scandinavia, often served with lingonberry sauce

If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, try the world-renowned restaurant Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark. It has been named the best restaurant in the world several times and is known for its innovative take on traditional Scandinavian cuisine.

Overall, Scandinavia has plenty of unique experiences to offer. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring UNESCO Heritage Sites, or sampling Scandinavian cuisine, you’re sure to have a memorable trip.

Accommodation and Hospitality

Choosing your hotel.

Choosing the right hotel is an important part of your trip to Scandinavia. There are many options available, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. When selecting your hotel, consider the location, amenities, and price.

If you want to be in the heart of the city, look for hotels in the city center. If you are looking for a more peaceful getaway, consider staying in a hotel outside of the city. Some hotels offer complimentary breakfast, while others have a restaurant on-site.

When booking your hotel, make sure to read reviews from previous guests. This will give you an idea of the quality of the hotel and the level of service you can expect. You can also check the hotel’s website for photos and more information.

Scandinavian Hospitality

Scandinavia is known for its friendly and welcoming hospitality. The people are warm and welcoming, and they take pride in making visitors feel at home. When staying in a hotel, you can expect to be treated with respect and kindness.

In addition to hotels, there are many other types of accommodation available in Scandinavia. You can stay in a cozy cabin in the woods, a historic castle, or a modern apartment. No matter where you choose to stay, you can expect to be greeted with a smile and treated with kindness.

In Scandinavia, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering a home or hotel room. This is a sign of respect and cleanliness. You can also expect to be offered coffee or tea upon arrival, as this is a common hospitality tradition in the region.

Overall, when it comes to accommodation and hospitality in Scandinavia, you can expect friendly service and a warm welcome wherever you go.

Traveling to Scandinavia can be an unforgettable experience. From the picturesque landscapes to the vibrant cities, there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer to travel by train, car, or plane, there are many options available to you.

If you are short on time, flying is the quickest and most convenient way to get around. However, if you have more time and want to explore the countryside, renting a car or taking the train can be a great option.

When it comes to packing, make sure to bring layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Also, don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes as there will be lots of walking involved.

While in Scandinavia, make sure to try the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to traditional meatballs, there are many delicious dishes to try. Additionally, don’t be afraid to explore the local culture and customs. Scandinavians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with a local.

Overall, traveling to Scandinavia can be an adventure of a lifetime. With careful planning and an open mind, you are sure to have an unforgettable trip.

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14 Best Attractions and Things to Do in Scandinavia

As a region, Scandinavia is home to some of the world's most striking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and legendary traditions of anywhere in the world. While the famous aurora borealis (or Northern Lights) are a draw for many, there's more to this vast region than the dramatic night sky. From royal palaces to sandy beaches and dramatic fjords, here are the 14 best things to do on your trip to Scandinavia . 

Relax in Iceland's Blue Lagoon

Everyone's seen the Instagrams: One of Scandinavia's top attractions in undoubtedly the Blue Lagoon, a series of naturally-heated thermal pools near Iceland's capital Reykjavik . The warm waters are rich in minerals such as silica and sulfur, and some visitors claim that bathing in the lagoon can help treat skin conditions. The pools are always pleasantly warm, usually around 100 degrees F, and are open from the morning through the evening. 

Watch the Northern Lights in Norway

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

The Northern Lights are one of Scandinavia's best attractions . Tromso in Norway is the best place in Scandinavia to watch the show, which can be seen only in polar regions. The effect is caused by particles from the solar wind getting trapped in the Earth's magnetic field. The lights "turn on" when particles crash with the atmosphere, which results in a showing of colored flames.

Find Denmark's Greatest Castles

An unexpected plus for most first-time visitors, Denmark is home to an incredible selection of ancient castles. After all, it is the oldest continuous monarchy in Europe. Copenhagen's Amalienborg is one of the must-visits for most visitors. The royal couple's winter residence, this castle is built in the classic Rococo style. The public can visit both Christian VIII's and Christian VII's palaces. 

Take a Unique Guided Tour in Stockholm

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Sweden's capital Stockholm is one of Scandinavia's top attractions by itself. This city offers so many exciting sights and history that travelers often find the best way to explore this city is a guided tour, with plenty of photo opportunities. If you're short on time, one of the best ways to tour Stockholm is via the city's Royal Canal. These tours are inexpensive and begin at Djurgarden, passing Fjaderholmarna, Prince Eugen's Waldemarsudde, the Vasa Museum, Sodermalm, and Slussen, among other city landmarks.

Visit the Danish Royal Gardens

These beautiful gardens in Denmark offer peace for everyone and let you get away from the busy city life for a while. During the Baroque period, French design had a strong influence on Danish castle gardens and gave them their unique flair. These quiet retreats should be a part of your trip if you are planning to visit the Copenhagen area. 

Go Whale Watching in Norway and Iceland

Chris VR / TripSavvy

In Scandinavia, whale watching is very popular among tourists, and many travelers choose to go whale watching on a whale safari during their vacation in Norway or Iceland. Depending on where you go, you might spot Minke whales, humpback whales, blue whales, sperm whales, orcas, and more! Adventurous travelers can even sign up for special whale safaris offering to let you swim with the whales.

Visit Legoland in Billund, Denmark

The famous Danish theme park Legoland in Billund is great fun! The park is home to an incredible 340 billion pieces of Lego and many rides can provide entertainment for days! Every building, boat, train and car is constructed from millions of Lego blocks in fantastic detail. 

Go Skiing in Norway

Winter attractions in Scandinavia? Yes, right here. For your winter vacation, this is a must. Famous from the 1994 Winter Olympics, Norway's Lillehammer area is known for the spectacular local ski terrain and the many local winter sports activities. Trysil, on Norway's Swedish border, is also one of the country's most popular ski destinations, with a rich history. It was one of the first resorts known to have held a ski competition, way back in 1862. Today it is Norway's largest ski resort, with 46 miles of slopes.

Explore Sandy Beaches in Scandinavia

If you're visiting in the summer, explore the beautiful sandy beaches in Scandinavia. Denmark is one long coastline, with fine, white sand, and beaches that become day-trip hotspots on summer weekends. One of the most popular is Amager Beach, easily accessible by public transportation from Copenhagen. In Sweden, two of the country's best beaches are Langholmsbadet and Smedsuddsbadet Beaches, both on the outskirts of Stockholm. 

Take a Walking Tour of Stockholm's Djurgarden

Djurgarden is one of Scandinavia's top attractions for many travelers, and rightfully so. This famous island in Stockholm is dotted with parks, events, and activities, drawing more than 10 million visitors each year. You can spend a whole day exploring the island, from relaxing in the Galärparken or visiting the 19th-century Rosendal Palace & Garden.

Hike at Finland's Koli National Park

Finland's Koli National Park offers the country's best hiking, with truly stunning landscapes. The park has nearly 50 miles of trails, which traverse moss-covered forests and open meadows. If you head the Ukko-Koli Hill, a 1,100-foot climb, you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Lake Pielinen. Not into hiking? The park has excellent skiing and cycling, as well as a spa, the Koli Relax Spa . The park is approximately six hours from Helsinki, Finland .  

Drive Across the Oresund Underwater Bridge

Driving across this Scandinavian landmark is a truly unique experience. The five-mile-long bridge stretches across the Oresund Strait, beginning outside of Malmo in Sweden. Then, ​ the bridge descends beneath the water before re-emerging in Amager, Denmark. It's a once-in-a-lifetime drive that everybody should do at least once.

Chill Out at Sweden's Ice Hotel

Sweden's famous Ice Hotel isn't for the faint of heart. This popular attraction opened in the small town of Jukkasjärvi in the late 1980s with just one room. Now, the hotel has 70 deluxe suites that are built each year with ice blocks from a nearby river. As for the temperatures, rooms are maintained between 17 and 23 degrees Fahrenheit. (Don't worry, you'll sleep in a heavy-duty sleeping bag topped with blankets from reindeer skin.)

Go See Geirangerfjord, Norway's Most Idyllic Ford

If you're going to Norway, you're probably going to see at least one fjord. But in a country full of them (approximately 1,200, in fact), why not see the most beautiful one? Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nine miles long and just under a mile wide. It's flanked by cliffs which make for incredible views from the dozens of surrounding hiking trails. 

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• 1 Bergen, Norway
• 2 Ring Road, Iceland
• 3 Copenhagen, Denmark
• 4 Gothenburg, Sweden
• 5 Tromsø, Norway
• 6 Bornholm, Denmark
• 7 Stockholm, Sweden
• 8 Lofoten, Norway

8 Must-See Places in Scandinavia—In Any Season

Although most Americans continue to flock to Europe’s well-trammeled corners, there’s never been a better time to visit Scandinavia thanks to more direct—not to mention affordable—routes from most major cities. But the Nordic appeal lies in more than just convenience. Whether you're looking for adrenaline-spiking natural adventures (see Norway’s Lofoten Islands) or cultural treks through the continent's coolest design capitals, we’ve rounded up eight must-see Scandinavian attractions that rival any place in Italy, France or Spain.

Jen has been a staff editor at Architectural Digest, Travel + Leisure, and Martha Stewart Weddings, and her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Afar, and Elle Decor. When she's not snowmobiling in the French Alps or tasting scotch straight from the barrel in Scotland, she's at home in Brooklyn with her husband and daughter.

See recent posts by Jennifer Fernandez

Bergen, Norway

Tucked deep among the fjords on Norway’s southern coast, Bergen looks like the quintessential Nordic fishing village, despite the fact that it’s the country’s second largest city. Colorful wooden houses, many of which have been converted to hip restaurants and shops, line the docks of Bryggen, a 12th-century wharf that was once dominated by the Hanseatic League and has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See what the nets haul in daily at the storied fish market before taking in the panoramic vistas aboard the Fløibanen Funicular up Fløyen Mountain. But the real reason to come here are the fjords themselves. While hikers are welcome, day cruises can take you close enough to see them without breaking a sweat.

Ring Road, Iceland

Often called the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland has some of the most varied—and awe-inspiring—terrain in the world. The best way to see it: On a leisurely car ride along the Ring Road, a rambling byway that circles the island and connects you to the country’s best sites, including Reynisfjara, a black-sand beach that’s home to resident colonies of puffins, and the spectacular Goðafoss waterfall. But don’t just stick to the pavement. Detour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to hike an active volcano and glacier, or take to the waters of the Blue Lagoon, the famous geothermal spa that’s nestled within a lava field.

RELATED: 9 Best Hotels in Iceland

Copenhagen, Denmark

The former home of Hans Christian Andersen is as charming as a scene from one of his children’s books. Your social following will thank you for snapping the colorful buildings that line the canal at Nyhavn, and there’s plenty more to fill your feed, including the 19th-century amusement park at Tivoli Gardens , the shops on Strøget, and the museum at Amalienborg , the winter palace of the Danish royal family. Food lovers should also head to Jægersborggade to order the reasonably priced tasting menu at Manfred’s or sample the certified organic delights at Relæ —that is if three Michelin–star Geranium is out of reach.

Gothenburg, Sweden

The hometown of suburban-status marker Volvo hardly seems like a place for cutting-edge food, art, and design, but that’s just what you’ll find in Sweden’s often overlooked second city. For context on the onetime industrial hub’s renaissance, begin your urban wanderings on the cobblestoned streets of Haga, a 17th-century neighborhood that epitomizes Gothenburg’s café culture—don’t miss the giant cinnamon buns at Café Husaren —and whose quaint wooden houses are now filled with cute shops of every kind. Make your way back to city center to explore the waterfront restaurants (the inventive tasting menus at Bhoga have earned it a Michelin star) and see rotating photography exhibitions at the Gothenburg Museum of Art .

Tromsø, Norway

Some 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø, Norway offers some of the best views of the Northern Lights in all of Scandinavia. There’s no better time to see them than at the end of January, when the former fur trapping center hosts its annual music festival. What to do when your eyes aren’t trained skyward? Embark on an expedition to spot orcas and humpbacks near Whale Island. Nature lovers will find stiff competition in the remote wilderness of Swedish Lapland, where you can see the aurora borealis on horseback after an afternoon of dog sledding or a woodland jaunt aboard a reindeer-driven sleigh. You’ll be hard pressed to find more atmospheric accommodations than the Icehotel, which is rebuilt each year using frozen blocks from the Torne River.

RELATED: The Best Places Around the World to See the Northern Lights

Bornholm, Denmark

Scandinavia isn’t a place synonymous with beaches, but there are good ones where you can work on your tan and your swimming form (cold waters, be damned) on the tiny Baltic Sea island of Bornholm, just a 35-minute flight from Copenhagen. Known as Denmark’s sunniest locale, it’s a well-kept secret among Danes who come for the laid-back farm-to-table restaurants, picture-perfect fishing villages, and serene forest landscapes. Book a room at the minimal yet stylish Nordlandet hotel, a simple seaside inn whose jewel is an elegant Nordic dining room overlooking the sea, then set off to discover the island’s striking round churches, which date back to 1150.

Stockholm, Sweden

There’s more to Sweden than IKEA and ABBA. Comprised of a series of islands that are easily accessible by boat, Stockholm rivals many of Europe’s most iconic cities in both atmosphere and culture thanks to its medieval streets, stately palaces, and world-class museums (occupying a restored 17th-century ship, the Vasa is a must see). With its 16th-century churches and castles and abundance of noteworthy attractions Gamla Stan, or Old Town, will likely dominate much of your itinerary, but make your base Östermalm, the trendy neighborhood known for its hip restaurants and design shops, as well as the much-praised Ett Hem , a 12-room boutique hotel designed by Ilse Crawford that’s like an Instagram come to life.

RELATED: The Best Design Shops in Stockholm

Lofoten, Norway

Adventure seekers will find plenty of thrills in the arctic seas around this northern congregation of Norwegian islands. Get your adrenaline rush surfing the frigid crescents off Unstad, or go for a midnight kayak trip with the sun as your backdrop, spotting porpoises and schools of herring along the way—just don’t forget your wet suit. Angling enthusiasts might also charter a boat to try their hands at catching halibut, haddock, and skrei, the massive cod that call these waters home. After a day on the waves, retire to one of the red fishing cabins, known locally as rorbu, that line the region’s scenic harbors. Prefer more traditional lodgings? You’ll find larger hotel options ( Thon is a standout) in the bustling port town of Svolvær.

What to Wear in Scandinavia

Women’s autumn dress outfit to wear in a transitional season, shop the look.

Emilia Midi Dress

Classic Sneaker

Pendant Coin Necklace

Crop Denim Jacket

Leather Crossbody Tote

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The Best Ways to Travel Around Scandinavia

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Posted by Tomas Papinigis   |  August 06, 2018

Norwegian fjords, Scandinavian mountains, the cold and windy Northern Sea, flat valleys, endless woods. Yes, this is Scandinavia – the land of Odin, rotten herring, saffron buns, the Little Mermaid, and legendary Ole Einar Bjørndalen. You may be wondering, what is the best way to visit all the must-see places? Well, it depends on your preferences, your budget, and the state of your leg muscles. Why? You will get the idea after this article. All in all, it is up to you how to travel from point A to point B or even C in Northern Europe.

Public Transport

Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland offer a wide range of transportation facilities, and you can choose whichever suits you the best. One of the best ways to travel around the cities is public transport, which is very convenient and pretty reliable, like in all Northern Europe. Scandinavian public transport is not only buses or trains; there are boats, car ferries, passenger express ferries, and the hub and a coach. Local transport is of a high standard.

There are excellent train, metro, and bus options within Copenhagen, Stockholm, Oslo, and Helsinki; outside the capitals, larger towns have local bus networks, and most small towns have bus connections to their regional hub. However, in the winter season, particularly in the northern part of Sweden, Finland, or Norway, due to heavy snow, frost, and the other main features of winter, which are obviously a part of Northern Europe culture, there might be some difficulties with public transport service functionality. Nevertheless, nothing in any country of Northern Europe is unreachable.

Finland’s coach network is one of the most comprehensive in Europe, covering more than 90% of public roads. If the rail network doesn’t reach your chosen Finnish destination, the best way to get there is to take a coach. Riding a coach is the best way to view the scenery along smaller roads. Nearly every town in Denmark supports a network of local buses, which circulate around the town center and also connect it with outlying areas. If you are not on a budget trip, feel free to take a taxi, which might be one of the best ways to get to the airport or back, although not very cheap. Denmark, as well as other Scandinavian countries, use an electronic ticketing system for traveling by bus, train, and metro.

Walking and Hiking

The best way to see and enjoy the outstanding beauty of tremendous Scandinavian nature is obviously hitch-hiking. So, if you have strong legs and enough stamina, pack your backpack, comfortable hiking shoes and it will be all that you need on such a journey. Also, be ready to walk, as it might work out well, as most of the Norwegian villages and towns are situated in 2-3 km distance from the bus stop, ferry terminal, or train station.

Bike rental

In case you’re not that kind of person who likes to walk around, the best way to tour a city center is by bike; there are a lot of cycling routes which might get crowded during the summertime when this kind of transport gets popular in Scandinavia. Although cycling tracks are mostly concentrated in the big cities, riding a bike in a little traffic through the small-town or suburb roads might be the best way to see and enjoy the surroundings of small villages. It is possible to rent any kind of bike at almost every place of your stay, usually at the tourist offices, sports shops, or hotels.

The tourist information center might provide you with a cycling route and give advice about the best way to tour around the local highlights. It is also important to discuss your future ride with the person from whom you are renting a bike because there are some areas in Norway, Sweden, and Finland where you are not allowed to pass due to your safety reasons, for example, long tunnels. Also, not all buses, trains, or ferries agree to take passengers with bikes without an additional fee. It is important to mention that you should be aware of the tram rails in the cities of Denmark, mostly in Copenhagen.

If you can hardly imagine yourself thinking about how to travel by bike through Oslo, Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Helsinki, or any other large city of Northern Europe you can always rent a car. Although this is quite an expensive pleasure in Scandinavian countries, keep in mind that renting a car for a couple of days, not the whole trip, might save you some extra money. The main roads are of excellent quality, although being careful, especially on mountain byroads in Sweden or Norway and in longer tunnels, is very important. In winter, many Scandinavian roads are closed, while main highways stay open. Strong wind, snow, and ice make driving difficult, which is why the best way to travel around is by being well equipped with such things like hiking gear, a spare can of petrol, provision, cell phone, water, and warm clothes.

Driving Restrictions

Be aware of very strict driving rules, speed cameras, speeding fines, on-street parking restrictions, and be sure you are not boozed up because that might cause big problems. Just stick to the rules, and you will be fine enjoying the best way to tour through the mountainous landscape.

Infrastructure Taxes

Also, there are toll bridges in Sweden and toll roads in Norway, so you have to pay congestion taxes. Such infrastructure charges are later used to improve traffic flow, pay the cost of the bridges or roads, as well as for environmental reasons. When you drive past a control point, this is registered, and the following month, a payment slip is sent to the vehicle owner’s home address. This means you don’t have to stop and pay at the time; you can just continue driving.

If you would like a smooth ride through the Norwegian scenery, the best way to travel around is by train. Norwegian train services are run by Norges Statsbaner (NSB). NSB has two main types of train – Lokaltog (local) and Regiontog (regional). Most of the rail services in Northern Europe provide free internet access. It is worth noting that on many long-distance intercity trains and on all overnight and international services, a seat reservation in advance is compulsory. In the peak season, it’s wise to reserve a seat on the main routes anyway, as trains can be packed. In general, this is available for free at every train station, and there are individual route timetables too.

In the case of the more scenic routes, there are also leaflets describing the sights as you go. Scandinavian trains are spacious, comfortable, and clean. The rail network stretches all over the countries. Trains are well-maintained, and the scenery along the rails is beautiful, especially in Eastern Finland with its many lakes. Most Swedish train routes have natural surroundings that are fairytale-like, and a train is the best way of seeing Sweden as well. While traveling by rail around Sweden, your face will be glued to the window because of some of Europe’s most spectacular rail journeys. The Swedish rail network is operated by a few major train operators; SJ, Tågkompaniet, Snälltåget, and Inlandsbanan.

There are various package deals available on the services, including a six-day epic nature adventure in Swedish Lapland, via the town of Mora that hosts the legendary Vasa Ski Race. Another of the packages is a four-day ‘Bushcraft and Survivor course’. One of Europe’s great rail journeys is from Stockholm to Narvik in Norway. You embark the train in the spectacular Swedish capital, Stockholm, and disembark inside the Arctic circle in Narvik, having traveled the Iron Ore line between Luleå in Sweden and Narvik in Norway. Snälltåget (translates as the ‘Nice Train’) is a service that runs year-round between Malmö and Stockholm and in the winter months, there is an overnight train service between Malmö and the ski resorts of Åre and Vemdalen, 900 km away in Northern Sweden. One interesting thing about Denmark train stations is that they have left-luggage lockers.

Using a ferry is one of the highlights of any visit to Norway – indeed, among the western fjords and around the Lofotens, they are impossible to avoid. The majority are roll-on, roll-off car ferries. Norway’s Hurtigbåt passenger express boats are catamarans that make up in speed what they lack in enjoyment: unlike the ordinary ferries, the landscape whizzes by, and in seas, the ride can be quite bumpy. Sweden’s coastline and archipelagos are unique, and the Swedes have a particularly intimate and loving relationship with both. Both the Stockholm archipelago and the Gothenburg archipelago are easy to reach with coastal ferries. Fjäderholmarna, the closest of the islands, are just a 20-minute boat trip from central Stockholm. The archipelagos enjoy a wide range of ecosystems, plants, and animals.

Boat Service

Almost all of Finland’s coastal and lakeside towns run boat services, as well as organized sightseeing and charter cruises. Lakeland and Archipelago cruises range from short expeditions to leisurely tours with cabin accommodation. Vessels vary from old-fashioned lake steamers to open-top motor cruisers, ideal for sightseeing. Norway’s most celebrated ferry journey is the long and beautiful haul up the coast from Bergen to Kirkenes on the Hurtigruten (literally, “rapid route” hurtigruten.com) coastal boat or a steamer.

The whole round-trip lasts thirteen days (and twelve nights), to many the Hurtigruten remains the quintessential Norwegian experience, and it’s certainly the best way to observe the drama of the country’s extraordinary coastline. Eleven ships combine to provide one daily service in each direction, and the boats stop off at over thirty ports on the way. A short or medium-sized hop along the coast on a portion of the Hurtigruten route is also well worth considering. Port-to-port fares are not particularly cheap, especially in comparison with the bus, but they are affordable, providing you do not have a cabin.

Internal flights can prove surprisingly inexpensive and the best way to travel around Northern Europe regions and are especially useful if you’re short on time and want to reach the far north to visit Santa. Domestic air routes are serviced by several companies, but the major carrier is SAS, a conglomerate with many (airline) subsidiaries like Widerøe, which specializes in internal flights – they fly between 35 Norwegian airports – and Norwegian Airlines, which operates flights between fifteen domestic airports at what can be staggeringly low prices. There’s also the up-and-coming Danish Air Transport, which operates 15 internal routes, most importantly several from the mainland to the Lofotens.

There are 27 airports in Finland, five of which have regular international flight services. The main gateway is Helsinki-Vantaa international airport. The northernmost airport is in Ivalo in Lapland, approximately 250 kilometers beyond the Arctic Circle. The domestic airlines in Sweden offer quick, comfortable, and safe transport from Malmö in the south to Kiruna in the north. SAS is the largest domestic operator at Sweden’s major airports and, with the other domestic airlines, covers most of the country. Most domestic flights depart from Stockholm Arlanda, north of Stockholm, where you can fly direct to virtually all of Sweden’s mainland airports. Scandinavia is a gracious region, with a spectacular landscape that looks amazing regardless of the season or a time zone. As well as pure nature, Northern Europe might be proud of well-developed infrastructure, which allows you to visit any place you have put on your bucket list, by reaching it the best way: air, foot, water, or land.

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The 16 best places to visit in Scandinavia

Snowy landscapes, stunning scenery, awe-inspiring fjords, majestic lakes and mountains – yes, Scandinavia offers all these things.

But it’s also a region that’s home to surprisingly cosmopolitan cities, quirky towns and villages, world-class museums, and a great range of places to stay from remote glamping sites and treehouses to trendy hostels, boutique B&Bs and converted castles.

Here we pick some of our favourite places to visit in Scandinavia, whether you’re visiting in summer, spring, autumn or winter!

Stockholm Copenhagen Oslo Gothenburg Gotland The fjords Abisko Ærø Lofoten Bergen Svalbard Tromsø Jokkmokk Bornholm Dalarna Lund

Stockholm, Sweden

Sweden’s capital, the vibrant city of Stockholm sits on a series of 14 islands. A photographer’s dream, its grand waterfront buildings contrast with a beautifully preserved old town, miles of open parkland and some impressive examples of contemporary architecture.

But it’s not all about the views. Stockholm boasts some top-class museums – from the Academy of Fine Arts to the people-pleasing Abba Museum – plus plenty of palaces, where you can marvel at the lavish lifestyles of the royals.

And, of course, it’s Sweden’s liveliest city, with a cool café culture and nightlife. Not to mention its designer boutiques, hip bars and clubs and cutting-edge cuisine.

Stockholm highlights:

• Try these awesome free and cheap things to do (all 100 of them!)
• Explore the beautiful Stockholm archipelago
• Go skiing or ice-skating (in winter) or try hiking in the summer
• Eat yummy Swedish  meatballs  and visit the world’s biggest Ikea – or do both at once
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the city’s rich history

Copenhagen, Denmark

Another place that should be high on your Scandinavian wish list is  Copenhagen . If your impression of the Danish capital is of bleak, glowering streets gleaned from gloomy Scandi Noir detective series, think again. The epitome of cool, this is a trendy and welcoming waterside city with a lively and surprisingly hip café, bar and music scene.

Europe’s cycling capital, it’s a great place to explore by bike, or by boat. From the historic 12th-century castle and grand royal palaces to the traditional Tivoli Gardens and alternative ‘free town’ of Christiania , the city’s attractions are varied.

And in recent years, it’s developed an unrivalled culinary scene and given birth to the fashionable New Nordic cuisine, with its emphasis on local and seasonal food.

Copenhagen highlights:

• Take a boat tour around the canals (or hire your own vessel for some laid-back exploring!)
• Eat crazy amounts of scrumptious Danish food without blowing your budget
• Enjoy a day trip to see ancient Viking sites and some very modern art
• Grab some two-wheeled transport and explore like a local
• Buy a Copenhagen Card and hit as many museums as possible

Oslo, Norway

Surrounded by water, mountains and forests, Oslo is an easy-going city with a fine array of international museums, parks and galleries.

Lovers of contemporary architecture will want to check out the city’s fantastic modern buildings – the striking Opera House, the Astrup Fearnley Museum and the state-of-the art ‘floating’ Holmenkollen ski jump – but there’s plenty for history buffs and art fans too. Museums devoted to subjects as diverse as Polar exploration, wartime Resistance, Viking ships, the Kon-Tiki expedition and, of course, Edvard Munch and his famous Scream are all here.

And if you’ve had enough of all that culture, just hop on a ferry and explore one of the nearby Oslofjord islands – Hovedøya is the nearest and one of the prettiest too.

Oslo highlights:

• Try authentic Norwegian cuisine at the city’s cosy cafés and restaurants
• Prove that Oslo can be cheap to visit with these free activities
• Drink local beer at some of Oslo’s laid-back breweries
• Visit the Oslofjord to get your first taste of the Norwegian fjords
• Go snowboarding or skiing at one of the scenic spots nearby

Gothenburg, Sweden

Sweden’s second city, Gothenburg may be at heart an industrial port city, but its wide avenues, leafy parks, world-class museums and lively student population make it an atmospheric place to spend a weekend.

Hop on one of the fun and efficient trams that criss-cross the city to visit its many parks, galleries and attractive regenerated neighbourhoods, or leap on a ferry and venture further afield to explore the islands of the southern archipelago.

Add to this a buzzy nightlife, quirky boutiques, a fantastic fish market in a converted church, great street food trucks, the world’s weirdest-looking sauna and some of Sweden’s more affordable accommodation and you can’t fail to have a great stay.

Gothenburg highlights:

• Visit Scandinavia’s best theme park , which is right in the middle of town
• Hang out in Hisingen , an up-and-coming suburb away from the tourist crowds
• Sail, swim or sink your teeth into incredible seafood in the Gothenburg archipelago
• Fika with the locals at cool, laid-back cafés
• Enjoy some of the city’s geekier distractions , from comic stores to odd museums

Gotland, Sweden

Sweden’s largest island, Gotland lies in the Baltic Sea, a three-hour ferry trip from the mainland. Its highlight is the beautifully preserved medieval town of Visby. A Unesco World Heritage site, its warren of narrow cobbled streets, timbered buildings and fortified walls are a joy to explore.

But the rest of island is appealing too, with miles of long sandy beaches and lush woodlands. Gotland is pretty flat, so hire a bike and set off round the island, stopping en route at its pretty rural villages, small fishing settlements and local farms and cafés.

For a few weeks in summer, Gotland becomes party central, when it seems like half of Stockholm’s population decamp here to sun themselves on the beaches. But for most of the year, it’s a lovely, low-key rural idyll.

Gotland highlights:

• Explore the winding streets and cobbled lanes of medieval Visby
• Go deep underground on a visit to the epic Lummelunda Cave
• Take the ferry to the tiny island of Fårö, just off Gotland, for total peace and quiet
• Try to snap the perfect picture of the unusual rock formations edging Gotland’s coastline
• Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, an old quarry with surprisingly warm water (in summer, anyway!)

The Norwegian fjords

Some of Scandinavia’s most spectacular scenery can be found in the Norwegian fjords , whose craggy glacier-formed inlets, sheer cliffs and crashing waterfalls have a scenic drama rarely found elsewhere.

Norway boasts some 1000-or-so fjords, many dotted with pretty mountain villages and small port towns. Some are easily visited by boat, car or even mountain railway – the village of Flåm on the Aurlandsfjord, for example – while others require more effort to reach, involving a long vertiginous, winding bus journey or even a hike.

But any effort spent getting here will be amply rewarded – the sheer beauty of the region is an Instagrammer’s dream.

Norwegian fjords highlights:

• Take the spectacular train ride from Bergen to Flåm
• Stop off for some cheap and cheerful  sightseeing in the pretty city of Bergen
• Gawp at the views from Preikestolen  and other famous stopping-off points
• See the northern lights dancing overhead (and in the reflection of a fjord!)
• Explore the Oslofjord on a budget

Abisko, Sweden

A true Scandinavian wilderness, with great hiking and vast lakes, the Abisko National Park is the definition of remote. It’s home to bears, lynx and elk, and marks the end of an epic hiking trail, the 500km-long Kungsleden.

However, it’s best known throughout Sweden for offering the country’s most impressive and consistent views of the swirling colourful northern lights. Cameras at the ready…

Abisko highlights

• Join a dog-sledding tour and head out onto the crisp white snow
• See the northern lights – this is one of the best places in the world for aurora-spotting
• Tackle the epic Kungsleden hiking trail
• Take a side trip to Kiruna and the Icehotel
• Enjoy some of Sweden’s best nature, starting from the remote Abisko Turiststation

Ærø, Denmark

One of Denmark’s prettiest islands, Ærø is a picturesque place in the South Fyn archipelago, fringed with sandy beaches, and dotted with traditional villages and quaint colourful cottages. Its handsome capital, Ærøskøbing, is a joy, with cobbled streets and well-preserved houses, plus some decent seafood restaurants and cafés selling local produce.

And if this isn’t enough to tempt you, it even has its own whisky distillery, brewery and tobacco plantation making hand-rolled cigars – a sybarite’s dream.

Ærø highlights:

• Laze on the island’s best and most sandy beaches
• Discover Ærøskøbing’s quirky cafés and restaurants
• Sample a drink (or two) at the island’s own distillery
• Rent a bike or go hiking, then try some gorgeous glamping
• Hop back to the mainland for more pretty coastal towns

Lofoten, Norway

A necklace of islands strung along Norway’s coastline, the Lofoten are connected by one main road, which wends its scenic way across the archipelago by bridge, causeway and tunnel. A laidback place, its attractions include sandy beaches, majestic fjords, jagged mountainscapes, rare seabird colonies and pretty fishing villages.

Fishing is Lofoten’s lifeblood, and to get to the real heart of this remote region you should stay in a rorbuer , or traditional fishing hut. Depending on your budget, they vary from basic seaside tin huts to beautifully renovated buildings with cosy wood-burning stoves where freshly-caught fish is cooked for dinner. Sit back and enjoy!

Lofoten highlights:

• Explore the islands’ picturesque fishing villages
• See the northern lights from a traditional cabin by the water
• Sharpen up your photography skills with some of Scandinavia’s best scenery
• Learn about the islands’ unexpectedly rich history at the  Lofotr Viking Museum
• Rent an Airbnb somewhere truly special

Bergen, Norway

Known as the gateway to the fjords, Norway’s second city, Bergen is an appealing, laid-back place, worth spending a few days in its own right.

Formerly home to Hanseatic merchants, its Unesco-protected Bryggen district is an attractive place to wander amid winding cobbled lanes, brick warehouses and old timber shops and houses.

The town also has plenty of museums, covering a variety of subjects from Viking ships through art to the Norwegian Resistance. Add to this some great cafés and restaurants and you may be tempted to linger longer before heading out to the fjords.

• Seek out Bergen’s best free and cheap activities
• Take this 10-hour round trip to see some of the area’s best scenery
• See the colourful wooden buildings at Bryggen
• Check out the street art and visit KODE, a cool collection of galleries

Svalbard, Norway

Home to more polar bears than people, the snowy wastes of the Svalbard archipelago lie some 500 miles north of mainland Norway. A land of glaciers, mountains and the midnight sun, this icy wilderness is a great place for Arctic adventures.

There’s constant daylight between May and August, while the darkness of the polar night from November to February make it one of the world’s best places to view the northern lights.

It takes some planning to get to, but you’ll be rewarded with the most dramatic landscapes of glacial fjords and wild tundra. Go exploring by dog-sled or snowmobile and you may even glimpse some of the native wildlife such as polar foxes, reindeer, whales, walruses and, of course, the famous bears.

Tromsø, Norway

A former fishing port and trading station within the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a remote outpost surrounded by snowy mountains and an indented coastline of fjords and islands.

However, it’s also a vibrant university town with a sizeable student population, which keeps its café, bar and club scene very much alive and kicking. There are also some surprisingly cheap and comfortable places to stay .

The town’s sights include a dramatic contemporary cathedral, an Arctic aquarium and an interesting Polar Museum. Nature lovers, however, may prefer to explore the world’s most northerly botanical gardens, or take the funicular up to the top of nearby Mount Storsteinen for fantastic fjord and city views.

Jokkmokk, Sweden

It’s a long journey through miles of forests to reach the small town of Jokkmokk in the Arctic Circle . Lying in Swedish Lapland, Jokkmokk is proud of its native Sami culture, and the local museum is a great place to learn more about its indigenous people.

In summer, the town makes a good base for hiking in the surrounding forests and mountains, plus fishing, kayaking – and even swimming for the brave – in the local rivers and lakes.

However, it’s winter when Jokkmokk really comes to life, with its annual Winter Market which has been attracting visitors every February for over five hundred years to buy and sell local produce and enjoy a festival of traditional Sami songs, dancing and celebrations.

Bornholm, Denmark

Denmark’s easternmost Baltic island, Bornholm is a picturesque place of sandy beaches, craggy granite outcrops, round white-washed churches and pretty fishing villages. Its main sight is the Hammershus, Northern Europe’s largest castle ruins, which date from around 1300.

Accessed by ferry from Ystad in Sweden, the island has long hours of sunshine and excellent light, which has attracted many artists over the years and resulted in a fine tradition of arts, crafts and ceramics.

Today, it’s also something of a culinary hotspot, with a two-Michelin-starred restaurant and some tempting local specialities including smoked and cured fish.

Dalarna, Sweden

Home of Sweden’s iconic red houses , the region of Dalarna is a popular summer holiday spot for Swedes who come here to swim, sail and kayak in Lake Siljan, hike in the pine woods or camp by one of the lakeside beaches.

This picturesque region is also a good winter sports destination, hosting the gruelling annual Vasaloppet, the world’s longest cross-country ski race.

And if you’ve had enough of the great outdoors, head below ground to explore the historic Falun Mine . Once the world’s largest copper mine, it’s now a well-preserved World Heritage site and underground adventure.

Lund, Sweden

It may be one of Sweden’s oldest cities with a cathedral dating from 1145 and a university from 1666, but Lund has got a lively modern vibe.

Perhaps because of the large student population, it’s a forward-thinking city with a vibrant arts scene, cutting-edge design and technology companies, plus a raft of eco-friendly innovations such as buses run on biogas.

There’s no shortage of culture here too, including a state-of-the-art science centre, a large open-air museum in the city centre and a modernist art gallery.  And don’t miss the Saluhallen, a former market hall, now home to some of the city’s tastiest cafés, restaurants and stalls selling delicious local produce and delicacies.

Don’t forget insurance – even if your trip has already started!

It’s no good visiting Scandinavia if you don’t have decent insurance in place. Even though Scandinavia is safe, we strongly recommend getting good insurance. It really can make a world of difference when things go wrong.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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Summer in Scandinavia: five eco-friendly ideas to holiday like a local

The essence of a Nordic summer is to lean into a slower pace of life and embrace nature, from staying in a Swedish summer house to gentle canoe tours in Finland

Oslo: summer in the city

With swimmable harbours in Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki and across Denmark’s cities, not to mention plenty of ways to enjoy the sea, from kayaking to urban fishing, there’s often a seaside air to Nordic cities in summer, and especially in Oslo.

One of the best summer activities is to tour the Oslofjord and its archipelago by boat – pack a picnic and set sail in search of hidden swimming spots and colourful island houses. Brim Explorer is one of the best options: an eco-friendly boat company offering silent tours powered by an electric motor (tours from £44). You can also show your love for the water by joining Mad Goats in their fjord clean-up operations every Sunday; participation gives you access to one of their saunas for free and a free burger at the end.

There’s a growing art scene to discover around the harbour. The National Museum is showing an unmissable exhibition by Sápmi artist Britta Marakatt-Labba focused on the environmental struggle and climate issues seen from an indigenous perspective, until August. Afterwards, stroll around the harbour promenade past the opera house, and visit the Munch Museum . There is a new family-friendly beach, Operastranda, by the Opera House this year; it’s also great to swim at the Sørenga seawater pool . Stay at the eco-conscious Oslo Guldsmeden , a Nordic-Balinese hotel in the Vika district from £100 a night.

Explore Denmark ’s sunniest isle

Bornholm is officially the Danes’ favourite holiday spot (as voted for last year in the Danish Travel Awards). Reachable by bus and ferry or hydrofoil from Copenhagen, it’s known as the country’s sunshine island: Svaneke, a charming harbour town on the west coast, is the sunniest spot in the whole of Denmark.

There’s no need for a car: you can get around relatively easily by bike and bus to explore fishing villages and small towns such as Gudhjem, known for its national cooking competition , and sunny Svaneke, in search of the best ice-cream, smoked herring and locally brewed beer. Bornholm has an artist colony vibe reminiscent of parts of Cornwall and is well known for its ceramics. You can find small workshops and galleries dotted around its villages, and especially in the town of Nexø, where there is a ceramics school. Beaches are wide, sandy and beautiful – especially child-friendly, dune-backed Dueodde, which Lonely Planet recently listed as one of the 20 best beaches in Europe .

New this year, Eco Beach Camp offers glamping from about £150 a night (sleeping two to four) on the beach just steps from the island’s Michelin-starred Kadeau restaurant, known for its focus on hyper-local, sustainable food. Or rent a summer house through firms including Novasol and Dancenter where rates start from about £300 for a week’s stay. It’s expected that you’ll bring basics with you, including bed linen.

Norway’s Arctic hiking route

Culture and nature come together on Norway’s longest hiking route this summer. The 400-mile Nordlandsruta , which runs along the Norwegian-Swedish border, will be joining in the celebrations to mark the Arctic city of Bodø’s year in the spotlight as one of 2024’s European Capitals of Culture. There are a range of artist-led events in cabins along the trail, and activities include poetry and portrait workshops and a mobile perfumery making scents from the herbs that hikers pick along the route.

Evening entertainment includes campfire cooking, improv theatre and Sápmi lassoo throwing. It also plays into another key Nordic travel theme: friluftsliv , a love of the great outdoors. Norwegians love to hike and there is an extensive network of trails, with hiking cabins along them, across the country.

It’s a beautiful hike – whether you’re in the region for the celebrations or not – passing through the Arctic Circle, Laponian Area world heritage site , national parks and Sápmi cities. From meadows filled with wildflowers to snow-capped mountains, reindeer-herding plateaux and raging rivers, it has all the drama you’d expect of this northern landscape. There are 43 unstaffed huts on the route – you’ll need a key from Norwegian trekking organisation DNT to use them.

To walk the whole route would take around six weeks, but it’s broken down into eight smaller stages for those with less time. For ramblers with an eye on reindeer herding and Sápmi husbandry, the 57-mile stretch from Raudlia to Susendalen treks across two valleys and past the hat-shaped Hatten mountain while the 45-mile section from Bolna to Umbukta skirts the sacred Sápmi mountain of Auronasen, silver mines and a glacier. Weekend hikes along the trail are also possible from Narvik and Bodø.

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Finland’s peaceful waterways

If you like lakes, islands and trees, Finland is the place for you – it is the most forested country in Europe and has more bodies of water than any other country in the world . In the Kainuu region in the east of the country, it’s easy to get away from the crowds for pure immersion in Nordic nature.

Nature Travels offers self-guided canoe tours in the region where you can camp wild along the route, fish for your supper and go at your own pace. The pick of the bunch is a remote adventure on the Tar Route (from £154 per person, for three nights/four days, based on two people, including all equipment and transfers to start point), the historic route once used to transport tar to the Baltic Sea. Instead of tar, your cargo will be just yourselves, your tent and enough food for a four to eight-day tour of quiet waterways, short and easily bypassed rapids, and protected islands.

Along the route you might spot moose, foxes, owls or even eagles. Stop to fish for your dinner, cook it on an open fire and retire to a lean-to shelter or tent in the evening. Look out, too, for island saunas, dotted along the route, where you can ease the tension in your back and arms after a hard day’s paddle. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent: Finland’s forests are known for their pesky flies.

This route commonly starts from Kuhmo, accessed by train and bus from Helsinki, while Helsinki itself can be reached by ferry from Stockholm if you prefer not to fly.

Stay in a Swedish summer house

It’s traditional in this part of the world to spend at least part of the summer in a “summer house” (actually more of a simple cabin) in nature. The essence of summer house life is leaning into a slower pace of life: read a book under a tree, bake a cake, a gentle walk. It’s about living in harmony with nature, too, and embracing the joys it offers, including sea swimming, fishing, hiking and boating.

The Stockholm archipelago is one of the most accessible and popular summer house destinations. Access is via one of the many public ferries (one-way trips from the city pier cost up to £14 depending on the location). It’s as easy as taking a bus.

The region is protected by the Archipelago Foundation , which preserves public access to land and water in the area, and has a wide range of characterful accommodation spread all over the islands. They include a 19th-century former customs house on the remote and rocky island of Huvudskär, remade into a rustic youth hostel (room rates from £186 for a four-bed room), as well as summer cottages on the activity-packed southern island of Utö, where two-person cabins start at around £338 for a week in high season.

Summer cottages usually require you to bring bed linen. Depending on which island you choose, you might need to bring all your supplies for the week too. Peak season for Scandinavia is typically July – travel in August for slightly reduced rates.

Copenhagen-based Laura Hall writes the Modern Scandinavian newsletter

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The 15 Most Beautiful Scandinavian Cities to Visit

T he Nordic countries of Northern Europe are often known for their majestic landscapes. In fact, the Scandinavian Peninsula, in particular, is home to majestic fjords, mountains, waterfalls, and other breathtaking natural wonders. But the Scandinavian cities are equally lovely and worthy of inclusion on any Scandinavia itinerary .

So, if you are looking for the best Scandinavian cities to visit, we’ve compiled a list of the most enchanting cities in the region.

Most Scandinavian urban areas are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. With first-rate public transportation, abundant green spaces, and museums that celebrate the region’s unique culture and history, one could argue that the metropolitan areas in Scandinavia are as fascinating as its geography.

All the beautiful cities in Scandinavia are also defined by a standard of cleanliness and sustainability that is unparalleled in Europe or elsewhere.

This guide to the best Scandinavian cities highlights the unique aspects and most popular things to do in each of the popular urban areas in Scandinavia.

What countries make up Scandinavia?

The Nordic region known as Scandinavia is made up of the countries of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. While many people believe Finland , the Faroe Islands, and Iceland are also part of Scandinavia, this is not actually the case. 

Although the northern European countries share some similarities and common heritage, only the countries of Denmark, Sweden and Norway are on the Scandinavian Peninsula.

While Finland shares a similar geologic makeup and Iceland and the Faroe Islands share a similar language, they are not considered part of Scandinavia.

Don’t worry – at the bottom of the post, we’ve included a couple of the best Nordic cities to visit, as well, although they are not actually in Scandinavia.

The most beautiful cities in Scandinavia to visit

From large capital cities to smaller urban areas that offer both charm and urban variety, here are the best Scandinavian cities to include on a vacation or holiday. 

We have mapped out the Nordic delights that we consider the jewel cities in Scandinavia to visit to give you an idea of the region and where each city is in relation to each other.

The best Scandinavian cities in Denmark

Denmark is the smallest of the Scandinavian countries. But with a portion of Denmark connected to mainland Europe, it is one of the easiest Scandinavian countries to visit. 

Copenhagen is the heart of Denmark. With colorful canals, an historic amusement park, grand palaces, and perfectly manicured gardens, Copenhagen is one of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia. 

Situated on the islands of Zeeland and Amager, the capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen – or København in Danish – is also known to be extremely environmentally friendly. In fact, you’ll likely find more bicycles and pedestrians than cars on the streets, which adds to Copenhagen’s relaxed vibe. 

If visiting Copenhagen with kids , a visit to Tivoli Gardens is a must. Not only is it one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful amusement parks, but there are a lot of fun rides for toddlers in Tivoli Gardens all the way up to adults.

While you could spend an entire day at Tivoli Gardens, you’ll want to make time for some sightseeing, as well. Venture to see the Little Mermaid , one of the most famous statues in Europe , which is located on the water’s edge near the Langelinie Pier. 

Additionally, as a constitutional monarchy, Denmark’s capital boasts several notable European palaces. Both Christiansborg Palace and Rosenborg Palace are worth visiting when in Copenhagen. 

Also, be sure to watch the changing of the guards at Amalienborg Palace at noon, before heading to Copenhagen’s most photographed street for a patio lunch. 

With brightly colored buildings and large sailboats lining a picturesque canal, Nyhavn is a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon in Copenhagen. Take a canal cruise or simply stroll along the street and enjoy the view and the atmosphere. 

The city is also home to the Carlsberg Brewery . Founded in 1847, Carlsberg is one of the leading beer producers in Europe. Although geared more for adults, kids will also enjoy touring the brewery and visiting the Carlsberg horse stables. 

The Copenhagen Card includes admission to many of these attractions, so we strongly recommend getting if visiting the popular Scandinavian city. 

Copenhagen at a glance

• Capital of Denmark
• Population: 602,481
• Metro area population: 2,057,142

Even though Copenhagen is usually considered the cool and vibrant city in Denmark, Aarhus is a true gem. Aarhus is not only beautiful but also offers a lot to do. It is the second largest city in Denmark after Copenhagen and can be found in the region Jutland.

In Aarhus you can dive into both the old and into the new.

Start your day with a visit to Den Gamle By . This open air museum has collected houses and other buildings in Denmark from different periods in time. It teaches you Denmark’s history by literally showing you parts of it. It contains over 75 buildings and is interesting for both children and adults.

But the history can also be seen in the city center, for example by visiting the beautiful cathedral of Aarhus.

Done with the old? Discover the new by visiting Aarhus’ modern museum ARoS . The building is iconic because of the art installation, Your rainbow panorama, on top. But the inside is also worth it: from the Golden Ages to very modern art, the different floors show you art through the ages.

More interested in modern architecture? The former docklands in Aarhus have been transformed into a new, modern area. This district is called Aarhus Ø and is known for the buildings called The Iceberg .

In between your visits to the highlights you can enjoy a nice city walk or try the delicious Danish food in Aarhus, all of which will make Aarhus one of the most memorable Scandinavian cities to visit.

Manouk from Groetjes uit Verweggistan

Aarhus at a glance

• Second largest city in Denmark
• Population: 336,411
• Metro area population: 952,824

As the gateway to Scandinavia, Helsingor is a great place for travelers who are looking for an authentic European city.

It’s situated less than 46 kilometers from Copenhagen , and it’s home to some interesting sights worth seeing such as the popular Kronborg Castle (home of Hamlet).

The town of Helsingor is very walkable and there are two main shopping streets (Axeltorv & Stengade) with plenty of shops and cafes where you can stop for a coffee or something sweet. 

Axeltorv is the bustling hub of Helsingor that boasts a memorial fountain by Einar Utzon-Frank in memory of King Eric the Pomeranian who granted Helsingor its original charter.

Markets are held at Axeltorv on Wednesdays and Sundays, and from May to October, there’s also an antique market each Friday. 

Just a couple of minutes’ walk away in this medieval part of town is the popular street of Stengade with plenty of places to eat and shop.

As Shakespeare’s inspiration for Hamlet, Kronborg Castle is a must-see in Helsingor. Tourists flock to the towering castle on Øresund , (the ground on which Helsingor sits), northeast of town. 

The Castle Chapel is found in the south wing of the building; the north wing contains Denmark’s longest ballroom or knights hall.

The National Maritime Museum is an excellent place to explore Denmark’s seafaring legacy. Set underground in the old dry docks, it was formerly a shipyard and is conveniently situated next to Kronborg Castle.

The city has plenty of history and culture to explore, so if you’re planning on visiting Denmark, don’t miss out on this beautiful Scandinavian destination.

Casandra from Karpiak Caravan

Helsingor at a glance

• Home to Kronborg Castle
• Population: 63,399
• 2.5 miles from (4 km) from Sweden’s coast

If you’re ever in Denmark it’s worth your time to venture to Roskilde . It is right outside of Copenhagen and is historic and picturesque. 

It’s most well known for the Roskilde Festival which is the largest music festival in Northern Europe. The festival draws hippies and mirrors the famous Woodstock festival of 1969. The festival draws more than 130,000 people each year. It’s a don’t miss festival if you’re in town. 

The main cathedral in this fun Scandinavian city is also striking. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the earliest Scandinavian Gothic Brick cathedrals, built in the 12th century.

Its mustard yellow coloring is something you’ll take with you forever, it is just so unique. Many of the Danish Royals are buried there dating all the way back to 1448. 

If you’re looking for a good Danish brunch you might also stop by Cafe Korn , a cute little downtown cafe that is famous for its buffet. 

Peruse the cobblestone streets in the area, and take in the fresh Danish air. On the main strip you’ll find lots of cute local Danish shops with fresh chocolate and flowers, don’t forget to grab yourself a Danish Flødeboller. 

Time permitting you might also consider the Museum of Contemporary Arts , which sits in a former royal mansion.

Lindley from Lindley Loraine

Roskilde at a glance

• One of the oldest cities in Denmark
• Population: 51,916
• Metro population: 80,687

The best Scandinavian cities in Norway

Norway is perhaps the most famous of the Scandinavian countries. When you imagine Scandinavia you likely envision the Norwegian fjords. Many of those fjords are accessible from some of Norway’s most beautiful cities.

Oslo is Norway’s capital, and one of the best cities in Scandinavia to visit. The city sits at the head of the Oslofjord, but its main claims to fame are its museums and meticulously kept green spaces and parks. 

Oslo is home to the Nobel Peace Center and the National Museum , which contains one of the world’s most famous paintings “ The Scream” . 

While both are worth a visit, if visiting Oslo with kids , you’ll find The Fram Museum and Frogner Park particularly enjoyable. The latter spans 45 acres and contains the world’s largest sculpture park installation made by a single artist.

The permanent sculpture installation, Vigeland , is open year-round and free to visit. With more than 200 sculptures all created by Gustav Vigeland, the park welcomes millions of visitors each year.

The Fram Museum is one of the most fascinating museums in the Scandinavian city. Dedicated to Norway’s early polar exploration, the museum contains the original ship which sailed out on the first polar expedition.

You can climb aboard to tour the ship and learn about how the explorers lived on board in the dangerous sub-freezing temperatures. 

The world-class museum is located on the Bygdøy peninsula, within walking distance to many of Oslo’s other popular museums, including the Kon-Tiki Museum , the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History , and the Viking Ship Museum .

If visiting multiple museums or attractions in Oslo, the Oslo Pass is worth purchasing, as it covers admission for the majority of the popular tourist sites.

Oslo at a glance

• Capital of Norway
• Population: 707,531
• Metro area population: 1,710,000

One of the more popular tourist cities in Scandinavia, Bergen, Norway is known as the gateway to the fjords. The Bryggen neighborhood of Bergen looks like a setting from a Disney movie with its colorful row of wooden houses built along the harbor.

If spending 2-3 days in Bergen , take the Ulriken cable car ride or take a funicular up Mount Fløyen .

For a great adventure, you can hike between Ulriken and Mount Fløyen. The hike offers picturesque views of the harbor and the city’s surrounding peaks. 

Despite being the second largest city in Norway, the main highlights of Bergen are within a short walk or a quick train ride from each other. 

If time permits, take a 30-minute train ride to the Fantoft Stave Church . The 800-year-old church was entirely reconstructed after it was devastated by a fire in 1992. 

As a coastal town, enjoy at least one meal at the Bergen Fish Market , where your meal may have been freshly caught hours earlier, or dine at one of the many restaurants along the harbor. 

Bergen also makes a great town to base yourself if you want to do some of the nearby hikes, like Trolltunga , or if you want to take a day trip to the small town of Flåm , in the heart of the Norwegian fjords.

Bergen at a glance

• Second largest city in Norway
• Population: 285,900
• Known as the gateway to the fjords

Stavanger, located in the southwest of Norway, is one of the oldest cities in this Scandinavian country. And indeed its old town Gamle Stavanger will charm you with restored colorful wooden houses dating back to the 18th & 19th centuries.

A very important building in the city is the 12th century cathedral, which is one of the oldest churches in Norway, still being used.

If you seek to learn more about Stavanger’s history, there are several museums to choose from.  Norwegian Canning Museum – fun way to learn about the importance of the canning industry, you will never look at the fish in a tin the same way.

Visit in the Viking House gives you a chance to hear sagas about Harald Fairhair, Norway’s first king and the famous battle of Hafrsfhord in 872 AD.

What also attracts many visitors to Stavanger is the nearby Lysefjord , one of the most beautiful and iconic fjords in Norway! There are many ways to admire and explore the fjord, such as taking a cruise, boat tour or going hiking. 

Two famous hikes can be done, if you choose Stavanger as your base. Easier of them and suitable for most people is a hike to Preikestolen (or Pulpit Rock ) , the other one- Kjeragbolten is rather demanding and suitable for more experienced walkers.

The list of attractions mentioned above is not exhaustive and there is so much more to do during your stay in this charming city. Make sure to book enough days for your stay, to admire the city and its natural wonders.

Ela & Beata from Stunning Outdoors

Stavanger at a glance

• Oil capital of Norway
• Population: 146,011
• One of Norway’s oldest cities

Tromso is the biggest city in Northern Norway, about 300 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle . It is a perfect place to visit every season.

During the long summer months, the sun never sets – a similar and fascinating phenomenon you can experience in Iceland .  You can admire the midnight sun above the hills over the fjord. Tromso is one of the best places to see the magical northern lights dance in the dark in the fall and autumn sky.

One of the city’s main attractions on the eastern side of the town is the modern Arctic Cathedral , under another famous attraction, Mount Floya . You can have a spectacular view over the city from the cable car leading to Mount Floya.

The upper station, Fjellstua , is situated at an altitude of 421 meters above sea level and a perfect spot for an easy hike. If you like nature, you can browse among numerous hikes around Tromso . 

The Tromso Museum is a perfect place to get to know the north. You can get to know the local Sami culture, history, and region’s art. The Polar Museum gives you an insight into the expeditions to the Arctic.

If you have more time, make sure you take a look at the northernmost university of the world or have a walk in the northernmost botanical garden.

Katalin from Amazing Lapland

Tromso at a glance

• Second-most populated city north of the Arctic Circle
• Population: 77,544
• Sits on an island roughly the size of Manhattan

Founded by a Viking king in 997 AD, Trondheim is a popular “port” town that is considered Norway’s capital of knowledge.

That’s because it is home to the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) , the country’s biggest university, as well as the Foundation for Scientific and Industrial Research (SINTEF) and many other technological institutions.

However, this charming city also has plenty of medieval charms, rich history and scenic islets.

The “Old Bridge” has to be one of its prettiest spots, which is the entryway into the fascinating old town. This red bridge commands a gorgeous view of the colorful lines of houses on the riverbank.

Then, go on and explore the cobbled streets and antique shops in the old town.

Make the most out of the preserved folk history in Trondheim as you visit the Archbishop’s Residence, which is the oldest Scandinavian secular structure that dates back to the 12th century.

If you visit in the summer, stop by the Folk Museum and witness the over 80 historic buildings in this complex!

You can visit Trondheim whenever you like, although the winter months can feel especially magical, thanks to the thick snow and abundance of Christmas markets.

The easiest way to get here is to make a stop in your Norway road trip, or simply fly into Trondheim.

Cazzy from Dream Big, Travel Far

Trondheim at a glance

• Known as Norway’s capital of knowledge due to having the largest university in the country
• Population: 205,332
• Student population: 36,000

The best Scandinavian cities in Sweden

Sweden is the third country that makes up Scandinavia. It is the largest country in Scandinavia, and has a lot in common with its neighbor, Norway.

Like Norway, portions of Sweden are located within the Arctic Circle. The country is also known for its beautiful nature. 

In Sweden’s top cities, you’ll find unique street art, museums honoring the country’s heritage, and lots of great activities that encourage people to get outdoors.

The capital of Sweden, Stockholm, is situated on the eastern edge of the country. Along with a distinct island situated in the middle of the city, named Gamla Stan , or “Old Town,” the city is its own archipelago.

The Stockholm archipelago is made up of 30,000 islands, many of which can be visited on one of the many ferries waiting on the beautiful water of the city. 

Take the ferry, located off of the picturesque Kungsträdgården park and downtown residential area to visit islands such as Vaxholm . Take the day to swim or kayak in the Scandinavian waters, or eat local dishes in the relaxing environment. 

Don’t miss out on seeing the uniqueness of Stockholm, as there are many activities for couples, singles, and families. 

For a leisurely stroll, visit Gamla Stan, the medieval old town with cobbled streets, which also houses the Royal Palace , or shop on the famous Drottninggatan.

For families with small children it’s a wonderful trip to visit Djurgården , Stockholm’s national park, Skansen , the largest open air museum in the world, or Grönalund , a beautiful amusement park overlooking the water. 

Another popular visit is the Vasa Museum , home of the sunken 17th century warship.

You won’t run out of options visiting Stockholm as it is also a great time to just watch people in the parks or in the square of Gamla Stan while drinking local coffee and munching on local pastries.

Sandrine from Sandrine Nestenius

Stockholm at a glance

• Capital of Sweden
• Population: 980,000
• Metro area population: 2,391,990

Gothenburg is the largest and most popular city along the Sweden west coast .

An important seaport, the city is noted for its Dutch-style canals and pedestrian boulevards lined with shops and cafes which are perfect for partaking in the Swedish custom of a fika, or coffee break.

With a friendly, welcoming vibe, Gothenburg is an easy city to explore on foot. 

To start your visit to Gothenburg, take a walking tour of Haga , the city’s oldest neighborhood. The mid-17th century old district is known for its well-preserved wooden houses and charming cobblestone streets. 

Other things to see and do in Gothenburg including a visit to Feskekôrka, or the fish church. The former church building along the river now houses a fresh fish and seafood market. It’s a great place to stop for lunch or just to browse the interesting fish selection native to Sweden’s west coast. 

Gothenburg is also home to one of the largest botanical gardens in Northern Europe. The lovely 40-acre garden is great for an evening stroll or a relaxing afternoon on a nice day.

Gothenburg at a glance

• Second largest city in Sweden
• Population: 631,000
• Metro area population: 1,000,000

Luleå is one of the largest cities in northern Sweden. It’s the capital of Norrbotten county, an area that covers almost a quarter of the country and that includes Swedish Lapland . 

Due to the Luleå University of Technology it is an academic center in the region and an inspiring student city that has lots to offer.

Luleå’s main attraction is its scenic location in the Bothnian Bay . The relatively small city is surrounded by endless forests and incredible nature. 

The Lulea archipelago that lies just off shore from the city has more than 1300 picturesque islands. Some have nothing but nature, others have old fishing villages with traditional wooden cabins. 

What to do in Lulea depends a lot on the season you visit. In winter Lulea is a magical winter wonderland . It is far enough north to see the northern lights and to be guaranteed a thick blanket of snow.

The most popular thing to do in winter is the isbanan , a 6-kilometer ice track around the city center that is used for ice skating, kicksledding, walking or jogging. Other winter activities include ice breaker cruises, dog sledding and snowmobiling.

In summer, Lulea is a great city for those that love the outdoors. You can spend days kayaking through the Lulea archipelago while exploring different islands or hiking one of the many trails in the forests around Lulea.

On a warm and sunny day you can even spend your day on one of the sandy beaches on the shore of the Bothnian Sea . Come in June and you can also experience the midnight sun.

Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Lulea at a glance

• Largest city in the Swedish Lapland
• Population: 48,728
• Metro area population: 77,832

Lund is an ancient and historical city in the region Skåne, the south of Sweden. It dates back to the year 1020 and today it’s a real university city. When visiting the region, it is highly recommended to stop in Lund to learn more about the history of this town and Sweden in general!

Lund is very easy to reach by train. If you fly into Copenhagen , you can take a direct train from the airport to Lund (and other Swedish cities, as well). ‘

The best way to start your visit to Lund is by walking around the historical center and enjoying the view of the ancient buildings.

The absolute highlight of Lund is Museum Kulturen . Here you’ll get to know more about the history of Sweden and Lund with exhibitions inside as well as outside. They even managed to transport medieval buildings from all over the country to exhibit in the museum’s garden!

This way you can experience yourself how people used to live centuries ago. Impressive right?

You should also consider visiting the main church ( Lunds domkyrka ) and read about the legend that is portrayed in the crypts below. Plus, the botanical gardens of Lund are worth a visit as well! 

Other great places to visit include Lund University , Drotten Church ruins , Stadsparken and the Museum of Sketches for Public Art .

Emma from Emma’s Roadmap

Lund at a glance

• Sweden’s second oldest town
• Population: 91,940
• Student population: 44,000

Malmo is one of the easiest cities in Sweden to visit. It’s only a short ride over the Oresund Bridge from Copenhagen, making a quick 35 minute trip. There are plenty of things to do in this southeastern city where you can easily spend a great weekend.

Being a coastal city, one of the best things to do is walk around the port and visit the beach. Malmo Castle houses a few museums, so it’s easy to spend part of the day taking in some history and culture. 

The Ribersborg Beach is only three kilometers from the center of the city. The sand was imported, but it still creates a wonderful respite from all your sightseeing. On one end, you can visit a bathhouse and pier with restaurants and cafes.

Other sights to see in Malmo include the Turning Torso tower, and taking leisurely strolls around Lille Torg and Stortorget, the small and large squares where you can meander through the shops and stop and have a coffee and watch the world go by.

There’s plenty of great food to eat in Malmo. One favorite is located in the Malmo train station where you can find Salt and Sill , a great place to get some pickled and breaded herring, a local especially.

Another great stop is a small bakery, called Hollandia , where you can try some cookies and coffee for a real Swedish fika (coffee break).

For a relaxing break, some good food, and a lot to see, don’t pass up a chance to visit Malmo.

Corinne Vail from Reflections Enroute

Malmo at a glance

• Third largest city in Sweden
• Population: 357,377
• Located across the Öresund strait from Copenhagen

Västerås is located an hour northwest of Stockholm, making it an easy day trip by road or by train. Established in 990 AD, Västerås is one of the oldest cities in Northern Europe.

There are many things to do in Västerås and most of the attractions are within walking distance or an easy ride by bus or bicycle.

Within the city centre, you will find cobblestone streets and green spaces filled with beautiful gardens such as Botaniksa Tadgarden (Botanical Gardens) and Djäkneberget Park . 

Take a stroll through Kyrkbacken , the old town, where you will see traditional houses and cottages restored to their former glory.

Västerås Cathedral is also not to be missed. It has been awarded three stars by Guide Michelin. Vallby Open Air Museum is a short walk from the city and features 50 traditional original buildings from throughout Västmanland County.

The city of Västerås lies on the banks of Lake Mälaren and one of the best ways to see and enjoy the surrounding archipelago is by taking a ride on the Elba Ferry .

This is a great way to enjoy a morning or afternoon, and there are many beautiful restaurants and cafes at the harbor where you can enjoy a meal overlooking Lake Mälaren.

If you have a car and want to learn more about the history of the Nordic Viking Age, Anundshög , Sweden’s largest burial mound, is a must see.  Other recommended places to visit are the Sala Silver Mine, Skultuna Brassworks, and Strömsholm Palace.

Peta and Jonas from Exit45 Travels

Vasteras at a glance

• Population: 127,799
• Metro population: 154,049
• Home to the world’s first H&M store which opened in 1947

Which Scandinavian cities are the best?

Determining which cities in Scandinavia are best really depends on what part of the Nordic region you plan to visit.

For example, if visiting the northern Lapland region of Sweden, visiting a city like Luleå makes strategic sense. However, Luleå doesn’t make sense if you plan to stick to Sweden’s west coast and the archipelago. 

While many people stick mainly to the capital cities of each country, the smaller Scandinavian cities have so much to offer, as well! Regardless of which area of Scandinavia you plan to visit, be sure to add some of these beautiful Scandinavian cities to your itinerary. 

Need an itinerary to follow that includes some of these Scandinavian cities? Check out our Scandinavia itinerary to start planning your trip!

Best Nordic cities to visit (that aren’t in Scandinavia)

Although Scandinavia technically only includes Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, there are other Nordic countries and great Nordic cities worth visiting.

Here are a couple more of the best Nordic cities to visit that, while not in Scandinavia, are often included on a Scandinavian itinerary.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is one of the best destinations in the Nordic region, offering a captivating blend of modern innovation and cultural heritage.

This vibrant city effortlessly combines picturesque natural landscapes with cutting-edge architecture, creating a truly unique and enchanting atmosphere. 

Visitors to the Finland capital are greeted by the Helsinki Cathedral , one of the most famous churches in Europe , which towers proudly over Senate Square. 

The city also boasts world-class museums, such as the iconic Ateneum and the contemporary Kiasma .

From strolling through the charming streets of the historic district to enjoying the tranquility of its numerous parks, Helsinki offers a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts as well. 

And with a thriving food and drink scene, you can savor the flavors of local delicacies like reindeer and freshly caught seafood. So, although not in Scandinavia, if you want a broader Nordic itinerary, consider adding Helsinki to your travel plans. 

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is a captivating destination, as is the entire Nordic island nation.

Surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, Reykjavik is the gateway for those who want to begin an Iceland itinerary . The city has a dynamic liberal arts and music scene, trendy boutiques, and stylish cafes. 

Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Hallgrímskirkja Church , with its striking architecture or delve into Icelandic history at the National Museum of Iceland.

 If you rent a car in Iceland , you can find many of Iceland’s otherworldly natural wonders just outside the city, including the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon , the geothermal marvels of the Golden Circle, and many of Iceland’s famous waterfalls . 

Whether visiting Iceland in summer or winter, if flying to Scandinavia from the United States, you can use Reykjavik as a stopping point, with a long layover in Iceland , or even an extended stopover.

Have a question or comment about the best Scandinavian cities to visit? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts (or your favorite cities in Scandinavia) in the comments below.

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More From Forbes

How to see the best of northern europe on a scandinavian cruise.

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Cruise ship passengers enjoy the view of Sweden’s Stockholm archipelago from the Royal Caribbean ... [+] ship ‘Serenade of the Seas.’

If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the culture of the Vikings or explore what makes people in the Nordic region the so-called happiest on earth, you could do a lot worse than book a Scandinavian cruise.

Scandinavia—and Norway in particular—is an expensive place to travel around, so a cruise can make financial sense for those seeking an introduction to the region. For one price, you get your travel, accommodation, meals, and entertainment covered.

Such a trip offers the opportunity to sample various Scandinavian travel highlights , whether you prefer the Scandinavian capitals, the stunning Norwegian fjords, or soaking up the atmosphere of beautiful islands and historic ports in the Baltic Sea.

Popular Scandinavian Cruise Itineraries

Many different types of itinerary can be advertised as Scandinavian cruises. Typically, they focus on the Nordic capital cities. Some may also include the highlights of the Baltic Sea region, including the Baltic countries and ports in the north of Germany and Poland.

With popular Norwegian fjords cruises together with midnight sun and northern lights tours to the north of Norway also available, there is a lot of diversity in Scandinavian cruises.

Scandinavian Capitals : Cruise itineraries starting in the U.K. or Germany and calling in at two or even all three of Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen have long been popular.

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The Nyhavn district of Copenhagen, Denmark, is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers ... [+] visiting Scandinavia.

Helsinki is often included on such itineraries. If you want to explore modern Scandinavia while gaining access to some of the region’s best museums, such an itinerary is a perfect choice.

Such itineraries tend to be shorter, and are a great introduction to both cruising and Scandinavia, with limited sea days and plenty to see and do while in port.

Baltic Sea : Longer Scandinavian itineraries often include stops at Baltic Sea islands and ports. The beautiful Estonian capital city, Tallinn, or the Latvian capital, Riga, are particular highlights, as are ports on the northern coastline of Germany and Poland.

For those interested in Viking history, look out for smaller ship itineraries featuring Visby on the wonderful island of Gotland .

One such trip is this 12-night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises, which includes a visit to both Visby and Tallinn. Other highlights include a visit to Stockholm and Copenhagen, including an overnight stop in the latter.

The old city walls of Visby on Gotland island, a popular cruise port.

Norwegian Fjords : By far the most variety can be found in the Norwegian fjords region , with almost all major cruise lines operating at least some itineraries here. Although port calls in Flåm and Geiranger will soon be severely limited, many alternative ports will still be able to welcome some of the world’s largest cruise ships.

Whether you prefer the action-packed ships of Royal Caribbean or MSC, or the smaller ships that can sail along narrower fjords, there will be a Norwegian fjords itinerary for you.

Following the recent rise in popularity of the region as a cruising destination, the fjords season has extended, with trips available as early as April and as late as September.

British line P&O Cruises operates its relatively new megaship Iona in the fjords region for much of that period, with regular departures from Southampton on a popular 7-day itinerary.

Midnight Sun : Although all summer cruises in the region will experience long summer days, specific midnight sun itineraries set sail for the far north of Norway to let guests experience the thrill of being outside with the sun in the sky at midnight. Many of these trips visit Honningsvåg, which allows guests to travel by bus to the North Cape.

Northern Lights : In recent years, Scandinavia—or more specifically Norway—has become a year-round cruising destination thanks to the growth in popularity of northern lights cruises .

Aurora borealis in the sky seen from a cruise ship in Arctic Norway.

These itineraries can be found heading north of the Arctic Circle between October and early April.

Planning Tips For Scandinavian Cruises

Cruising in Northern Europe offers a fantastic variety of excursions and experiences, from historical city tours to adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures.

The region’s love of the outdoors lifestyle means active experiences are easy to find, both through cruise line excursions and independent operators.

The high levels of English comprehension across the region means booking your own activities and exploring ports independently is much easier than in many other parts of the world. Even so, look for independent tours that take place earlier in the day to reduce any time-related risk.

No matter when you visit Scandinavia, pack for all weathers. The height of summer can be marred by heavy rainfall, while it’s possible to get sunburnt in the snow-covered conditions of February and March.

Pack a versatile wardrobe. Layered clothing accommodates the region's variable weather, while specialized gear might be necessary for specific excursions.

Cruising And Sustainability

Prospective travelers should be aware of environmental concerns associated with cruising in this pristine region. The industry is moving towards sustainability, with initiatives to introduce zero-emission vessels in sensitive areas, particularly the UNESCO-listed Norwegian fjords .

Some local initiatives protesting against cruise travel have also gathered momentum, so cruisers should be aware of these issues before setting foot ashore.

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