best country to visit in northern europe

The Absolute Best Places to Travel in Northern Europe

If you love exotic landscapes, challenging hikes, and off-the-beaten-path attractions, we think these are the best places to travel in Northern Europe!

The colder regions of Europe often get overlooked by the mass tourist crowd in favor of sunny Spain or the gorgeous islands of Greece. Romantics head for Paris, France, and those obsessed with all things royal, usually land in London. However, for the traveler who loves exotic landscapes covered in snow, difficult hikes, and all things Viking, you can’t beat a trip that includes the best places to travel in Northern Europe!

Scavenger Hunts in Northern Europe

If you’re planning a visit to Northern Europe, don’t forget to download our adventure app and try one or more of our walking scavenger hunt tours ! We’ve created hundreds of exciting excursions in cities throughout the world , and our talented guides are creating additional options every day. Each experience includes a fun route to area attractions, facts about each stop, and photo challenges. Trivia questions will help test your knowledge and give you a chance to top the local leaderboard. Try one on your next trip!

The Best Places to Travel in Northern Europe

“Northern Europe” is a bit difficult to define, but it’s often categorized as countries above the 54th Parallel North, or roughly in line with the southern border of the Baltic Sea. This includes all of Scandinavia, most of the United Kingdom, and the northernmost cities of Continental Europe. That’s what we will use as our definition for this article.

Now that our parameters are set, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to travel in Northern Europe!

1. Drive The Ring Road of Iceland

There is no landscape on earth quite like Iceland. “The Land of Fire and Ice” is majestic, mystical, and full of history. From active volcanoes to snorkeling with Humpback Whales, there is an adventure for every traveler in this northern paradise.

Your trip will start with a flight into the funky capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. From there, we recommend renting a camper van or SUV and driving The Ring Road . The Ring Road is the main Highway that circumvents the entire Island. Most of Iceland’s best sights can be seen from here on a 10-day trip. Check out the Golden Circle where you can snorkel between two continents at Silfra, explore Thingvellir National Park, and check out the show at Geysir Park.

Next, you’ll visit waterfalls and black sand beaches on the southern and eastern coast, including the famous Diamond Beach. In the north of the country, you can snorkel with Humpback Whales in Strytan, and then continue your hunt for waterfalls and canyons around the loop back to Reykjavik.

The interior of Iceland is magical as well, full of colorful mountains in Landmannalaugar and glacier peaks. However, the roads are only open in the middle of summer, from June-August, usually. You kind of have to pick your poison with Iceland travel. If you want ice caves and the best Northern Lights possibilities, winter is your time. If you want to go see the interior then summer is your best bet. In the summer months, you also have almost 24 hours of daylight, so that helps get all those sights in easily!

2. Explore The Top Trio of Norway

The Scandinavian nation of Norway should be at the top of any nature lover’s list! The mountain peaks, the fresh air, the deep blue fjords… heaven! From epic waterfalls to death-defying cliff overlooks, Norway has some serious beauty and adventure! With all those waterways, navigating around Norway can be a bit difficult, but with a little planning and flexibility, it can be the trip of a lifetime. We recommend spending a few nights in each of these areas and taking day trips and excursions from each.

Oslo is the oft-overlooked capital city of Norway, but Bergen is kind of the cultural capital. Oslo hasn’t been the capital that long, and much of it was destroyed in a fire in the 1600s, so so you won’t get the rich history there that you do in Bergen. Spend a day in Oslo, then move on to greener pastures.

We recommend you spend at least a couple of days in Bergen. The brightly colored wooden buildings of Norway’s second-largest city look like something straight off a postcard. Bergen is a mecca of culture and history. Visit the gorgeous Fantoft Stave Church, explore the museums, and stop by the historic Fish Market.

From there, you can hop on one of Bergen’s Fjord day trips to Mostraumen Fjord, or a slightly longer trip to Sognefjord or Flåm-which we highly recommend. Flam is adorable! You can also very easily take the train from Bergen to Flåm. Bergen is also the closest city to the famous cliff overlook of Trolltunga, which is a hike you don’t want to miss!

Tromso is a gorgeous town far above the Arctic Circle, in Northern Norway, famous for its nature activities. This is your chance to fulfill all your winter wonderland fantasies. Hunt for the Northern Lights. Marvel at the Midnight Sun. Search for wild reindeer or take a dog-sledding tour. Enjoy a concert at the Arctic Cathedral. Go on a whale safari or kayak the northern fjords on a guided tour. When in the city, make sure to take the Fjellheisen cable car up for a stellar view of the area. Tromso is gloriously beautiful! Just don’t forget your parka!

Stavanger is your mecca for hiking! It has an adorable Old Town too, but Stavanger is the perfect place to camp out a couple of nights and make the day trips to Lysefjord, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), and Kjerag. Pulpit Rock and Kjerag are two of Norway’s most easily accessible and popular hikes. You have likely seen both of these beautiful multiple times in your Insta feed. Kjerag is the rock wedged between two cliffs that the craziest hikers brave their life on to get that perfect photo. Pulpit Rock is a large, cliff overhang with incredible Norwegian fjord views. Both of these places are must-visit sights in our opinion!

3. Basque in The Quaintness of Tallinn, Estonia

Cutest” “Old Town in the world” award goes to… drum roll, please… Tallinn, Estonia! This place is seriously a fairytale and so underrated! A walk around Tallinn is like stepping back into a Medieval world of knights and castles, princesses, and perfect castle turrets. Pass by the multiple booths of fresh-flower merchants and enter the twin-towered gate to Old Town. You’ll instantly be greeted by a cobblestone maze of high-end cafes and stunning architecture.

Tallinn has one of the most intact medieval city walls anywhere in Europe. Parts of the wall are open for tourism. You can stroll at the top of the city on a covered wooden path, and several of the towers along the path now serve as city museums.

The Downtown area is laced with period actors selling their wares in costume. The food is fantastic. You can even experience a true Medieval meal at Ill Draakon. Fish for pickles in a barrel, be denied any kind of silverware, and have an absolute blast at this themed restaurant in the town square.

You can do everything, or nothing at all, in the city of Tallinn. Either way, you’ll enjoy some of Europe’s best food, the most beautiful architecture, and a quirky, entertaining personality that will lift the spirits of any weary traveler.

4. Sauna Hop in Finnish Lapland

Finland has emerged as a leader in travel for Scandinavia in recent years. It’s no surprise either. Finnish Lapland has done an excellent job of drawing in tourists. It plays on its natural beauty and incredible snowy landscape to provide adventures of all kinds to tourists who don’t mind a few cold nights.

Then, there are the saunas! Finland has a little over 5 million people, and those people enjoy well over two million saunas. To say it’s a Finnish pastime is the understatement of the century. To do it correctly, you must spend your time in the sauna until you’re nice and sweaty, run and jump in the nearest snowbank or icy body of water. It’s a thrill like no other! Don’t worry. Unless you have been diagnosed with epilepsy, it’s a safe activity and has been tested thoroughly by every Finnish local and the bravest tourists.

We recommend you spend a couple of days in the capital city of Helsinki. It has some excellent restaurants and cafes, a lovely national museum, and several stunning cathedrals. Plus the seaside port and Old Market Hall are a must-see. The market is a bit touristy, but worth it for the Lohikeitto (salmon soup)! It’s the perfect antidote for a cold Helsinki day.

From there, snag a bus or rental car and head up to paradise in Rovaniemi. Book a few days at Apukka Resort. Here is your one-stop shop for reindeer sleigh rides, dog sledding excursions, and Northern Lights tours of every kind. They have lodging ranging from glass-topped Aurora cabins, to villa-style lodges, to campers by the lake. Or, for the really adventurous, book a night in their ice hut and see if you can make it through until morning in -10C temps. You would think with all this on offer that Apukka would cost you an arm and a leg, but surprisingly, it’s one of the cheapest resorts in the area (which still isn’t cheap, Finland is very expensive).

5. Take the Ferry to St. Petersburg, Russia

While Russia is causing some trouble on the world scene at the moment, and we wouldn’t recommend this trip currently (actually it isn’t running right now), normally you can book a ferry from Helsinki, Finland to St. Petersburg, Russia. This ferry is a sort of an ill-kept secret and a loophole for getting into Russia without a visa. Russian visas are expensive.

With a tour package from St. Peters Line , you can take the ferry from Tallinn, Estonia, or Helsinki, Finland, and spend up to 72 hours in St. Petersburg, visa-free! There are a few rules you have to abide by, like taking a guided excursion into the city, but all-in-all it’s an easy and cheap way to get a taste of Russia!

6. Put Your Liver to the Test in Dublin, Ireland

There is no place on earth more lively than a Dublin pub. Pull up a barstool. Tap your foot to the rousing tune of a live band playing traditional music as drunken revelry entertains all your senses. If you’re lucky, perhaps an old Seanchai (traditional Irish folk teller) will regale you with a limerick or two.

Aside from the pubs, Dublin is a lovely city, full of gorgeous cathedrals and tons of history. Most of the city seems to be owned by either Guinness or Jameson, and there are a number of great rivalry tales. Plus, two pretty awesome brewery tours.

If you have the time, rent a car and do a loop of the Emerald Isle. There is no landscape on Earth that’s quite as peaceful as the Irish countryside. You can fish in quaint seaside villages, and explore some of our oldest human creations in the Neolithic passage tombs of Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne.

Drive Slea Head Loop. Stop at all the little beehive huts and Celtic burial grounds along the route. Stop off for a Guinness at the Dingle Pub. Drive the Ring of Kerry and experience paradise on Earth. Traverse the massive monasteries and abbey ruins like the Rock of Cashel, and visit every castle you can. It’s a road trip for the books! Oh, you can even stay in a renovated castle. Book a night in Wilton Castle for excellent service and a historical tour of this storied property.

For the very best way to explore Dublin, hop on one of our app-guided scavenger hunts of the city. Our hunts are chalked full of fun photo and trivia challenges and introduce you to the city in an adventurous competition that’s guaranteed to be the best part of your trip! Check out “ The Dublin Adventure ”, or the spooky ghost hunt, The Dark, The Dead, and The Doomed. ”

7. Explore the Complicated History of Riga, Latvia

Latvia not on your bucket list? It should be! Riga is a stunning city with an interesting history. It served as a major port for most of its existence and has been fought over by pretty much every major power in its turbulent past. It was founded by Germans and was going to be the Nazi headquarters for Northern Europe had Hitler succeeded. Riga has excellent free walking tours, led by local historians, and we recommend you take as many as you can!

Try all the local delicacies at the sprawling Riga Central Market. Take a dive off the bungee platform and enjoy the gorgeous Baltic Sea at Dārzu ceļš. Outside of the museums and architecture of Old Town Riga, Latvia is filled with gorgeous national parks and Baltic Sea beaches that are thriving in the summer months. If you want to avoid mass tourism, see amazing scenery, and get a little history in too, you can’t beat a week in Latvia!

8. Experience Pure Peace In The Faroe Islands

If you really don’t like people, head for the remote Faroe Islands. Holy cow are they beautiful? You get all the green swept fields of Ireland, the waterfalls and cliffside views of Iceland, and none of the tourist crowd!

We definitely suggest you do a road trip—with a few ferries thrown in. Visit the giant puffin colony of Mykines. Mykines is the westernmost island and can be accessed by ferry from Størvágur. Take some time to visit the lighthouse and explore a local village after admiring the cutest birds ever. You must make the hike to the stunning Lake Sørvágsvatn on Vágar Island. It’s the largest lake in the Faroe Islands, and it famously appears to be hanging off a cliff into the sea. The hike takes about an hour, and it’s fabulous!

The other must-see sight is the village of Gásadalur and its glorious waterfall, Múlafossur. The typical Faroese village has all the grass-covered roofs of your Faroe dreams and some of the most beautiful towering-mountain surroundings. The Faroe Islands are not a cheap trip, but they are beautiful and secluded, which sounds pretty good to us!

9. Cruise the Canals of Stockholm, Sweden

The capital of Sweden is a gem! The city proper is spread over 14 islands and covered in glorious palaces, museums, and castles that will keep you busy for weeks! Make sure to visit the opulent Royal Palace, on par with any in Europe. Make sure to stop in the Vasa Museum, The Swedish History Museum, and The Medieval Museum to get your history fix. Stroll the gardens of Drottningholm Castle , Sweden’s most intact and glorious residence from the 1600s. Stroll Strandvägen boulevard with some swiss chocolate in hand.

If you’re an ABBA fan, the famous Swedes have their own museum in Stockholm ! Stroll around 13th century Gamla Stan (Old Town). Cruise through the ancient canals and under beautiful bridges on a Paddan boat tour, and with all that sightseeing, don’t forget to take some time for a Fika (coffee and cake break)!

10. Medieval Castles and Beasts in Scotland

Castles, kilts, scotch, and Nessie, that’s what a vacation in cheery Ol’ Scotland will get ya. We don’t know about you, but that all sounds pretty good to us. Start your trip with our fun-filled “ Fairy Tale Capital” scavenger hunt and learn all there is to know about the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Town Edinburgh. It will get you all caught up on your Scottish history and give you a good overall layout of the city. Then, you can go back and explore in detail anything that strikes you as interesting!

After a couple of days in the city taking in Parliament, the cathedrals, and Castle Rock, hop in the car for the ultimate road trip! Head for Lochness and try to snap a shot of the Lochness Monster. Explore the remains of 13 intact castles on The Castle Trail in Aberdeenshire.

Next up are the incredible landscapes and eery mists of the Isle of Skye. You can hike its glens and explore caves for days, not to mention the gorgeous waterfalls and sandy beaches. With tons of wildlife and over 200 species of birds, the island is a haven for nature lovers!

However, make sure to save a couple of days in your itinerary for Glasgow to admire the Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, catch an opera, and check out Glasgow Cathedral. We have a tour of glorious Glasgow , too!

Visit the whiskey distilleries on the isles of Islay and Jura. Climb The UK’s highest peaks in the Grampian Mountains, and make sure to take the tour of Melrose Abbey! Alternatively, you could just hop from castle to castle and keep your fairytale dreams alive for weeks.

11. Take A Pilgrimage in Lithuania

Like Latvia, the Baltic country of Lithuania might not be on your radar. However, there are some interesting sights in this little northern beauty. First of all, let’s talk about the “Hill of Crosses.” This quirky little sight is in northern Lithuania and has been a pilgrimage route since the first crosses were placed there after an uprising in 1831. Over the proceeding generations, pilgrims and tourists have left their mark on the grassy hill with what has turned into one of the largest collections of crosses and crucifixes in the world. Estimates as of 2006 put it at more than 100,000 crosses, and that was a long time ago. It’s kind of fun to just wander the sight and see the relics placed there by the faithful and the curious. It’s a weird sight, but worth a look!

The rest of the country is full of weird and quirky history too. Visit the Cathedral of St. Anne, the church Napolean tried to steal. Lurk through the underwater tunnels and escape routes of Kulgrinda, carved by Lithuanians over the centuries to escape their numerous invaders. Hike The Hill of Witches Trail and marvel at all the wood carvings of mythical beasts and little gnomes that dot the path.

We recommend a few days in the capital city of Vilnius too. It’s a beautiful city full of culture and history. Napolean was so impressed by Vilnius that he wrote home to his wife to tell her of its beauty. You can get an awesome view of the city from the Hill of Three Crosses, peruse the cafes and shops of one of the most well-preserved medieval Old Towns in Northern Europe, and even visit the weirdly-placed Frank Zappa Memorial. The singer had absolutely no ties to Vilnius or Lithuania and never visited there, but it’s one of two places in the world with a memorial to him. We told you Lithuania is quirky! If you like an off-the-beaten-path getaway, you’re gonna love this little Baltic jewel.

12. Connect With Your Inner Viking in Denmark

Copenhagen Denmark is a travel destination full of wonder and history. The city is full of museums, historic royal palaces, and fun amusement parks. Almost every major city in the world has a hop-on-hop-off tour, but not many of them are done by boat! In the gorgeous Danish capital, you can hop off at all the major sights from your canal cruise, and hop back on to the next sight down the waterway… so much more fun than a bus!

If you really want to explore the canals in luxury though, book a hot tub boat with Copehhot ! That’s right, you can cruise around the canals of Copenhagen in a hot tub boat, complete with champagne or a bucket of beer. Awesome! You’ll also want to make pitstops at The Little Mermaid Statue, Tivoli Gardens, and several of the country castles surrounding the city.

Once you have thoroughly explored the capital, head north and visit the acclaimed open-air museum of Den Gamble By. It contains over 75 historic buildings collected from multiple townships all over the country. The live period actors and furnishings really make you feel as if you have stepped back in time.

Hop over to the city of Odense and visit the historic home and museum of famous writer Hans Christian Anderson. Then, head for Randers and check out the amazing 3-domed zoo with an Asia, Africa, and South America Dome. It’s a paradise with free-roaming monkeys! One of the coolest zoos anywhere in the world!

Denmark is a small country, and you can feast your way through it on a 7-10 day trip pretty easily. Of course, you won’t see everything, but you can certainly make a good dent!

13. Explore The Shipyards of Belfast, Northern Ireland

Start your tour of the capital of Northern Ireland with a Let’s Roam scavenger hunt! It’s one of the best ways to get to know the city and have a really good time doing it. Work your way through difficult trivia questions, photo and video challenges, and much more on our adventure through the heart of Belfast. Simply download our adventure app and purchase tickets for the “ Bold and Beautiful Historic Belfast ” experience. Once purchased, our hunts can be done at any time, so they easily fit into the dead space of your trip itinerary. They may even turn out to be your favorite part of the trip. Give it a shot. We know you’re gonna love it!

If we could pick one thing that Belfast is famous for, it would be the RMS Titanic. The famous tainted ship was assembled right in the heart of Belfast at the Harland and Wolff Shipyard. After a period of abandonment, the Belfast Lough has been reconfigured as the Titanic Belfast Museum. The giant museum resembles four-ship bows and is quite an architectural feat to gawk at. Plus, you know, it’s full of Titanic memorabilia and history.

The Titanic museum isn’t the only great museum in Belfast though. The Ulster Museum boasts an impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian mummies, and Neolith war items and jewelry. The Ulster also has a great folk museum, east of the city, where you can experience a taste of ancient Northern Ireland village life.

Make sure to stop by the iconic City Hall, take in the smells of the Botanic Gardens, and visit the Grand Opera House before leaving the city. If you choose to tour around the rest of Northern Ireland. We recommend that you head north to the tip of the peninsula and visit Giant’s Causeway and The Old Bushmills Distillery. Oh… and The Dark Hedges are a beautiful place to snap those vacation Insta shots!

14. Pay Homage To The Beatles In Liverpool, England

Ahh, Liverpool… home to The Beatles, the world’s greatest second-hand shops, and a pretty great futbol club! In fact, it’s mostly Beatles fans and futbol fans, coming to Anfield, that target Liverpool as a travel destination, but it’s so much more than that! The city has a grit about it that is amusing and interesting. It’s a university city that still has kind of a rebellious vibe about it.

Start your trip with a visit to The Beatles Story . The world’s most iconic quad started their career here in Liverpool, and the most thorough museum dedicated to their lives and work is rightly here. Aside from the museum, you can visit The Cavern Club. The original club was one of the first places The Beatles played regularly and become the heart of the rock and roll scene in Liverpool in the 1960s.

After all the rock and roll and violent futbol stadium chants, make a stop at the Liverpool Cathedral to repent and take in the stunning architecture. Liverpool is a great city to just wander. Step into the record shops and vintage stores. Grab a coffee and hang out at The Royal Albert Docks, the old Victorian docks in Liverpool harbor.

If you have some time on your trip, drive through Manchester. Have a look around, and then swing up through the Yorkshire Dales. This part of the Northern English countryside is absolutely stunning, especially Malham Cove, The Forbidden Corner, and Aysgarth Falls. You really can’t go wrong actually, Northern England is beautiful anywhere you go!

Not sure where to start? We recommend our “ Lucky Liverpool ” walking scavenger hunt!

15. Refresh Your World War II History In Gdansk, Poland

Poland is a huge country, and there are so many places that you should visit there! Let’s start with the gorgeous Old Town of Krakow, home to the first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wawel Castel. Then, there’s the capital of Warsaw and the World War II concentration camps of Auschwitz-Birkenau, Sobibor, and Treblinka. But, if we are sticking to our definition of Northern Europe, Gdansk is as far south in Poland as we are allowed to go, but don’t get sad yet. Gdansk is amazing!

Start your tour of the city with the emasculate St. Mary’s Basilica. This baby is huge, one of the three largest brick churches in the world! Yes, the world! It’s gorgeous. Then, move on to ice cream at Neptune’s Fountain, before hopping into The Museum of The Second World War. Do a little shopping in The Long Market. Gaze at all the pretties in The Amber Museum, and wander through the incredible shipyard.

Once you have finished your tour of the city, spend a couple of days taking some excursions. Head north to see the imposing Wisłoujście Fortress and Moat. Then, spend a day wandering the gardens and interior of Malbork Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest castle in the world! It’s a 13th-century beast, and it’s beautiful!

If you have time to see more of Poland, do it! However, you can easily spend a week in the stunning city of Gdansk. The architecture is to die for, with all those soaring epithets and red-tile roofs. The food is hearty and tasty. The city is clean and vibrant and full of history. We love everything about it, and we are sure you will too!

16. Photograph The Iconic Bridges Of Hamburg, Germany

Much like Gdansk, in Poland, Hamburg is the one German city that pretty much fits our rules for being included in Northern Europe. This German beauty is worth a visit for sure. It’s the second-busiest port in all of Europe. It’s the second-largest city in the country, a major metropolis of harbors and canals, and is the largest non-capital city in the European Union. Those are some pretty major stats.

Take a boat tour down the Zolkanal to Speicherstadt. This city of warehouses is a feat of architectural genius. A canyon of red brick, Gothic Revival “cliffs”, soaring up from the canal, all built on oak piles. It’s quite a sight! Few of the warehouses built in the 1880s are still used for storage. Most are now apartments or tourist interests, like Miniatur Wunderland- a warehouse turned into a miniature moving world, complete with just about everything you can think of. It contains scale models of part of Italy, The United States, Hamburg itself, and Switzerland, among other famous places.

Check out a concert at the iconic Elbphilharmonie Orchestra. Not only is the talent exceptional, but the building is a stunner! Join the locals for a picnic on the green spaces of Planten un Blomen. Take a harbor boat tour in one of the beautiful paddle boats. Photograph all the stunning bridges. Did you know that Hamburg has more bridges than Amsterdam, London, and Venice, combined?! That’s an insane amount of bridges. Make sure to take a gander at Hamburg City Hall too.

If you’re going to Hamburg to party, you certainly won’t’ be alone. Its Reeperbahn District needs no introduction. It’s famous for its wild bars, numerous prostitutes, and a plethora of porn shops and strip clubs. The Saturday night tradition is for the wildest of partiers to wander down to the Fischmarkt and party on out until morning light. It might be one of the wildest nights in Europe, but if you’re young and up for it, it’s a night you won’t forget! Never mind. Strike that. You probably won’t remember any of it!

Whether you enjoy gorgeous architecture, hearty German food, tons of naval and maritime history, or a good party, Hamburg has something to offer every kind of adventurer!

Closing Thoughts

Well, now that your next 16 vacations are planned, which epic destination are you going to start with? Let us know in the comments!

It’s a tough decision. Northern Europe is a mecca of Viking and Celtic culture, has some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and contains some of Earth’s most charming cities. You should probably just quit your job and go visit them all! ( Disclaimer: We offer travel guides and adventure inspiration here on Let’s Roam. We do not recommend that you take our financial advice.)

We do, however, know a thing or two about budget travel! For a few tips on how to save some money on Europe travel, don’t leave without reading our tips for traveling Europe on the cheap !

Taking your whole family? No problem! You can still travel for cheap. Find out “ How To Travel On A Budget With Your Family. ” With these budget travel tips in tow, you can enjoy your vacation and not regret your life choices once you get back home!

Frequently Asked Questions

There are some iconic travel destinations in Northern Europe ! Hike the incredible overlooks of Norway. Drive the Ring Road of Iceland , or enjoy a quiet holiday on the quaint Faroe Islands.

There are magnificent places to see in Northern Europe ! It’s full of historical sights, stunning architecture, and arctic adventures! Explore the quirky capital of Iceland , take a road trip around the Emerald Isle, or try a dog sledding excursion in Finnish Lapland!

Northern Europe has some stunning cities. The canals and waterways of Hamburg and Copenhagen are perfect for boat tours. Tallinn, Estonia is one of the most intact medieval towns, and the pubs of Dublin offer some of the friendliest locals in the world!

Featured Products & Activities

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Northern Europe may be known as a place of Vikings and snow – and to some extent, that’s not incorrect. The Viking Age definitely did help to shape the culture of Scandinavia, and yes; there is a lot of snow, too. But it’s much more refined, and much more beautiful, than you could imagine.

From the storied, colorful old towns of some of the region’s richest trading cities to museums stressing the importance of the ancient Vikings, history comes to life in Northern Europe. Then there are far-flung islands where the sun never sets in summer, magnificent fjords and lakes as far as the eye can see. One thing is for sure; Northern Europe is modest about its majesty.

The third-largest city in all of Sweden , Malmo is something of a crossroads. With mainland Europe a quick ferry-crossing away, there are over 150 different nationalities in Malmo. Think a creative, international mix of Italian cafes, markets straight out of the Middle East, and fashionable bars.

Away from the modern-day melange of Malmo is Gamla Staden – or the Old Town – which comes complete with handsome Dutch Renaissance buildings. Malmo’s famous waterfront area was designed by architect Vastra Hamnen and is home to sky-piercing buildings that loom over Oresund Bridge for a fascinating mix of old and new that Malmo has become known for.

16. Reykjavik

The compact Icelandic capital of Reykjavik is the ideal coastal city to base yourself for an adventure in this snowy, glacier-strewn land. Learn about the culture of this intriguing country – namely, Vikings – from the many museums on offer, like the National and Saga Museum.

One of the more famous sights in town is the stunning Hallgrimskirkja Church, a soaring modern marvel of a religious building; there’s a rotating glass dome from which you can catch views out across the sea. It may seem quaint in the day, but at night, things hot up, with plenty of clubs and busy bars around its central district.

Bergen sits on the southwest coast of Norway , encased in mountains and flanked by fjords. In fact, the most famous fjord in Norway, Sognefjord (also its deepest and longest), is situated nearby. The charm of the city lies in Old Bergan, with its whimsical, wooden-built houses all painted in bright block colors; take a walk along the waterfront wharf area and end up at the port with its busy fish market.

The Fløibanen funicular in Bergen takes you up to the top of Fløyen Mountain for scenic views of the surrounding nature, in which hiking is not only a possibility, it’s a national pastime come summer.

14. Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland is a region in the east of Finland where, true to its name, you will find almost countless lakes; around 40 lakes per 100 square kilometers. The largest of these is Lake Saimaa, which is not only Finland’s biggest lake, but also the fourth-largest natural lake in the whole of Europe. Studding Saimaa like little jewels are its 5,484 islands.

After spending time in an oak-burning sauna, a cooling dip in a lake is the best thing to do. The water of the lake is beautifully clean and reflects the sky for even more charm. Take a steamboat or canoe around the waters, spotting quaint mökki (summer cottages).

13. Gotland

Just off the southeastern coast of Sweden is its largest island, Gotland . Also the largest island in the Baltic Sea, it’s a stunningly scenic and serene spot, where very few people actually live. The capital, Visby, is a historic center surrounded by well-preserved old city walls, that tells of the island’s Viking and medieval history.

There’s actually a fun festival held every year where Gotlanders don their best medieval garb and take a step back in time with music and merriment. Nature-wise, the island is asking to be explored. You could even just take a drive along the coast for dramatic sea views, little-visited hamlets tucked away, carpets of flowers in summer, and sandy beaches.

12. Jotunheimen National Park

Part of the Scandinavian Mountain range, Jotunheimen (“Home of the Giants”) is a collection of mountains in Norway that boasts 29 of the country’s tallest peaks. Around a third of the mountains are contained within the Jotunheimen National Park. The area is a very popular spot for anybody looking for adventures on mountainsides – namely hikers and climbers.

In winter, the slopes are covered in pure-white powder, while in the summer, Jotunheimen is all about grassy valleys and gleaming rivers – and skiing, thanks to the summer ski center. There are many mountain lodges where you can stay the night along the 300 kilometers of marked paths.

11. Faroe Islands

Set in the North Atlantic Ocean around 200 miles from the coast of Scotland , the Faroe Islands (part of the Kingdom of Denmark) are made up of 18 craggy, volcanic islets and islands. Its capital of Torshavn, located on the island of Streymoy, is where around 40% of the population of this self-governing territory live.

Many of the islands are connected by tunnels, bridges, causeways, and ferry crossings. It’s a popular spot for bird watchers especially, who enjoy observing the many species of seabird that live there, such as puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots. The iconic grass-roofed buildings of the Faroes are a sight that must be seen.

10. Blue Lagoon

The hot spring that is Blue Lagoon is an extremely popular spot. Set on the Reykjanes Peninsula, not all that far from the Icelandic capital, the turquoise waters almost seem to glow like a gem amid the black volcanic rocks surrounding it.

The Blue Lagoon boasts 39°C water temperatures all year round, as well as healing properties (due to high silica and salt content of the volcanic water). Not naturally formed, it was first established in the 1970s as part of the cooling system for the local geothermal power plant; people started bathing here in the ‘80s, and it has since attracted people the world over.

9. Copenhagen

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is situated on the coastal islands Zeeland and Amager. The city is strewn with historical sights and beautiful buildings, such as in the district of Frederiksstaden, where you’ll find ornate Rococo-style architecture dating back to the 18th century.

This area is also home to the Amalienborg Palace, the seat of the Danish royal family, as well as the impressive Frederik’s Kirke – fittingly known as the Marble Church. The iconic Nyhavn area is home to 17th-century buildings, canals, and plenty of drinking and dining options – as well as attractive heritage lodgings.

Tivoli Gardens , a 19th-century amusement park, is where you’ll find Rutschebanen – one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world!

8. Helsinki

Set on the south coast of Finland, Helsinki is the smart Finnish capital, and home to some stunning architecture. From the main railway station – with its unique National Romantic style and the imposing, stripped-back Parliament House – to the incredible Temppeliaukion Church – a bold 1960s church set directly in excavated rock – there’s an intriguing cross-section of modern styles in this city.

You can head over to the National Museum to learn all about Finnish history, or – from spring to autumn – check out Market Square, a hive of activity with food stalls, souvenirs, and street-side cafes where you can simply watch life in the capital unfold.

7. Svalbard

Far, far north from the Norwegian mainland is the island archipelago of Svalbard. Set well into the Arctic Circle, this far-flung destination is the place to come to witness the phenomenon that is Midnight Sun; during the summer, the sun doesn’t set here, never properly falling below the horizon for 24 hours.

Unfortunately, the opposite is also true of winter, when the sun never rises! Not part of Norway until 1925, today, visiting Svalbard is relatively easy, thanks to a surprising number of lodgings. This makes it easy to spot everything from polar bears and Arctic foxes to the magical Northern Lights.

6. Gullfoss

In southwest Iceland lies the startling natural wonder that is Gullfoss. Meaning “Golden Falls” in Icelandic, this waterfall is anything but ordinary. The Hvítá River, originating at the Langjökull glacier, runs its course through a canyon and then suddenly turns at a sharp angle to plunge 32 meters down its two stages before continuing.

The sheer power of nature here is easy to see; visit in summer for the full effect, when 140 cubic meters tumble down the falls every second. With more to see in the local area – like the hot springs of Geysir or the active geyser of Strokkur – as well as a few hotels nearby, staying at Gullfoss to explore further is a good idea.

5. Stockholm

Stockholm is a city of islands. Set on a Baltic Sea archipelago of 14 islands linked by a series of 50 bridges, the Swedish capital is a must-visit destination in the country. There’s Gamla Stan – or Old Town – a network of cobblestone lanes and pastel-colored houses, home to the 13th century Storkyrkan Cathedral.

Elsewhere in Stockholm , you can find the grand Royal Palace (completed in 1760), the Romanesque Revival style Stockholm City Hall. You can learn about the Nobel Prize at the Nobel Museum, and see an intact 17th-century sailship at the Vasa Museum. The open-air museum Skansen is an excellent way to glimpse Swedish life before modern-day luxuries.

See also: Where to Stay in Stockholm

4. Lofoten Islands

An archipelago extending from the northeast coast of Norway, Lofoten provides some truly dramatic natural backdrops for your travel adventures. One of the most famous things about Lofoten, besides its beautifully scenic setting, is its climate: it’s known for being strangely warm for its latitude.

Back to the nature now; keen rock climbers and mountaineers should make a beeline for Moskenesøya, while cyclists can enjoy a well-marked and particularly stunning cycle path from southerly Å, which goes on past Fiskebøl in the north. Otherwise, Lofoten is a warren of charming fishing villages with breathtaking natural surroundings, like Nusfjord on Flakstadøya.

Except for the North Pole, there’s nowhere more northerly that’s as famous as this place. Lapland is a place for big kids and little kids alike; call him what you like – Father Christmas, Santa Claus, Saint Nicholas – this is his “traditional” home. Head to Rovaniemi to see if you can find his workshop.

Otherwise, Lapland – straddling the northern reaches of both Sweden and Finland – is the home of another traditional resident, the Sami people. Also known as Sápmi, Lapland is home to the original Ice Hotel, skiing opportunities, and chances to glimpse the Northern Lights. Head further north to discover the reindeer-herding Sami people themselves.

2. Vatnajokull National Park

Vatnajokull National Park is the result of merging two extant Icelandic national parks, Jökulsárgljúfur and Skaftafell, with the giant ice cap that is Vatnajokull itself. As such, there are some incredible natural sights to see here. One of the most spectacular has to be Dettifoss; this waterfall is said to be Europe’s most powerful. Witnessing the water of the wide Jökulsá á Fjöllum falling an impressive 44 meters from one of the many hiking trails is awe-inspiring.

Elsewhere, there’s the caldera of Askja, where you’ll find the turquoise geothermal lake of Víti. Simply driving the ring road of this national park is an excellent way to watch nature unfold.

1. Fjords of Norway

Norway is famous for its glacier-formed, U-shaped valleys that everybody knows and loves as fjords. Sognefjord may be its longest and deepest – cutting over 1,300 meters below sea level – as well as the country’s most famous – but it’s the sheer amount of fjords that make the Norwegian coast what it is.

There’s possibly the world’s strongest tidal current at Saltstraumen. Sørfjorden is a particularly dramatic sub-fjord of Hardangerfjorden. The mountain backdrop at Tafjorden is amazing. There have even been fjordal coral reefs found at depths of 50-100 meters. Whether you’re looking down on fjords, or on the waters looking up at the majesty of these valleys, any visit to the Norwegian Fjords will be truly stunning.

Map of Places to Visit in Northern Europe

Share this post:

15 Most Charming Small Towns in Sweden

15 Best Cities to Visit in Finland

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

10 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

12 Best Cities to Visit in Denmark

18 Top Tourist Attractions in Denmark

27 Top Tourist Attractions in Sweden

10 Most Beautiful National Parks Sweden

10 Amazing National Parks and Nature Reserves in Iceland

27 Top Tourist Attractions in Iceland

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top 15 BEST Places to Visit in Northern Europe

Northern Europe has always been known as the land of old tales, snow, Vikings, but let’s not limit the region to only these few things. The northern part of Europe has more to offer than what it is known for, and of course, its beauty.

The countries located in Northern Europe are famous for their old colorful towns , rich trading cities, museums reflecting the Viking age stories, and a lot of history for anyone interested. That’s not all. There are far-flung places to visit in Northern Europe where summers are never dark, huge lakes, and magnificent fjords make your visit all the more beautiful.

For nature lovers, the region is decorated with appealing islands, magnificent fjords, sound lakes , and mind-blowing sunsets for giving your unforgettable memories. For those who want to travel to Northern Europe , it offers everything majestic in its modesty.

Are you also planning to visit these amazingly beautiful places in your Northern Europe travel? To help you filter the choices, here are the top places to visit in Northern Europe that you must explore.

Table of Contents

Roskilde, Denmark

Denmark ranks high among the world’s happiest countries for a reason, and the reason is so much beauty and preservation of all of it at best. With a population of merely 50000 people, Roskilde is among the essential cities of Denmark and one of the beautiful places in northern Europe.

The city served as the capital of Denmark for several generations. The town goes back to the Viking Age and, as indicated by medieval sources, was the site of a majestic royal residence and a Basilica worked by Harald Bluetooth, the amazing author of Denmark. Connected to the house of prayer is Roskilde Palace.

Roskilde is additionally celebrated for its Viking Ship Museum, which houses the remaining parts of five well-safeguarded Viking ships, which were uncovered from the Roskilde Fjords encompassing the city.

Roskilde Cathedral is also another popular attraction in the town, which is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site . Some other famous sightseeing places are Roskilde are 18th-century Ledreborg Palace, Roskilde Havn & Fjord, St. Laurence Tower, and Centre for Historical-Archaeological Research and Communication, also known as “Land of Legends.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Roskilde, Denmark

Turku, Finland

Turku is a small Swedish city located on the southwestern side of Finland . The city is situated on the banks of River Aura and is popular as the trading center. No doubt, the city was completely disturbed in 1827 due to fire, when it was serving as the capital of Sweden during the Russian rule.

It is Finland ‘s fifth biggest city and biggest winter port and contains significant maritime shipyards. Ranked among the best of the places to visit in Northern Europe, Finland has everything that your holiday destination should have from art galleries , cool cafes , natural beauty, and amazing people.

Ventures incorporate sugar refining and the creation of steel, gadgets, blunder, flour, stoneware, and materials. The place is also famous for special institutes for higher education, museums, Swedish Theatre, Greek Orthodox churches, libraries, and art galleries.

Where to stay:   Best hotels in Turku, Finland

Kiruna, Sweden

Kiruna is the heart of Swedish Lapland and the home to northern lights, the largest underground ore mine of iron, and a famous hotel, ICEHOTEL. Kiruna is a land of wilderness and known among the best places to visit in Europe in winters where the silence and wild rules. The mountains and forests around provide an excellent environment for adventure winter activities such as snowmobiling to skiing .

The famous adventure activities like Dog sledding, ice fishing, and photography courses can be done on guided tours locally. Some of the popular destinations in and around Kiruna are LKAB’s Visitor Centre, Kiruna Kyrka, Samegarden Museum, and Kiruna Stadshuset. Don’t miss out on Swedish cuisines in various eateries within the city to confirm your choice of traveling to one of the best places to go in Northern Europe.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Kiruna, Sweden

Reykjavik, Iceland

The minimized Icelandic capital of Reykjavik is simply the perfect beachfront city to base for an undertaking in this frigid, icy mass strewn land. One of the more renowned sights around the local area is the staggering Hallgrimskirkja Church, taking off the current wonder of a strict structure.

There’s a pivoting glass arch from which you can get sees out over the ocean. It might appear to be curious in the day, however around evening time, things sweltering up, with a lot of clubs and occupied bars around its focal region. Planning North? Iceland ‘s Reykjavik is definitely among the best places to go in Northern Europe.

While you explore the town, go down the shopping area Bankastræti, relax at Blue Lagoon waters, which is located very close to the capital city, and, if lucky, watch the whales in their natural habitat by booking one of the ocean tours.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Reykjavik, Iceland

Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuania ‘s capital city has been discreetly beguiling travelers for a considerable length of time, attracting guests with the biggest florid Old Town in eastern Europe, at that point wowing them with an odd tastefulness, a mind-boggling history and a social scene that is particularly Lithuanian.

There’s a large group of motivations to visit this idiosyncratic, imaginative, and minimal city include the Old Town, Jewish history, the Hill of Three Crosses, Gediminas Hill, Amber Museum, and much more.

The capital of Lithuania is a great weekend destination with beautiful towns, cool bars, and a lot of epic views, history, coffee shops, and excellent Graffiti street art . Follow the church paths and include some of these mentioned churches in your trail: St. Anne’s and Bernardine Church, St. Mikalojaus Church, Vilnius Cathedral, and of course Saints Peter and Paul’s Church.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Vilnius, Lithuania

Glasgow, Scotland, The UK

Scotland is located on the famous River Clyde. It has been working for decades to emerge as one of the fascinating metropolises of Britain. The beautiful city is a combination of earthiness and sophistication, which is quite rare to find.

Decorated with various mansions and buildings in Victorian legacy, some other places to must visit in Glasgow include Industrial heritage on the banks of Clyde River, galleries and museums, and the stunning nightlife for a wild experience. Stamp your passport with the best of Scottish and one of the highly popular places to visit in Europe at Glasgow.

Kelvingrove and the Hunterian Museum is a must to visit for experiencing natural history, historical vehicles, archaeological corpus, and much more. Music lovers can plan the trip around the time of the Celtic Connections Music festival and also explore Theatre Royal, and Royal Scottish Orchestra.

Another famous attraction for anyone coming to Glasgow is the history of the Arts & Crafts Movement, started by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, who was the founder of the Glasgow School of Art. All the museums and buildings in Glasgow feature his work.

Best Tours for this attraction: Explore the Clydeside Distillery a Single Malt Scotch Whisky Distillery in the heart of Glasgow.

via Wikimedia Commons | Andrew Maranta andrewmaranta

West Iceland

Geologically near Reykjavík, yet far, far away in assumption, West Iceland (known as Vesturland) is a stunning microcosm of what Iceland brings to the table and surely among the best places to go in Northern Europe.

However, numerous travelers have missed the reminder, and you’re probably going to have remote pieces of this brilliant locale to yourself. The long arm of Snafellsnes Peninsula is a most loved for its icy mass, Langjokull, and the territory around its national park is tops for birding, whale watching, magma field climbs and pony riding.

Inland past Reykholt, you’ll experience magma cylinders and remote good country icy masses, incorporating gigantic Langjokull with its surprising ice cavern. With so much diversity, interesting historical places, and beautiful waterfalls , glaciers, mountains , and lava fields, you can stay here for as long as you want and never feel bored.

Lofoten Island, Norway

An archipelago stretching out from the upper east bank of Norway , Lofoten gives some genuinely sensational characteristic backgrounds for your movement experiences. A most well-known aspect concerning Lofoten, other than its wonderfully beautiful setting, is its atmosphere: it’s known for being unusually warm for its scope.

Back to nature presently, sharp rock climbers and mountain dwellers should rush toward Moskenesoya, while cyclists can appreciate a well-checked and especially shocking cycleway from southerly Å, which goes on past Fiskebol in the north.

Sometimes Lofoten is a warren of beguiling angling towns with a stunning characteristic environment. Vestvågøy, Moskenesøy, Flakstadøy, and Austvågøy are four main islands with numerous smaller islands and make the entire landscape look like a small mountain range.

Despite being located in Arctic Circle, Lofoten experiences warm summers and mild winters, with temperature not as extreme as other northern countries. You can add it to the best places to travel in Northern Europe in winter .

You can also check out some of the other towns in Norway!

Best Tours for this attraction: Experience the amazing view of the spectacular Northern Lights In Lofoten Island on this private guided tour

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is a city of islands. Set on a Baltic Sea archipelago of 14 islands connected by a progression of 50 extensions, the Swedish capital is an unquestionable requirement visit goal in the nation. There’s Gamla Stan – or Old Town – a system of cobblestone paths and pastel-hued houses, home to the thirteenth century Storkyrkan Cathedral.

Somewhere else, you can locate the amazing Royal Palace , the Romanesque Revival style Stockholm City Hall. You can find out about the Nobel Prize at the Nobel Museum , and see a flawless 17th-century sail ship at the Vasa Museum. Explore one of the best places to visit in Northern Europe and take home the Swedish holiday experience at its best.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Stockholm, Sweden

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is currently a happy European capital with an appeal to the entirety of its own. It’s vivacious yet serene, ludicrously photogenic, and overflowing with magnificent sights – antiquated places of worship, medieval streetscapes, and respectable traders’ homes.

Toss in magnificent nourishment and lively present-day culture, and it’s no big surprise Tallinn in Estonia appears in peril of being wanted to death, particularly after a couple of voyage ships dock. In any case, it’s one of those favored spots that appear to adapt to all the considerations.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Tallinn, Estonia

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin in Ireland is a proper combination of hedonism and heritage in the form of a small capital. The place is surely not going to disappoint you if you are one of the history lovers. The city comes with a historical museum that helps in learning about the Viking past that is almost washed away from the city.

Merely taking a walk in the city would help you experience the sophistication, sociability, and compelling soul the Dubliners carry. Apart from multiculturalism, diversity, and shores inspired by the Irish, the castles , the lavishing eateries and traditional pubs are also fascinating.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Dublin, Ireland

Wales, The UK

Are you fond of hills? If yes, Wales is surely going to hit your heart. A must visit place in the list, Wales is a tiny exciting city that is popular for its classic mountain ranges, river valleys, cliffs for surfing , islands, wildlife sanctuaries, and much more.

The tropical beaches , sandcastles, historical places, dolmens, standing stones, stone circles, and much more is sure to give your family a memorable time. The castles in Wales help you experience the royal outlook the city once carried.

Major sightseeing areas of Wales include Snowdonia National Park that is located in Snowdonia, which is very popular for its wilderness and majestic peaks, hike in Brecon Beacons National Park, Caernarfon Castle and the Isle of Anglesey. The natural beauty of Wales makes it one of the top places to visit in Northern Europe.

St. Petersburg, Russia

Popular for the City of Tsars, St. Petersburg in Russia, is filled with the imperial outlook of Russia and sheer grandeur with a revolutionary spirit. Visiting St. Petersburg would allow you to visit other nearby places like Moscow and Venice for a romantic tour.

The city is the treasured with ancient culture and art in every place you pay a visit. Some of the exciting things you can enjoy here include Opera, classical concerts, musical festivals, Egyptian mummies, Erarta Museum, summer White Nights, gardens and parks, and much more that provide you with a delightful and dazzling experience.

While touring this romantic city, add some top places to go in Northern Europe, including The Hermitage ( Winter Palace), The Mariinsky Theatre, St. Isaac’s Cathedral & Colonnade, Church of Saviour on Spilled Blood, Nevsky Prospekt, etc.

Where to stay: Best hotels in St. Petersburg, Russia

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark , is arranged on the waterfront islands Zeeland and Amager. The city is strewn with chronicled sights and lovely structures, for example, in the area of Frederiksted, where you’ll discover resplendent Rococo-style engineering going back to the eighteenth century.

This zone is additionally home to the Amalienborg Palace , the seat of the Danish imperial family, just as the amazing Frederik’s Kirke – fittingly known as the Marble Church. The famous Nyhavn region is home to 17th-century structures, waterways, and a lot of drinking and eating choices – just as appealing legacy lodgings.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Copenhagen , Denmark

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gregarious, relaxed Gothenburg is the archetypal second city: understatedly hip and out of the blue energetic. Neoclassical engineering lines its cable car shook avenues, local people sun themselves next to waterways, and there’s constantly a fascinating social or get-together going on. Sightseeing is widely carried out walking here.

The canals of the 17th century in Kungsparken or King’s Park is one of the most visited beauties of the city. Along with all these, some other exciting places to visit here are aquariums, museums related to the sea, ships, Linne districts, Haga, Vasastan, etc. Your visit to Gothenburg would not be complete without the visit to Skansen Kronan, Southern Archipelago, the biggest amusement park in Northern Europe- Liseberg.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Gothenburg, Sweden

Are you on Pinterest? Pin this for later read!

• Pinterest 483

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

30 unique experiences you can only have in Northern Europe

There’s a region in the world where you can cruise through fjords flanked by sky-high cliffs, visit the most spectacular Christmas markets, and chase the northern lights in the snow-covered countryside. That spot is Northern Europe—and yes, it’s just as magical as it sounds.

Wondering about the best places to visit in Northern Europe on our Europe tours ? Read on to see some of the most unique, unforgettable, photo-worthy experiences to have while visiting Northern Europe on tour, straight from our community of staffers and travelers. But first, here are a few helpful things to know before you decide where and when to go.

What are the countries in Northern Europe, you ask? Here’s the list!

• The United Kingdom (which includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)

The best time to visit Northern Europe

It all depends on what you hope to see on a trip to Europe . The summer months bring more sunshine to Northern European countries like Iceland, Norway, and beyond (hello, midnight sun). Want to pencil in a winter trip instead? The winter months offer up snow flurries, Christmas market magic, and opportunities to spot the northern lights dancing across the sky. Read on to see some of the most unique experiences you can have in the northern countries of Europe—no matter when you go.

Explore all of our Europe tours

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.5 out of 5 stars

4.3 out of 5 stars

4.6 out of 5 stars

5 out of 5 stars

Find more Europe travel inspiration

The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.

United Kingdom

joe daniel price/Getty Images

With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.

Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.

Nikada/Getty Images

Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.

Getty Images

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.

Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .

Stefan Cristian Cioata/Getty Images

An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play. 

Jakob Radlgruber / EyeEm / Getty Images

With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history . 

The Netherlands

Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.

Evan Schiller/Courtesy of Ballybunion Golf Club

If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.

Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .

Switzerland

Manuta/Getty Images

As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .

This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.

Faroe Islands

It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.

Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .

Czech Republic

If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.

If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .

The 9 Best Power Adapters for European Travel of 2024

France Travel Planner for Every Vacation

October in Europe: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Essential Guide to Alsace, France: What to See & Do

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

Germany's Wine Road

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

Tap Water Safety Information for European Countries

Best Places to Honeymoon in March and April

13 European Rivers and Waterways to Cruise

Romantic Getaways in 2019: Go Here, Not There

The Top 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France

Maps of Northern European Countries Visited by Cruise Ships

12 Best Places to Visit in December

The Top 15 Things to Do in Bordeaux, France

Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Buckle up as we explore the best places to visit in Northern Europe.

We’ve handpicked ten top-notch destinations guaranteed to leave you spellbound.

Get ready to discover hidden gems, awe-inspiring landscapes, and vibrant cultures – all in this exciting guide!

Explore the Majestic Fjords: A Top Travel Destination in Nordic Norway

Norway, often dubbed the Land of the Midnight Sun, is an enticing blend of natural splendor and urban elegance. Majestic fjords, the breathtaking Northern Lights, and cosmopolitan cities like Oslo make Norway an unmissable stop on your Northern European tour. Be sure to dig into some traditional Norwegian cuisine for a taste of the region’s culture.

Pro travel tip: To witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, plan your trip between late September and late March.

Sweden’s Charms: Beautiful Places to Visit in the Heart of Scandinavia

Sweden is next on our list. This Scandinavian nation offers a blend of charming urban landscapes and wild, untamed nature. Stockholm, the picturesque capital, Gothenburg’s lively arts scene, and the frosty adventures awaiting in the Swedish Lapland are must-visits.

Pro travel tip: Canoeing and hiking are popular ways to explore the Swedish wilderness, so pack accordingly!

Discover Finland: A Unique Nordic Experience Among the Best Places to Go

Finland, the land of thousands of lakes and forests, offers a unique travel experience. Helsinki’s vibrant city life, the peaceful serenity of Lake Saimaa, and the magic of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi make Finland a unique stop on our Northern Europe expedition. Of course, no trip to Finland is complete without indulging in the quintessential Finnish sauna experience.

Pro travel tip: If you visit in winter, consider embarking on a thrilling husky safari!

Danish Delights: Explore Copenhagen and Beyond in Beautiful Denmark

Denmark, a country that consistently ranks among the happiest in the world, brims with Scandinavian charm. The vibrant life of Copenhagen, the remote beauty of The Faroe Islands, and the Danish concept of “hygge” (comfort and coziness) make Denmark a can’t-miss destination. Don’t forget to explore Denmark’s influence on design and its innovative gastronomy scene.

Pro travel tip: Don’t miss the chance to enjoy smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich.

Icelandic Wonders: Top Visitor Attractions in the Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland, aptly named the Land of Fire and Ice, is a country of stark contrasts. Here, hot springs and geysers exist side by side with glaciers and ice fields. Reykjavik’s cultural scene, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and soothing geothermal baths offer a unique mix of experiences.

Pro travel tip: Pack your swimsuit and prepare to dip into the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s famous geothermal spa.

Medieval Charm in Estonia: A Must-Visit Country in Northern Europe

Estonia, a small Baltic nation, combines rich history with cutting-edge digital innovation. The medieval architecture of Tallinn, the intellectual hub of Tartu, and the beach town of Parnu are worth a visit. Additionally, experiencing Estonia’s robust digital society is like stepping into the future.

Pro travel tip: Estonia has one of the highest numbers of start-ups per capita, making it a great place to network for those in the tech industry.

Latvia’s Hidden Gems: Explore Top Spots in this Baltic Beauty

Latvia, another Baltic gem, boasts a rich history and diverse architecture. Highlights include the vibrant city of Riga, the verdant Gauja National Park, and the seaside retreat of Jurmala. Latvia’s fascinating history is woven into every street, building, and landmark, creating a cultural tapestry that’s truly compelling.

Pro travel tip: Try the national dish, “grey peas with bacon”, a hearty and flavorful meal.

8. Lithuania

Lithuanian treasures: cultural tours and scenic places to visit.

Lithuania, the southernmost Baltic state, is a cultural melting pot. Its capital, Vilnius, the historical Trakai Castle, and the sand-dune beaches of the Curonian Spit paint a picture of the country’s rich history and diverse influences. Dive deep into Lithuanian customs and traditions to experience its unique charm.

Pro travel tip: Don’t leave without trying cepelinai, a national dish of potato dumplings filled with meat.

9. Scotland

Scottish escapes: experience the best of historic and natural scotland.

Scotland, with its breathtaking Highlands, historical castles, and world-renowned whisky, offers a distinct Northern European experience. The enchanting city of Edinburgh, the mysterious Loch Ness, and the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye are just a few of the highlights. Experience Scotland’s traditions, sample their culinary delights, and sip on their famous whisky.

Pro travel tip: For a true Scottish experience, try haggis, the national dish.

10. Ireland

Irish adventures: beautiful destinations and memorable trips in the emerald isle.

Lastly, we visit Ireland, the Emerald Isle known for its lush landscapes and rich folklore. Explore Dublin’s rich history, marvel at the towering Cliffs of Moher, and drive the scenic Ring of Kerry. Immerse yourself in Irish music and folklore to understand why the Irish are known for their storytelling.

Pro travel tip: Make sure to enjoy a pint of Guinness at a local pub for the authentic Irish experience.

We’ve now reached the end of our whirlwind tour of the top ten unmissable destinations in Northern Europe. Each place has its own unique charm, offering a blend of history, culture, nature, and innovation.

Northern Europe is more than just a collection of countries – it’s a mosaic of experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else. We hope you’re inspired to pack your bags and explore these remarkable destinations!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit northern europe.

The ideal time to visit Northern Europe largely depends on the activities you prefer. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather and long days, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. However, winter (December-February) is ideal for witnessing the Northern Lights and engaging in winter sports.

Do I need a visa to travel to Northern Europe?

The visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the specific countries you plan to visit. For most tourists, the Schengen Visa covers travel within the majority of Northern European countries. However, always check the specific visa requirements for your home country.

What languages are spoken in Northern Europe?

While each country in Northern Europe has its own official language, English is widely spoken in most areas, especially in major cities and tourist hubs.

What is the currency in Northern Europe?

Most Northern European countries use the Euro, except for countries like Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, which have their own currencies (Norwegian Krone, Swedish Krona, Danish Krone, and British Pound, respectively).

What should I pack for a trip to Northern Europe?

Packing for a trip to Northern Europe depends on the season and activities you plan on doing. Layers are always recommended, as weather can change quickly. Rainproof gear, comfortable walking shoes, and warmer clothing for cooler nights are advisable. If visiting in winter, pack for cold weather and snow.

If you’re planning to expand your itinerary, don’t miss out on our guide to the most visited cities in Europe , offering an inside look at the continent’s most popular urban destinations.

• 20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland for Couples
• Best Places To Visit In Italy In March: Our Top 10 Picks
• Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Greece For Couples
• Best Places to Visit in Croatia: Our Top 10 Picks
• Best Places to Visit in Belgium: Top 10 Destinations

About Ronaldo Stewart

Wantigo was born out of a deep passion for exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. With a keen sense of adventure and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, I’ve traveled far and wide, immersing myself in the beauty and wonder of the world.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Places To Visit In Northern Europe

Best Time: March - July Read More

Budget: Very Expensive

Here are the top 12 destinations to visit in Northern Europe

1 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

London is the capital city of the United Kingdom and is located in the southeastern part of England. Situated on the River Thames, London is a global metropolis and one of the most visited cities in the world. London is a vibrant and diverse city, offering a multicultural atmosphere and a melti...

2. Liverpool

2 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

Famed for its wonderful culture, winning football teams, The Beatles and a buzzing nightlife, Liverpool is one of the major cities of UK situated in Merseyside in England. It lies within the boundaries of Lancashire. It was awarded as the European Capital of Culture in 2009 and is home to some of th...

3. Stockholm

3 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

Stockholm is the hub of all of Sweden's activities, ranging from the political and the economic to the cultural. It is the most populous city in the country and also in the entire Nordic region. Stockholm is a proper metropolis, complete with world class public transport facilities, international sp...

4 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

The history, the food, the architecture, the stories, and of course the pubs, Dublin is always among the list of favourite cities of people who've ever been there. Being the capital, Dublin is a major global city. It caters to the requirements of all sorts of tourists and travellers, from pubs to ca...

5. Reykjavik

5 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city of the world and serves as the gateway and focal point of tourism in Iceland. Known for its hip music, indigenous art, rich history, funky culinary choices and breath-taking beauty, Reykjavik offers the best of modern taste and natural beauty to its tourist...

6. Edinburgh

6 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

The capital city of Scotland, Edinburg is located in the Central Belt region of the country. The city is a combination of both ancient and modern atmosphere and is divided into two segments: the Old town and the Georgian New City. Edinburgh is now a city of festivals and entertainment. It is also a ...

7. Manchester

7 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

Lying in the heart of Greater Manchester, Manchester is a city in the North-western part of England. It is known for its impact on the historical scenario of industry and music as well as famous for its football clubs. It is a vibrant city visited by numerous tourists all around the year. The c...

8 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

Galway is a place of supreme scenic beauty, amazing and lively atmosphere, some amazing pubs and restaurants, and a great list of places to visit. This picturesque location in the province of Connacht is historic, and a treat to the eyes and mind.

9 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is situated on the banks of River Clyde in the West Central Lowlands of the country. It was historically a part of Lanarkshire. From being the powerhouse of industrial Britain, it has transformed itself into a major tourist destination across the world.

10 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

An ancient cathedral city, York is situated in Yorkshire in England. This is the second most visited city in England after London and has some of the best preserved historical buildings and architecture in Europe. York is often referred to as the city of festivals as there are festivals going on all...

11. Blackpool

11 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

After London, Blackpool can be considered as the most popular tourist destination in the entire country of England. It is a popular seaside resort which has a vintage charm of its own. _There are millions of people visiting this town every year and that makes it the number one ranked holiday resort....

12 out of 12 Places To Visit in Northern Europe

A precious city, Bath is home to some of the greatest Georgian architecture in the United Kingdom. Located in the valley of River Avon, Bath is such a beautiful city that it has been designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is special for its hot springs and the Roman Baths. The city provides...

Nearby Regions

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

• Northern Europe Tours

Northern Europe Tours and Trips 2024/2025

A trip to northern Europe will allow you to discover and experience the unique culture of the Nordic countries. A tour of Norway’s fjords is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Copenhagen in Denmark is a foodie’s dream while Finland offers the chance to travel to the Arctic north in the hope of witnessing the haunting and ethereal Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights.

+300 Trips in Northern Europe with 359 Reviews

• Starts Reykjavik, Iceland
• Ends Reykjavik, Iceland

Best of Iceland

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Waterfalls Natural landmarks sightseeing , Waterfalls & Beach 'data-more-tripid='4964'>+1 more
• Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
• Transport Bus, Minibus, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,099
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 775
• Total Price from: US$ 2,324
• May 16 Only 9 seats left
• May 23 Only 4 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Waterfalls Natural landmarks sightseeing , Waterfalls , Volcanoes & Spas 'data-more-tripid='16027'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,455
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 364
• Total Price from: US$ 1,091
• Sep 03 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 05 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Basecamp Oulanka, Finland
• Ends Basecamp Oulanka, Finland

Finnish Wilderness Week

• Activities Winter adventure & Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Resort & Lodge
• Transport Bus & Snowmobile
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,598
• Special Deal (6%): - US$ 223
• Total Price from: US$ 3,375
• Dec 08 Only 4 seats left
• Dec 15 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Helsinki, Finland
• Ends Vilnius, Lithuania

Baltic Experience

• Activities Countryside and village visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites Countryside and village visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , National parks , Museum and gallery visits & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='3058'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Ferry, Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,405
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 341
• Total Price from: US$ 3,064
• May 22 Only 1 seat left
• May 25 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Oslo, Norway
• Ends Copenhagen, Denmark

Pearls of Northern Europe End Copenhagen

• Activities Explorer
• Transport Bus & Ferry
• May 19 10+ seats left
• May 26 10+ seats left

Iceland Discovery

• Activities Adventure & Waterfalls Adventure , Waterfalls , National parks & Glaciers 'data-more-tripid='3060'>+2 more
• Transport Boat & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,965
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 793
• Total Price from: US$ 3,172
• May 20 Only 4 seats left
• May 24 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Copenhagen, Denmark
• Ends Stockholm, Sweden

Scandinavian Escape

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='37659'>+1 more
• Transport Coach & Ferry
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,020
• Special Deal (34%): - US$ 1,020
• Total Price from: US$ 2,000
• Aug 18 Only 7 seats left
• Sep 01 Only 3 seats left

• Ends Oslo, Norway

A Taste of Scandinavia

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Active and outdoor 'data-more-tripid='5504'>+2 more
• Transport Train, Bus & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,880
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 720
• Total Price from: US$ 2,160
• May 26 Only 3 seats left
• May 30 Only 2 seats left

Spectacular Scandinavia & its Fjords

• Activities Adventure & Art and architecture Adventure , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='21156'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,650
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 998
• Total Price from: US$ 5,652
• May 19 Only 9 seats left

• Starts Toronto, Canada
• Ends Toronto, Canada

Gems of West Greenland: Fjords, Icebergs, and Culture

• Tour Type Cruise Tour
• Activities Cruise
• Accommodation Ship Cabin & Hotel
• Transport Cruise Ship, Flight & Helicopter
• Age Range 8-99 yrs
• Operated in English, German
• Jul 14 Only 4 seats left
• Jul 23 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Kvitavatn, Norway
• Ends Kvitavatn, Norway

Norway Cross-country Skiing

• Activities Skiing and Snowboarding & Winter adventure
• Accommodation Lodge
• Age Range 14-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,998
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 298
• Total Price from: US$ 2,700
• Jan 18 Only 8 seats left
• Feb 08 Only 8 seats left

• Ends Helsinki, Finland

Scandinavia Explorer

• Activities Countryside and village visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites Countryside and village visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3059'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Hut
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,790
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 1,358
• Total Price from: US$ 5,432
• May 22 Only 5 seats left
• May 25 Only 4 seats left

Highlights of Scandinavia

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cruise Sightseeing Tours , Cruise , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='21235'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,595
• Special Deal (26%): - US$ 680
• Total Price from: US$ 1,915
• May 24 10+ seats left
• May 31 Only 9 seats left

• Starts Bergen, Norway
• Ends Bergen, Norway

Walking the Fjords

• Activities Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Ferry, Coach & Train
• Sep 28 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 07 Only 8 seats left

Northern Europe Tour Reviews

Northern europe — tour highlights and travel tips.

There are many incredible places to go backpacking around the world, but none as great as Northern Europe. Gets lost in their endless royal palaces, castles, expansive forests, cross-country railways, snowy glaciers, and so much more. While Paris and Rome get much of the hype of Europe, a tour to Northern Europe will allow you to escape the heavily populated areas and harsh climates and discover more hidden gems of Europe – minus the crowds. Northern Europe is vast and you could easily spend a couple weeks traveling the countryside, but they are all well connected with railways and public transportation that makes it easy to get around. While you're in Northern Europe, don't forget to at least consider to take a tour to Scandinavia . 

Tour Highlights

• One of the most popular countries in the world, England , is a dream destination with all of its beauty and grandeur. Rich in history you can explore some of the best historical palaces and castles all across London , Liverpool, Manchester, and York. 
• Stare in awe at the Northern Lights in Iceland from November to March as you witness one of the best natural phenomena’s in the world.
• A trip to Scanadinavia  will show you some of Northern Europe’s iconic landscapes taking you from Stockholm’s Royal Palace, down to the Round Tower of Copenhagen, then to the fish markets of Sweden , and finishing it off with the impressive churches and art galleries of Oslo , Norway .
• For one of the most affordable Northern European experiences, a trip to the Baltics is recommended! With a combination of Medieval and Baroque style architecture, you’ll find an endless supply of castles, cathedrals, bazaars and art galleries to keep you wondering at the marvel of human creativity.

Travel Tips

• The climate around Northern Europe can be very unpredictable so be sure to pack multiple layers and additional clothes. Additionally, it’s highly suggested to bring an umbrella (especially in London) in case of showers.
• There are a few standards in most Northern European countries including: Avoid being overly noisy, ensure you are always punctual to events/meetings, and greet others with a handshake.
• While tipping at restaurants and bars is not mandatory in Europe, unlike in other Western countries, it is suggested to round off the bill upwards with a tip to avoid change.

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025

Free cancellation on most trips

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

6 places to see the Northern Lights in Europe

There’s never been a better time to see Aurora Borealis, with more destinations experiencing them than ever and  trip options ranging from self-guided adventures on the Shetland Islands to Icelandic fjord cruises.

The fascination with the   Northern Lights dates as far back as the beginning of civilization, with the dancing waves of coloured light depicted in French cave paintings as old as 30,000 BC. Typically, they’re only seen in the northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere, near the Arctic Circle, on dark, clear autumn and winter nights. The lights are dependent on unpredictable solar flares ejecting charged particles that collide with gases in the atmosphere, so any trip to see the Northern Lights runs the risk of missing out on the spectacle altogether.

However, as these solar flares have become more powerful in recent years due to the solar cycle being close to its peak, auroras have been spotted as far south from the Arctic Circle as the Baltic States, northern parts of the Netherlands and even southeast England. Here’s where in Europe you’re most likely to catch a show of this mesmerising phenomenon.

1. Tromsø, Norway

Located in an active solar area, at the centre of the Northern Light’s oval, Tromsø in Norway is a popular destination for aurora chasers for good reason. The city, which is above the Arctic Circle, has one of the highest probabilities of spotting the lights in the world. From September to mid-April, the chances of seeing the lights are quite high as both light pollution and cloud cover is minimal. The best bet to see the dancing lights here is to join a Northern Lights tour where expert aurora chasers follow the latest reports of solar flares in a bid to spot them — some operators even offer a second tour free if the lights were too shy to show up on the first try.

How to do it : Norwegian Travel offers a variety of Northern Lights experiences, from bus tours and overnight packages in ice domes to rail adventures and cruises. Prices start from 1,000 NOK (£75) per person.

2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

For those chasing dramatic photos of the Northern Lights, this Icelandic glacial lagoon makes for a breathtaking backdrop. Set on the south coast of Iceland with close to no light pollution and towering icebergs dotted around the water, the lagoon has an otherworldly feel to it. While the lights can be spotted from October to March, the best chance of seeing them is in December, when the daylight hours are limited and the night sky darker. Those heading out on an aurora hunt by themselves should try the hello aurora app for precise forecasts and user-reported sightings.

How to do it:   Troll Expedition’s two-day Jökulsárlón tour leaving from Reykjavík runs from October to April. From 89,900 ISK (£529) per person, including transport, accommodation, breakfast and glacier hiking gear.

3. Ilulissat, Greenland

Set in the aptly named Disko Bugt, or Disko Bay, the Ilulissat Icefjord was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Although the elusive light show can be seen here as early as September, it’s recommended to visit closer to the New Year festivities for an even more special experience. In Ilulissat, locals get to celebrate the stroke of midnight twice — once at 8pm for Denmark, of which it’s part of, and again at midnight local time. If you're lucky, you might get to ring in the New Year with Northern Lights dancing above.

How to do it:   Greenland Travel offers a four-night New Year’s Eve package for those wishing to experience polar activity like a local. From €2,550 (£2,205) per person, including flights, transfers, accommodation, breakfast, welcome dinner and New Year’s Eve dinner.

4. Shetland, Scotland

As the solar cycle — an approximately 11-year period of solar activity — is now on its way to reach solar maximum between 2024 and 2025, sightings of Northern Lights have become more common across the whole of Scotland and even in the North of England. However, the Shetland Islands still offer the best chance of seeing the aurora as the most northern part of the UK. Spotting the ‘mirrie dancers’, as they’re known locally, on the remote islands requires a little more patience and determination, as the brighter displays happen just a few times a year between October and March. However, the remote location and lack of light pollution make it all the more worth it when they eventually light up the night sky. To track the UK’s solar activity, visit Aurora Watch .

How to do it:   Lean into the wild nature of Shetland at Brekka Lodge’s self-catered coastal accommodation. From £375 per week.

5. Faroe Islands, Denmark

Typically a summer destination, venturing to the Faroe Islands in the harsh winter months means better rates and availability at hotels, and, of course, a higher chance of seeing the elusive Aurora Borealis. Like many places where the lights are visible, weather conditions and daylight will determine whether or not they appear. The best islands for chasing the lights are Suðuroy and Sandoy, from November to February, and the week before a new moon offers the darkest nights.

How to do it:   Regent offers a five-day winter fly-drive trips that take in several islands, natural wonders and cultural and historical attractions. From £1,080 per person, including flights, accommodation, car hire and some meals.

6. Rovaniemi, Lapland

Rovaniemi, Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The astral light show is visible roughly 150 nights a year, primarily in autumn (September to October), but there’s a good chance of visibility until March. Lapland is famed for being a winter wonderland with plenty of activities that cater to all ages, making it well-suited for family adventures. For those not wishing to take a guided tour, the Arctic Garden behind the Arktikum Museum is a great viewing point, only a 10-minute walk from the town centre. The Aurora Alert Real Time app is available to avoid waiting outside in the cold for hours.

How to do it:   Wild About Lapland offers a reindeer safari aurora chase. From €138 (£120) per person, including a sleigh ride, guide, hotel pick-ups, and hot drinks and snacks.

Related Topics

• NATURAL PHENOMENA

You May Also Like

Will we ever solve the mystery of the Mima mounds?

A practical guide to New Zealand's 'Great Walks', from hut bookings to hiking gear

For hungry minds.

Millions of butterflies stop in these Mexico sanctuaries. Here’s how to see them.

6 of the best Sir David Attenborough series to watch after Planet Earth III

A rail adventure in Kyushu: onsen, homestays and sweet treats along Japan's Sugar Road

Free roam safari: a self-guided campervanning trip through South Africa & Eswatini

Why you should visit Ireland's remote Beara Peninsula

• Environment

History & Culture

• History Magazine
• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Paid Content
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

15 Best Countries To Visit In Northern Europe

• Beach Captions And Quotes For Instagram

•   Bookmark
•   Contact Us

Fancy a trip that's out of the ordinary? How about exploring some hidden gems in Northern Europe, where every corner tells a story and every landscape seems to whisper its secrets? This is a part of the world where fairy tales come alive, and the Northern Lights dance in the sky as they own it. Northern Europe, with its blend of vibrant cultures, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, offers a travel experience like no other.

Why do people flock to Northern Europe, you ask? Maybe it's the charm of its old towns or the allure of its rugged coastlines. It could even be the magic in the air that you feel the moment you set foot there. It's like stepping into a different world, where the mundane transforms into the magnificent. And let's not forget, the best time to visit Northern Europe is when you're ready to lose yourself in its enchanting beauty and find pieces of yourself in its serene landscapes. It's when you're prepared to turn every stone and see what wonders lie beneath.

There's a saying, "Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer." And when it comes to Northern Europe, this couldn't be truer. From the colourful houses of Copenhagen that seem to be straight out of a painting to the soulful melodies of ABBA that still resonate in the streets of Stockholm, each place has its unique flavour. So, are you ready to tie your shoelaces and set off on an adventure that will leave footprints on your heart? Pack your bags because we're about to take you on a journey to some of the most mesmerising countries in Northern Europe!

List Of 15 Best Countries Visit In Northern Europe

Are you ready for an adventure in the enchanting Northern Europe? From stunning fjords to mediaeval castles, this region is brimming with wonders. Whether you're after breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, or vibrant cultural experiences, Northern Europe has it all. So, let's dive into the magic of these lands!

• Norway | Stunning Fjords, Natural Beauty
• Iceland | Land of Fire and Ice
• Finland | Northern Lights, Sauna Culture
• Sweden | Viking History, Beautiful Archipelago
• Denmark | Fairy Tale Castles, Hygge Lifestyle
• Switzerland | Alpine Scenery, Precision Watches
• Estonia | Baltic Gem, Medieval Architecture
• Germany | Rich History, Oktoberfest Celebrations
• Latvia | Baltic Coast, Art Nouveau Heritage
• Austria | Alpine Splendor, Classical Music
• Lithuania | Baltic Charm, Diverse Landscapes
• Netherlands | Tulip Fields, Canals of Amsterdam
• United Kingdom | Historic Monarchy, Cultural Diversity
• Scotland | Highlands and Lochs, Bagpipes and Kilts
• Belgium | Chocolates, Waffles, and Beer

1. Norway | Stunning Fjords, Natural Beauty

Norway, a treasure trove of natural wonders in Northern Europe, is a sanctuary for those who admire the great outdoors. Known for its breathtaking fjords and the magical Northern Lights, Norway offers experiences that feel straight out of a storybook. The Geirangerfjord, with its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls, is a sight to behold. If you're chasing the mystical Northern Lights, Tromsø is your go-to destination. Each visit to Norway is a step into a landscape that seamlessly blends raw beauty with serene calmness.

• Major Attractions : Geirangerfjord, Northern Lights in Tromsø
• Best Time to Visit: May to September for fjords, November to March for Northern Lights
• Things To Do : Fjord cruises, hiking, witness the Northern Lights

2. Iceland | Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland, where fire and ice coexist, is a unique and captivating country in Northern Europe. This island nation is known for its dramatic landscapes that feature volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields. The famous Blue Lagoon and the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall are just a glimpse into Iceland's natural splendour. Whether it's exploring the rugged terrain or relaxing in geothermal spas, Iceland offers an escape that is both thrilling and tranquil.

• Major Attractions: Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss Waterfall
• Best Time to Visit: May to September for mild weather, October to April for Northern Lights
• Things To Do: Soak in geothermal spas, witness geysers

3. Finland | Northern Lights, Sauna Culture

Finland, a winter wonderland and home to the enchanting Northern Lights, offers a serene retreat in Northern Europe. Beyond its snowy landscapes, Finland is deeply rooted in sauna culture, a tradition that provides a window into the Finnish way of life. For those seeking hidden gems in Northern Europe, Finland's untouched forests and tranquil lakes are a must-visit. The country also boasts vibrant cultural festivals in Northern Europe, including the famous Midsummer celebrations.

• Major Attractions: Rovaniemi (Santa Claus Village), Suomenlinna Fortress
• Best Time to Visit: December to March for Northern Lights, June to August for Midnight Sun
• Things To Do: Experience sauna culture, chase the Northern Lights

4. Sweden | Viking History, Beautiful Archipelago

Sweden, with its rich Viking history and stunning archipelago, is a captivating destination in Northern Europe. This country offers a journey through time with its historical sites in Northern Europe and a chance to explore the diverse Swedish landscapes. Sweden's archipelago, especially in Stockholm, is a wonder, offering a peaceful escape amidst nature. The country is also known for its family-friendly Northern Europe destinations, making it perfect for travellers of all ages.

• Major Attractions : Vasa Museum, Stockholm Archipelago
• Best Time to Visit: May to September for mild weather
• Things To Do: Explore Viking history, island hopping in the archipelago

5. Denmark | Fairy Tale Castles, Hygge Lifestyle

Denmark, the land of fairy tale castles and the cosy hygge lifestyle offers a charming experience in Northern Europe. Known for its picturesque streets and friendly locals, Denmark is one of the budget-friendly Northern Europe travel destinations. The country is dotted with historical castles and offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern living. Copenhagen, the capital city, is a hub for design and cuisine, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

• Major Attractions: Tivoli Gardens, Kronborg Castle
• Best Time to Visit: May to August for pleasant weather
• Things To Do: Visit fairy tale castles, embrace the hygge lifestyle

6. Switzerland | Alpine Scenery, Precision Watches

Switzerland, renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery and precision watches, is a jewel in Northern Europe. This country is a paradise for those seeking outdoor activities in Northern Europe, from skiing in the Alps to hiking around the pristine lakes. Switzerland's picturesque landscapes and charming towns make it one of the hidden gems in Northern Europe, offering various experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

• Major Attractions: Matterhorn, Lake Geneva
• Best Time to Visit : December to April for skiing, June to September for hiking
• Things To Do : Skiing in the Alps, explore Swiss watchmaking

7. Estonia | Baltic Gem, Medieval Architecture

Adventure Travel

• Tour Update
• Europe Travel

Best Places You Shouldn’t Miss To Visit In Northern Europe

When people think of European gateway, they tend to name off places like London, Paris, and Rome. Apart from these cities, there are several cities and best places to visit in Northern Europe. Here we have done some works to help you to find some of the great places and best of Northern Europe Attractions you can visit Around.

Table of Contents

List of The Best Places To Visit In Northern Europe

• Reykjavik City
• Cardiff City in Wales

Dublin is the capital of and largest city of Ireland. It is on the east coast of Ireland, in the province of Leinster, at the mouth of the River Liffey, and is bordered on the south by the low mountains.

If you are planning to travel to Dublin, there will be countless things for you to do and see while you’re there.

Here are compiled of top 8 things to do in Dublin

• Visit the Guinness Storehouse factory
• Take a tour of Old Jameson Distillery
• Take a walk over Ha’ Penny Bridge
• Visit Christ Church Cathedral
• Visit Trinity College Library, the largest library of Ireland
• Take a food tour at Little Venice restaurant
• Take a  trip to the Cliffs of Moher
• Visit the Dublin Zoo

Where to stay in Dublin?

• Maple Hotel Dublin
• Dublin Central Inn
• Abigalis Hotel
• River House Hotel
• Temple Bar Inn

Reykjavik City Tours

Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland. The city lies in southwestern Iceland, on the southern shore of Faxa Bay. Iceland has uncountable tourist attractions where you can visit, and Reykjavik is one of the best among them.

Reykjavik is culturally richer, one of the most happening cities of Iceland which is full of natural wonders that people dream of seeing their whole lives. It’s one of the best places to visit in Northern Europe you should not miss to explore.

Best 7 Things to do in Reykjavik

• Visit the National Museum of Iceland
• Visit the popular concert hall and conference center Harpa
• Explore Reykjavik Maritime Museum
• Explore the dynamic street art
• Spend some hours at Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach
• Taste the coffee of Cafe Babalu
• Spend your evening at Grotta Island Lighthouse

Accommodations in Reykjavik

• ION City Hotel
• Castle House Luxury Apartments
• Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel
• Black Pearl Apartment Hotel
• Center Hotel Arnarhvoll

Riga City Tour

The capital city of Latvia, Riga is popular for its old town and city centers. The old town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Riga is also famous for its nightlife and discount airlines that offer cheaper flights from much of the European cities.

Top 9 things you will find interesting to do in Riga

• Notice the Architecture of Riga
• Visit House of the BlackHeads
• Relax in the Park
• Visit the Art Nouveau district
• Shop at Central Market
• Visit the Freedom Monument
• Visit St. Peter’s Church
• Explore the Riga Motor Museum
• Visit Riga Plaza

Accommodations in Riga

• Neiburgs Hotel
• Grand Palace Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World
• Hotel Bergs
• Redstone Boutique Hotel
• Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel, Riga

London is one of the most visited cities in Europe . It attracts more than 28 millions people every year

The city is one of the most diverse cities in the world, with a rich history and some of the remarkable culture of the world.

The city divided into the distinctive areas of North, West, South and East London.

There are always some new things to see and do in London.

The city comprised the world’s best art, entertainment, shopping, dining, and history. It is impossible to get bored in London.

Fine 10 things to do in London

• See a world-class exhibition at the V& A
• See free art at Tate Modern
• Spend a Sunday at Columbia Road Flower Market
• Spend some time at the Natural History Museum
• Explore the city from The Shard
• Watch Romeo and Juliet at the Victoria Palace Theatre
• Step inside the Palace of Westminster
• Go for dinners at Hoppers
• Harry Potter Studio Tour
• See Tower Bridge lift up

Where to stay in London?

• Motel One London-Tower Hill
• Sea Containers London
• Central Park Hotel
• Ham Yard Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
• The Fox & Goose Hotel

Visit Cardiff City in Wales

Cardiff is the capital and the largest city of Wales. It is the eleventh largest city in the United Kingdom .

This city has a bevy of museums, attractions, parks, music venues, restaurants, cafes and bars to explore.

8 of the Major attractions of Cardiff City

• Spend some hours at Bute Park
• Visit Cardiff Castle
• Explore the National Museum of Cardiff
• Visit one of the world’s finest civic centers, CITY HALL
• Enjoy views across the city, bay and Bristol Channel from Barrage
• Join the Circus at Cardiff
• Move with your children to Cardiff International White Water center
• Visit Cardiff Central Market

Accommodations in Cardiff

• Hotel Indigo – Cardiff
• Lincoln House Private Hotel
• Hilton Cardiff
• Glendale Hotel

Edinburgh: “A great place to visit”

Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit in northern Europe. There are several things to do in Edinburgh.

Interesting 9 Thing To Do In Edinburgh

• Wash your face in the dew of Arthur’s Seat
• Eat dinner at Restaurant Martin Wishart
• Enjoy the view from Edinburgh Castle
• Go on a shopping spree on Victoria Street
• Boggle your mind at Camera Obscura
• Take a stroll through the Meadows
• Go for afternoon tea at Colonnades
• Experience a gig at the Queen’s Hall
• Sleep in the lap of luxury at the Balmoral

Edinburgh Accommodations

• The Balmoral Hotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel
• Fraser Suites Edinburgh
• The White Lady
• The Inn Place
• Twins Lions Hotel

Stavanger is a place you shouldn’t miss to Explore

Stavanger is a gorgeous town on the western coast of Norway. The city is comprised of countless natural attractions popular hikes including Preikestolen and Kjerag, as well as its beautiful old town and interesting museums.

What you should not miss exploring in Stavanger?

• Visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum
• Explore Stavanger Cathedral
• LEARN ABOUT SARDINES AT THE NORWEGIAN CANNING MUSEUM
• Wander Stavanger Town Centre
• While away time Bustling Harbour
• Hike to Preikestolen
• Climb the 4444 steps of Florli
• Hike to Kjerag
• The Jaren Beaches

Budget Hotels To Stay In Stavanger

• Quality Airport Hotel Stavanger
• Clarion Hotel
• Forus Leilighetshotel
• Wathne Camping

You can book flight tickets with a budget-friendly travel agency to and enjoy a fair discount, travel discounts and added an airport taxi service to your chosen hotel’s doorsteps. Select from a variety of airways as per your trip plan, as you can even customize your transits.

6 Cheaper Airlines that take you to Northern Europe

• Etihad Airways: https://www.etihad.com/en-us/
• GoAir: https://www.goair.in/
• Wizz Air: https://wizzair.com/en-gb/flights /
• Onur Air: https://www.onurair.com/en/
• easyJet: https://www.easyjet.com/us
• Norwegian Air: http://www.norwegian.com/

Northern Europe in Map

There are many more probably 100s of the best places to visit in Northern Europe like Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Bergen, Galway, and many more. Just stay connected with us to read more about places to explore in Europen cities which might be useful for you when visiting. Don’t forget to leave your comment if you think there’s anything more to us or if I missed something to address!

Related Articles

Adventure Travel is a team of travel guides, travel photographer, travel journalist based in Nepal and from the parts of the world. We all in our team enjoy traveling and publishing facts of travel, trekking, and hiking to help travel lovers to find the facts of travel locations, equipment, culture and locality of places and many more. Keep visiting Adventure Travel we have many more updates coming soon for you. Enjoy reading travel advice, viewing photos of all different locations from the world be informed about places to travel in the world.

You may also like.

How To Travel Around Europe

Awesome Places You Shouldn’t Miss To Visit In Iceland

Traveling to Europe? Don’t Miss These Best European Cities This Winter!

Planning for a short Holiday Tour? Visit Budapest Hungary in a Day

Recent posts.

Places To Visit In Bikaner

A Pre-Trip Checklist for Driving Cross-Country

Manifesting Your Luxury Tour of India

Greek Mythology and Things You Didn’t Know

Best Northern Europe Countries to Visit with Kids

Top City Breaks in Northern Europe with Kids

Learn About Northern Europe

Facts About Sweden

Nuuksio National Park in Finland with Kids

What is Sweden Famous for?

Facts About Finland

Midsummer in Finland

Recent Posts

Finland’s nuuksio national park with kids, ruska season in finland: autumn in finland 2024, 20 amazing cities in finland to visit in 2024 + list, map and tips, midsummer in finland 22nd june 2024: everything you need to know, best things to do in oslo with kids: 2024 city break guide, the best copenhagen hotels for families in 2024 (with family rooms), what is sweden famous for 16 main things from food to natural wonders, 35 cool and fascinating norway facts, what is denmark known for, best norway christmas markets to visit in 2023.

Southern Europe

Return to Homepage >>>

Get directly to your inbox, new Template Releases, Latest News and Special Offers!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form

make friends. see the world.

On Apple Podcasts , Stitcher , & Spotify .

10 Things You Need To Know If You Are Traveling To Northern Europe

When you think of Europe, the first destinations that come to mind are probably France, Italy, or Greece. This is completely understandable since these are the countries most of us dream of visiting at some point in our lives.

However, the more you travel the more you realize that there are hidden gems everywhere - especially in Europe.

Take the Northern Europe for instance. You don't commonly hear that someone went to Finland or Norway, let alone to Iceland . But these destinations hide some of the best natural sights in the world - along with amazing architecture, history, events, and food.

If you are preparing to visit these destinations, there are a few things you should know before you go. ‍ ‍ ‍

The Best Time to Visit

There are many destinations that are considered to be in the Northern Europe - Scandinavian countries along with Northern Ireland and Scotland .

Each of them has their own peak season and when you’ll go depends on what you want to do. Busy travel times are usually May to September but it’s most crowded during these times. You can always opt to go in the winter - it can be a bit colder but if you don’t like the crowd, the winter will suit you. Besides, you may get to see Northern Lights or the Midnight sun.

The best time to visit the countries of northern Europe are:

• Visit Scandinavia in May and September for mild weather and less crowd, June - August for midnight sun and great weather, and winter months for no crowds, extreme cold but great sights of Aurora Borealis.
• Visit Northern Ireland from June to September for the best weather, avoid July and August if you hate crowds and visit in June for optimal conditions.
• Visit Scotland in the spring - late March to May and in autumn months from September to November. The scenery is beautiful then, there are not many tourists and the weather is mild. June would also be good if you like warm weather and lots of people.

Again, the cost will depend on how you want to spend your time. If you are looking for luxury hotels and expensive food, you are likely to spend a lot of money. However, if you would rather save money and find a decent accommodation with simple yet authentic food, you can travel quite inexpensively.

Look for discounts and options before you go on your trip.

The Natural Sights

Depending on where you go, there are magical sights to be seen. If you want to see the Aurora Borealis, the Midnight Sun or Polar nights, you can visit the Scandinavian countries. If you are more interested in seeing the green, untouched scenes straight from Harry Potter, then Northern Ireland or Scotland will be more to your taste.

If you are from an European Union country, you don’t need a visa to go to Northern Europe. Travelers from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and most of South and Central America don’t need a Visa either.

Health Risks

There are no health risks in these areas. Be careful if you are travelling in the winter months as roads can get quite icy and slippery.

The Language

Most travelers going to Scandinavia are worried about the language because it does sound quite complicated. However, Scandinavians usually speak many languages including English so you should have an easy time communicating.

The same goes for Northern Ireland and Scotland where the native tongue is English - listen carefully because you might misunderstand each other due to different accents.

The Weather

As you would expect with most northern countries, it can get quite cold. Especially if you are visiting in the winter. Bring a lot of warm clothes and shoes to keep you comfortable.

During the summer, the weather is mostly mild and it will be good for anyone who doesn't like the cold,” says a Travel writer from Write My X and Academic Brits , Pauline Gregorson.

Outdoor Activities

There is plenty to be done outdoors in the Northern Europe. Winter activities are the most popular ones - skiing, snowboarding and so on. But there is a lot more that you could do.

Tourists love hiking and boat tours as well as looking for the best spots to see Northern Lights. You can go on a sightseeing trip to cities and see great architecture and monuments.

There are many events to see in Northern Europe. Copenhagen Jazz Festival is one of them, going on for two weeks in the summer. Next, you can go to Norway International Music Festival which lasts for four days. There is also Edinburgh roaring Nye Festival in winter months. Gothenburg culture festival in Sweden is also a fun event that you can visit.

The food in Northern Europe is versatile - you can get vegan food almost everywhere and cheap traditional meals are always an option. Depending on where you go, you'll be able to encounter different food and tradition,” says Carina George, a Travel blogger from 1Day2Write and OriginWritings . No matter where in Northern Europe you go, you'll be happy that you did. With amazing sights, great food and fun events, you can never be bored in these countries.

More Popular Posts

The Highlights of Buenos Aires and Patagonia

10 Days in Thailand: My Group Travel Recap

8 Days in Colombia: A Recap

Current Trips on Sale

Mexico City

LOOKING FOR A SWEET TRAVEL DEAL?

Follow the adventure, as seen in....

Quick Links

© 2012-2024 Shadow Concepts LLC. All rights reserved. “Under30Experiences,” “U30X” & all associated proprietary marks are trademarks of Shadow Concepts LLC & its related entities. Other third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service

• Destinations
• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Things To Do
• Bikes Booking
• Travel Visa
• Event Tickets
• Travel Insurance

Travel Guide

Backpacking itinerary guide for northern europe.

Northern Europe

A trip to Northern Europe offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and modern sophistication. The region showcases breathtaking landscapes such as fjords, forests and spectacular northern lights. Travelers can explore vibrant cities with breathtaking architecture, famous museums and steeped history. Furthermore, Northern Europe prides itself on sustainability, offering environmentally friendly tours and a glimpse of developing and thoughtful countries Whether they immersing themselves in Nordic traditions, trying interesting foods or experiencing outdoor activities, Northern Europe is enriching And promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Creating a comprehensive itinerary for Northern Europe can be an expensive and complex task, as it encompasses many countries with diverse cultures, landscapes and attractions.  Here is a suggested itinerary that include key destinations in Northern Europe. Also, consider the best time to visit as Northern Europe can experience severe weather.

Destinations:

• Arrive in Copenhagen and explore sights like the Little Mermaid, Nyhavn and Tivoli Park.
• Take the train or bus to Stockholm and visit Vasa Museum, Gamla Stan and Ebba Museum.
• Visit Oslo and explore famous sites like the Viking Ship Museum, the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and the Royal Palace.
• Visit the beautiful coastal town of Bergen and walk on the nearby fjords. Explore Bryggen harbor and the Fløibanen funicular.
• Fly into Tromsø or take a long-haul bus to see the Northern Lights (seasonal), dog sledding and winter activities.
• Visit Helsinki and enjoy the vibrant design by visiting Suomenlinna Sea Castle and Helsinki Cathedral.
• Take the train or ferry to St. Louis. Petersburg and explore the Hermitage Museum, the Bloody Savior Church, and Peter Paul’s Castle.
• Take a boat ride to Tallinn and explore its well-preserved medieval old town, Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
• Take a bus or train to Riga and discover its beautiful Old Town, Art Nouveau architecture and Riga Central Market.
• Visit Vilnius and explore its beautiful old town, Gediminas Castle and Trakai Island Castle.
• Visit Warsaw and visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum, Royal Castle and Lazienki Park.
• Take the train to Krakow and explore the historic Old Town, Wawel Castle and the Auschwitz Memorial.
• Go to Berlin and visit landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Check Point Charlie and the Berlin Wall Memorial.
• Take the train to Hamburg and explore the harbour, the Miniatur Wunderland and the historic Speicherstadt district.
• Go to Amsterdam and explore the canals by visiting famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House.
• Visit Brussels, explore the Grand Place Atomium, and enjoy Belgian chocolates and waffles.
• Finish the trip in Paris. Explore the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre Dame Cathedral, and discover the city’s art and food.

When planning your trip, remember to consider your travel preferences, interests, and budget. Flexibility is also important while traveling around Northern Europe 

Happy Travels!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

• Travel Update
• Search Suggested Results View All Results
• EUR (€)
• GBP (£)
• Self-Drive i
• Privately Guided i
• Guided Small Groups i
• Northern Lights i
• Honeymoon & Romance i
• Ice & Snow Hotels i
• Multi-Country Tours i
• All Travel Styles
• Show all tours
• Best Sellers
• Special Offers
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Book With Confidence i
• Why book with us i
• Booking Terms i
• Sustainability Policy i
• Manage Booking
• Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Northern Europe Tour Packages

Whisk yourself away on a Northern Europe tour, where all the planning has been done for you. Imagine chasing the northern lights, touring ancient castles, or experiencing vibrant Scandinavian cities. You can choose how you want to travel on a customisable trip with Nordic Visitor.

Top Ways to Explore Northern Europe

Discover Northern Europe your way with these top travel styles. You could enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace on a road trip, coastal voyage, or train journey. Or learn from a knowledgeable local guide when you opt for a small group tour or privately guided trip.

Self-Drive Packages

Small group tours, northern lights tours, privately guided trips, nordic cruises, train tours, independent tours, most popular northern europe tour packages.

These top trips come highly recommended by our customers. Add the Nordics to your wish list if you’re craving dazzling glaciers, deep fjords, and artistic capitals. Or if it’s verdant hills, crumbling castles, and historic cities that you’re after, head to Scotland and Ireland.

Highlights of Norway

Hurtigruten cruise, norwegian fjords & expert tour guide.

Highlights of Scotland

Scottish highlands, loch ness & isle of skye.

Natural Wonders of Iceland

The ring road & snæfellsnes, highlights of scandinavia, sweden, denmark & norway, destinations.

Discover 14 delightful destinations across the North.

Nordic Visitor Reviews

Read what our wonderful guests had to say about their Nordic Visitor trips.

Amy Woods United States

I have already recommend Nordic Visitor to several friends and family members! We had an absolutely amazing trip and... read more

I have already recommend Nordic Visitor to several friends and family members! We had an absolutely amazing trip and I can't wait to come back! Everyone was helpful and patiently answered all of my questions. I'm very happy we chose Nordic Visitor for our trip and I would choose them again! 

Jennifer United States

On our trip, we met a few other Americans. Told them about Nordic Visitor and they were impressed. I found Nordic... read more

On our trip, we met a few other Americans. Told them about Nordic Visitor and they were impressed. I found Nordic Visitor's website very user-friendly. I love that all the documents sent was super easy to just hand the concierge and the 2 excursions we booked already had our names down. I loved the 2 excursions in the package we chose. Overall, it exceeded my expectations and I'm so glad I chose this particular trip. 

Spring Sale

Check out these special offers to save up to 20%.

Get in touch with one of our local travel experts

Whatever your needs, we are here to help. If you have any questions about our packages or services, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Why Choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a leading travel agency in Northern Europe. Book with us and you’ll have your very own dedicated travel consultant that’s passionate about your destination. They’ll use their insider knowledge to plan the trip of a lifetime for you.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

You are in good hands

Our 24/7 helpline means that we’re there for you throughout your tour. Rest easy knowing there’s a regional expert just a call away should anything unforeseen happen, like unusual weather or events. In this case, we’ll amend your itinerary as needed while keeping you safe and informed.

Flexible tour options

Nordic Visitor packages are designed to include the best routes and attractions, but it’s also easy to customise your trip. Tailor your tour online by adding extra nights and optional excursions. Or speak to your dedicated consultant to find out how your itinerary can be personalised.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

Handpicked hotels

Head out exploring, safe in the knowledge there’s a carefully chosen accommodation waiting for you at the end of each day. You’ll sleep soundly in places we’ve personally selected based on their location and high standards of comfort and cleanliness. So simply check-in, relax and recharge.

When to Travel

Summer and winter offer plenty of memorable ways for you to experience Northern Europe. Picture yourself exploring the Norwegian fjords under summer’s midnight sun, or watching the aurora dance across Iceland’s dark winter skies.

Summer Tours

Winter tours, themed europe travel packages.

No matter your interests, you’ll find something to inspire you. Indulge in a luxury travel experience, uncover Northern Europe’s most romantic spots, or stay in a glittering ice hotel. Plus, if you’re travelling with kids, there’s also a range of carefully designed family-friendly trips to choose from.

Honeymoon & Romance

Multi-country tours, ice & snow hotel, northern europe highlights.

Explore Europe with Nordic Visitor, and depending on where your wanderlust takes you, immerse yourself in jaw-dropping scenery or buzzing cosmopolitan cities. Soon you could…

• Discover top sights on Iceland's Golden Circle: Geysir , Gullfoss   waterfall and Þingvellir National Park
• Soak up breathtaking Norwegian scenery as you ride the Flåm Railway or explore the Lofoten Islands
• Experience Glen Coe and encounter historic Scottish sites, like Skara Brae and Urquhart Castle
• Marvel at the iconic Matterhorn , ride mountain railways and stroll around medieval cities in the Alps
• Enjoy the famed hospitality of the Irish in Dublin , before journeying to the striking Cliffs of Moher
• Immerse yourself in the UK’s rich heritage when you visit cities like London and Edinburgh
• Visit the capital cities of Stockholm , Copenhagen and Oslo , where you can tour ancient Viking ships
• Travel to Lapland in winter to chase the northern lights and try thrilling activities like snowmobiling
• Venture to the likes of Spitsbergen in Svalbard, or Ilulissat in Greenland for a memorable Arctic escape

Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Europe Tours

If you’d like more information about going on a Northern Europe tour, read on. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here for your convenience.

It’s good to know that when you choose Nordic Visitor, you can Book With Confidence , safe in the knowledge that your payments are protected. To find out about our processes and payment details, check out our booking terms and FAQs .

1. WHAT COUNTRIES IN NORTHERN EUROPE CAN I VISIT?

Nordic Visitor can plan an unforgettable trip for you to any of these European countries:

• •  Iceland
• •  Scotland
• •  Ireland
• • The UK
• •  Norway
• • Switzerland
• •  Sweden
• •  Finland
• •  Denmark
• •  Greenland  

We also offer Northern Europe packages in the following destinations:

• •  Scandinavia – a group of countries, comprising Norway, Sweden and Denmark
• • The Alps – visit Austria, Germany and Switzerland on an Alpine getaway
• •  Lapland – a region spanning the northern reaches of Sweden and Finland
• •  Svalbard – a remote Norwegian archipelago located in the Arctic Circle  

2. IS NORTHERN EUROPE SAFE TO VISIT?

Northern Europe has very low crime rates and is a safe place to visit. In fact, the Global Peace Index rates the Nordic nations as some of the most peaceful countries in the world.

It's also good to know that the destinations you can visit with Nordic Visitor all have excellent, modern healthcare services.

You can check the latest guidance for visiting Northern Europe on our Travel Update page.

3. WHAT IS THE CLIMATE OF NORTHERN EUROPE?

In Northern Europe the climate varies a lot between seasons. This means that your experience of a destination will be different depending on the time of year that you’re travelling. Happily, this just gives you more reasons for a return visit.

The spring and summer season is from May to September in Northern Europe. This time of year tends to bring drier and milder weather. And the region’s warmest average temperatures range from around 13°C (55°F) in parts of Iceland to 21°C (70°F) in southern Sweden.

If you’re planning an Arctic adventure to Svalbard or Greenland in summer, it’s worth remembering the average temperature at this time of year will be lower. For instance, July is the warmest month of the year, with an average temperature of around 7°C (45°F).

In general, Northern Europe’s winter months, from October to April, tend to be chillier. That said, the Gulf Stream prevents the region from becoming as cold as countries at similar latitudes, like Canada.

For example, in Nordic Visitor’s Northern European winter destinations, the lowest average temperatures vary from approximately -11°C (12°F) in Lapland to 7°C (45°F) in Ireland. Meanwhile the average winter temperature in Iceland is usually around 1°C (34°F).

You’ll find more specific climate information in these Northern Europe travel guides:

• •  Iceland weather and climate conditions
• • Scotland weather and climate conditions
• •  Norway weather and climate conditions
• •  Lapland weather and climate conditions
• •  Ireland weather and climate conditions  

So, leave behind thoughts of the hot climes found in Southern European destinations, like Rome, Italy. And instead, focus on what you can see in Europe’s north: spectacular displays of the northern lights, pristine landscapes, geological wonders, and more.

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TOUR NORTHERN EUROPE?

The best time to visit Northern Europe really depends on how you want to explore and the attractions you wish to discover.

If you are looking to visit when temperatures are mild, then book a tour during the spring and summer months. Between April and September, you’d get to see lush green landscapes and enjoy long days, which is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking.

As well as this, the midnight sun is in full swing in certain areas such as Iceland, Northern Norway and Greenland. This is a phenomenon where the sun doesn’t set for weeks or months.

On the other hand, from around October to March, you could experience snow-dusted landscapes, wintry activities and festive traditions. The dark night skies also provide the ideal backdrop for spotting the northern lights.

Check out these travel styles for seasonal tour ideas:

• •  Summer tours in Northern Europe
• •  Winter trips in Northern Europe
• •  Northern lights packages in Northern Europe
• •  Christmas tours in Northern Europe  

5. WHERE AND WHEN CAN I SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN EUROPE?

Aurora borealis activity is strongest closer to the North Pole, so your best bet is to visit Iceland, Norway, Lapland and Svalbard to catch sight of the northern lights. These destinations are located within or near to the Arctic Circle, where you have a higher chance of seeing the aurora.

Occasionally you can spot them in other parts of Northern Europe, such as Scotland. But sightings are much rarer as it’s further away from the Arctic Circle.

If you’re keen to see this natural phenomenon in Europe, then book your trip for the winter months, when the nights are long. This will give you more hours of darkness to search for the northern lights.

Read these guides for more information about the aurora borealis:

• •  What are the northern lights?
• •  How to see the aurora borealis
• •  Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe  

6. WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO TOUR NORTHERN EUROPE?

The North is made up of many distinctive countries and cultures, and there are plenty of ways to experience them. The best way to travel depends on what you want to do and how flexible you’d like the tours to be.

Self-drive packages of Northern Europe are very popular as they let you set the pace and travel further for excursions, attractions and restaurants. You can take your time discovering top sights and explore off the beaten track.

Another excellent way to travel is with a knowledgeable guide and a small group of fellow travellers. Our escorted group tours of Northern Europe give you the opportunity to learn from a local. They’ll take you to each attraction and share their knowledge and favourite spots.

Nordic Visitor only organises small minibus tours, for a more relaxed and personal experience compared to large coach trips.

If you want something exclusive and would prefer to travel alone or with friends or family members, then choose from our private Northern Europe tours . You’ll have a local guide all to yourselves for a more personal experience.

Northern Europe independent packages combine the best of self-guided travel with escorted excursions. You’ll get to enjoy guided tours and activities with local experts, but then have free days to explore on your own.

In the Scandinavian countries, you could journey by rail on a train tour of Northern Europe , or sail the seas on a Nordic cruise package . Both are convenient ways to travel in Norway, Sweden and Denmark, with stunning views and enchanting stops along the way.

Plus, if you opt for a multi-country tour, you can discover as many as five nations in one trip. For instance, you could combine the Nordic and Scandinavian nations of Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland with Estonia, in the Baltic States.

If you want more information, contact our team and they will help you decide which travel style would suit you best.

7. DO I NEED A VISA TO GO TO NORTHERN EUROPE?

Fortunately, if you’re arriving from North America, Australia, Japan, or New Zealand, you will not need a visa to visit Northern Europe. You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months left before it expires.

If you’re visiting from outside of these places, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter the Nordic countries. This is a short-stay visa that permits you to travel to Schengen Area member countries for up to 90 days.

The Schengen visa doesn’t apply to Scotland, the rest of the UK, or Ireland. But citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland can visit without a visa. If you’re travelling from elsewhere, you may need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa for Scotland and the UK, or a Short Stay ‘C’ visa for Ireland.

8. CAN I CUSTOMISE MY NORTHERN EUROPE TOUR?

Yes, it’s easy to tailor your tour online. As you go through the booking steps, you can add extra nights, room upgrades and optional excursions to your itinerary. For instance, if you’re travelling to Iceland, you might like to include an extra day at the end of your trip for visiting the Blue Lagoon.

That said, if you have something more bespoke in mind, please contact your dedicated travel consultant. Just let them know what you’d like to do and where you’d like to go. From here, they’ll use their insider knowledge to create a memorable travel experience for you.

What’s more, your trip can be customised based on your interests, or we can add special touches to a honeymoon tour in Northern Europe .

Although most of the ways that you can travel with Nordic Visitor are easily tailored, it’s worth noting that small group packages are less flexible.

This is because you, and the rest of the group, will be following a fixed itinerary for the guided portion of your tour. You can still extend your stay by adding extra nights at the start or end of your trip.

9. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Depending on the time of year you’ll be travelling to Europe, there will be a number of Nordic Visitor tours to choose from. With a range of seasonal packages and a variety of start dates, you’re sure to find an arrival date that suits you.

When you’re booking your trip online, you’ll be able to select your preferred start date from the tour’s availability calendar.

10. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

It’s a good idea to check what times and dates are available for flights upfront, but we advise holding off on buying them until your tour is booked. Once your travel consultant emails you to let you know that your trip is confirmed, you can go ahead and purchase your flights.

Your Nordic Visitor vacation package includes accommodation and a detailed, personalised itinerary. Waiting until we have made these arrangements means that you can select the flights that work best for your tour. Plus, if you have any questions you can ask your dedicated consultant for advice.

11. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR NORTHERN EUROPE?

When you visit Northern Europe, not only will you be exploring captivating new cities, but you’ll also be heading out into the countryside. So it’s best to be prepared for changeable weather, no matter when you’re travelling in Europe.

These are our recommendations for what to bring with you on your tour:

• Walking boots or shoes with good grip
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Insulated jacket
• Woollen or fleece jumpers
• Thermal base layers
• Warm hat, scarf and gloves
• Warm hiking socks
• Quick-drying travel towel
• Sunscreen and insect repellent in the summer months
• Insulated coat and thick layers in the winter months  

Check out these destination guides for tips and advice on what you should pack for your European trip:

• •  Iceland packing list
• •  Scotland packing list
• •  Norway packing list
• •  Lapland packing list
• •  Ireland packing list  

Get in touch with us, whether you’d like to book a tour or are interested in customising a package. Our travel team is ready to help you with any questions you might have.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts

Blog Articles

The nordic countries: your ultimate travel guide, group travel - how to book amazing group tours with friends, 8 best road trips in europe to add to your wish list, northern europe: best places to go in 2024.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Northern Italy’s Enchanting Escapes: 12 Unmissable Vacation Destinations

Northern Italy is known for its mountain ranges, beautiful coastlines, rich cuisine, deep history, and gorgeous architecture. Northern Italy cities are simply breathtaking.

Each major region of Italy (northern, central , and southern ) is quite unique. Northern Italy is made up of 8 different sub-regions, which include Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Liguria, Aosta Vally, Veneto, Fruili-Venezia, and Trentina-Alto.

From hiking the Italian Alps and Lake Como boat tours to handmade pasta and vineyards, the northern region of Italy is a diverse vacation destination you shouldn’t miss! Check out our favorite places to visit in Northern Italy– with things to do!

[This article contains affiliate links to trusted partners.]

Cinque Terre, Liguria

Recommended by Pafoua of Her Wanderful World

Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” is a charming, must-see UNESCO destination located in Liguria’s capital city, La Spezia, off the Mediterranean coast in Northern Italy. Listed north to south, these beautiful coastal towns are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Each town has its own unique beauty to explore, but all of them offer scenic views of colorful houses that line the hills. The ambiance, culture, and people in the Cinque Terre make a stop here unforgettable even though there aren’t traditional tourist sites such as churches or museums to visit.

Monterosso is the largest of the five and is known for its long stretch of sandy beach. Vernazza is the most beautiful of all the towns, with a smaller beach to swim in and a piazza to view the harbor below.

Sitting as the highest of all five villages, visitors will need to climb over 300 steps to reach the town center of Corniglia. Visit Gelateria Corniglia to find the best gelato. A popular activity in Manarola is sunbathing on the rocks or swimming in the sea since it doesn’t have a beach.

Riomaggiore is known for being the first town introduced to tourism, and nightlife is more lively. There is also delicious fried seafood found here.

A well-maintained train system connects the towns so visitors can easily travel between towns by hopping on and off. To take the scenic route, you can hike the trails and receive even more picturesque views, although keep in mind that some of the trails may be challenging.

Vehicles are discouraged in the Cinque Terre, so the easiest way to arrive is by train. Visitors can also arrive by boat, but schedules can change depending on the weather. The busiest times in the Cinque Terre are June and July, which also offer the sunniest, longest days.

To miss the crowds, visit during September or October to get cooler weather and still enjoy this beautiful area. Whenever you decide to visit the Cinque Terre and Northern Italy, you will not be disappointed!

Genoa, Liguria

Recommended by Sarah of A Social Nomad

Genoa, located in Northern Italy, is really easy to travel to – some buses and trains make it easy to reach this city on the Mediterranean, which is also a major cruise port, which means that a lot of visitors spend one day in Genoa . Genoa has one of the largest harbors in the Mediterranean, which means it sees a lot of yachting traffic too.

Genoa’s most famous son is Christopher Columbus, who spent much of his childhood here, and it is still possible to visit his home in the city. The maze of tiny, narrow streets makes the historic center of Genoa a delight to wander around in, safe from traffic, and the series of UNESCO World Heritage-listed palaces will delight all who visit.

Foodies, too, will love Genoa. The region is the birthplace of pesto and focaccia bread, and it’s also a city where street food is awesome – a paper cone of freshly fried seafood is absolutely not to be missed. To learn more, consider a Genoa food tour .

There are walking tours and open-topped Hop on Hop off bus tours to explore, but this is also a city where it’s easy to wander and discover hidden areas. Endless pavement cafes, bars, and restaurants suit all budgets and rest from the day’s heat. Genoa also caters well with accommodation options from five-star hotels to hostels and apartment rentals – all types and budgets of travelers are catered for.

Portofino, Liguria

Recommended by Alex and Leah on Tour

Portofino is an absolutely beautiful village on the Italian Riviera coastline in northern Italy. It’s extremely popular with celebrities worldwide, and once you visit, you’ll know why!

The best way to get to Portofino is by taking the train from Genoa to Saint Magherita before hopping on a direct bus to the village. The bus trip is an experience; snaking along the cliffside, you’ll see magnificent views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. 

Despite being a small fishing village, there is much more to do than meets the eye. Firstly, if you have the budget or just fancy a nose, you definitely need to pop into all the designer shops that line the cobbled street.

We’d then recommend going for a wander around the harbor before settling down for an alcoholic beverage, coffee, or even some food. Whilst (obviously) expensive, the food is fantastic, and you MUST have an Aperol Spritz!

If you’re more of an adventurer, you definitely need to hike up to Castelletto or Faro di Portofino, as the views are unbelievable.

Don’t worry if that doesn’t appeal to you; you can always sit on the edge of the Marina di Portofino pier, look back at Portofino’s beautiful, multi-colored buildings, and watch the world go by.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Veneto

Recommended by Morgan of Crave the Planet

You don’t have to be a mountaineer and eat dried food to experience out-of-this-world hiking with breathtaking views– even with your kids or mobility-impaired friends and family. Everyone should travel to Italy to experience the magnificent cities, but it’s a hustle and touristic bustle that can leave you or your family well-fed but drained. Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled high in the Dolomites in northern Italy, is a must-see for people who love nature with a dose of good food and wine.

Fortunately, it’s only a 2-hour drive or bus ride from the international airport in Venice to the stunning mountain village of Cortina d’Ampezzo, filled with history, great food, and luxury spas. The incredible thing about Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Italian Dolomites is the chance to walk easily at high elevations with minimal effort and no special training.

Gondolas and chair lifts run in summer for those not inclined to hike to the top so that everyone can experience some of the most spectacular views in the world, like the Cinque Torri Rock formation.

Directly on these trails sit mountain huts called “rifugios,” like Rifugio Lagazuoi. These huts serve delicious cuisine, great local wines, and views that make you think you’re on top of the world.

Best things to do: Rent bikes, people watch in the village center, do an exciting Via Ferrata, do a day hike around Lago di Braies, or do a hut-to-hut hike and feel like a mountaineer without having to rough it by staying in gorgeous huts each night.

Cortina merges Italian and outdoor culture like no other place. It’s a great winter and summer destination for skiing, hiking, or doing a spa on the top of a mountain. Stay at Cristallo’s luxury spa overlooking Cortina d’Ampezzo, which has no details left out. It’s pure luxury.

Venice, Veneto

Recommended by Angela of Where Angie Wanders

Venice is a must-visit destination in northern Italy; once you have experienced its history and beauty, you will want to return time and time again. Italy’s floating city is the only place in the world fully pedestrianized, and the only traffic jams you will find here are caused by boats.

Getting around Venice by water can seem complicated on a first visit; however, with waterbuses, water taxis, and gondolas, you can be sure to get around the city easily and quickly. Arriving in the city center from the airport by water taxi is a fantastic experience reminiscent of a James Bond movie! Looking for somewhere to stay? Click here for places to stay while in Venice .

St. Mark’s Square is the main tourist area in Venice, and visitors arrive to admire the centuries-old Venetian/Roman architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica. In the square, you will also find the Bell Tower and Doges Palace. This area is always busy, but walk away from it, and within 10 minutes, you will find yourself in quiet backstreets where you can wander freely without the crowds.

Finding good Italian cuisine should definitely be on your Venice itinerary . Don’t buy food and drink in St. Mark’s Square – the prices are extortionate – instead, find one of the numerous cafes that sell cicchetti. This is the traditional food of Venice – similar to tapas – and can be accompanied by local wine. It is a cheap and tasty way of eating in Venice, with dishes usually costing no more than €2 each. Here’s a

If you have time, make a day trip from Venice to Burano, the Italian island famous for its incredible rainbow-colored houses, freshly caught fish, and lace-making.

Alba, Piedmont

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

Alba in the Piemonte region should be on your must-visit list when traveling to northern Italy. Just an hour and a half south of Turin, you will find some of the best wines of Italy and, of course, their world-famous white truffles. This picturesque village is easily walkable in an hour or two. This is definitely a foodie town with quaint squares, a pink church, and many restaurants.

The traditional dishes in Alba are not usually marinara sauce based. Think mushrooms, truffles, olive oil, and cream. You should not leave Alba without ordering a mouthwatering truffle dish unless you are allergic.

If truffles make you swoon, visiting the International White Truffle Fair from mid-October to mid-November is like a trip to heaven. Special dinners and tastings of these culinary diamonds abound.

But even if you cannot make it to the festival, truffles will be on offer at any time of year. Make sure to purchase some truffle oil and truffle paste to take home. They make great souvenirs and gifts and will last longer than any you buy at home.

Also, try one of the most famous dishes of Alba and the Piemonte region, Brasato al Barolo—tender beef marinated in Barolo wine with vegetables and herbs. If you think the wine can’t be good if they’re cooking with it, think again!

Alba is a great hub for visiting local wineries and enotecas (wine bars or shops). Barolo is not just a wine varietal; it’s a village and a short drive from Alba. You can easily visit Barolo and Barbaresco, where Nebbiolo grapes are grown in one day. Enjoy a beautiful ride through rolling hills and vineyards. Enjoy sipping the local wine, then stroll through the charming villages.

Val di Susa, Piedmont

Recommended by Linda of Insieme-Piemonte.com

Being the symbol of the Piedmont region, you will have to visit the impressive Sacra di San Michele when traveling in northern Italy. It is also known as Saint Michael’s Abbey. Sound familiar? That is because author Umberto Eco was inspired by the powerful abbey for his bestselling book “The Name of the Rose.” 

Located only 40km from Piedmont’s capital, Turin, the massive Sacra di San Michele is high above Susa Valley. At 962 meters above sea level, it is not only rich in history but also offers fantastic views of the Italian, Swiss, and French Alps—and even Turin. 

Built between 983 and 987, the ancient abbey had its best years in the 13 th century. During that time, there were about 1000 monks living in it permanently, plus pilgrims from the north traveling to Rome. 

Via the QR code on the self-guided tour, you will get all the essential and interesting information on the abbey’s history directly to your cell phone. This will allow you to discover the gigantic building at your own pace. 

You will pass the “stairways of the dead” to reach the main church from the 12 th century. Several members of the Savoy, one of the oldest royal families in the world, are buried in it.  

The Sacra di San Michele area offers some fantastic hiking trails and a via Ferrata for climbers. You will have outstanding views of the abbey, the valley, and the Alps.  

Turin, Piedmont

Recommended by Teresa

The first capital of the Kingdom of Italy was built between 1861 and 1865. Today, Turin is a fantastic city. Turin, located in Northern Italy, is a combination of various European styles and modernity that must be added to your bucket list. In the past, Turin was famous as the house of the Italian monarchy; today, it is famous for industries such as FIAT and many others.

The Chapel of the Holy Shroud is a really important cathedral famous for housing the Holy Shroud. The Pope decides when to expose the Holy Shroud, and the expositions usually last 45 days.

The most critical and principal square of Turin is San Carlo Square. The square is very nice and elegant, with two twin churches at the end, the Equestrian monument wanted by the leader of the Savoy dynasty in the middle and beautiful arcades with historical and chic cafes all around.

If you are looking for a breathtaking view and a splendid church, visit the Basilica of Superga.

The Egyptian Museum houses the most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities. It was founded in 1894 by King Carlo Felice di Savoia and has grown.

The symbol of Turin is the Mole Antoneliana. From the top, you can have a 360-degree view, and inside, there is a stunning and exciting museum of cinema.

The Reggia di Venaria, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautiful day trip not too far away from Turin. You can spend a whole day wandering through rooms and the palace’s beautiful gardens.

Like all of Italy, Turin is known for its delicious food. Find a traditional restaurant and try the Agnolotti or the Vitello Tonnato, all accompanied by wine.

Val Chisone, Piedmont

Recommended by Linda of HikingTheAlps.com

When traveling in northern Italy, you will see several fascinating medieval forts and castles, but none is as impressive as the Forte di Fenestrelle. 

Located in the middle of beautiful Val Chisone, 85km west of Piedmont’s capital, Turin, the powerful fort can be admired from afar. It is the largest Alpine fortress in Europe! 

The fortified complex, covering an area of about 1.3 million square meters, consists of three different forts. They are joined by a tunnel inside the massive fortress wall, which runs the longest covered staircase in Europe. You will have to climb 4000 steps, 3km from Fort San Carlo in the valley to Fort delle Valli at 1800 meters above sea level, and overcome a 635-meter height difference. 

The mighty fortification, which was built starting in 1728, took 122 years to complete. It was intended to defend against foreign invasions, but it was mainly used as a garrison and prison. 

Abandoned after the Second World War, that outstanding construction can be visited today. There are full-day guided tours (only in Italian) or a short self-guided option. To experience and appreciate the dimension of that stunning building, you should combine an inside tour with a fantastic hike to Usseaux , one of the most beautiful villages in Piedmont. 

Lake Como, Lombardy

Recommended by Krisztina of SheWandersAbroad.com

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Northern Italy, don’t miss out on Lake Como! This beautiful destination is perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. With its stunning scenery and lovely towns, Lake Como will surely please everyone.

It’s one of the biggest lakes in Italy, and since it’s located only a one-hour train ride away from Milan, it’s a great day trip opportunity. However, if you want to explore the area properly, it’s worth spending at least 2-3 days at Lake Como.

Bellagio is one of the most popular towns on Lake Como, and it’s easy to see why. With its beautiful buildings and stunning views, Bellagio is a must-see when you’re in the area, and it’s also one of the best places for first-timers to stay in Lake Como. Be sure to walk around the town center to admire the architecture, and don’t forget to take a boat ride on the lake for some truly breathtaking views.

If you’re looking for a more low-key town, Tremezzo might be the place for you. This town is known for its pretty gardens, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the scenery. There are also some great restaurants here if you want to try some local cuisines.

Milan, Lombardy

Recommended by Greta of Greta’s Travels

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Northern Italy, add Milano. Milano is known as the City of Fashion; it’s the economic capital of Italy and the capital of the Lombardy region of Italy.

Milan is an iconic destination, both for its historical and cultural aspects and the modern pull of fashion and innovation. From the new trendy skyscrapers of Piazza Gae Aulenti to the cobbled streets of Brera, Milan has something to offer every type of traveler.

You could live in Milan and still not see it all. However, most travelers consider one day in Milan a good amount. In one day, you’ll be able to see all the highlights of the city, starting from Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, going on to Brera neighborhood, Castello Sforzesco, Arco della Pace, and then ending your day with a Milanese aperitivo at Navigli.

The best time to visit Milan is in late spring or early summer when the weather is good, the days are long, and you can easily get around the city on foot. You can still visit at other times of the year, but in summer, it gets very hot, and the weather in winter won’t make for a fun experience.

You can’t miss visiting the rooftop of the Duomo Cathedral . From here, you will get stunning views over the Piazza del Duomo and the rooftops of Milan. Head there at sunset for the most gorgeous golden light!

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Recommended by Lori of Italy Foodies

Bologna, in northern Italy, is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings and the magnificent UNESCO porticoes stretching across the city. But for all that, Bologna is also known as the “culinary capital of Italy” for producing some of the country’s most unique foods, including prosciutto, parmigiano reggiano cheese, and balsamic vinegar, all found locally on every menu.

The city is not as flashy as its neighbors, Florence and Venice, and therefore is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most under-visited cities. But there’s plenty to keep you occupied for a week or more.

A favorite activity is strolling the Piazza Maggiore in the heart of Bologna. Centuries-old medieval buildings, including the main cathedral, Basilica di San Petronio, surround the huge piazza. Here, you’ll find coffee shops and outdoor cafes serving pastries, sandwiches, and, of course, excellent regional wines.

If you’re a foodie, next door to the Piazza Maggiore is the oldest market in Bologna, the Quadrilatero, where you can walk the narrow cobblestone streets and shop for local Italian bread , meats, and cheeses or dine at some of the city’s best eateries.

Bologna once boasted 125 medieval towers, but only about 25 remain. One of the tallest is the Asinelli Tower, the only one you can climb—and you should! The panoramic views over Bologna are worth the climb.

Bologna is also home to fast-performance cars; a day trip to the “Motor Valley” should be on your list. The world headquarters of Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati are fascinating places to visit for car buffs or anyone looking for a true Bolognese experience.

Visiting Northern Italy

When planning a trip to northern Italy, there are many different cities and attractions that you must not miss. Milan, of course, is at the top of the list, with its beautiful architecture and buzzing cultural scene. There are also many lovely small towns in this region to explore.

And just outside of Milan is Lake Como, one of the most breathtaking destinations in the region. With its deep blue waters and snow-capped mountains in the distance, it is truly a sight to behold. Whether looking for great food and wine or incredible natural beauty, northern Italy is truly amazing!

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

The best places to visit in the Netherlands

May 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Contrast days exploring the Netherland's many cultural institutions with outdoorsy pursuits on Texel © Sara Winter / Shutterstock

The Netherlands is a treasure chest of exquisite art-filled cities and towns, canals, windmills and tulip fields, along with shiny-new sustainable urban environments, and glorious natural landscapes, coastlines and islands. While it’s one of Europe’s smaller nations (you can cross the entire country in a handful of hours), choosing where to spend your time takes planning.

These are the best places to begin your explorations.

1. Amsterdam

Best city for culture.

Ribboned by UNESCO-listed 17th-century canals that are lined by tilting gabled buildings that form its central core, the Dutch capital is a cultural jewel.

Amsterdam brims with museums headlined by the national showpiece the Rijksmuseum, neighboring Van Gogh Museum and modern-art Stedelijk Museum, with eye-openers like the Wereldmuseum museum of world cultures, and scores of smaller, specialist gems as niche as piano-player pianolas or sustainable fashion.

Music spanning classical to EDM spills from historic churches, hallowed concert halls (the Concertgebouw has near-perfect acoustics) and legendary venues like Melkweg, as well as open-air spaces such as the stage in the sprawling green Vondelpark.

Planning tip: It’s easy to avoid overtourism and escape the crowds by heading to less-visited neighborhoods. Amsterdam Noord is a fantastic starting point, home to a state-of-the-art film museum, the world’s biggest street-art museum, vast art "breeding ground" in former shipping warehouse NDSM-Loods, and eco-focused cafes and bars, many built from recycled materials. 

Find the ideal neighborhood to base yourself in Amsterdam.

2. Rotterdam

Best city for contemporary architecture.

The Netherlands’ second-biggest city and Europe’s largest port, Rotterdam has triumphed over the adversity of its WWII devastation, transforming into a veritable gallery of contemporary architecture and public art. Standout structures include the Overblaak "forest" of tilted cube-shaped houses (one houses the Kijk-Kubus museum), the soaring, horseshoe-shaped Markthal with original food stalls and restaurants, and the gleaming mirror-ball-like Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen – a world-first open-access art storage facility. Repurposed spaces abound, such as the Schieblock, a mid-century office building converted into creative studios, topped by a harvestable roof terrace.

Planning tip: An exhilarating way to see the shapeshifting cityscape is aboard a water taxi zipping across the harbor. Daredevils can even abseil 100m (328 ft) from Rotterdam’s iconic 1960-opened Euromast observation tower.

Save this guide to the top things to do in Rotterdam.

Best spot for outdoors activities

Basking less than 2 miles off the Dutch coast, the bucolic Wadden Sea island of Texel (pronounced "Tes-sel") is capped by a crimson lighthouse and fringed by sweeping white-sand beaches. With its lush pastures grazed by fluffy sheep (prized for their wool) and dairy cows (producing milk used in local cheeses, chocolate and ice cream, mixed with freshly picked berries), along with rambling forests and nature reserves, Texel is an outdoors paradise. Cycling trails crisscross the island, with activities ranging from horse riding and skydiving. Watersports include sailing and kite-surfing.

Some 10,000 seals swim in the surrounding waters; you can spot them on boat trips or at Ecomare’s seal sanctuary.

Planning tip: Ferries carry foot passengers, cars and bikes from mainland Den Helder to Texel in just 20 minutes. In summer, there’s also a service linking Texel with the Frisian island of Vlieland . 

Best for time-honored streetscapes and artistic traditions

Lovely little Delft , with its web of narrow canals lined by quaint, colorful buildings, seems preserved in another era. Centered on its medieval Markt, one of Europe’s largest market squares (markets still set up here on Thursdays), it’s crowned by the lopsided 14th-century spire of its Oude Kerk (Old Church), and 17th-century-completed Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – climbing its tower’s 376 spiraling steps provides beautiful views of the town.

A less demanding but equally picturesque impression is across the canal at Hooikade, where 17th-century Deft-born artist Vermeer, painted his famous View of Delft that’s still recognizable today. Vermeer’s life and techniques are covered at the Vermeer Centrum Delft.

The 17th century also saw artisans create an enduring legacy with the production of blue-and-white-painted pottery, known to the world as Delftware. Operating since 1653, Royal Delft has behind-the-scenes tours.

5. Den Haag (The Hague)

Best for regal museums and performing arts.

Stately Den Haag (The Hague) , the Netherlands’ third-largest city, isn’t the capital – that’s Amsterdam – but it is the seat of government and royalty. The glimmering Hofvijver pond relects the Gothic-style Binnenhof (Inner Court), the permanent home of the Dutch parliament (temporarily relocated until renovations that began in 2022 wrap up around 2028). The country’s monarch King Willem-Alexander works from adjacent Noordeinde Palace and lives at nearby palace Huis ten Bosch.

You won’t need a royal invitation to visit the dazzling royal picture gallery the Mauritshuis, hanging such masterpieces as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Fabritius’ The Goldfinch . Former royal residence the Lange Voorhout Palace showcases the mind-bending works of Dutch graphic artist MC Escher. Bringing together organizations including the Royal Conservatoire and modern-dance Nederlands Dans Theater across four halls, 2021-opened performing arts complex Amare is the city’s cultural meeting point.

Planning tip: When the weather warms up, join locals unwinding at laid-back beach bars along the long, sandy strand at Scheveningen.

6. Maastricht

Best for roman relics and revelry  .

In this otherwise-flat country’s hilly southeast, Maastricht upends most visitors’ impressions of the Netherlands. Bordered by Germany and Belgium, its location on the ancient trading route between Cologne and Boulogne-sur-Mer saw the Romans establish a fort to guard the crossing on the Maas (Meuse) river. You can see the site of the original bridge from its replacement, the arched, stone footbridge Sint Servaasbrug, begun in 1280 and the Netherland’s oldest bridge.

Maastricht’s unbuttoned joie de vivre harks back to the 15th century when it was part of the vast Burgundy powerbase, resulting in rich food and flowing wine, beer and merriment. Great places to whet your appetite are the city squares Markt, Vrijthof (overlooked by Romanesque basilica Sint Servaasbasiliek) and Onze Lieve Vrowplein (by Romanesque church, Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek).

Planning tip: Carousing peaks during Carnaval, in the lead-up to Shrove Tuesday (February or March), when many businesses otherwise close and costumed parades and parties take over.

Want to attend a festival like Carnaval or King's Day? Here are the best times to g o.

Best spot for history lessons

Whether your historical interest is academia, art or trans-Atlantic history, Leiden is a must-visit. Threaded by canals, it’s home to the Netherlands’ oldest and most illustrious university, gifted to Leiden by Willem the Silent in 1575; its botanical garden, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, opened in 1590, shelters rare species from all over the world.

Befitting an academic city, Leiden is stuffed with fascinating museums; the flagship Museum De Lakenhal, in a former cloth warehouse, displays works by artists including Rembrandt, who was born in Leiden in 1606. The Pilgrims, religious refugees who had fled England for Amsterdam in 1608, moved to Leiden the following year, raising money to lease the Speedwell to commence their journey to the New World in 1620. The tiny Leiden American Pilgrim Museum charts their story.

Planning tip: Leiden is a jumping-off point for springtime trips through the rainbow-striped tulip fields and Keukenhof Gardens , 10 miles north at Lisse, when some seven million bulbs bloom.

Best place for unique perspectives

Utrecht ’s university was founded in 1636, and this vibrant student city buzzes with independent shops, bars and bakery-cafes.

The city has some singular vantage points. From the top of its Utrecht's medieval landmark, the 112m (367ft) belfry Domtoren, reached by 465 steps, you can see as far as Amsterdam on a clear day. The Domkerk cathedral’s nave was destroyed by a hurricane in 1674 and never rebuilt. Below ground DOMunder guided tours take you to an underground archaeological site covering two millennia of history. Paleis Lofen tours explore the subterranean remains of this residence built by the Holy Roman Emperors around 1020 AD, incorporating Roman remains.

Also unique to Utrecht are its canals. Sluicing through the historic center, the Oudegracht and Nieuwegracht have double-decker towpaths, at both river level, where merchants offloaded goods into kelders (cellars), many of which house cafes and accommodation, and street level above. You can see another side to them from the water by boat, kayak or canoe.

Best for beaches, dunes and wildlife

The grand city of Haarlem – with its Grote Markt (Great Market) square, centuries-old churches (try to catch a Müller organ recital at the Grote Kerk) and impressive ensemble of museums (notably Frans Hals and Teylers) – is a splendid place to visit in itself.

When you’ve had your fill, the city is an ideal base for accessing powdery-soft, white-sand beaches at Zandvoort and Bloemendal aan Zee, via the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park , which teems with wildlife: along with birds and bats, you might spot bison, red foxes and fallow deer, as well as 2016-introduced horned Highland cattle. Kopje van Bloemendaal is the Netherlands’ highest dune, with views of the sea and Amsterdam (the capital is just 20 minutes from Haarlem). 

Explore related stories

May 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Follow this guide to the most unique and memorable experiences to be had in the Netherlands.

Dec 14, 2021 • 5 min read

May 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 15, 2023 • 4 min read

Oct 19, 2023 • 3 min read

Sep 19, 2023 • 4 min read

Apr 11, 2023 • 4 min read

Advertisement

The 10 Most Beautiful and Underrated Cities in Northern Europe

• Share Content on Facebook
• Share Content via Email

When people think of a European getaway, they tend to name off places like London, Paris, and Rome. While each of those cities has earned its spot on various travelers’ bucket lists, there are many cities that are just as worthy of “must see” status that are a little more off the beaten path. Northern Europe tends to get the short end of the stick when it comes to tourism, despite its rich, long and varied history. With small populations, limited influence and often harsh climates, the northern countries, including Scandinavia, Finland and the Baltics don’t exactly seem like havens for travelers – but these underrated escapes are also home to some of the most beautiful, diverse and storied cities in all of Europe. Here are 10 of the hidden gems in Europe’s Northern kingdoms.

10. Roskilde, Denmark

Roskilde is a city with only 50,000 inhabitants, but it’s easily one of the most important cities in Denmark; in fact, it was the Danish capital for many generations. The city dates back to the Viking Age and, according to medieval sources, was the site of a royal palace and a cathedral built by Harald Bluetooth, the legendary founder of Denmark. Though the Roskilde Cathedral that stands today dates from 12 th and 13 th centuries, Harald Bluetooth’s tomb is here, along with the graves of other Danish monarchs. Attached to the cathedral is Roskilde Palace. Roskilde is also famed for its Viking Ship Museum, which houses the remains of 5 well-preserved Viking ships, which were unearthed from the Roskilde Fjords surrounding the city.

9. Turku, Finland

Before the capital moved to Helsinki in 1812, Turku was the most important city in Finland. Today, it’s still an important center and one of the largest cities in Finland. Situated at the mouth of the Aura River, Turku is integral to both Finnish tourism and business. Of the notable sites, the Cathedral of Turku, erected in the 1300s, is a must-see, along with the Castle of Turku. Due to its location on the Baltic, Turku boasts scenic coastline and access to many small islands in the Archipelago Sea. Like its much-larger Swedish counterpart, Stockholm, the city’s maritime culture encourages day trips to the islands. And yes, there are tours highlighting the design and architecture that the Finns are famous for.

8. Kiruna, Sweden

How far north can you go? In Sweden, the answer is Kiruna, an Arctic Circle town that is home to the world’s very first ice hotel. Here, the aurora borealis put on a spectacular display during long winter nights and the midnight sun dominates summer days. A train will take you north to the land of cloudberries, the traditional home of the Sami. In the winter, 2 nearby mountains, Kiirunavaara and Luossavaara, provide excellent skiing and the nearby lake Luossajarvi can be used for ice skating. Dog sledding is another popular activity and every winter, the town holds a Snow Festival. Kiruna Church, built in Gothic Revival style in 1912, is one of Sweden’s largest wooden buildings and was voted Sweden’s most popular pre-1950s building.

7. Tampere, Finland

The “Manchester of Finland,” or “Manse” in Finnish, Tampere is located between 2 lakes, Nasijarvi and Pyhajarvi. The lakes are at different levels and the Tammerkoski rapids that link them run through the city. Founded in the 18 th century by the Swedish King Gustav II, Tampere is renowned as a center of cultural life in Finland. The third largest city in the country is home to multiple theaters, an international theater festival, a short film festival, an urban rock festival and the Tampere Floral Festival. Tampere is also home to many museums, including a spy museum, the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame and a shoe museum, as well as one of the last museums in the world dedicated to Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin.

6. Aalborg, Denmark

Built at the narrowest point on the Limfjord, Aalborg rose to prominence as one of the most important harbors in Northern Europe during the Middle Ages. Today, it’s become an important hub of culture, even hosting one of the largest annual festivals in Scandinavia. Aalborg has many theaters, performance venues and museums, along with an orchestra and opera company. Budolfi Church, now a cathedral, was consecrated in the 1300s, and in 1550 a royal residence was built in the city. Aalborg’s most famous buildings, however, may be the half-timbered mansions, built by the city’s prosperous merchants such as Jorgen Olufsen. Also notable is Jomfru Ane Gade (Virgin Anne’s Street), noted among travelers for its cafes during the day and clubs at night!

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Although not “Europe” in the strictest sense, Iceland is often included in discussions of Northern Europe thanks to its Norse heritage. The capital, Reykjavik, is situated on a peninsula. The hills Öskjuhli∂ and Skolavör∂uholt are former volcanoes and the mountains of the Blafjöll range for the city’s backdrop. Also nearby is the famed Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa. The city is home to the largest church in Iceland, the parliament building, and several museums and art galleries. Iceland is renowned for its natural beauty, and Reykjavik boasts Hofdi, a nature reserve; a cluster of red volcanic craters; and a geothermally heated beach. Reykjavik is most renowned for its nightlife, with over 100 bars and clubs, many of which are open until 4:30 am on weekends.

4. Vilnius, Lithuania

Although Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, and the second-largest city in the 3 Baltic states, it’s often passed over by tourists, if only for the fact that, for much of its history, it has been under the rule of one country or another, most recently as part of the Soviet Union until 1990. Nonetheless, this beautiful city has centuries of history to share with visitors. Lying at the confluence of the Vilna and Neris Rivers, Vilnius was founded during the Middle Ages. It soon became the capital, in part because its geography made it less vulnerable to attack. Vilnius boasts ancient churches and palaces, many in Baroque or Eastern Orthodox styles. A trip through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, won’t disappoint!

3. Trondheim, Norway

Founded in 997, Trondheim served as the capital of Norway during the Viking Age, until 1217. Long the seat of the Norwegian royal family, the city is situated on the River Nidelva, which flows through Trondheim and supplies water to the surrounding fjords. Munkholmen, a small islet, is a popular tourist destination, and the Stiftsgarden, a 17 th century royal palace, is quite possibly the largest wooden building in Northern Europe. The Nidaros Cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, dominates most views of the city. The cathedral is only one of many historic churches in the city, although many buildings have been lost in fires over the centuries. Surrounded by wetlands, it’s not uncommon to see animals like foxes and moose in the city.

2. Uppsala, Sweden

This quintessentially Swedish city was, for centuries, incredibly important in Swedish culture. Just an hour by train out of Stockholm, Uppsala features the medieval Domkyrka cathedral, a 17 th century royal palace, the oldest university in Scandinavia, the house of Carl Linneaus, Viking graves at Gamla Uppsala and runestones scattered about the city. Uppsala is relatively small compared to cities like Stockholm, but that makes it all the more pleasant. The slower pace of life, along with fantastic scenery and parks along the River Frysen, make Uppsala one of the most underrated cities in Northern Europe. At the end of April, students celebrate Walpurgis Night (Valborg in Swedish) by floating homemade boats down the river and drinking copious amounts of champagne.

1. Tallinn, Estonia

Like Vilnius, Tallinn is a beautiful Baltic city that has been overlooked by travelers, although tourism to the city has been growing. Tallinn is Estonia’s largest city, with 32 percent of the population calling it home. The capital is situated on Estonia’s northern coast, across the Gulf of Finland; it’s just 50 miles from Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg. Never razed or pillaged (although bombed during World War II), Tallin’s Old Town is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval towns. Sites include the city walls, 2 towers, and numerous medieval churches. On Cathedral Hill, the main attraction is the medieval Toompea Castle, which houses the Estonian Parliament. Kadriog Palace, built by Peter the Great just after the Great Northern War, is another popular tourist destination.

Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article:

• Outdoor Activities
• Destinations
• Book Hotels, Flights & Cars
• Advertise With Us
• Cookie Settings

Copyright © 2024 MapQuest Holdings LLC, a System1 Company

World Wild Schooling

Our most recent posts.

12 of the Most Dangerous Places in the World

12 Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World That Should Be on Your Bucket List

14 Amazing Things To Do in Paros, Greece

12 Most Beautiful Islands in Greece That Will Make You Finally Plan That Getaway

12 Beautiful European Palaces for Your Bucket List

12 Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in the Caribbean

12 Least Safe Countries in the World To Avoid as a Tourist 

I’m a Travel Writer and These Are the 12 Top Places I’ve Been To – Part III

The 12 Most Filmed Beaches on the Planet That Hollywood Loves

I’m a Travel Writer and These Are the 12 Top Places I’ve Been To – Part II

The 12 Greek Islands Where You Can Party the Night Away

12 Cool Destinations in Europe To Beat the Heat in July

12 Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in the World

12 Cities That Are Just as Beautiful as Paris but Way Cheaper

12 Surreal Places You Won’t Believe Are in the Caribbean

11 Simple Things Every Solo Female Traveler Should Know To Stay Safe

Our most popular posts.

Discover the World

12 Beautiful Places Where You Can Live for Less Than $1,500 a Month

24 Most Beautiful Beaches in The World To Visit in Your Lifetime

12 Stunning Pink Sand Beaches You Must See at Least Once in Your Lifetime

12 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

12 Amazing Hot Beach Destinations in the World for a Sunny Vacation in October

20 Historical Places for a History Buff’s Bucket List

Loading…

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

12 Amazing Hot Beach Destinations in Europe for a Sunny Getaway in October

12 Hottest Countries in Europe for Endless Sunshine

12 Surreal Places You Won’t Believe Are in Europe

The Ultimate Hotel Guide & Where To Stay in Athens – And Where Not To Stay

12 European Capitals of Fashion You Must Visit

15 Best Greek Islands for Beaches, Ranked by Locals

12 Top European Beaches for a Sun-Soaked Holiday

12 Least Safe Cities in the US You Should Avoid

Basking in Elegance: The World of Luxury Resorts and Hotels in America

12 Surreal Places You Won’t Believe Are in the US

12 Secret Beaches in the US You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Unique Outdoor Honeymoon Ideas for Nature Lovers

Top 10 Cities in North Carolina To Visit

Discover the Yellowstone Lakes: A Visitor’s Guide

Hotels & resorts.

12 Unique Castle Hotels in Europe To Stay Once in Your Lifetime

13 Best Neighborhoods and Hotels To Stay in Lisbon

10 Caribbean Resorts Perfect for Finding Yourself and Reigniting Romance

Best Beach Resorts To Beat the Winter Blues

Arizona Resorts: Unbounded Exploration Meets All-Inclusive Indulgence

Discover The 5 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in The Caribbean for Vacation Bliss

14 Best Family-Friendly Hotels & Villas in Zakynthos

Beach destinations.

The 12 Cheapest Caribbean Islands That Will Convince You To Finally Plan That Getaway

12 Best Places To Visit for Beaches Each Month

12 Exotic Beaches For A Dreamy Sun-Soaked Vacation

12 Cheapest Beach Destinations Around the World in May

12 Top Tropical Beaches To Escape to in May

The Best Things To Do in The Bahamas and Where To Stay

12 Beautiful Greek Islands for a Romantic Getaway

Travel planning resources.

🛏️ Book hotels 🚗 Rent a car 🎡 Find tickets and tours ✈️ Book flights

🚕 Find airport pickup ⛴️ Book ferries 🚂 Find train tickets ⭐ Get travel insurance

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 ones 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 in Finland and Iceland, 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 destinations 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 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.

Additionally, 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

Another Danish city worthy of your time is 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 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 any 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. Additionally, 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 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 offshore 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, kick sledding, 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 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!

Other 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. This beautiful city boasts cutting-edge architecture and a safe and clean environment.

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 is also home to several world-class museums, such as the iconic Ateneum and the contemporary Kiasma .

Take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic district and spend some time enjoying the tranquility of Helsinki’s numerous parks. 

The city also has an eclectic food and drink scene, where you can try 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 learn about Icelandic history and natural wonders at Perlan: Wonders 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.

Do you 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.

Like it? Pin this list of Scandinavian cities to save for later!

Did you know….

When you make a purchase or book hotels, tours, or other travel services, through our links, we receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only EVER recommend service providers, websites, or products we personally use when booking our own travels. Your support enables us to keep producing helpful travel content. Thank you!

• Book a HOTEL
• Book a RENTAL CAR
• Purchase TRAVEL INSURANCE
• Book guided tours or excursions at GET YOUR GUIDE or VIATOR
• Book TRAIN TRAVEL IN EUROPE
• Book BUS TICKETS IN EUROPE
• Book a FERRY IN EUROPE
• Book a DESTINATION PHOTOGRAPHER
• Buy TRAVEL GEAR on Amazon
• Buy a PRIORITY PASS MEMBERSHIP for airport lounge access