A good, long, and fulfilling Scandinavian trip always includes all kinds of different entertainment! That being said, it might be a bit difficult to whip up a good itinerary, so we are here to introduce you to the best points of having a Scandinavian vacation, with recommendations!
Make sure to save these ideas, and do further research to ensure that a particular place or activity suits your needs. Now, onto our list!
Relax at The Blue Lagoon
The biggest and most well-known public thermal spa lies in the gorgeous Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland and is a must-see on your Scandinavian holiday. The clear azure waters are heated up with underground volcanic heat, inviting you to hours of uninterrupted relaxation and fun.
You can buy natural face masks on the spot and soak up the healing minerals of the waters, ensuring a complete spa treatment!
Watch the Northern Lights
There are a few other places in the world to catch the stunning natural phenomenon that is the Northern Lights, but nothing compares to Scandinavian countries! For example, one of the best places to see the lights in 2023 is the Swedish Lapland, so the northern Arctic part of Sweden.
Make sure to follow the updates for the specific dates so that you are not disappointed, but keep in mind that nature is completely unpredictable, so there is a slight chance they will not show. However! Northern Light-hunting is always a fun experience, and you have a way better shot at getting it in Scandinavia than anywhere else, compared.
If Sweden is not a good match, check out the smaller cities in Norway, the Finnish Lapland, or Reykjavik!
Visit the Most Widely Acclaimed Tourist Attractions
A Scandinavian adventure is actually way more than outdoor activities and natural sites. Yes, the most they have going for them are the endless natural landscapes and extreme wintery sports, but there are plenty of stunning historical attractions you can visit in the daytime!
Just to give you a better understanding of what you are working with, we have prepared a short cheat sheet of anything interesting in all of the Scandinavian countries!
- Sweden
Gamla Stan: Otherwise known as Stockholm’s Old Town, Gamla Stan is a small area right in the middle of the capital city. Most of the cityscape here goes back to the 13th century, so you will see plenty of historical sites and establishments!
Vasa Museum: Speaking of historical sites, the famous Vasa Museum is essential to see in Stockholm if there is a roaring history buff inside you! It tells an authentic story of the 17th-century pride of the Swedish Imperial Fleet, unfortunately sinking on its maiden voyage. Learn all about its journey, technical features, and intimate stories from over four hundred years ago!
- Denmark
Take a short train from Stockholm to Copenhagen and explore one of the most significant countries in Scandinavia!
Tivoli Gardens: As the number one attraction in Denmark, the gorgeous Tivoli Gardens welcome millions of visitors every year. Dating from the mid-19th century, the Tivoli estate is a straightforward inspiration for Disney World, so that should tell you enough! This Danish monument allows you a whole day of entertainment – rollercoasters, perfectly-trimmed gardens, food pavilions, parks, and even a Moorish-style concert hall!
National Museum of Denmark: While we urge an on-site introduction, such as taking endless strolls around the cities, you can also get to know Denmark by visiting its top museum. With a vast collection of Danish artifacts, over 2000 years of history, and multiple displays of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the National Museum of Denmark is one of the most impressive establishments in all of Scandinavia.
- Finland
Suomnelinna Fortress: Once again, prepared to be completely blown away by the ancient Scandinavian beauty, this time in Finland! Suomenlinna Fortress is probably the most impressive castle in the area and the largest seaport fortress in the world. With many dramatic events across the years, Suomenlinna tells you millions of historical tales inside its walls.
Porvoo: Only about 50 kilometers away from Helsinki, Porvoo is the second-oldest town in the country. A mixture of narrow medieval streets, old wooden houses, and a picturesque riverfront, Porvoo is one of the loveliest places to see in Finland, and it never gets too crowded, so you can escape the never-ending city noise!
- Norway
Bygdoy Peninsula: The suburban area of the Bygdoy Peninsula is quite close to Oslo and holds some of the most important heritage sites of the capital city, so you know it is a must-see! Explore the Center for Studies of Holocaust and Religious Minorities in Norway, as well as the Fram Museum, known for its display and stories of Polar voyages!
Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf: Quite a mouthful, right? Well, this area with a gorgeous name is one of the most picturesque cityscapes in the country, settled in the quiet city of Bergen. Known mostly for its icy exteriors during the wintertime, the region was once a trade center and was dominated by Hanseatic merchants, leaving plenty of history behind.
- Iceland
We are leaving Iceland as the natural leader of all of Scandinavia, that is why we singled out the Blue Lagoon! For the best introduction to the Icelandic lifestyle and culture, we suggest focusing on the natural sites and activities, such as skiing, whale-watching, and thermal pools.
If you follow the pattern and include all of the countries into your mega-trip, leave Iceland for last, and enjoy the stunning landscapes, icy features, and fairytale-like experiences!
Enjoy these magnificent sites and make sure to include as many activities as you can! Your Scandinavian trip begins with a thought, and believe us – everything will exceed your expectations, just follow your plan and let it happen. Have the best time and good luck!
